Travellers staying in budget accommodation and eating in small cafes should be able to get by on around US$20 to US$25 per day, plus long-distance transport costs. Those wanting to stay in mid-range hotels, eat out at moderate restaurants, charter occasional taxis and enjoy the nightlife should budget on around US$65 a day.

It's advisable to bring traveler's checks in US dollars as well as a little US currency. US dollars and travellers cheques are your best bet. Visa, MasterCard, American Express and JCB credit cards are accepted in the major cities and towns popular with tourists.

It's a good idea to bring a small calculator with you for currency conversions, unless you're the kind of person who can divide or multiply by large numbers in your head.