In the "Paris Practicalities" series, I lay out some basic advice for the foundation of a trip abroad for the well-informed and savvy traveler.

I’m kicking off the Paris Practicalities series with the scoop on how to access your money abroad and avoid unnecessary bank fees in the process. I imagine you think like me in the sentiment that your hard earned dollars should not be snatched from you by big banks and corporations by complicated fees and surcharges. 

So how do you access your money in Europe without a greedy middle-man? Here’s what you need to know before you go and while you are away: