Always choose the LOCAL CURRENCY — NOT USD — when paying with a card or using an ATM.
Why? Because when you select USD, the store or ATM does the currency conversion for you… and they usually use a much worse exchange rate plus extra hidden fees.
When you choose the local currency, your own bank handles the conversion instead — and that almost always gives you the best rate and fewer surprise charges.
So remember:
Local currency = better exchange rate
USD = sneaky extra fees
When in doubt, tap the button that says EUR, GBP, PESO, etc. and keep more money for croissants, souvenirs, and cocktails.