Getting Due Credit

Christopher Reynolds is correct in noting the continuing obsolescence of traveler’s checks, given the near universality of ATMs and credit cards in most of the developed and developing world (“Traveler’s Checks Sinking Beneath a Sea of Plastic,” Travel Insider, May 28).

There are pitfalls, however, even in the developed world. During a trip to Japan in 1998, I was unable to use either my ATM card or my credit cards. Several ATMs had signs stating that only cards issued in Japan would be accepted. When I tried to use ATMs that did not have this warning, my card was rejected. I also attempted to use my credit cards to purchase merchandise or to pay for a meal. When the card was swiped, it was not recognized, and I had to pay cash. My home bank said both cards were valid.

It was only then that I looked in my Fodor’s guide and read its advice that travelers program their credit cards for ATM use in Japan.

WILLIAM J. FICKLING

Los Angeles

Letters Annex

* More letters to the editor appear today on L21.