Jackie
I took travelers checks and used them everywhere (Only small stands and vendors do not take them). The key is to take mostly twenties. I know this makes for a large amount of bills, but it worked for me. I would cash a twenty in at breakfast or lunch, and have enough poacket money for the rest of the day. On some days, I would live on just one twenty, and others I would spend forty. It is all up to you. You can live very cheaply, or spend as much as you like!