This extra charge for currency conversion happened between 7/2004 and 7/2005. I remember seeing it in the fine print of all my credit cards' "policy updates" before my second trip to Amersfoort. I should update all my travel books which say "credit card is the cheapest way to pay overseas."

Then, I found nearly every place in NL and DE wanted cash, so I just had to risk carrying that on me at all times. Worked a treat, as they say.