Closely examine the country's currency as soon as possible after arriving, particularly the coins. Memorize the differences of each coin value and practice making change until you can do it without having to closely inspect every coin during a regular transaction.
This makes you look more like a more seasoned traveler and less like a tourist. Besides reducing frustation during each transaction while in the country, confident money handling skills will lessen the possibility of unscrupulous local vendors taking advantage of you.
