The paper currency will not be available until 2002, so local currencies will still have to be exchanged. As a last word, don't try to budget too severely. The enjoyment of your trip will be less if you are exhausted from sleeping in train stations and thin from hunger. Plan for a few nights in a better room, some good meals and going out with people you meet. For recent currency rates see our Currency Conversion.
Shops vary in their opening hours.
Big cities have 24 hour shops, and most places shops are open on Saturdays. Many countries take 1-2 hour lunch breaks but stay open later in the evening.