The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah ('Rp' or
'IDR'). There are Rp100, Rp500 and Rp1,000 coins and
Rp1,000, Rp5,000, Rp10,000, Rp20,000, Rp50,000 and
Rp100,000 paper notes. Compare the exchange rates
offered before changing money at money changers or
banks. Although banks may offer an added measure of
professionalism and security, it is not uncommon for
money changers to offer better rates. There are
usually different rates for cash and non-cash
instruments such as travelers checks. Also, be aware
that both banks and money changers can be very picky
about the cash notes that they will accept, they
often refuse notes that are in anything less than
near-mint condition.
Major credit and charge cards are accepted in most
major stores and hotels. Smaller merchants often add
a small surcharge to card transactions.
Many (but not all) banks' ATMs in Bali are linked to
major international networks such as Cirrus, Plus,
Visa, and MasterCard. As a result, this can be a
convenient and cost-effective way to obtain local
currency; such ATMs are widely available throughout
Bali (though not in rural areas). |