In Reply to: cash & US travellers cheques posted by billie on Sunday, 31. August 2003 at 17:57 Bali Time:
I have had 7 trips to Bali and we always take only cash. I usually take $100 and $50 as they are more liked. I do take a couple of $20 so if at the beginning of the trip at the airport i change just a $20 to get me through and at the end if i need a little then i can just change another.
I only use my credit card if i want to pay the hotel bill at the end (things booked up to the room) or in the Matahari shopping centre.
You will definitly get a better exchange rate for cash, and you are not paying out the costs for having travellers cheques made.
A few tips;
* Make sure the notes are not torn, ripped or written on.
* Make sure you double and triple count when changing money and make sure you are the last one to touch it after final count, I have found the Kodak places are the best. I usually have a little calculator(key ring type) hanging off my bag that works well.
* Divide the money when going to Bali, eg; you have some, hubby has some, even putting some in video camera bag, this way at least less chance of loosing it all.
* Make sure as soon as you arrive at hotel put it straight in the safe and only take out what is needed per day or per couple of days. I always put away departure tax as soon as i change my 1st lot of money, this way you don't have to worry about it at the end of the trip, and i put it straight in the passports that are in the safe.
I hope this info helps you.
ENJOY YOUR HOLIDAY!
Cheers Karen