In Reply to: Exchanging Money posted by Newhaven on Tuesday, 9. September 2008 at 21:29 Bali Time:
No problems. Every five metres through any inhabited area you will find sign boards that display two rates in all major currencies. One is BN (bank notes) and the other lower one for TC - travellers cheques. Look for the boards that advertise 'NO Commission' You are likely to end up with the same money - the rate is adjusted to compensate, but you never know just how much commission they are going to ask. Wartels (phone company) are usually good places to change cash, but wherever you do it, count it carefully in sight of the vendor before you leave. All the thousands of rupiah can be confusing to someone who rarely sees a note bigger than a fifty.
The favourits scam is to substitute 1000's for 10,000's.
Only carry what you need for the day, the rest in the safe deposit box in your room or at reception.