In Reply to: First timers getting into Bali posted by Paseo on Friday, 30. December 2011 at 17:29 Bali Time:
At the risk of repeating what's already been said, here's what I know, and I've been 10+ times so I think it's safe to put it in writing.
First, VOA. US$25, but give them $50 Australian and get change in Rupiah. Then you'll at least have money for the taxi.
Then immigration. They're painfully slow, unless you get a conscientious one (LOL), but can't be avoided.
Then baggage and the suitcase check. If the porters want to help, just tell them "Tidak, terima kasih" (no, thank you). They're not worth the aggravation.
Exit main door, turn right to taxi window, tell chap at window where you want to go. You pay him, he gives you a ticket and allocates a driver.
Best news yet, if you're flying with Garudah out of Sydney, you can pay the VOA on check-in, and there's apparently an official on the flight that does the paperwork. Saves the queue at the other end. Brillian innovation. Who'd have thought someone in Bali came up with that idea!
Hope mum has a great trip. Do tell her to read Don's Bali guide. It's full of useful information, especially information on how and where to change money and not get cheated. And how to bargain (that's MOST important).