Wednesday, March 7, 2007

Bali Banks & ATM



Major currencies can be exchanged in most banks, money changers and hotels. There is often a different rate for any notes smaller than US$100 and this applies to most currencies. If cashing Travelers checks you will require your passport.

Banks and Money Changers can easily be found in the larger towns in Bali, but you should carry sufficient rupiah (Rp) when traveling to the less popular areas of Bali.

Banking hours are from 8.00 a.m. to 12.00 noon Mondays to Fridays, and from 8.00 a.m. to 11.00 a.m. on Saturdays. Banks in hotels usually stay open longer while Money Changers are generally open until early evening.

Almost all hotels and other businesses will accept foreign currency, but be warned hotels usually charge a lower rate of exchange than offered by Banks or Money Changers.
There is a bank and ATM machine located at the Ngurah Rai International Airport.

Exchange Tips
If you want to change money or traveler's checks at a moneychanger:
1. Make sure you calculate the rate yourself. Use your own calculator as some MC (Money Changer) modified their calculator.
2. Check to see whether there is a commission fee. Be cautious of high rates. MC who offer high rate as usually ask you a commission. If they say we have no commission, you must be careful too.
3. Count the money yourself. You will be surprized how many money changers are also good 'magicians'.
4. When you have finished counting your money and the total is right, Do NOT give your money back to the MC staff to re-count. It is likely the MC may try and steal your money.
5. The MC staff should give you a receipt. If not ask for one.
6. Do not flash your money, and change only as much as required.



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