Bali is a beautiful island with clear blue skies and pristine beaches. Located in Indonesia this beautiful island has diverse cultures and a peculiar currency. When you enter Bali, the currency sure baffles you. All of sudden at a money changer you are handed notes of one lakh!
The Indonesian Rupiah has its notes starting from Rp.1000 which go up to 1 lakh Rupiah. Wherever you go shopping every thing would be priced in thousands or lakhs which is pretty stress. Besides confusing there are plenty of fake notes and money changers in Bali. Some old currency notes which are not accepted are also circulated in the market.
“We decided upon Singapore and Bali as our Honeymoon destinations. After a relaxed and fun filled trip to Singapore we landed in Bali, a place known for its beaches. We tried converting Singapore dollars to Indonesian Rupiah in Singapore but they told us to get it done from Bali. So upon landing the first thing we did was hit the market to exchange the currency. We were fooled by the money changer as he handed less money to us and gave us notes which were not accepted,” reminisces Anjali Roy.
We don’t want you to have a stressful holiday or become a victim to this foolery. Here are pointers that you must keep in mind to avoid getting fooled.
Go to authorised money changers: The first way to recognize one? An authorized money changer will have a proper shop and not a small counter in any corner. These shops are bright and easy to notice. Many money changes add a service fee after calculating the rate. This is often negotiable.
Count the money before leaving: Too many zeros can be puzzling so very careful while collecting the amount. Take your time and check notes twice, to avoid any problem.
Don’t trust the dealer: Don’t rely on the dealer because the amount they show on the calculator after deducting the commission is not the same amount punched in the calculator.
Be careful with the currency notes: Many fake and old notes are circulated in the market. Please do your home work well and know about the latest currency notes. Old notes will not be accepted. One way out? Get the exchanges done at the airport.
Exhaust the money in Bali: Try to spend the Bali currency within the city because it’s not accepted anywhere and cannot be exchanged outside. But don’t forget to keep some money as Bali Tax has to be paid at the airport.
Carry passport: Passports are generally required and forms must be filled in whenever traveler’s cheques are cashed or money is converted.
Spending Tip: Many tourists in Bali find it easier to ignore the last two zeros. this makes calculations easier while shopping.
