Currency exchange in Bali

Upon arriving in Bali, Indonesia, Americans, Canadians and Europeans are required to pay $25 for a Visa On Arrival (VOA). The visa will be applied to a page in your passport. Most travelers from Asian countries are spared this expense.

For the convenience of visitors, many money changers are available to convert dollars to rupiah. A word of caution from someone who has traveled often to Bali, most recently in May ’08 — many of these people are less than honest.

Just be sure you understand that the rate of exchange is the same as that posted on the board in front where they do business. They may try to charge you a “commission” fee at the conclusion of the transaction. Ask about that before they take your money.

And be sure that the US currency you are carrying is in new or next-to-new condition. Wrinkles, creases, ink marks and old money normally will be rejected. They want the latest series of issue, and bills with dates before 2000 may be turned down.

Also, you will get less in exchange if you present bills in any denomination lower than $100. That also applies to travelers’ checks. Currency normally will command a slightly better exchange rate than a travelers’ check.

Again, be suspicious and cautious during the transaction. If the money changer tells you he has only 20,000-rupiah notes instead of notes of 50,000 or 100,000, leave. The more notes that are to be counted out, the easier it is for the changer to shortchange you.

Above all, let him count out the money for you, which he will anyway. Then it will be your turn to count it out. While you are doing so, do not let his hands touch the currency.

Your hotels are also available for currency exchanges. Often their rates are not as good, but you’ll get an honest exchange.

BRUCE EASTLEY

Sacramento, CA