In Reply to: Take two (or more) cards posted by The Gardener on Saturday, 22. January 2005 at 04:44 Bali Time:
I have travelled thru Europe and Asia many times, just taking some foreign currency obtained from airport, 2 different credit cards (1 for a backup) and some Aussie dollars. I have always thought that Travellers chex are so "last century" and I didnn't use them then so not using them now. Apparently this is a general trend.
Did the usual 2 different cards, some local and some aussie cash, the first time to Bali last year in June and no probs. Bit of a drag when some of the ATMs won't accept your card(s), or when they have a 1.2mil rupiah limit (just when you are in serious buying mode!!!)But all just part of the travel experience.
Had MAJOR drama in November. I was flustered - it was hot - the a/c in the cubicle wasn't working and there were guys hanging around outside in Kuta Square (I usually use the ATMs opposite Starbucks). I was on my own. Safely got the 2 mil rupiah into my wallet, stashed the wallet in the bag, picked up my shopping and "girded my loins" to handle the crowd. Forgot the card as it comes out last!
Toddled off for serious enjoyment at Geneva. Had a full trolley and a half a second trolley full, went to pay....no card. They didn't take my second card - an AMEX. Hold the shopping. Race back to Kuta in peak hour traffic to ATM. No luck. Go to phone to cancel card thinking I will use my backup card for cash etc. Find out husband of the year had accepted offer from Westpac during 2004 to "link" our joint visa card, separate visa cards, home loan and Westpac issued Amex. Cancelling my visa card cancelled THEM ALL!
Ps fixed it. and guess what? Went back to Geneva the next day and they still had all my stuff, wrapped up and ready to go. The 55 minutes at Quarantine with all my wooden stuff is another story but boy the 3 golden wooden buddha heads look great on my lounge room wall (cost $9 all up!)