In Reply to: ATM vs CASH posted by msj on Tuesday, 25. January 2005 at 16:55 Bali Time:
I have travelled the world including Bali and only use ATMs. Just check to see what fees your bank charges. Mine charges no fees so I get to withdraw cash at the current market exchange rate. I have never lost a card to a machine but always keep handy your banks emergency international cancellation number just in case. Ther are ATMs literally EVRYWHERE in the main Kuta tourist areas of Bali so don't worry about not being able to find one. I generally use the ones in the 7/11 type stores there. Just make sure that you wait and collect your card as it comes out LAST. A friend of mine forgot to retrieve his card and had about $500 withdrawn after her left. But this would happen anywhere if you left your card in the ATM. Forget cash and travellers checks - all you pay are commissions.. even if you can't see them you're paying them. (Thats not even mentioning the crooked money changers in Bali!)