In Reply to: changing money posted by little_piggy on Sunday, 29. July 2007 at 21:42 Bali Time:
Hi. Don't stress about the money! If you really don't want to risk the money changers you can always use your hotel desk or an official bank to change the money .. yes you will get a slightly lower rate but it will only cost you a few dollars for the piece of mind!
Also if you post here where you are staying a forumite might be able to let you know of a reliable money changer nearby. When we use a money changer (even the one we've used many times) we check, check & double check! I also take a calculator so I don't get muddled with the 000's !! I always find it easier to change $100 at a time as you get a round amount of change!
Another option is to use an ATM - we have a westpac visa card which we put into credit for each trip as then they don't charge withdrawal fees!
For a driver we can recommend Wayan Adiarsa .. we discovered him on our last trip thanks to a forum recommendation and he is the best driver we have ever used in our 4 trips. He is very friendly and honest & best of all doesnt try and rip you off or take you places for commission. His rates are also very reasonable (Rp 200K 1/2 day, Rp 400Rp full day). He will also do an airport pick-up. Have a look at the website I put together for him www.wayanadiarsa.com
Have a great trip!
Cheers
Sheryl in NZ