In Reply to: First time to Bali...questions posted by canadianryan on Monday, 17. May 2010 at 22:57 Bali Time:
as you've suggested, pay for the resort and expenses with your Mastercard and perhaps also any high-end purchases like fancy restaurants and big ticket items (quality souvenirs, tours and duty free) and for everything else I would take cash (USD or CAD).
I would suggest taking $1000 each (which would be plenty) and changing it on the streets of Bali. If you run out of cash, you've still got your card as back up.
Try to avoid using ATM's in case they swallow your card (which could slow down your holiday).
Not sure how popular CAD are, but USD of course is no problem with even the smallest moneychangers. If you have USD, great!
I would, however, try and minimise Mastercard use and limit it to major purchases and at reputable establishments like department stores, hotels and high-end establishments as you don't want card fraud to wreck your honeymoon.
If you've organised hotel transfers, you won't need any local money anyway (don't forget the USD25 VOA) until after you've checked in to your hotel where you'll find a better rate on the street.
Don't let airport porters help you with your luggage as they'll want payment.
and don't bother with travellers cheques at all. Too much hassle.
Where are you staying?