A look through BootsnAll’s currency converter, shows the rupiah has gained against the US dollar over the few months, and that anyone with Euro’s is a happy camper. The best strategy for saving money in Bali, is to price shop for everything, and start to ‘think in rupiah’, rather than saying ‘this meal is cheap, it only cost $20 for the 2 of us’.
1 US Dollar = 9,049.77 Indonesian Rupiah
1 Australian Dollar = 7,075.02 Indonesian Rupiah
1 Brazilian Real = 4,219.15 Indonesian Rupiah
1 British Pound = 17,569.1 Indonesian Rupiah
1 Chinese Yuan Renminbi = 1,160.51 Indonesian Rupiah
1 Euro = 11,788.3 Indonesian Rupiah
1 Hong Kong Dollar = 1,160.83 Indonesian Rupiah
1 Indian Rupee = 203.764 Indonesian Rupiah
1 Japanese Yen = 76.02302 Indonesian Rupiah
1 Kazakhstan Tenge = 75.50778 Indonesian Rupiah
1 Malaysian Ringgit = 2,581.51 Indonesian Rupiah
1 New Zealand Dollar = 6,261.09 Indonesian Rupiah
1 Singapore Dollar = 5,891.70 Indonesian Rupiah
1 South-Korean Won = 9.75656 Indonesian Rupiah
1 Thai Baht = 253.042 Indonesian Rupiah
If it’s your first time in Bali, you can change money as soon as you arrive at the airport. Downtown in Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Sanur, Ubud etc., you will find many streetside places offering money changing services. Some offer a great rate, but charge a commission, other a lower rate of exchange, but no commission. It all works out and the thing you should concentrate on, is getting the money you are due. If you see a sign offering amazing rates, with no commission, look inside the office. If its just a couple of local guys, behind a wooden desk, don’t bother with them. Look for a more professional (read – not likely to cheat you) money changer, with an office / travel agent, proper equipment, a legitimate business.
Enjoy the great exchange rates while you are in Bali, and don’t forget to pick up some travel insurance before you go.
