Money

• Don’t change money at the airport (though even there you will probably get a better exchange rate than in Australia)

• VISA and Maestro is everywhere for use at ATMs and for fancy hotels, shops, spas etc. This is remarkably easy, even though the maximum you can withdraw is normally a few million rupiah. There are even Commonwealth Bank ATMs in Bali.

• The 10,000 and 100,000 rupiah notes look very similar! Keep the notes sorted in order of size in your wallet to make it easier to distinguish, otherwise in poor light you will find yourself squinting to count 0s – not a good look.

• Tip. Usually 10% of a taxi fare or meal is adequate – remember that as a white person you are seen as rich, so don't be too stingy with your tips.

  • Slip hotel porters 10 or 20,000 when you shake their hand – this requires preparation so that you don't need to pull the money out in front of them.

• Don't leave your wallet lying around and be descrete when opening it and taking money out. This is safer as well as being polite.

• Monet changers are everywhere in Bali - look for one that doesn't charge commission and double check everything they give you before you let them take your money. Use the big banks in town if you can - they will give you a better exchange rate. Better yet, it's probably easier and usually just as effective to use an ATM. It's worth checking your bank fees first though.

• Bargain hard and enjoy it! It's a sport.

• International airfares are paid in USD all else is Rupiah