The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), symbolized by ‘Rp’. Dominations of 25, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 rupiah are in circulation, but dominations of 25, and 50 are rarely used now. Notes come in 1000, 5000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, and 100,000 rupiah denomination. Bear in mind that coins won't buy you anything more than one sweet. Check your change, don't be confused by the number of zeros and remember that the 10000 and 100000 bills look similar in color.

Here are some pictures of Indonesian notes:

The exchange rate at the time of writing is around 10,500 IDR per US dollar. But to know the current exchange rate go to.the nearest money changer or visit www.xe.com

Most travelers usually bring bank cards as ATM machines are widely available. Check that your cards have the Cirrus logo and do check that your home bank is not going to charge you an exorbitant fee for your withdrawal. Otherwise, the rates from the local banks are good and ATMs plentiful.

The reputable Indonesian banks include BCA, Mandiri, BNI and Lippo Bank. Unless you are traveling to remote locations, most main streets will have these banks and the ATM machines.

Indonesia is a cheap country to travel in. Rp 7000 will buy you a tasty plate of fried rice in a road side warung. A pack of Marlboros will cost Rp 10000 and a big bottle of Bintang beer Rp 15000. At the other end of the scale, the well heeled traveler can stay and eat in sumptuous modern palaces in Bali spending in a day what normal travelers would spend for their entire trip. The prices here are really varied, cheap or expensive, you decide which one fits your taste and budget.

Transportation costs have risen due to increasing fuel costs. They are still a fraction of what you would pay in Europe or America. There are many choices on offer. You may spend only Rp 1500 – Rp 5000 for Opelet or Bemo or Metromini (mini bus) ride in Indonesia, and more if you use taxies.

Living in Indonesia is cheap.