ATM problems in Bali

I found problems accessing ATMs at some banks with my Visa card - even tho the ATM showed the Visa symbol. It would pay to try different banks. I agree that the big problem with ATMs is the high bank charges. I prefer to take plenty of cash and change small numbers of high denomination notes at different money changers. So far I have never been ripped off - I keep it simple by exchanging say 3 x $100 notes so that I can easily calculate how much currency I will get.

For security (and good manners) I put my notes on the counter spread out so that it is clear how many notes I am changing. I do not touch my notes again. The money changer will count out the currency and I do not touch it until he is finished. I then move the currency to my side and count it one note at a time. The money changer must not touch the money again. If he does - which has never happened - I would recount it in front of him. I concentrate, no chatter and everybody keeps their hands off the cash! The money then goes in my front pocket and as soon as possible I split it up into other pockets and my bag.

All those worried about charges from ATMs using cards should use Nationwide as they don't charge.

Obviously if you're not from the UK, that's not possible