Money in Indonesia ?

Most places of interest to travellers across Indonesia have ATMs where Cirrus/Maestro enabled cards can be used. I usually take 2 cards just in case one gets swallowed by a machine and a bit of cash for an emergency. There isn't a need to take TCs on one's travels to most countries these days. US dollars need to be in good condition but check previous discussions on this site for additional info on this particular question.

You should be able to use them pretty much anywhere. I have used them in Bali, Lombok (Mataram) & Sumatra (Padang, Medan) and also Nias (Gunung Sitoli). Not sure where you're going but in 2005 there was no ATM available in Teluk Dalam on Nias, though this may well have changed the past few years, I am not sure.

No problem with ATMs, but big problem with TCs outside Bali. Even in Jakarta, TCs are difficult to exchange. As above, bring your ATM card and cash

The $US 100 is the single most accepted currency in the world. $50 are just behind. Whoever told you they were no good in Indonesia is talking out of their arse.

Just make sure the notes are in good condition. DEFINITELY no rips or deep creases. And for FBI reasons, 1996 $100 are regarded as suspicious. I use a plastic billfold that I got froma bank specifically for this purpose.

TC's- haven't used them in Indonesia since 1996. They are definitely more secure, but only useful in cities at banks and big tourist centres.

ATM's- all over the place, but of course off the beaten track can be scarce. I found myself stranded in Maumere, Flores with an ATM card and no ATM's after being told from Labuanbajo all along the island that Maumere had ATM's !

(had to make an unplanned detour to Kupang!)

Cash and credit card are the way to go. You may struggle with your TCs.

ATMs are widely available in large cities and tourist areas. For backup, bring new US$, large notes.

Thanks guys.

USD are widely accepted throughout Indonesia...but when I was last there....they did not seem to like $100 bills with serial numbers starting with a "C" or that had a series prior to 2000. And as stated above, they like them in overall good condition.

I remember the last time we went (2004) there were certain types of US$100 bills that were rejected by the money changers. Were those just the 1996 ones? Would hate to have the right amount of money but the wrong mint date!