Indonesian Rupiah

2012-05-03

Sooner or later after visiting our website, one of your next discoveries might be what is the currency in Indonesia and (more important) what is the value of it. Let us give you some more information about it first.

The rupiah (Rp) is the official currency of Indonesia. Notes are in denominations of Rp100,000, 50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5,000 and1,000 . Coins are in denominations of Rp1,000, 500, 100, 50 and 25 - although inflation has made coins less and less popular in the daily economy. Please check on internet for the latests exchange rates, as for May 2012 - it doesnt take much to become a millionaire :)

Practical information:

-The import and export of local currency up to Rp5,000,000 must be declared. For amounts up to Rp100,000,000, a form of the Central Bank should be filled out. Amounts exceeding Rp100,000,000 require an approval from the Central Bank or External Affairs. The import and export of foreign currency is unlimited. However, amounts exceeding the equivalent of Rp100,000,000 must be declared;

-currency exchanges for major currencies are easy to find in the main tourist centers, problems may occur elsewhere. Exchange rates are usually fair and no extra commission is charged. Most banks don't exchange currencies or give very poor rates.The easiest currency to exchange is the US Dollar (please remember to use newer notes to get the declared rate);

-American Express, MasterCard, Visa, Diners Club and Eurocard are widely accepted in Jakarta and the main tourist areas. In more remote areas, it is best to carry cash in small denominations. ATMs are available in towns.

Things are generally much cheaper in Indonesia than in your home country while mostly the fair to very good quality is kept. Favorite local buys are batik cloth, ikat fabrics, woodcarvings and sculpture, silverwork, woven baskets and hats, bamboo articles, krises (small daggers), paintings and woven cloth. Please remember that at stalls and small shops, bartering might be necessary and you skills will get tested by professionals :) Happy shopping!