Originally Posted by
atLAS, aLAS
Most Asian countries are picky about the banknotes, but it is at another level in Jakarta. They want mint condition notes, period. You know how many Asian moneychangers put their small rubber stamp on the back, so they have verified that they believe the note is not counterfeit? That makes the otherwise mint condition note unacceptable to many in Jakarta.
I have heard that they are picky about notes in Myanmar as well, but I have never been there so I can't compare.
Yes, Myanmar is worse than Indonesia, if that's possible. Mostly in Indonesia it's when dealing with banks. If dealing with exchanges, they're quite a bit better, but still no rips and marks is the best way to go.
I used to take high 4 figures to Asia a few times a year. I'd spend hours trying to get acceptable bills, and always come up a bit short. My bank, in particular said they couldn't get any new currency in. Too bad they have delayed the new $100 bill, as their would be lots more newer stuff out.