The tourist may be surprised that all restaurants, hotels shops but even the local markets post the prices in USD. The ATMs offer cash withdrawal in USD or in the local currency (riel). Except for the very remote areas you will get around with American dollars.
Banks
There are banks in all provincial capitals in the country, including Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, Kampot and Battambang.
Banks offer the usual banking services - cash advances on credits cards (most accept Visa card,) international currency exchange, telegraphic transfers, cash travellers checks and ANZ Royal Banks, Canadian and SBC Banks offer ATMs with international access.
Most banks are open from 8:00 to 15:00 or 16:00PM, Monday through Friday. Some are open Saturday mornings until 11:30. ATMs are available 24 hours.
Click here for bank listings and contact details.
Money Changers
Money changers offer a slightly better rate that the banks. They are plentiful and tend to cluster around the traditional markets and there is usually a section within the market dedicated to moneychangers and gold sellers.
When accepting US dollars in change, inspect the bills carefully. Marred riel is acceptable tender, but the tiniest tear in a large US note, especially a $20, $50 or $100 note, renders it all but useless in Cambodia. Banks, moneychangers and other businesses will not accept it. This doesn't apply to one dollar notes. Fivers and ten dollar notes are in the grey area and you may get away with some scars on them.
Money transfers
'Immediate' money transfers can be done via Western Union or MoneyGram. Standard telegraphic transfers are offered by most banks..
Cambodian Currency
US dollars are as commonly used as the Cambodian Riel and even Thai Baht is acceptable in many places. It is a good idea to bring along cash in USD. Beware, these must be in mint condition!
Most hotels and many restaurants and shops set their prices in dollars. Small transactions are usually done in Riel.
Always carry some small Riel for motorcycle taxis, snacks, beggars and other small purchases.
Riel notes come in 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000, 5000, 10.000, 50.000 and 100.000 denominations, but the distinctive red 500 Riel note is the most commonly used.
Sample Local Currency
|
|
|
|
|
5000 Riel (front) |
|
5000 Riel (back) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1000 Riel (líc) |
|
1000 Riel (rub) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
500 Riel (líc) |
|
500 Riel (rub) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
100 Riel (líc) |
|
100 Riel (rub) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
50 Riel (líc) |
|
50 Riel (rub) |
