Currency

US$1.00 = ~4100 Riel

Cambodian riel (R) is the official tender in Cambodia but the US dollar is the de facto currency. Most hotels and many restaurants and shops set their prices in US dollars. Small transactions (less than a dollar) 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, 500, 1000, 5000, 10,000, 50,000 and 100,000 denominations, but the distinctive red 500 riel note and the 1000 riel note are the most commonly used.

Credit cards and travelers checks are accepted at most upscale hotels, shops and restaurants, some mid-range place and a growing number of other businesses. Credit cards are general not accepted at any businesses outside of Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville and the casinos in Poipet. The most commonly accepted credit card is Visa Card. MasterCard and JCB are growing in popularity. A few places accept AMEX. Most businesses charge a 2%-4% fee to accept credit cards.

AMEX in US dollars are the most widely accepted travelers checks. ‘Instant’ cash transfers can be done through MoneyGram or Western Union.

There are banks in all of the larger provincial capitals, including Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, Kampot and Battambang. Banks offer cash advances on credits cards (most accept Visa card), change money, telegraphic transfers, cash travelers checks and ANZ Royal Banks offer ATMs with international access.

ANZ Royal Bank ATMs with international access are available at several locations in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville. Accepting Maestro, Cirrus, Visa Plus, Visa and MasterCard. Dispenses US dollars.

Money changers offer a slightly better rate that the banks. They tend to cluster around the traditional markets. There is usually a section of a traditional market dedicated to moneychangers and gold sellers.

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