Should I use Riel or USD in Cambodia?

Use both USD and Khmer Riel (KHR) in Cambodia, as the economy is heavily "dollarized". Generally, pay with USD for larger purchases (hotels, tours, restaurants) and use Riel for small transactions, street food, and Tuk-tuks. Keep small USD bills ( $ 1 , $ 5 , $ 10 , $ 20 $ 1 , $ 5 , $ 1 0 , $ 2 0 ) and expect change in Riel.

What is the best currency to use in Cambodia?

The Cambodian currency Riel is the best. They also accept USD but you won't get better exchange rate if you use it in local shops and other establishments. Best is to exchange your usd at an exchange place and use the local currency for your daily expenses.

Is it better to use Riel or USD in Cambodia?

Tips with your Money in Cambodia

Carry a mix of USD and Riel. Use Riel for purchases under $10 — it's often cheaper. Don't exchange USD into Riel directly; you'll naturally receive Riel as change. Stick to $10 and $20 bills for everyday use.

Can you buy Cambodian riel in the UK?

Getting your hands on some Cambodian riels in the UK is a breeze! Traditional options like banks and the Post Office might not stock this currency. But fear not – you can easily find Cambodian riels online, like on our website.

Should I exchange money before I travel to Cambodia?

Before entering Cambodia you can't get Cambodian Riel, so make sure you take in US dollars. If you want to change them to Cambodian Riel you can when you get to Cambodia, or you can just stick with US dollars.

Dollars Versus Riel In Cambodia! Which Should You Use?

Does Cambodia prefer cash or card?

In Cambodia, cash is still the preferred or only payment option available in some circumstances. For small purchases such as street food, snacks, and local markets, vendors often don't have card payment facilities.

Can I exchange GBP in Cambodia?

We provide foreign exchange service to our customers through all offices within Cambodia in 12 currencies: Khmer Riel (KHR), US Dollar (USD), Thai Baht (THB), Chinese Yuan (CNY), Euro (EUR)*, Australian Dollar (AUD)*, Vietnamese Dong (VND)*, Canadian Dollar (CAD)*, Japanese Yen (JPY)*, UK Pound (GBP)*, Lao Kip (LAK)*, ...

What is considered a good tip in Cambodia?

Plan to tip around 10-15% in Cambodian restaurants. However, the exact tip amount when eating out in Cambodia depends on the place, occasion, and order size. It's customary to give your waiter or waitress a slightly higher tip than you would a bartender, as they are likely sharing their tip with the kitchen staff.

Is it better to use local currency or US dollars?

Key takeaways

Paying your vendors in local currency is the smartest choice. It saves you money and time to wire payments directly in the local currency. Payments made in local currency make it much easier to match credits to invoices.

Is it safe to carry cash in Cambodia?

If you are visiting Cambodia, you should practice sound personal security awareness by varying your routes and routines, maintaining a low profile, not carrying or displaying large amounts of cash, not wearing flashy or expensive jewelry, and not walking alone after dark.

Should I take dollars or Riel to Koh Rong?

Currency: In Cambodia, you can use both local currency (Riel) and US Dollars. Therefore, when traveling to Koh Rong Island, you can exchange for both currencies. Many people prefer exchanging for US Dollars as it is easier to use. To avoid risks and for convenience, you should exchange money while still in Vietnam.

Why is USD so popular in Cambodia?

Cambodia has known hyperinflation until 1992. Subsequently, Cambodians suffered from a rapid loss of purchasing power of the riel (see the following chart). All these factors contributed to encourage an extensive use of US dollars.

Can I withdraw USD from ATM in Cambodia?

You can withdraw funds in either US Dollars or Riel. Both currencies are accepted across the country, with most prices listed in US Dollars. However, you can ask to pay in Riel and may receive a mix of both currencies as change. Most ATMs in Cambodia charge a withdrawal fee, which can exceed $5.

Why does Cambodia use two currencies?

The cause of the dollar's dominance

First, the currency risk – the possibility that currency loses its value due to its inflation rate – triggered the use of foreign currencies in Cambodia, such as the dollar, the Thai baht and the Vietnamese dong.

Is Cambodia US friendly?

Bilateral relations between the United States and Cambodia, while strained throughout the Cold War, have strengthened considerably in modern times. The U.S. supports efforts in Cambodia to combat terrorism, build democratic institutions, promote human rights, foster economic development, and eliminate corruption.

Should I choose local currency or my currency?

question: should you pay in local currency? The answer is a resounding yes. Paying in the local currency keeps costs lower, exchange rates clearer, and nasty surprises at bay. It means your provider, not the merchant, decides the conversion rate, which is almost always to your advantage.

Should I exchange money before I travel?

Even with processing fees, ordering currency from your bank before departure usually saves money compared to exchanging cash after landing. If you absolutely must exchange money in an airport, use a reputable company like Travelex, which is known for fair exchange rates and low markups.

What is considered impolite in Cambodia?

To touch someone on the top of their head, especially a baby or child, is taboo and insensitive. When standing or posing for a photograph, it is considered rude for a younger person to place their hand on an elder's shoulder. It is impolite for someone to walk over another person that is sitting or lying down.

What is Cambodia's best kept secret?

Banteay Chhmar is Cambodia's best kept secret. It's a huge but hidden temple complex around two hours from Siem Reap, shrouded in both jungle and mystery. Buried far off the beaten track, it's the perfect spot to live out all of your Indiana Jones fantasies. If you're lucky, you might even have the place to yourself!

Can I brush teeth with tap water in Cambodia?

Take a peek at these tips to prevent food poisoning and waterborne illnesses. Avoid drinking tap water in Siem Reap and stick with labeled water. Don't worry, it's normally safe to use tap water to brush your teeth!

What is the best currency to take to Cambodia from UK?

Although Cambodia's official currency is the Riel, the US Dollar is used in many transactions. We therefore recommend taking some US dollars in cash, which avoids the fees charged locally to withdraw money from an ATM. Alternatively, you can take British pounds and change this on arrival.

Do British passport holders need a visa for Cambodia?

Visa requirements. You must have a visa to enter Cambodia as a visitor. Tourist visas are valid for 30 days from the date of entry into Cambodia. Make sure your passport is stamped on arrival and keep the departure form.