Riel (r) is Cambodia’s currency. There have been many changes on the pattern of money. Today there are 11 denominations which are 50r, 100r, 200r, 500r, 1000r, 2000r, 5000r, 10 000r, 20 000r, 50 00r, and 100 000r. Besides spending in riel, US Dollar is the second common currency accepted by everyone. Everywhere accepts US Dollar, especially in to stores, markets or hotels. Sometimes there might be a feeling that US dollar is the nation currency. Even the first price come in US dollar not riel.
Along the border with Thailand, it is the common place for Bath (b). This opened currency seems to open Cambodia market to the western for they just hold their US dollars to spend everywhere in Cambodia like at their home. The only problem is that if there is a small tear on the US money, it seems not to be accepted or can exchanged in a lower price compared with the full price.
In Cambodia’s history there is only a time that no currency is available. It means that there is no money available for everyone and everywhere. It was during war time Khmer Rouge Regime. Even the national Bank was blown up. During the time everyone was supposed to do agricultural tasks to gain daily food and shelter.
ATM
At the beginning of year 2007, there is a big boom of ATMs in almost every corners of Cambodia especially in the capital city of Phnom Penh. All most every bank in Cambodia offers ATM cards for their clients. Now tourists do not need to carry a big bag of money and worry anyone would steal or rub. With this new innovation, tourist and investors are very much easy to feel the security to their properties.
Credit Cards
Most major credit cards such as Visa Cards, Master Card or JCB are accepted by most top hotels, airline, restaurants and many other top ranking class stores. Now there is wide range of credit card in Cambodia. This is a new service to Cambodian and it is significantly enjoyed by local people. Sooner it will increase its availability in most parts of Cambodia. Many banks are working hard to make the new service go smoothly.