CAMBODIA

CURRENCY:

Riel - KHR, Symbol CR

DENOMINATIONS:

NOTE: CR100,000, 50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 2,000, 1,000, 500, 200 and 100.

US DOLLAR ACCEPTED:

Yes, widely.

CREDIT/DEBIT CARDS AND ATMS:

Major credit cards are best used in larger hotels, shops and restaurants - but usually only those aimed at foreign visitors. There are some ATMs in Cambodia but mostly in the capital. CASH IS ADVISED IN SMALL DENOMINATIONS.

CURRENCY EXCHANGE:

Best conducted at banks. Aside from US Dollars, other currencies may also be recognised but only at banks.

TRAVELLER'S CHEQUES:

Not recommended as they have limited acceptance in Cambodia. Opt for cash (in local currency and US Dollars) and this is best organised in advance.

BANKING HOURS:

Mon-Fri 0800-1500. Note some banks open Saturdays 0800-1130.

CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS:

Restrictions apply. Export and import of local currency is prohibited.

COUNTRY OVERVIEW:

Cambodia is officially known as the Kingdom of Cambodia. This nation is situated in South East Asia and is surrounded by Laos, Vietnam, Thailand and the Gulf of Thailand. The capital is also the largest city: Phnom Penh.

POPULATION:

13,388,910

ECONOMY:

Cambodia is poorer than other nations in the region, but the GDP per capita is on the increase. The major exports of Cambodia include rice, fish, garments, timber and rubber. Cambodia's economy suffered in the late 90s owing to economic crisis in the area, as well as civil violence. This also caused tourism and foreign investment to reduce. However, this has been on the increase again - tourism is the second-largest element of the economy here.