Friday, January 30, 2009
Get Riel
Cambodia has a very complicated currency system. They have their own currency called the Riel (pronounced Real)--but it is "non convertible" it cannot be used outside the country. Because of this and the influx of tourists in recent years, the U.S. dollar is the most popular currency and can be used almost anywhere. In western parts of the country, the Thai Baht is also accepted (in fact visas must be paid for in Thai Baht, not Riel!)Cambodian currency has no coins, and when you receive change for something purchased in USD, any change lower than one dollar will be paid with Riel. (4000 Riel = 1 dollar).
Cambodia's economy is growing rapidly. In 2007 the GDP soared by over nine percent and foreign investment stood at 600 million. But with the recent economic crisis, Cambodia's hopes to climb out of poverty remain in doubt.
