Currency

The official currency in Cambodia is Riel and its notes come in 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000, 5000, 10,000, 50,000 and 100,000 denominations with the distinctive red 500 Riel note is the most commonly used. But it is better to keep dollars with you for most of the shops set their prices in dollars. You pay them in dollars and they give you money back in dollars. However, to keep some small Riel is suggested for motorcycle taxis, snacks, beggars and other small purchases.

Euros are sometimes accepted but it is a little bit disadvantageous to use euros because the rate will be 1 euro = 1 dollar.

Telephone

In Cambodia, you can visit internet cafes and shops where internet phone call services are available for 100r to 500r per minute. And cellphone shops also provide phone call service but with price about 1000r per minute.

You can use your cell phone in Cambodia, but with high "roaming" charges. You have no right to buy SIM cards for it is legal to purchase SIM cards only for Cambodians in Cambodia.

Internet

Internet services are widely available in Cambodia's urban centers. There are many internet stores, restaurants, cafes, hotels and bars feature tolling internet or complimentary Wi-Fi service.

Time & Business hours

Cambodia runs at GMT +7 hours, the same time zone as its neighbors Thailand, Vietnam and Laos.

Government offices usually open at 7:30am and end the day at 5:00pm with two and half hours to have a break during 11:30am to 2:00pm. Bank standard weekday hours are 8:30am to 3:30pm, most also open on Saturday mornings.

Health

It is important to look after your health in Cambodia. Although the medical service and facilities are improving greatly in Cambodia, only Phnom Penh and Siem Reap can offer the best hospitals and medical clinics. After you falling seriously ill in Cambodia, you should immediately go to these two cities and if you are not going well, be prepared to transfer to Bangkok. Be sure you get travel and health insurance before visit other countries.

Tap water is extremely forbidden while bottled water is your drinking choice. You should also avoid ice for it may produced by the tap water.

The Cost of Living

Accommodation: Most guesthouse offer dorm beds for about $3-10 USD per night and private rooms about $5-13 USD per night. You can cost $12-22 USD for a comfortable hotel with air-conditioner, TV and other facilities.

Food: Food is cheap in Southeast Aisa countries. A meal at local street vendors cost about $1-2 USD and regular restaurant meals usually cost about $3-5 USD. Western meals at nice restaurants go about $5-10 USD. You can get some really world class food in Phnom Phen these days for around $8-10 USD.

Transportation:It is cheap as the meal. You can get a bus anywhere in the country for under $10 USD and renting a driver for a day between $15-20 USD.