currency for Cambodia and Laos

love_potion

I'm off on holiday at the end of next month and will be visiting Cambodia and Laos amongst a couple of other places. However, I am struggling to find where I can get currency at a good rate. I have heard that in Cambodia, US$ are widely used, but thought it would be best to have at least a bit of local currency.

I work in central London and usually go to Thomas Exchange Global in Victoria as their rates are generally amongst the best, but just called them and they don't stock and can't order these currencies. These currencies are also not listed on the MSE travel money checker, so I am not sure where to look next. Usually I wouldn't think of getting travel money at the bank as the rate is not good, but am I just going to have to bite the bullet and order there this time?

Many thanks.

Bob_the_Saver

tom.daniel wrote: »

you wont need to take local currency with you, just take USD. Everything in Cambodia is priced in USD, you will only get Cambodian Riel if your change is less the $1. It is a similiar situation in Laos, you wont need to take Kip with you.

If you do want local currency they do now have cashpoints dispensing local currency so if you have a Nationwide card you can use that.

I would take USD with you though, but be carefull, especually in Cambodia as there are lots of pickpockts.

Agree 100%. Worth underlining that Laos DOES have ATMs now, many guide books still say not and (last time I looked) both the Visa & Mastercard's ATM finder on their web-site said not.

One quick tip, if you are going from Vientiane to Wattay airport there are buses that goes past from the bus station but forget the Airport bus timetable
on the wall, that bus never seems to exist, you'll have to ask.

love_potion

Many thanks both, certainly makes things easier!