Is anyone aware of problems with acceptance in Vietnam of 1996 $100 bills because of fear of counterfeit bills? Friends recently returned and said they had a problem. Thanks.

There are concerns about counterfeit bills in all of Asia. Go to a bank and get the newest style bill (the "big heads" bill) and get bills that are unmarked, untorn, uncreased. Ironically enough, people will refuse slightly worn US bills, but will give you in exchange for your pristine US currency the dirtiest, most wrinkled and torn local currency you've ever seen!

Thanks Kathie. I went to the bank and exchanged the 1996 $100 bills for clean newer bills. If there are any currency exchange problems, I'll post it on the forum upon return.

Yes, do tell us your experience. I always use new bills and have never had a problem with exchange.

When ever I travel to S E Asia or to Europe, I ask my bank for ONLY the newer style $100 bills. I've been denied exchange with the old style.

Although I did not use any $100 bills, I recently had issues in Vietnam with ten $10 bills that had writing on them or that were taped as they were torn. My advice would be to make sure you have the newest style bills possible and make sure that they are in good condition.

Why not just go to an ATM and withdraw local currency?

It is the same way in the Philippines too!

Same for Thailand.

Only bring the "big head" $100 bills! No rips, no tears, no tape and no writing on them.

For Vietnam I would also bring some 1, 5 and 10 dollar bills too, also in good shape.