Siem Reap USD$20 bills
 

Several old posts suggested only the new tricolor USD$20 bills were accepted in Siem Reap. Can someone confirm or elaborate on this? Is this a concern at hotels, restaurants, with tour guides, drivers and shopping?

Thank you, brenda

We were in Siem Reap last July and did not have any issues with $20.00 bills. Bring lots of $1.00 bills for small purchases.

Do make sure that none of your US bills are torn or too worn, they don't like to accept those.

Your bills should definitely be relatively new (but don't have to be fresh from the mint) and not torn.

As to the tri-color US$20 or others as they are issued, it seems that in many countries because their currencies loose value, they are very much aware of how and when we change our bills. Because of this, many feel that the "old" bills (small faces, without tri-color) have no value. We know that is not the case, but in some countries it isn't understood the same way.

If you'll be more comfortable with tri-color bills, just have your bank exchange whatever amount of USD$20 so all are tri-color. It's no big deal for the bank. And likewise, I would suggest you do the same as other denominations are changed for future travel anywhere.

many thanks to all for the info.

the goal is stress free independant travel. if having $20 bills in the tricolor format insures less aggravation it's worth the effort.

I JUST Siem Reap yesterday Sept. 28. No issues of any US bill was ever brought up. They gladly accepted my US dollars even in the old market in Siem Reap. You'll probably only use $20 bills at the hotels anyway. The restaurants were so inexpensive. Everywhere else I used smaller denominations. If you'd like my fresh recommendations of great food and experiences please send me a note at [email protected].