Changing money

Don't change to Riel - USD is the currency you require in Cambodia (as a tourist). You only will use Riel as small change - like "coins" in Australia.

You will get a better FX rate if you change AUD to USD in Cambodia (than if you change in Australia), but you may want to have a small amount of USD with you for your initial costs when you arrive - although you can change money easily at the airport.

#1 I agree, unless you head into the countryside and start shopping at markets and buying small items. In the large touristy areas no problem, but the number of times I have been caught without any Riel isn't a laughing matter! I would always recommend changing a few US$ or Aus$ at the earliest convenience at a recognized exchange place.

I changed $100 to Riel last time I was there and spent it all, no problem. I wouldn't recommend changing that much, but a few Riel in your pocket buys water and pays moto drivers.

The times people needed to bring cash USD into Cambodia are long past. Unless you have neither an ATM nor a credit card. A small emergency stash can be bought in- country with your AUD.

I find Riel quite convienient to use, even large amounts. Its easy to change a 10,000 riel note (about $2.50) anywhere, any small stall or whatever, but pulling out $5 bills or bigger is more awkward. Plus, paying for most things dollar prices will be rounded of to at least the nearest 50 cents. Its a shame there aren't more 100,000 notes, but Ive only ever seen one.