March 25th, 2006 | The lowdown by Gordon Candelin

Getting Cash in Phnom Penh (ATM, Credit Cards and More)

One of the hottest topics regarding traveling in Phnom Penh seems to be where to get your cash.

This was only relatively problematic before; there are plenty of banks in town (the bulk of them on Russian Boulevard, but with various branches strategically located elsewhere) that provided cash if you had either a credit card OR a check card with a visa/master card/cirrus logo.

The charge is minimal, but the wait can be annoying. It still far outweighs the incovenience of carrying around wads of cash with you, or wads of traveler's checks for that matter. (NOTE: You will need your passport to use your card to get a cash advance)

Since the opening of ANZ Royal bank a couple of months ago, it is even easier to get your cash. The bank has several branches WITH REAL ATM MACHINES.

That's right ? no more waiting in line behind other sweaty backpackers while the bank clerks check your card, your passport, your card again and then have you sign in triplicate. Now you can simply walk up, take your money, and buy your happy pizza.

ANZ Royal has branches (with ATM's) at the following locations:

Independence Monument - 100 Preah Sihanouk Boulevard
Olympic Market - 316 & 363 Preah Sihanouk Boulevard
Riverside - 265 Sisowath Quay
Russian Boulevard - 20 Kramuon Sar (corner of street 67)