Vietnamese Money – The Vietnam Dong

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The local currency in Vietnam is the Vietnam Dong (VND). When traveling here it can be quite confusing as you'll be dealing in hundreds of thousands or even millions! So here is the low down on the Dong! 

Exchange Rates
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Currently the exchange rate (Aug 2009) for the Dong is approx:

17800VND = 1USD

1500VND = 1AUD

29000VND = 1GBP

24000VND = 1EUR

For the latest in rates, check out Yahoo! Finance . Here, you can also print a handy "Pocket Guide" showing you what 10USD, 20USD etc is worth in Dong! 
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Money, Money, Money! 

USD and other major currencies can be exchanged at banks, gold shops and hotels. USD can be used for shopping and also at larger restaurants.
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Exchanging money on the streets (or black market) should be avoided as many travelers are
often cheated.

Travelers Cheques can be exchanged at banks and larger hotels, while credit cards are accepted at many hotels, shops and bigger restaurants. When using credit cards you will be charged an additional 3% fee

Visa cards and some cash cards can be used at ATM’s.

Banks and ATM's can be found through out the country in all major towns/cities. Major banks in Vietnam include:

ANZ Bank 

Vietcom Bank 

HSBC

Citi Bank

Commonwealth Bank

The Money

Vietnam uses coins including:

200vnd

500vnd 

1,000vnd

2,000vnd

5,000vnd

While the Australian made plastic notes include:

10,000vnd

20,000vnd

50,000vnd

100,000vnd

500,000vnd

It's technically illegal to take Dong out of Vietnam, plus it is also worthless! So spend up before heading home!

So there you have it - The Vietnam Dong in a nutshell. Enjoy the hundred's and thousands and millions.......!

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