Cambodia
One of the first things you’ll notice when you travel around Cambodia is the beautiful mix of past and present. The town of Siem Reap has been built up for tourists but when you escape to the temples from centuries ago you’re transported to a different time. Soak up the spirituality that oozes from these iconic landmarks and when the temple burnout hits there are excellent nightlife and beaches to explore. You’ll be humbled and shocked learning about the recent genocide but it’s crucial that the world remembers and learns. Cambodia is still rebuilding from the devastating effects but despite it all, they’ve always got a smile on their face.
Basic Info
Drinking water: Do not drink the tap water. Bring a filtered water bottle or buy your water.
Plugs: Type A, C and G (See photo below)
Covid Updates
Suspension of visas on arrival and visa exemptions. Must present proof of vaccination, a negative Covid test within 72 hours of departure and insurance covering at least $50,000 USD.
Money
Official currency: ៛ Cambodian riel
Budget: It’s possible to get by on $10-$15 USD per day. Certain activities and drinks will add up but overall it’s a very cheap place to visit.
Credit cards: Accepted in most tourist areas with a 2-4% service fee. Pay cash for local and small transactions. Tuk tuks only accept cash and may claim (at the end of the trip) they don’t have change for a large bill (and will just keep it) so it’s helpful to have smaller bills.
Tipping: Tip your tuk tuk drivers. It’s not expected throughout the country but many do not earn a living wage so it’s always appreciated.
Visas
Only passport holders from Brunei, Indonesia, Laos Malaysia, Philippines, Seychelles, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam can enter visa free for a period of time.
Visa on arrival and eVisas are available for all others. *VISAS ON ARRIVAL HAVE BEEN TEMPORARILY SUSPENDED DUE TO COVID-19*
**Always check with your government for the most up to date information on visa requirements.**
Vaccinations
None required but some suggested
**Assuming you are current on routine vaccinations. Always check with your government for the most accurate and up to date information on required vaccinations specific to your home country**
Safety
Exercise Normal Precautions
**Always check with your government for the most accurate and up to date information on safety**
Language
Official Languages: Khmer
Hello: ជំរាបសួរ chom Reap Sour
Goodbye: ជុំរាបលា chom-reap-lear
Thank-you: អរគុណ aw khun
Spicy: ដេលហិលខ្លាមង heur
When to go
Dry Season: November – April. Nov – Jan coincide with the coolest temperatures making it the most comfortable time to visit. This also means higher prices and large crowds. Beaches are perfect around this time. From February to April it becomes very hot and dry bringing dust and extremely hot and humid temps.
Rainy Season: May – October can bring floods which slows down travel times. On the other hand, the country is extremely green and beautiful and the crowds are significantly smaller. You might also catch Angkor Wat in a lightning storm and the photos can be stunning with all the reflections.
Responsible Travel
Tourism in Siem Reap has put a strain on water supply. Choose accommodations with water-saving policies and be mindful of your consumption.
Support businesses involved in social initiatives (many restaurants do this) and don’t be stingy. These people are trying to rebuild their lives after losing an entire generation in the genocide.
Stay away from volunteering in orphanages unless you are qualified (see below). There is also more information on the sex trafficking of children which is a huge problem as well.
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