Welcome to Cambodia 😊

Welcome to Cambodia! This beautiful Southeast Asian country is known for its rich history, stunning temples, and delicious food.

One of the main attractions is the famous Angkor Wat temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. Besides Angkor Wat, there are many other ancient temples peppered throughout the country, such as Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, and Bayon.

Cambodia is also home to beautiful countryside, where you can experience traditional rural life and stunning landscapes. Take a ride on a bamboo train or cycle through rice fields and small villages to really immerse yourself in the local culture.

For the foodies, Cambodian cuisine is a must-try. Delicious dishes such as Amok, a curry made with fish or meat in coconut milk, and Lok Lak, a stir-fried beef dish, are just a few of the many tasty options.

Finally, the friendly and hospitable locals will make you feel right at home. They are always happy to show you around and share their culture with visitors.

So pack your bags and come experience all that Cambodia has to offer!

Quick Facts About Cambodia

Currency: Cambodian Riel
Population: 16.72 million
Languages: Khmer
Capital: Phnom Penh

Money and Finances

The official currency of Cambodia is the Cambodian riel (KHR). Denominations range from 50 to 100,000 riel. Additionally, the US dollar is widely accepted and used in Cambodia.

ATM Network

ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas in Cambodia. However, in more rural areas they may be less common or not available at all.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are not widely accepted in Cambodia, especially outside of major cities and tourist areas. Visa and Mastercard are generally more widely accepted than AMEX.

Internet and Phones

In Cambodia, the average internet speed for downloads is about 22.4 Mbps, and for uploads, it is around 9 Mbps. However, the internet is heavily censored and monitored by the government, and social media sites like Facebook have been blocked in the past.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

In Cambodia, there are several telco companies such as Cellcard, Smart, and Metfone. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around $5-10 per month, and there may be compatibility issues with some international sim cards.

Dialling to Cambodia

To call Cambodia from another country, dial +855 followed by the area code and local number. Area codes in Cambodia include 23, 24, 25, and 26 for Phnom Penh, and 63, 64, and 69 for other cities and provinces.

Transport Around Cambodia

Air Travel

Cambodia has three major international airports: Phnom Penh International Airport, Siem Reap International Airport, and Sihanoukville International Airport.

Train Travel

There is limited inter-city train service in Cambodia, with only a few routes available. The most popular route is between Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville, with ticket prices ranging from $6 to $15 and journey times of around 7 hours.

Metro / Local Trains

There is no metro system in Cambodia.

Buses

Buses are the most common form of inter-city transportation in Cambodia, with a wide network of routes available. Example ticket prices range from $5 to $20, depending on the distance and level of comfort, with journey times ranging from 2 to 12 hours.

Rideshare

Grab is the main rideshare company operating in Cambodia, with average prices starting from $3 for short trips in major cities.

Driving by Car

Driving in Cambodia can be challenging due to the poor road conditions and unpredictable traffic. The speed limit in urban areas is usually 40-50 km/h, and 80-90 km/h on highways. Cambodia uses right-hand drive.

Local Customs

In Cambodia, tipping is not very common but appreciated, especially in tourism-related industries. A small amount, such as 10% of the total bill, is sufficient. Locals typically greet each other by pressing their palms together in a prayer-like gesture and bowing slightly, known as a 'sampeah.' When speaking with strangers, it is recommended to use formal titles such as 'Mr.' or 'Ms.' until given permission to use first names. Men and women typically address each other with the formal titles, but close friends and family may use more casual terms of endearment.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Cambodia's healthcare system is limited and healthcare facilities are basic. Medical staff is scarce and medical equipment is often outdated. Private healthcare is available but expensive. Travelers are advised to have comprehensive travel insurance before visiting Cambodia. The cost of a doctor's visit in Cambodia ranges from $15 to $50.

COVID Situation

Cambodia has successfully controlled the spread of COVID-19, with very few cases reported in recent months. The government has provided free testing and treatment for those who need it. However, travelers are still required to take precautions such as wearing masks and maintaining social distancing.

Common Health Risks

Malaria is a common health risk in rural areas of Cambodia, especially during the rainy season from June to November. Dengue fever is also prevalent, particularly in urban areas. Travelers should take precautions against mosquito bites. Food and waterborne illnesses, such as typhoid fever and diarrhea, are also common. It is recommended to avoid drinking tap water and to only eat well-cooked food. HIV/AIDS is prevalent in Cambodia, and travelers should take precautions to avoid exposure to the virus.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

In Cambodia, alcohol consumption is legal and widely accepted. However, excessive drinking in public places can result in arrest and fine.

Recreational Drugs

Drug use and possession is illegal in Cambodia, with severe penalties including lengthy prison sentences and fines. Both soft and hard drugs are prohibited.

Pre-Marital Relationships

Pre-marital relationships are generally accepted in Cambodia, but traditional values still hold strong in rural areas. Sex outside of marriage is not illegal, but can be culturally frowned upon.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Cambodia, but societal attitudes can be conservative and discriminatory. Same-sex marriage is not currently recognized.

Firearms / Guns

Gun ownership is heavily restricted in Cambodia, with permits required for all firearms. Automatic weapons are completely banned, and penalties for illegal possession or use can be severe.