Cambodia

The Kingdom of Cambodia is bordered by Thailand to the west and northwest, Laos to the north, and Vietnam to the east and south. It is a constitutional monarchy with a population of approximately 17 million, most of whom live in rural areas. Phnom Penh is the capital city and the country's economic hub.

Cambodia is best known for the ancient Angkor Wat complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the largest religious monument in the world. The country is one of the most visited Asian countries, making tourism a major contributor to its economy.

Cambodian cuisine, influenced by Thai and Vietnamese cuisine, is characterized by bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Rice and Khmer noodles are staples of nearly every meal, accompanied by dishes such as amok, steamed fish or curry with a coconut milk base; Somlah Machou Khmae, a sour soup made with pineapples, tomatoes, and fish; and lok lak, stir-fried beef with lime and pepper sauce. For those with a sweet tooth, Pong Aime is a local favourite.

Wine production is not a popular thing in Cambodia, but locally brewed drinks such as rice wine and palm wine are commonly consumed. International wines and beverages are widely available in major cities and tourist hubs.

Cambodia is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visiting the Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap is an experience you will want to relive; with iconic sites such as Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm, you will be exposed to the ancient Khmer civilization.

Tonle Sap Lake has a unique ecosystem and is great for water activities. The southern beaches of Sihanoukville are perfect for relaxing or snorkeling. You can also take cycling tours through rural villages to connect with local life.

Cambodia’s natural beauty includes a variety of landscapes, from fertile rice paddies to dense tropical forests. The Phnom Kulen National Park with its scenic waterfall. The three-staged  Bou Sra waterfall, the Tonie Sap Biosphere Reserve accommodating the Tonie Sap lake, which houses the endangered species siamese crocodile and Mekong Giant Catfish, and the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary. If wildlife spotting interests you, you might want to take a trip to Virachey National Park and Preah Monivong Bokor National Park, where you can see the clouded leopard, sun bear, clouded bear, pig-tailed macaques, and pleated gibbons.

Cambodia celebrates several traditional festivals that reflect its rich cultural heritage. Khmer New Year in April is the most significant, marked by water fights, traditional games, and family gatherings. The Water Festival Bon Om Touk in November celebrates the reversal of the Tonle Sap River flow and includes boat races and street parades.

The Pchum Ben Festival in September or October honors ancestors with offerings at pagodas. These events provide a deep insight into Cambodian traditions and values.

Travelers to Cambodia are generally advised to get routine vaccinations. Anti-malarial medication is also recommended, particularly for rural areas, as malaria and dengue fever are present. Pack insect repellent, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit. Drink only bottled or boiled water, as tap water is unsafe for consumption. The healthcare system in Cambodia is below standard, and in most cases, serious medical cases are usually referred to Bangkok and Singapore; in this case, medical travel insurance covering evacuation is needed.

The Cambodian riel (KHR) is the official currency. However, the US dollar is widely used, especially in urban areas and tourist spots. Small transactions in local markets are often conducted in riel.

Cambodia uses Type A, C, and G plugs, with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz.

Khmer is the official language of Cambodia.

Cambodians value politeness and respect, particularly toward elders and religious figures. When visiting temples, dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. Dressing is conservative, especially for women. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics and the Khmer Rouge period. Be sure to always ask for permission before photographing anybody.

Cambodia offers a range of transport options. buses, pick-up trucks, shared taxis, motorbikes, and the giant ibis are the common means of road travel, while private cars can be hired for convenience. The rail network is limited, but travel between major cities like Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville is available. Planes, helicopters, and microlight aircraft are available to travel between major cities such as Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

• Dry Season (October to April): The weather is usually cool at the early start of the season, but starting in March, the temperature rises, leading to hot mornings and afternoons. This is the peak tourist season.

• Wet Season (May to September): This season is characterized by heavy rainfalls, with the heaviest occurring in August. The early months of the rainy season are usually hot with infrequent rainfalls.

Cambodia is an affordable destination for most travelers. Budget travelers can expect to spend $30–50 per day, covering accommodation, food, and transport. Mid-range travelers may spend $70–100 per day for upgraded stays and tours. Luxury options are also available, particularly in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.

• Visit the Angkor Wat complex early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.

• Carry small denominations of US dollars for convenience.

• Be cautious when consuming street food and stick to freshly cooked dishes.

• Opt for guided tours to gain deeper insights into Cambodia’s history and culture.

• Respect local customs and traditions to ensure a positive experience.

• You might consider going along with the Khmer phrasebook to help you keep up with assorted Khmer language.