PRE TRAVEL TIPS
Although Cambodia has suffered years of atrocities, since 1975 the country has returned to become the peaceful state it now is. Foreigners are often misled by news about landmines and fighting, but these are all things of the past. There are a few remote areas near the borders where troops are still working on clearing landmines left behind during the war, but for the most part, Cambodia is safe.
AIRLINES
Airlines (Domestic)
Cambodia Angkor Air is the only airline currently operating domestic flights in Cambodia. This airline uses French-Italian ATR turboprop planes. The configuration is 70-seats (ATR 72) in rows of 4 seats with a middle aisle. Entry-exit is at the back of the plane. Standard one-class configuration. Cambodia Angkor Air is owned by Vietnam Airlines and Cambodia and also operates some international flights with plans for expansion within the region.
Airlines (International)
The following airlines currently fly into Cambodia: Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, Air Asia, Asiana Airlines, Cambodia Angkor Air, China Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Dragon Air, EVA Air, Jetstar Asia, Korean Air, Lao Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Myanmar Airways International, Cebu Pacific Airlines, Air France, Shanghai Airlines, Silk Air, and Vietnam Airlines.
PASSPORT & VISA
Cambodia tourist visa is compulsory for all nationalities (or stated otherwise) and it can be easily obtained on arrival at Phnom Penh & Siem Reap International airports and International Border Checkpoints with Thailand, Vietnam and Lao. The visa is valid for a 30-day stay and single entry.
Documents needed:
- A passport validity of more than 6 months balance at time of entry
- A recent passport-size photo
- A completed visa application form (the form can be obtained on the aircraft)
- Tourist visa fee is USD20.
You can obtain your Cambodian Visa from either a Cambodian Embassy or Consulate prior to your trip or apply a visa on arrival. Recently, the Royal Government of Cambodia has approved e-visas that you can be granted a Cambodian tourist visa online at http://www.mfaic.gov.kh/evisa/. The fees are US$20 + US$5 (processing charge), pay by credit card online, and include uploading a recent passport-size photo in JPEG/ PNG format.
Cambodia Tourist Visa Exemption applicable for:
The nationals of Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia do not need a Tourist Visa. They are permitted to stay in the Kingdom for 30 days (21 days for the Filipino national).
Countries/nationalities those are not applicable for Visa on arrival & e-visa includes: Afghanistan, Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libyan, Pakistan, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syrian and Yemen. (They shall apply Cambodia visa in advance at the nearest Cambodian Embassy).
Departure Air Port Taxes: Today, the airport departure taxes for both International and domestic flights have already included in your air ticket fares – please double check with your air ticket agent.
ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE FORMALITIES
A visa is compulsory for travel into Cambodia. This can be obtained upon arrival with the presentation of an application form attached with two passport photos and the required visa fee.
Occasionally you may be asked to complete a declaration form which will be handed over to the customs official. This procedure is more strictly enforced at Siem Reap International Airport where you are requested to declare all types of photographic equipment.
BEST TIME TO GO TO CAMBODIA
Cambodia's climate falls into the pattern of the southern monsoons that also hit neighbouring Thailand and Vietnam from May to November. The seasonal temperature varies little, meaning that it's always hot, with a yearly mean temperature of about 28°C or 82°F. The best time to travel here is thus determined by the differing seasons, with the dry season from December to April considered best.
The peak months for tourism are December and January, with secondary peak months in October, November, February, March and April. You should consider travelling during the least crowded season from May to September to take advantage of discounted room rates and other low-season specials.
WEATHER
The Wet Season
The wet season comes courtesy of the southwest monsoon which blows from May to October, bringing with it some 75% of Cambodia's annual rainfall. Not surprisingly, the wet season is characterized by rain, and during the peak of wet season from July to September, the humidity is higher and the temperatures can reach the upper 30˚C (86˚F), it can rain as much as two out of every three days.
From a more cheerful perspective, monsoonal Cambodia is also a beautiful country to travel around in. The roads are not dusty and the lush greenery of the country returns. Angkor Wat in particular can be stunning during the wet season -- the murals have a more unique appearance and feel. Observing Angkor Wat with a lightning storm as a backdrop is an electrifying experience. There are also fewer tourists going about in the country, so if you prefer to dodge the crowds and get huge discount of accommodation, wet season can be a good time to visit.
Regionally, the Cardamom Mountains get the heaviest rain in the country, while the entire coastline gets rough seas and a lot of rain.
The Dry Season
The dry period runs from October to April, blowing like a hair-dryer set to high, the northeast monsoon dries out the country very quickly. Dry season is pleasant from November to February and becomes hotter from March to May, where temperatures can soar as high as 38˚C (100˚F). Characterized by heat and dust, this season coincides with Cambodia's peak tourist season when travelers arrive in their droves between November and January to take advantage of the lack of rain, enjoy the sun and the relatively cooler months.
Cambodia's beach strips at Kep, Sihanoukville and Ko Kong bask in brilliant sunshine with clear calm waters and if you're a beach person, dry season is the best time for you.
TIME
Time Zone: GTM/UTC +7 Hours
At 12:00 noon in Cambodia, it will be 10:30 am in Delhi (India), 05:00 am in London and 09:00 am in Los Angeles (the previous day).
ELECTRICITY
The electrical current in Cambodia is 220 Volts AC, 50 Cycles. Power outlets come both for dual-prong rounded plugs and flat-pin plugs. Adapters are available for most international appliances at the service counter of the hotel.
DOs and DON’Ts in Cambodia
Cambodian people are well-known for their hospitality and warmth. Out of respect, visitors to the Kingdom should take care to observe local customs and practices. You may find it useful to familiarize yourself with the following common dos and don'ts before embarking on your trip to Cambodia.
DOs in Cambodia
- Ask for permission before taking photographs of any Cambodian people or monks.
- It is customary to remove your shoes when entering a place of worship such as a pagoda or temple.Additionally, visitors should dress appropriately when inside a religious site (upper arms and legs should be covered, hats removed).
- It is respectful to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home.
- Though not always expected, a respectful way of greeting another individual is to bow the head slightly with hands pressed together at the chest (known as “Sampeah”).
- If invited to dine in a Cambodian family’s home, it is polite to bring a small gift for the host such as fruit, dessert, or flowers.
- If invited to attend a Cambodian wedding, it is customary to bring cash as a wedding gift.
- When using a toothpick at the table, use one hand to cover your mouth.
- If you are in business trip, keep business cards ready, and present them with both hands. Accept business cards with both hands.
- Use an insect repellent against mosquitoes and be careful to protect yourself against dehydration, heat exhaustion and sunburn.
DON'Ts in Cambodia
- Don't use your feet to point at someone.
- Don't touch a Cambodian person on the head.
- Don't begin eating if you are a guest at a dinner and the host has yet to take a bite.
- Women should never touch male monks or hand something directly to them.
- Keep public displays of affection to a respectful minimum.
- Never drink tap water. Purified bottled water is available everywhere.
- Wearing shorts and T-shirts is accepted even in the complex of Angkor. Note however that, for the visit of the Silver Pagoda in the Royal Palace (Phnom Penh), visitors are demanded to dress more formally (long clothes). Shoes are always removed at the entrance to pagodas.
What to Wear in Cambodia
The weather in Cambodia generally falls under two categories: the wet season (May to October) and the dry season (November to April).
Lightweight, loose-fitting, cotton clothing is recommended for the dry season, when the weather is hot and humid. Visitors may wish to pack long pants and long-sleeved shirts for hiking, trekking, or outdoor activities. A hat and sunglasses may be useful for when walking around under the sun.
During the rainy season, visitors may want to bring a light rain poncho (plastic ponchos can be purchased cheaply in Cambodia) or a sturdy umbrella. A light jacket or cardigan will come in handy during the months of December and January, when temperatures are at their coolest.
When visiting outdoor temples, including those of Angkor Wat, shorts and T-shirts are acceptable. Shoes and hats are generally removed at the entrance to pagodas. For visits to the Silver Pagoda, which is within the Royal Palace grounds. visitors are asked to dress more formally. Gentlemen are required to wear long trousers and ladies should wear long trousers or long skirts and keep their shoulders covered.
What to Bring to Cambodia
- Photocopies of your passport
- At least two passport-size photographs of yourself
- Cash in US$1s, $10s, $20s, $50s
- A folding umbrella or lightweight rain poncho if you plan to visit during the rainy season
- It’s highly recommended to bring a pair of sunglasses and some sunscreen lotion
- Comfortable shoes are a must, especially for the visit of the temples. Further we recommend bringing mosquito repellent, a hat, a torch and light clothes.
- An adventurous spirit.
CURRENCY & EXCHANGE
- Khmer Riel (KHR) is national currency of Cambodia; Notes are in denominations of 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 50,000 and 100,000. However US Dollar is widely used, although it is always handy to get some local money on arrival. You normally can get more favourable exchanges rates it is better done outside the hotels. (1 EUR ≈ 5200 KHR/ 1 USD ≈ 4100 KHR) – Exchange rate in as at July 2012.
- Traveler cheques and Credit Cards: are not widely accepted and can be difficult to cash outside of major cities. Banks such as ANZ Bank and ACLEDA etc. will change your Traveler Checks for US Dollars but a commission applies (2% to 5%). Only upscale Hotels, Restaurants, Super Markets and Souvenir Shops accept Traveler Checks. Banks are open Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 15:00 and Saturday morning until 12:00.
- Visa, American Express and MasterCard are now accepted in many major hotels, restaurants and shops in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap and do expect 2-3 % surcharge. However, bring along some Khmer Riel or US Dollars cash is very important for any emergency. Diners Club is not accepted. ATM machines are now available in towns throughout the country. (Note: Please take time to read credit card slips before signing)
LANGUAGE
| English |
Khmer |
| Hello |
Suosdey |
| Goodbye |
Lea Heuy |
| How are you? |
Teu Nak Sok Sabay Chea Te? |
| Good / fine |
Knhom Sok Sabay Chea Te |
| Please |
Sohm Anh Cheunh |
| Thank you |
Or kun |
| Yes |
Baat (for men)/Cha (for woman) |
| No |
Ort te |
| Very much |
Yang Chroeun |
| Welcome |
Svakum |
| How much? or How many? |
Pon mann? |
| What time is it? |
Teu moang pon mann heuy? |
| No problem |
Kamean Panh Ha |
| Excuse me |
Som Tos |
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2012
Please note that many public holidays in Cambodia are either traditional festivals or Buddhist holidays, which are based on lunar calendars; thus, the holiday dates change from year to year.
International New Year’s Day
Sunday, January 01, 2012
The celebration of New Year’s Eve has become more and more popular in Cambodia; although not an official holiday, many offices are closed.
Victory over Genocide Day
Saturday, January 07, 2012
This national holiday commemorates Vietnamese-backed troops taking the capital from the Khmer Rouge in 1979. It marks the end of the Khmer Rouge regime after their defeat to the Vietnamese.
Meak Bochea Day /Magha Puja Day
Tuesday, February 07, 2012
An important Buddhist holy day celebrated in Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos on the full moon day of the third lunar month in Buddhist Calendar. The month is known in the Thai language as Makha (Pali: Magha). Bucha, also a Thai word (Pali: Puja), meaning to venerate or to honor. As such, Makha Bucha Day is for the veneration of Buddha and his teachings.
Women’s Day
Thursday, March 08, 2012
This United Nations-inspired holiday.
Cambodian Khmer New Year/Chaul Chnam Thmey (Lunar New Year)
Friday to Sunday (April 13-15, 2012)
Possibly Cambodia’s most important holiday. The cities empty as Cambodians rush to spend the holiday with family. The holiday lasts for three days beginning on New Year’s Day. This time of the year is at the end of the harvesting season. The farmers enjoy the fruits of their harvest and relax before the rainy season begins. Gifts and tips are especially auspicious during April and should be accompanied with the phrase ‘Sok Sabay, Ch’nam Tmey’ (Happy New Year!)
Labor Day
Tuesday, May 01, 2012
A relatively minor holiday. Embassies advise avoiding large labor-related gatherings and rallies falling on this day.
Visaka Bochea / Visaka Buja Day
Saturday, May 05, 2012
Vesak Day, Buddhist observance commemorating the birth, enlightenment and passing of the Buddha. It involves chanting, sermons and a candlelit procession to the Wat.
Royal Ploughing Day Ceremony
Wednesday, May 09, 2012
Known in Cambodia as Pithi Chrat Preah Neangkol, this public holiday corresponds to the start of the planting season. Royal astrologers will predict the coming season’s weather.
HM King Sihamoni’s Birthday
Sunday – Tuesday (May 13-15, 2012)
Commemorates the birthday of King Norodom Sihamoni on 14 May 1953. The current king was crowned in 2004 after the abdication of his father, Norodom Sihanouk.
International Children’s Day and Cambodia Children’s Day
Friday, June 01, 2012
HM the Queen Mother’s Birthday
Monday, June 18, 2012
Commemorates the birthday of The Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk.
Cambodia Constitution Day
Monday, September 24, 2012
A public holiday called to celebrate the anniversary signing of the Cambodian new constitution by King Sihanouk on 24 September 1993.
Pchum Ben Day “Soul Festival”
Sunday – Tuesday (October 14 - 16, 2012)
Festival of the Ancestors. Buddhist tradition demands Cambodians visit many pagodas over two weeks. Food, flowers, rice and gifts are given to the monks to convey to the afterlife.
Cambodia Coronation Day
Monday, October 29, 2012
Cambodia Coronation Day is the anniversary of the coronation of current King Norodom Sihamoni.
Former HM King Sihanouk’s Birthday
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Commemorates the day of birth of HM King Sihanouk.
Cambodia Independence Day
Friday, November 09, 2012
Marks anniversary of independence from France. King Sihamoni visits Independence Monument in Phnom Penh.
Water Festival / Bon Om Thook
Tuesday – Thursday (November 27 - 29, 2012)
Millions flock to Phnom Penh from the provinces to celebrate the end of monsoon season. Dragon boats race for three days with the king overseeing.
Human Rights Day
Monday, December 10, 2012
A United Nations-inspired holiday. Unlikely to affect travel plans but government offices are closed.
RECOMMEDNED READING LIST
GENERAL
Ian Mabbett & David Chandler
The Khmers
DAVID CHANDLER
A History of Cambodia
DAVID CHANDLER
Brother Number One - A Political Biography of Pol Pot
DAWN ROONEY
Angkor: Cambodia’s Wondrous Khmer Temples - The definitive and most entertaining guide to the
Angkor temples
NORMAN LEWIS
A Dragon Apparent
JON SWAIN
River of Time
MINISTRY OF TOURISM OF CAMBODIA
(http://www.cambodiatourism.org)
CLOTHING
Cambodia is a very conservative country. Therefore, both men and women should dress appropriately. Any attire that bares the shoulders, thighs or breasts is considered improper and disrespectful, especially when visiting temples.
Pack lightweight, dry cottons that may be layered for touring, while a waterproof is also advisable for travel during the rainy season. As sightseeing in Cambodia may require extended periods of walking, comfortable footwear is also essential. Additionally, a light sweater will come in handy during the cooler months.
There is no need to bring formal wear as hotels and restaurants tend to be very casual. Most hotels offer extremely efficient same day laundry service. However, it can be expensive and we would ask that you pay attention to the price lists and the return times.
HEALTH
As before all travel, we recommend that you consult your doctor and that you travel with enough medication you might need to last more than your trip duration.
When dining in hotels, the food is safe as is the ice in drinks. When dining outside of hotels, be cautious when eating salads, peeled fruits, seafood, dairy products and items such as mayonnaise. We also do not recommend that you drink the tap water. For up to date information on latest health and vaccination recommendations, please contact your doctor.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Generally, when travelling in Asia, you’ll want to bring all the equipment you will need as supplies may be intermittent and their quality sometimes questionable. This should include the relevant charging apparatus for each piece of equipment (as well as the appropriate socket plug adaptor and voltage converter). We also suggest that you take into account the amount of memory you will require and pack enough additional memory as required.
- Etiquette requires that you ask permission before photographing local people, unless you are shooting a crowded public scene. Please be considerate of a desire not to be photographed.
- Please avoid photographing police and military personnel or government installations.
LOCAL FOOD
Cambodian or Khmer cuisine is closely related to that of neighbouring Vietnam, Laos and Thailand, though it is not as spicy. Curries, stir fried vegetables, rice, noodles and soups are the staples of the Khmer diet.
The local cuisine which is prepared and sold from the numerous outdoor restaurants and street side food stalls is simpler that similar steet food found in Thailand and Vietnam. Venture into a true Cambodian restaurant and you will find cuisine made from the freshest market ingredients, immaculately presented and with a less spicy flavour, allowing fuller flavours to come through.
Cambodia is well-known in the region for its Prahok, a strong, fermented fish paste used in a variety of traditional dishes. Baguettes served with pâté is still a popular snack in Cambodia - testament to the country’s French colonial past.
International visitors to Cambodia are well catered for. In the cities of Phnom Penh & Siem Reap you will find an abundant choice between chic bistros, fashionable restaurants and street stalls serving French fusion, traditional Khmer, Vietnamese, Thai, Chinese and Western cuisine.
Bottled water is available throughout Cambodia, as are soft drinks and a variety of international beers. A delicious local alternative is Angkor Beer, locally brewed utilising Australian techniques, it is best enjoyed while gazing out over a long Angkor Wat sunset.
LOCAL HANDICRAFTS
Cambodian art is today making a revival after the near loss of all the Khmer artisans during the rule of the Khmer Rouge. Locally crafted products include intricately designed Khmer silverware, religious carvings, bas relief rubbings, handmade jewellery, Cambodian silks and gemstones.
Cambodia is widely renowned for its beautiful religious carvings, which feature the stories and images from the Hindu epics of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. There are many villages and shops that feature very high quality cravings both in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Some of these workshops are run by foundations who provide an education and training otherwise not available to the poor and victims of landmines.
Shopping in Cambodia is best done in the numerous markets that can be found in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap and foundations and workshops as mentioned previously. Bargaining is welcomed and most of the time it is expected, but please do be respectful with your bidding.
PLEASE NOTE: We cannot take responsibility for misrepresented or faulty goods. Likewise, we do not take responsibility for following up on merchandise that you choose to have shipped home. We also wishes to advise that when shopping for fine art, genuine antiques and Buddha images to be aware that a license is required for the exportation of these goods.
Bargaining: Not necessarily. If an item carries a price tag, you're not expected to bargain. You are not expected to bargain at a restaurant either. However, it’s only human to wish for a better deal and it is expected of tourists to do so at markets and tourist sites. A little friendly negotiation can sometimes make buying more fun.
TIPPING
As tipping in Cambodia is not a regular practice, the most important rule is that tipping is entirely discretionary. Hotels and restaurants usually add a 10% service charge to any bill so it is not necessary to tip further.
If you rent a cyclo or motorcycle tuk-tuk you may choose to tip the driver US$ 1 – US$ 2 depending on the rental duration. While you may tip hotel and airport porters US$1 – US$ 2 per bag depending on its size.
Should you wish to extend a gratuity to your guide and driver, we would suggest the following as a guideline; US$ 15 - US$ 20 per person per day for your guide and US$ 7 - US$ 10 per person per day for your driver.
OTHER NOTES
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
The most common forms of public transport both in the capital and other smaller towns are cyclos and motorcycle tuk-tuk’s. Car taxis are also available and can be found at airports and hotels. All fares except for the public buses are to be negotiated prior to boarding.
SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING VEHICLES
Touring and transfer vehicles within Cambodia can vary in size, shape and amenities. Few of these vehicles are fitted with rear passenger seatbelts as it is not a government requirement.
SAFETY & SECURITY:
Cambodia is a relatively safe country but like any other country, it is always good to take the necessary normal precautions while travelling. We would therefore suggest:
- Take extra care of bags and wallets when in crowded places such as markets or temples.
- As there is a lot of poverty in the country, wearing expensive jewellery is not advisable.
- Use hotel safety deposit boxes or in-room safe for all valuables including passports and air tickets.
- When taking any form of public transportation, always agree on a price before setting off.
- Do not wander too far from the temple grounds.
- Do not stay out late at night unless you are accompanied by the local guide.
Please liaise directly with Boundless Asia Travel regarding any type of emergency.
Contact Detail: BOUNDLESS ASIA TRAVEL CO., LTD
- Address: #10B, Street 93, Sangkat Tuol Sangke, Khan Russey Keo, Phnom Penh, CAMBODIA
- Tel: (855 12) 679 811
- Email: enquiry@boundlessasia.com
- Skype: BoundlessAsiaTravel
- Website: http://boundlessasia.com
DEALING WITH PROBLEMS
In the unlikely event of dissatisfaction with accommodation or other local arrangements made by BOUNDLESS ASIA TRAVEL, it is essential to bring the matter immediately to the attention of senior hotel management (preferably in writing) or your Guardian Angel, so that practical remedial action can be taken. There is clearly no benefit in waiting until after you return home to issue a complaint where local assistance may have successfully resolved the situation.
FINAL NOTE
We hope you have found this information helpful in preparing for your holiday in Cambodia. If you have any queries, please contact BOUNDLESS ASIA TRAVEL (enquiry@boundlessasia.com).
The information contained in this document was correct at the time of printing and is to be used as a guide only. Health, visa and other specific details should be double-checked by your travel agent at the time of booking. We are constantly striving to update our information to keep travellers well informed, and would be delighted to receive your feedback or tips.
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