Everything You MUST KNOW Before Visiting Cambodia in 2025 (COMPLETE GUIDE!)
Cambodia is a captivating country located in South East Asia with an array of history, culture and natural beauty to be enjoyed by anyone who visits.
The country’s cultural heritage is deeply rooted in the Khmer Empire, evident in ancient temples such as Angkor Wat, traditional dances and art styles. Cambodia is also home to bustling cities plus relaxed islands with something to suit every type of traveller.
In this blog post we explain everything you MUST KNOW before visiting Cambodia for the first time!
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Facts About Cambodia
Below are some facts that you should know before you travel to Cambodia.
- Cambodia is situated in South East Asia, sharing borders with Thailand to the northwest, Laos to the northeast, and Vietnam to the east.
- The capital of Cambodia is Phnom Penh, it is also the largest city of Cambodia
- Cambodia is home to Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. This iconic temple complex was built in the 12th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Cambodia has a complex history, marked by the Khmer Rouge regime from 1975 to 1979. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields near Phnom Penh serve as reminders of this dark period.
- Cambodia boasts a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Hinduism and Buddhism evident in its architecture, art and traditions.
- Cambodia is home to 60 islands, some of which offer white sand and crystal clear water such as Koh Rong, close to the coast of Sihanoukville.
- Tourism is a crucial economic driver for Cambodia, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP. The industry provides employment and supports local businesses.
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Things to remember when travelling in Cambodia
Mixed Currency:
Credit cards are widely accepted in modern hotels and stores however, cash is preferred by most locals.
Cambodia uses two currencies: the US Dollar and the Cambodian Riel. For any payments which are large you will pay with Dollars and for anything small you can pay with Riel, servers and shopkeepers are very good at converting these so you will be given the price in both to avoid confusion. Sometimes when you pay with Dollars you are given back change in Riel too so please don’t be confused and familiarize yourself with the current conversion.
Also please only use reliable ATMs when withdrawing cash, choose ATMs that are connected to a bank in case there are any issues with the cash.
Don’t Drink the Tap Water:
The water in Cambodia is not filtered to a safe level so to avoid waterborne illnesses, refrain from consuming tap water. Stick to bottled or purified water which is widely available throughout the country.
Watch Out for Your Belongings:
Cambodia is generally safe for tourists, but it’s wise to be cautious of petty theft. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas and during Tuk Tuk rides.
Vaccinations:
It is important to check what vaccinations are recommended for visiting Cambodia. Common recommendations include Hepatitis A and B plus typhoid.
Bargaining in Cambodia:
Bargaining is a common practice in markets and street stalls in Cambodia. Polite negotiation is expected when the vendor gives you their first price, try to find a fair price for both you and the seller.
How to Get Around:
Tuk-tuks are a popular and convenient mode of transportation in Cambodia, especially in the cities. Download the app Passapp to order tuk-tuks when travelling so that you don’t have to negotiate fares with the drivers who sometimes inflate the prices.
Spoken Languages in Cambodia:
English is widely spoken in all of the tourist areas. Learning a few Khmer phrases can enhance your interactions.
Hello – Sure sdey (suesday)
Thank you – Akun (arkun)
Wifi and Internet Connection:
Major cities and tourist areas offer reliable wifi, but remote locations may have limited connectivity. Consider a local SIM card for continuous access or an eSIM if your phone is compatible
Mosquitoes:
Given Cambodia’s tropical climate, protect yourself from mosquito-borne diseases by using effective mosquito repellent, especially at night.
Dress Modestly:
When visiting temples and rural areas, dress modestly, this means you need to cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect to local customs.
Be Understanding Towards Cambodia’s History:
Cambodia has a tragic history, notably during the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970’s. Please remember to be sensitive when discussing historical events and if you decide to visit memorials then keep this respect for the 2 million people who were killed.
Visa and Passport:
Most visitors can obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa depending on your nationality, it is important to check your own government’s website before departing. Plus ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.
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Conclusion
Understanding these facts about Cambodia enriches your travel experience, allowing you to appreciate the country’s beauty while navigating its cultural nuances with respect and awareness.
Thank you for reading this post. Hopefully you are now aware of some of the things you must know before visiting Cambodia for the first time!
Check out the rest of our Cambodia posts HERE!
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