About Cambodia

Cambodia, a country with a rich historical heritage and unique culture, attracts tourists from all over the world. Its capital Phnom Penh, a city where tradition and modernity intertwine, offers travelers many interesting sights and places to visit.

Angkor Wat, the most recognizable and significant temple complex in Cambodia, is a part of national pride and a must-see point on any tourist itinerary. It is the place where every day thousands of tourists take photos at the majestic ruins to remember this extraordinary and beautiful place.

Traveling to Cambodia is an opportunity to see an amazing combination of ancient cities and natural parks, which are harmoniously complemented by the latest tourist routes and modern hotels. Tourists can plan their vacation on their own, buying airline tickets online and choosing budget accommodation options, or use the services of travel agencies that will offer detailed maps and excursions.

A visa may be required to enter the country, but the process of obtaining one is quite simple and can be done online. The cost of travel to Cambodia varies, but in general, this destination is considered affordable and a trip for any budget can be organized here.

Cambodia is a top destination for those looking for interesting places with rich history, beautiful nature and friendly people. Every year, the country attracts more and more tourists who want to see and learn more about its unique traditions and culture.

The Kingdom of Cambodia is a state in Southeast Asia, located on the Indochina peninsula. The plains here occupy about 75% of the country's territory. They are surrounded by hills and low mountains. The Kravan Mountains stretch from north to south, and the highest point of Cambodia is Mount Oral (1813 meters). The Mekong River, the longest river in Cambodia, flows through the eastern part of the country.

The capital of the state is Phnom Penh. It was founded in 1372, and received the status of the capital in 1431. More than 1.6 million people live in the city.

The official language of Cambodia is Khmer, which belongs to the Mon-Khmer branch of the Austroasiatic language family. More than 95% of the population professes Buddhism, mainly in the form of Theravada Buddhism, the earliest branch of this religion.

The history of Cambodia goes back many centuries. The first state on this territory emerged around the 7th century AD. The Khmer Empire reached its peak in the 9th century, when the ruler Jayavarman II declared independence from Java. During the Middle Ages, the Khmers were often at war with neighbors including Vietnam and Siam.

In the 1860s and 1880s, Cambodia became a protectorate of France to defend itself against Siam. The country gained independence in 1953. However, a civil war continued until 1975, which ended with the victory of the Khmer Rouge led by Pol Pot. Thus appeared the state of Kampuchea, which was overthrown by the Vietnamese army in 1979.

Today Cambodia is a constitutional monarchy. The head of state is the king, who is chosen by the Council of the Royal Throne. The king appoints the prime minister and ministers, but only with the approval of the National Assembly.

Cambodia uses two currencies, the U.S. dollar (USD) and the Khmer riel (KHR), also called Cambodian riel. Both currencies are equal, but dollars are more commonly used for basic payments. There are no coins in the country, and cents have been replaced by small local bills. One riel (Riel) is equal to 100 sen. There are banknotes in circulation in denominations of 100,000, 50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 2,000, 1,000, 1,000, 500, and 100 riels. Large banknotes are rarely used, and small bills are used to change amounts that are not multiples of a dollar. For example, change of $1.25 can be given in $1 and 1,000 riel bills or a single 5,000 riel bill. Both are acceptable for payment.

Currency exchange in Cambodia is very simple. Dollars can be exchanged for Khmer riel at any bank or exchange office. You may need a passport to do this, although sometimes you can get by without one. Be sure to check all bills you receive. Remember that badly crumpled, torn or marked large riel bills will be difficult to use. Soiled, marked or torn U.S. dollar bills, especially $50 and $100 denominations, are not accepted in Cambodia.

Exchanging riel notes back into US dollars can be difficult. The easiest way to do this is in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, while in other cities it can be problematic. Therefore, it is recommended to withdraw small amounts of local currency from ATMs as needed, taking into account bank fees.

Visa, American Express and Master Card credit cards can only be used at banks and expensive hotels. It is almost impossible to cash them elsewhere. It is recommended to use checks and credit cards in dollars. Before traveling to Cambodia, it is better to buy dollars, preferably small denominations: 20,10, 5 and 1.

The climate in Cambodia, as in most other Southeast Asian countries, is characterized by hot weather with a pronounced monsoon influence. Four main periods can be distinguished in the year:

• From mid-October to February is the most favorable time to visit the country. The average daily temperature is from +22 to +25 °С, there are almost no rains, the sky is clear, a pleasant breeze blows.
• From March to May comes the dry season. In this period it is very hot in Cambodia because of absence of wind and precipitation. The water level in the rivers drops significantly, which makes it difficult or impossible to travel by boat.
• From June through August, the approach of the monsoon is felt. It rains almost every day, usually in the evening or at night for 15-20 minutes. However, thanks to the still strong sun, the ground dries out quickly. This time is ideal for visiting the city of Angkor, as the rains fill the fortress moats and encourage the surrounding nature to flourish.
• From September to mid-October is the rainy season in Cambodia. During this period, rainfall becomes particularly intense and prolonged, making many of the country's unpaved roads virtually impassable.

When planning a trip to Cambodia, you should pay special attention to your clothing choices to feel comfortable in the warm and humid climate. Choose lightweight clothing made of natural fabrics such as cotton or linen.

For sightseeing, a pair of comfortable sandals or sneakers for long walks around temples and towns will be useful. It's also worth bringing a pair of swimwear as they don't have time to dry due to the high humidity.

When visiting local temples it is necessary to observe the dress code: men are recommended to wear pants, and women - long skirts and a light sweater with a sleeve.

Tourists are advised to visit temples and other attractions either before lunch or a few hours after to avoid sunburn. If you plan to sightsee between 12:00 noon and 4:00 p.m., you should wear long-sleeved clothing, wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes from strong sunlight, and bring protective creams and drinking water.

Don't forget that respecting a country's culture and traditions is an important part of traveling. By preparing a suitable closet, you can enjoy your vacation in Cambodia without worrying about discomfort.

Traveling to Cambodia is not only an opportunity to explore unique historical monuments, but also a chance to immerse yourself in the rich culture of this country.

Khmer people are peaceful and reserved people who have a deep respect for their king and country. Buddhism is the main religion in Cambodia and the Khmer people strictly adhere to its principles. Family and religious traditions are highly valued in Cambodia. In each village, the center of life is a temple called a "wat" or "wot".

When visiting temples, it is customary to remove hats and shoes, show respect for monks and Buddha images, and make donations. You should walk around the temple in a clockwise direction. Photographing temple structures and locals is only allowed with permission, which often comes with a fee.

Cambodians greet each other with a handshake and a bow, although in recent times it is becoming more common to limit the greeting to a handshake. Women use the traditional greeting both among themselves and when talking to men. When visiting a private home, office or organization, it is customary to bring a small gift.

In Cambodia, it is important to observe cultural norms: do not show anger or anger, do not touch another person's head, do not point your finger at someone, give and receive things only with your right hand. You should also not put your feet on the table and show the soles of your feet or raise your thumb - it is considered an obscene gesture.

In everyday life, men and women wear sarongs made of cotton or blended fabric. Silk sarongs are worn on holidays. In cities, loose pants and dresses that cover most of the body are popular. For religious festivals or family celebrations, women often wear hoyi, a specially cut shirt, although in general they prefer modest clothing.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid misunderstandings and show respect for Cambodian culture.

Traveling in Cambodia can be exciting, but requires special attention to safety rules and road conditions. Traffic in Cambodia can be unpredictable. Traffic lights and road signs are often lacking in urban areas, and local drivers sometimes ignore the rules of the road. Road surface conditions are far from ideal, especially outside major cities, where paved roads are rare and water-filled potholes are commonplace. However, Route 1 is one of the few roads that is maintained in relatively good condition and provides the main transportation link in the country.

To get around Cambodia the most convenient way to get around is by car. You will need to fill out rental forms, sign a contract and insurance documents when renting. It is important to keep copies of all documents as they may come in handy. Most companies require the renter to be at least 21 years old.

Road Traffic Regulations

Speed limits
Cities have strict speed limits, stated in km/h. For example, 100 km/h corresponds to 60 mph. The authorized speed limit in urban areas is 30 km/h for motorized vehicles and 40 km/h for cars.

Seat belt laws

• All passengers and the driver are required to use seat belts.
• Children under the age of 12 cannot sit in the front seat, and children under the age of 4 must use child seats.

Right of way and overtaking

• Vehicles on traffic circles have an advantage.
• In Cambodia, traffic flows on the right side of the road.
• Improper overtaking is punishable by serious penalties.

Knowing the local rules and routes will make your journey easier. Use route maps to plan your travels in Cambodia and its cities. Following all these rules will ensure that you travel safely and comfortably in Cambodia.

Public transportation

In Cambodia, public transportation includes buses, cabs, mopeds, motor rickshaws and cycle rickshaws. Buses serve only major cities, and cabs are underdeveloped due to the low standard of living and the inability of the majority of the population to pay for them.

The most popular modes of urban transportation are mopeds, which can carry up to four passengers, and tuk-tuks - motor rickshaws, which are carts with two rows of seats attached to mopeds.

Water transportation

Cambodia has many navigable rivers, which allows for water transportation for travel. Speedboats ply the Mekong River and connect cities such as Kampong Thom, Kratiech and Steungtraeng. Numerous small and large vessels also sail the rivers, offering excursions and transportation.

Rail transportation

The railroad in Cambodia is almost non-functional due to the old age of the rails and bridges, making it one of the most dangerous in Southeast Asia. Most tracks are deformed and train speeds do not exceed 20 km/h.

The official language in Cambodia is Khmer, spoken by about 96% of the population. The Khmer language has its own unique characteristics, including traditions and phonetics.

Learning Khmer can be a complicated process, but its alphabet is characterized by its simplicity and consists of only 33 consonant letters. Originally, there were 35 letters in the Cambodian alphabet, but two letters were eliminated over time. It is also worth noting that Khmer has no vowel letters and is one of the few languages in the world where grammar depends on intonation.

In addition to Khmer, other languages are common in Cambodia. Vietnamese, Chinese and Laotian are spoken by locals. English is widely used in tourist areas and major cities such as Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. French also has a historical presence and is still used by some older generations.

Like any other country, Cambodia has its own customs and traditions of greeting. One of the most common ways of greeting is the bow, which can be seen everywhere. However, it is important to remember not to touch the floor with your hands as this is considered disrespectful.

To quickly adapt and understand the local way of life, it is recommended that you learn the basics of the Khmer language. This will greatly facilitate your integration into society and allow you to better understand the culture and traditions of Cambodia.

Health care in Cambodia is in the stage of development and improvement, but the quality of medical services in the country is still low.

Foreign citizens living in Cambodia often prefer to seek medical care in neighboring countries (Thailand or Vietnam) because local medical facilities do not always meet global standards. Despite this, basic medical services are provided in city clinics and state hospitals employ highly qualified specialists. International clinics in the capital, Phnom Penh, mainly treat minor and non-serious illnesses.

Before traveling to Cambodia, tourists do not need to make mandatory vaccinations, but doctors recommend to make preventive vaccinations against typhoid, malaria, rabies, diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A and B. This will help to reduce the risk of infectious diseases during the trip.

It is also advisable to assemble a comprehensive travel first aid kit before traveling, including medications for diarrhea, colds, sunburn, as well as wound disinfectants, band-aids, dressings, and any necessary regular medications.

It is important to note that some medicines may not be available in Cambodia, so people who depend on regular medication are advised to have an adequate supply with them.

Cambodia does not currently require travelers to take out insurance. However, taking out an insurance policy is still highly recommended. Although medical care is available in the country, costs can be high.

For serious injuries or illnesses, patients may be referred to neighboring countries such as Thailand or Vietnam for treatment. Finding a suitable medical facility locally can be difficult, especially for consultation with specialized specialists. Therefore, purchasing travel insurance is an important element of planning.

Cambodian cuisine is famous for its variety and rich taste. It combines elements of the culinary traditions of many Southeast Asian countries, but at the same time has its own unique features.

Rice is Cambodia's main agricultural crop, and Battambang Province is famous for its production. Most traditional dishes are cooked in a special pot known as "chhnang khteak" (chhnang khteak).

Traditional Khmer dishes

• Samlor Kako - оne of the main national dishes of Cambodia, which gives a multifaceted taste thanks to a variety of ingredients, including prahok, a fermented fish sauce unique to Khmer cuisine.
• Khmer Sour soup - freshly made Khmer sour soup. The main ingredients of this popular dish are fresh fish and seaweed.

Khmer drinks

As for drinks, both traditional and modern options are popular in Cambodia. Most restaurants serve coffee, which can be black or with the addition of condensed milk. A popular drink is also Chinese tea, which is served in kettles in Khmer and Chinese restaurants. In the country, you can enjoy fruit cocktails called tikalok, choosing the ingredients to your liking. Local beers are represented by brands such as Angkor, Phnom Penh, Kingdom and Cambodia. Heineken, Tiger, San Miguel, Asahi and Anchor brands are also on sale. Cambodia also produces Prasat Phnom Banana red grape wine, which meets international standards and is exported. The traditional drink is palm juice, rich in vitamins B, C, D and minerals. Confirl Co., Ltd produces palm wine, sour palm juice and palm sugar. These products are popular among both locals and tourists.

When visiting Cambodia, be sure to try local dishes and drinks to fully immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of this amazing country.

Most tourists choose Cambodia for a beach holiday due to the beautiful sea coasts with soft sand and tropical palm trees. The comfortable temperature and numerous sunny days create ideal conditions for a pleasant stay. Beach holidays are represented by popular resorts such as Sihanoukville and Kep, each of which has its own unique charm. Koh Rong, Koh Tan and Sun Neil Islands attract nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to beach holidays, Cambodia attracts tourists with a variety of sightseeing opportunities. There are many cultural, historical and religious attractions in the country, which are the pride of the country and attract thousands of visitors.

Phnom Penh is a real treasure trove, especially architecturally. No wonder Phnom Penh has long been considered the "Pearl of Asia". Here you will find the most important sights:

• Wat Phnom is the hill of the same name, on which there are five statues of Buddha. This is the sanctuary of the city.
• The Royal Palace was rebuilt on the site of King Norodom's palace in the early 20th century. It is an ornate building, and many religious symbols can be found on almost every corner.
• The Silver Pagoda is located next to the palace in Phnom Penh. This work of art is decorated with 5,329 silver floor tiles. Statues, pavilions and other jewels are located around the territory.
• A shopping trip to Psar Thmei, Phnom Penh's central market, is sure to be a must when visiting Cambodia. Admire the mighty domes and treat yourself to a real Khmer lunch.
• In the National Museum you will find about 5,000 items reflecting the history of Cambodia. It is a traditional museum founded in 1917.
• Spiritual enlightenment can be found in Wat Unalom. Founded in 1443, it is now the center of Buddhism in Cambodia.
• Explore the unique island of Ko Dachas, where the art of silk weaving is passed down from generation to generation. Here you can also see the craftsmanship of potters, dyers and wood carvers. Staying on this island will allow you to better understand and experience the culture and traditions of the locals.
• The Tuol Sleng and Choeng Ek Genocide Museum (Fields of Death) clearly convey how brutal mass killings and other crimes against humanity raged here.

Siem Reap is the name of the province and its capital of the Royal Republic of Cambodia. The five main districts of Siem Reap are the French Quarter, the Old Market, Tahpool Village, Wat Bo and Damnak.

• Angkor Wat Temple Complex. It was here that Jayavarman II, the first Khmer king, was crowned more than 800 years ago.
• The Angkor National Museum, which opened in 2007, is proud of its collection of stone sculptures, including a hall with a thousand Buddha images.
• Miniature Angkor Wat is a scaled—down model of the famous temple, allowing you to appreciate its greatness on a scale.
• The Butterfly Garden offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of thousands of butterflies.
• Pub Street comes alive in the evening, offering visitors a variety of bars and live music for an unforgettable pastime.

In the city of Battambang, you can see ancient ruins and temples, and in the Viratye National Park you can plunge into the natural beauty with waterfalls and lakes.

• Safety. Cambodia is not an absolutely safe place, and the consequences of past military conflicts are still being felt in the country.
• The period of festivals. The greatest danger and instability are observed during various festivals and holidays, when the number of crimes and accidents increases. At this time, it is especially important to keep an eye on your personal belongings and wallet.
• Valuable things. Documents, money and jewelry should be kept in a safe place and always kept with you, without leaving them at the hotel. It is not recommended to show large amounts of money in crowded places.
• Public transport and taxis. When using public transport or taxis, you need to keep an eye on your luggage to prevent it from going missing.
• Local police. The communication style of some police officers may shock tourists, but most of the staff are polite and ready to help.
• Military police. The military police, which can be recognized by black and white armbands, can cause difficulties. It is recommended to always have a passport and the necessary documents with you.
• Photographing. Photography is strictly prohibited at airports and military installations. This is related to national security and privacy issues. When it comes to photographing religious places and individuals such as temples and monks, it is recommended to get permission first. In some cases, you may need to pay for the opportunity to shoot.
• Markets. Most markets open at sunrise and close after sunset. They have a lunch break at three o'clock in the afternoon.
• Currency. It is not necessary to exchange money for local currency, as prices are often indicated in dollars.
• Tips. Tips are not accepted in cafes and restaurants, but you can leave a small amount to the hotel staff at check-out.
• Prohibited importation. Drugs, alcohol and other potentially harmful substances cannot be brought into the country. The amount of cash importation is limited to $10,000.
• Car Rental. Renting a car in Cambodia is difficult, but you can always use cab services.
• Visiting temples. When visiting temples, follow the dress code: modest clothing, no tank tops, short shorts or open shoes.
• Attitude towards animals. Cambodians respect animals and even small insects, as they believe that they may contain the souls of dead ancestors.
• Water. Water should be boiled before drinking to avoid intestinal infections and stomach upset.

Cambodia is an amazing country with a rich culture and history, attracting tourists with its ancient temples, tropical beaches and hospitable people. If you are planning a trip to Cambodia, here are some tips for accommodation:

Choosing an area to live in

• Siem Reap is a popular choice for tourists as it is close to the famous temples of Angkor. Here you will find a variety of accommodation options, from hostels to luxury hotels.
• Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, offers a more urban experience with a wide selection of hotels, apartments and guest houses.
• For those who are looking for peace and relaxation in nature, Kep or Kampot may be ideal places.

The most common type of accommodation for tourists in Cambodia is guesthouses. In addition to providing beds, the guesthouses also offer various additional services: rental of bicycles, mopeds or bikes, sale of tickets for intercity buses and organization of excursions. There are often cafes or buffets on the ground floor of these establishments, and taxi drivers are usually on duty at the entrance, ready to take you to the nearest attractions for a reasonable price.

Hostels are widespread in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, but they are more difficult to find in other cities.

Cambodia also has hotels of well-known brands with high star ratings. Most of these hotels are concentrated in Siem Reap, while the rest are located in the capital and Sihanoukville.

There are many accommodation options available on the accommodation booking sites.Use reliable booking sites and check other travelers' reviews. Consider booking directly through the official hotel websites to receive special offers.

Cambodia is a shopper's paradise, offering a wide variety of goods, from traditional handicrafts to modern clothing. The capital Phnom Penh and the tourist city of Siem Reap are home to numerous markets, such as the Central Market and Night Market, where you can find everything from handmade silk scarves to fine ceramics. Boutiques offering local designer goods and stores selling antiques and artwork are also worth a visit.
By shopping for souvenirs, you're not only buying unique items, but also supporting the local people and their crafts. However, haggling is a common practice here, so don't hesitate to ask for a discount. In addition to traditional markets, Cambodia also has modern shopping centers where you can find famous global brands.

Phnom Penh Central Market
Here you can find quality leather goods from Cambodian brands.

Sorya Shopping Center
This center has a supermarket and fast food restaurants.

Sovana City Mall
Opened in 2009, Phnom Penh's largest shopping center with electronics and appliances at low prices.

Developing Industry
Cambodia is known for its shoe and textile industries. Pay attention to local footwear.

"Gifts of Cambodia in Sihanoukville
Store with affordable prices on gems, jewelry and exotic leather.

Souvenirs and products
Silver, bronze, and mahogany products are popular, as well as Kampot pepper, palm sugar, and wild honey.

Remember that it is customary to pay in cash in Cambodia, and although some places accept credit cards, it is always best to carry cash Cambodian riel or American dollars.