A holiday in Cambodia can be equal parts adventure and chill-out: from the secluded islands and pristine beaches of the coast, to the modern glitz of Phnom Penh and the ancient wonders of Angkor Wat, Cambodia is the lesser known travel must-see of Southeast Asia. Cambodia is not without its cautions, however; here is some prudent advice for travel to Cambodia safely.
Travel Safety Tips for Cambodia
Cambodian people are renowned for their good nature, but the deep poverty most of the population faces necessitates certain precautions for a safe holiday in Cambodia. Keep these facts in mind:
• Cambodians bargain the price of just about everything but bus and air tickets and restaurant food, and they may try to wheedle unfair sums of money from Westerners unaccustomed to normal prices there. Don't be afraid to try for prices around half of what they're asking.
• There are beggars in Cambodia, particularly amputees, the elderly, women with babies, and children. Avoid giving money to children; it will encourage them not to go to school.
• Try not to carry large amounts of cash; if not shopping for souvenirs or planning to travel long distances, $20 should be more than enough for a day.
• Men should not walk around urban areas alone at night; young people may be eager to pick a fight with a foreigner.
There are two main modes of taxi transport in Cambodia: motorbikes and tuk-tuks (motorbikes with a palanquin on wheels attached). Both are cheap (.50-2.00), and while motorbikes are cheaper, they are less safe and their drivers tend to be less knowledgeable of the area. Take care to step off motorbikes on the left side in order to avoid getting burned by the exhaust pipe, and always agree on the price of a ride before you step on.
Health in Cambodia
The climate of Cambodia is feverishly hot and humid compared to North America and Europe, and the adjustment can be unpleasant. Here are a few choice tips for guarding one's health in Cambodia
• Malaria is present in most areas of Cambodia, though not in Phnom Penh, where Dengue fever is present. The best protection for both (as advised by one NGO there) is to lightly apply bug spray four times a day.
• Wild dogs roam the streets unobstructed; take care not to obstruct them! Some have rabies and a bite may necessitate a trip to the hospital.
• Diarrhea is common when on holiday in Cambodia. Avoid eating uncooked fruits and vegetables without peels, and look for restaurants and stalls where the food looks cleanly prepared.
• Drink only bottled water, not tap water.
• The sun, heat and humidity in Cambodia can combine to be an almost debilitating force to those not accustomed to it. Use sunscreen on the whole body, bring sunglasses, and consider taking the siesta Cambodians do every day (about two hours around lunchtime)!
Travel to Cambodia is an eye-opening experience, and travel precautions are an important part of enjoyably seeing Southeast Asia. Be safe, bon voyage and chum riepleah!
One of the best places to visit in Cambodia is Angkor Wat : https://www.vrsr.asia/inventory/sunrise-tour-half-day-