Cambodia is a small country with a big history. Now a modest player on the world stage, this was once the seat of one of Asia’s most magnificent early civilizations, the mighty Khmer empire of Angkor, whose legendary temples continue to provide a touchstone of national identity – as well as attracting millions of visitors every year. Away from the temples, much of the country remains refreshingly untouristed and, in many places, largely unexplored.
Kingdom of Cambodia
Population: 15,7 millions
Inland area: 181,035 Km2
Capital City: Phnom Penh
Time zone: GMT +7
CURRENCY: Riel (KHr) is the official currency, however the US dollar is also the common currency in Cambodia. Many businesses, especially hotels, airlines, restaurants, souvenirs shops, set their prices in USD and all expenses can be paid in USD even minor ones. In the West of the country, use of Thai Baht is also commonplace. At the time of writing exchange rate is US$ 1 = 4040 Riel, and 1 Euro = 4329 Riel. (September 2016)
PASSPORT AND VISA: A visa is compulsory to enter Cambodia except for citizens of the Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, Laos, Malaysia and Thailand. To obtain a visa, you must first ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your return date. Visas can be acquired directly at Cambodian Embassies and Consulates abroad. You can apply via the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Cambodia (https://www.evisa.gov.kh/) to obtain an electronic visa.
CLIMATE: Cambodia has a tropical monsoon climate with two seasons: dry from October to May and rainy from June to October. During the rainy season it usually rains only in the evening or very early in the morning. Temperatures are warm all year long.
ELECTRICITY: In Cambodia electric current is mostly 220V. Sockets are both round and flat types. Three-pin plug adaptors can usually be found at local markets.Due to its limited power supply, power cuts are frequent, but most hotels and restaurants in the main cities have their own generators.
TRANSPORTATION: There are two international airports in Cambodia: Phnom Penh International Airport located 20 minutes from the town centre and Siem Reap airport, 7 km from the heart of the town. Road networks have improved but still need to be upgraded in some areas. It is reasonable to count an average speed of 50 km / hour.
In Cambodia, vehicles drive on the right side of the road. A Cambodian driving licence is required to drive in Cambodia, including motorcycles. Holders of International Driving Permits can apply for one at a cost of US $25. Some local travel agencies can arrange a licence for an additional administrative fee. Driving without a licence may invalidate your travel insurance in the event of an accident. Check with the rental company what insurance is included in the hire. Drivers not in possession of a valid Cambodian driving licence have had motorcycles impounded with the police imposing a hefty charge for release. Renting a motorbike is possible in Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville but not in Siem Reap. For security reasons, we do not recommend it in Phnom Penh to inexperienced drivers.
VACCINATION: Inoculation for yellow fever is a legal requirement for entry into Cambodia by people coming from an infected area. There is otherwise no vaccination required, but visitors are advised to receive inoculations against hepatitis A and B, typhoid and tetanus and to make sure whether anti malaria treatment is necessary depending on the region they travel to. Phnom Penh and Siem Reap have good hospitals staffed with foreign medical personnel, however for life threatening injuries it is advisable to be evacuated to Bangkok or Singapore and we strongly recommend that you arrange medical travel insurance.
FESTIVALS: The most significant festival of the year is Bonn Chaul Chhnam (Khmer New Year; April 13 or 14), when families get together, homes are spring-cleaned and people flock to the temples with elaborate offerings. Bonn Pchum Ben (late Sept), or “Ancestors’ Day”, is another key date on the festive calendar. Families make offerings to their ancestors in the fifteen days leading up to it, and celebrations take place in temples on the day itself.
LANGUAGE: Khmer is the official language and English is generally spoken and understood everywhere. A guide is, however duly recommended as language can be a problem outside the main cities for people who have no knowledge of the Khmer language.
HELLO: Sour Sdei
THANK YOU: Aw Kuhn
