Necessary Information to know before trip
• Money in Cambodia: Riel (CRI). US dollars are useful in the west and Thai Baht is common.
• Visa: A 30-day tourist visa is required for all visitors coming to Cambodia. Visas can be obtained on arrival for $30 in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Preah Sihanouk. You’ll just need to bring a passport sized photo with you.
• Language: Khmer is the official language of Cambodia, although sometimes it’s just referred to as Cambodian. English is also widely spoken in tourist destinations in recent years.
• Transportation: You can travel around by Tuk-tuk or cyclo as in Vietnam or Lao. Or you can download the Skyscanner App and using the 12Go website to view bus, boat, and train schedules ahead of time.
• Accommodation: It is one of the cheapest in the entire Southeast Asia. You can get dorm beds for around $3 and double beds is from $10 - $15.
If you’re traveling during national holidays or peak season, Booking.com, Agoda, or Hostel World is recommended for you to book in advance.
The best time to go
The best time to visit Cambodia depends weather and number of tourists. Most travelers visit Cambodia from November to March.
If you prefer to dodge the crowds and go when prices are lower, the best time to visit Cambodia is from May to early October.
The best things to do
Visit the ruins in the Angkor Archaeological Park
The largest religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat is truly unmatched. The temple and surrounding complex engulf over 400 sq km and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore Cambodia’s Marine Life
As well as many land adventures, Cambodia also offers plenty of excitement beneath the surface of its waters.
Have a Go at Cooking Khmer Food
Attending cooking classes has become a huge pastime of mine when we travel. Taking the time to learn a little bit about the local cuisine is the perfect way to get to know and really understand a culture.
Chill Out in Kampot and Kep
The sleepy riverside town of Kampot, a few hours from Phnom Penh, has become increasingly popular with tourists and expats in recent years. Full of western restaurants, cute shops, and riverboat cruises, Kampot has many of the conveniences of the city without all the people.
Dirt-biking Around Siem Reap
For a truly crazy day with a ton of adventure, try your hand at riding a dirt-bike! Again, riding is a completely different way to experience a country, plus you get the challenge and thrill of the activity itself.
Kayaking
It’s surprising how many places you can go kayaking in Cambodia, all you have to do is decide what’s the most exciting tour for you. Ocean kayaking might be a best choice for you. Not only is it usually combined with a remote island stay in a rustic beach bungalow and some snorkeling, but there is nothing else that beats that feeling of being alone out on the water.
The best dishes to try
Bai Sach Chrouk (pork and rice): This is one of the simpler dishes, and should satisfy even the pickiest eaters out there. Sweet pork is grilled, often marinated first in coconut or garlic, and served over warm rice with a side of pickled cucumbers and radishes and broth.
Fish Amok: While the idea of a “fish mousse” might sound repulsive, this curry dish offers a warm and buttery melt-in-your-mouth taste that perfectly balances local herbs like lemongrass and ginger with just the right amount of spice.
Lap Khmer (lime-marinated beef salad): Similar to ceviche, Lap Khmer features thin slices of beef that are marinated in lime juice and spices. Sometimes the beef is lightly seared first.
Nom Banh Chok (Khmer noodles): Rice noodles are combined with a fresh green curry sauce and topped with bean sprouts and other vegetables.
Khmer Red Curry: Khmer red curry is similar to the famed curries of Thailand, but with just a little less spice. A creamy coconut milk base blends with chunks of beef, pork, or chicken and a blend of local herbs and spices.
Some helpful tips for you
Finally, here are some tips you need to know before making your Cambodian trip plan.
• Don’t buy from local children or give them money or food
• You’ll need a mix of currencies (Riel and US dollar)
• Learn some simple Khmer language
(Hello – Sou sdey; Thank you – Ah Kun; Sorry – Sohm tou)
• Don’t ride the elephants
• Tuk Tuk is the way to get around
• You need to be mindful around Monks
• It’s cheap and easy to get a SIM card
• Visit temples early in the day
Have best time in Cambodia!