What to See in Cambodia for First Time Travelers?
With the abundant history background and beautiful countryside landscape, Cambodia is always one of the most popular destinations in Asia to attract travelers from all around the world. Traveling to Cambodia, Siem Reap is a must. In Siem Reap, besides admiring the splendid Angkor Wat temples, you will have a chance to cruise along the Tonle Sap Lake and meet the friendly local fishermen and children, then enjoy an Apsara dinner show to feel the essence of Khmer culture. 3 to 5 days are suggested for a Siem Reap trip.
Then extend your Cambodia tours to the vibrant city Phnom Penh. This capital city has stepped out of the shadow of the miserable history and is becoming one of the most dynamic cities in Southeast Asia. The Royal Palace, the National Museum of Cambodia, and the Killing Field are the top places to visit in Phnom Penh. These can be arranged in one day. Additionally, it is also interesting to wander around the bustling marketplaces there.
For beach lovers, you cannot miss Sihanoukville. Surrounded by hundreds of uninhabited small islands and four natural beaches, Sihanoukville is a perfect holiday resort that you can dive and taste palatable seafood.
All above have been included in our Cambodia tour package. With the dedicated work of our specialists, your ideas of Cambodia tours can be fulfilled to the utmost.
Beng Mealea
Pre Rup Temple, Siem Reap
When is the Best Time to Travel in Cambodia?
Cambodia is warm and humid all year around. The best time to visit Cambodia is in the dry season from November to next April, when the days are pleasantly cool and sunny. It is also the peak tourism season. For some tourists, the rainy season from May to October is also a favorable time as it gets fewer tourists and the picturesque scenery in the countryside can be admired.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Cambodia?
Yes, a visa is required for almost all foreign travelers. Applying for E-visa online is easy and feasible, and it allows visitors to enter Cambodia for up to 30 days. Tourists can also obtain a visa upon arrival at the airport in Cambodia at the expense of USD30 per person.
How to Get to and Travel Around Cambodia?
Siem Reap International Airport (REP) and Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) are the two major airports of Cambodia. Currently the flights from Thailand, China, Vietnam and Laos are regular. Meanwhile, Cambodia shares multiple open borders with Thailand, Vietnam and Laos, so the international buses can be taken from these three countries.
The most efficient way to travel within Cambodia is to take domestic flights among the three major cities: Siem Reap, Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville. While, the cheapest way is to take long-distance bus, which offers opportunities to enjoy the countryside scenery along the way. Tuk Tuks are popular for the short distance travel, and the cost is usually from USD1 to USD5, depending on the distance.
What Kind of Currency is Used in Cambodia?
The official currency of Cambodia is Riel (KHR). But like most of the other Asian countries, US dollar in Cambodia is more widely used in the hotels, restaurants, shops and tourist spots. Riel is more frequently used for small purchases. For instance, you will receive Riel as change at shops and restaurants. The exchange rate fluctuates up and down every day, but generally the rate is approximately 1USD to 4000KHR throughout Cambodia.
Is Tipping Customary in Cambodia?
Tipping is certainly voluntary in Cambodia, but it is appreciated if you tip when you are satisfied with the service you received. In local restaurants, tipping 10% of the total bill is around average but feel free to offer more when you feel the service is excellent. By taking a Cambodia travel package, we recommend you tip your guide around USD5 per person per day. For your driver, please tip around half of the amount that is given to your guide. But all still should depend on your satisfaction.
Are There Any Special Customs I Should Observe?
Cambodia is a relatively conservative country, appropriate clothes should be worn when you visit temples like Angkor Wat or other important religious sites. The long pants and clothes which fall below the knees and shoulders are suggested. Meanwhile, as Buddhism is the primary religion in Cambodia, monks are a common sight there. Women should avoid any contact with the monk, especially in the temple.