Jurisdiction Guide

November to February is best, offering cooler and drier weather across the country. Avoid May to October unless you enjoy heavy rain and humidity.

US dollars are widely accepted for most payments, but change is often given in Cambodian riel. Tipping is appreciated but not required; small amounts go a long way. Tuk-tuks are the main way to get around in towns, but agree on the fare first or use ride-hailing apps in cities. English is spoken at hotels and tourist spots, but simple Khmer phrases help in markets or villages. You can buy local SIM cards at the airport or phone shops cheaply.

Always remove your shoes before entering homes or temples. Dress modestly when visiting pagodas; cover your shoulders and knees. The traditional greeting is a slight bow with palms pressed together (sampeah), more formal than a handshake. Pointing your feet at people or religious objects is considered rude. Public displays of affection are frowned upon, especially outside cities.

Petty theft and bag-snatching happen, especially at night or in crowded places. Traffic can be chaotic and road conditions poor, so crossing streets and driving scooters require extra caution. During the wet season, rural roads may flood. Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue are present, so use repellent and sleep under nets if possible.

Kratie offers a peaceful riverside vibe and rare freshwater dolphin spotting on the Mekong. Cardamom Mountains host wild forests, hidden waterfalls, and eco-lodges far from city life. In Battambang, you can ride the bamboo train and explore quirky, less-visited temples.

Many travelers can get a visa on arrival for 30 days or apply for an e-visa online, covering tourism and basic visits. Some ASEAN nationalities are visa-exempt for short stays. There are business and ordinary visas which can be extended for longer stays; these are often used by digital nomads but rules change frequently, so check current info before travel.

Most trips between towns are by bus or shared minivan, both affordable and easy to book last minute. Domestic flights connect Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville, but ongoing airport changes can cause disruptions. Ride-hailing apps like PassApp or Grab work in big cities. Trains run slowly from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville and Battambang, but remain a scenic option.

Popular dishes include fish amok (curry steamed in banana leaves), beef lok lak, and kuy teav noodle soup. Rice and fish dominate most meals, with street food easy to find in any town. Iced coffee sweetened with condensed milk is a staple, as are fresh fruit shakes. Tap water isn't safe to drink; stick with bottled or filtered water. Vegetarian food is available in bigger towns, but always double-check for fish sauce or broth.

Budget travelers can get by on $20-30 per day, with dorm beds from $5 and cheap meals under $2. Mid-range hotels charge $30-50, while private tuk-tuk tours around Angkor cost about $15-20 per day. Phnom Penh and Siem Reap are more expensive for food and rooms, but rural areas are much cheaper.