Cambodia Essential Travel Guide: The Kingdom of Wonder

From the awe-inspiring spires of Angkor Wat to the pristine beaches of the South, Cambodia is a land of resilience, spirituality, and breathtaking beauty. At VAC Travel, we ensure your journey through the Kingdom is dignified, comfortable, and deeply immersive.

Quick Facts

• Population: Approx. 17 million (Young, resilient, and famously smiling).

• Capital: Phnom Penh (A blend of French colonial charm and modern energy).

• People: The Khmer people, known for their deep-rooted Buddhist traditions.

• Language: Khmer (English is widely and fluently spoken in tourism hubs like Siem Reap).

• Currency: Cambodian Riel (KHR). Crucial Note: US Dollars (USD) are used interchangeably everywhere. Ensure your bills are crisp and clean; torn or old USD notes are often rejected.

• Time Zone: GMT +7.

• Dialing Code: +855.

I. Passport & Visa (2026 Updates)

Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date.

Visa:

• E-Visa: Most nationalities can apply for a 30-day tourist e-visa online (click the link). It’s the fastest and most convenient method.

• Visa on Arrival: Available at Siem Reap and Phnom Penh international airports. Cost is approx. $30 USD (please bring a sharp, new bill).

• Bespoke Support: VAC Travel provides "Meet & Greet" services, where our staff assists you with the arrival process to bypass long queues.

II. Weather: The Best Time to Visit

• Cool & Dry (November to February): The peak season. Perfect weather for exploring temples without the intense heat.

• Hot Season (March to May): Temperatures can soar. We schedule our boutique tours for early morning and late afternoon to keep you cool.

• Green Season (June to October): The temples are surrounded by lush greenery and the moats are full of water—perfect for photography.

III. Connectivity: Phone & Internet

• SIM Cards: Very affordable. Cellcard and Smart are the top providers with excellent 4G/5G coverage even near remote temples.

• WiFi: High-speed internet is standard in luxury hotels and upscale restaurants in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.

IV. Transportation: Moving with Grace

• The Remork (Cambodian Tuk-Tuk): Larger and more comfortable than the Thai version. It’s the quintessential way to feel the breeze while temple-hopping.

• Domestic Flights: Short 45-minute flights connect Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and the coastal islands (Sihanoukville).

• Private Chauffeured Cars: For all long-distance transfers, VAC Travel provides premium, air-conditioned SUVs to ensure your comfort.

V. Temple Etiquette: Respecting the Gods

Angkor Wat is a living religious site. Please follow the "Angkor Code of Conduct":

• Dress Code: Shoulders and knees must be covered. Wraps or scarves are sometimes not accepted by guards—it’s best to wear a T-shirt and long trousers/skirts.

• No Touching: Do not touch the ancient bas-reliefs or sit on fragile structures.

• Monks: Always ask permission before taking a photo of a monk. Women should never touch a monk or his robes.

VI. Health & Dining

• Water: Drink only bottled water. High-end resorts often provide filtered water in reusable glass bottles.

• Cuisine: Khmer food is delicate and aromatic (less spicy than Thai). Don’t miss Fish Amok (steamed curry) or Beef Lok Lak.

• Safety: Cambodia is very welcoming. In cities, be mindful of your belongings in crowded markets, just as you would in any major world city.

VII. Artisanal Shopping

• Khmer Silk: Look for hand-loomed "Ikat" silk, renowned for its intricate patterns.

• Silverware: Exquisite hand-hammered silver jewelry and boxes.

• Social Enterprises: We highly recommend shopping at places like Artisans Angkor, where your purchase supports local craftspeople and heritage preservation.

VIII. Tipping Guide (Boutique Standards)

Tipping is a vital part of the local economy and is greatly appreciated.

• Private Guides: $15–$25 per day.

• Private Drivers: $10–$15 per day.

• Remork (Tuk-tuk) Drivers: $2–$5 for short trips.

• Restaurants: 5–10% of the bill is standard for good service.

IX. Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory. Ensure your policy includes emergency medical evacuation to Bangkok or Singapore, as local high-level medical facilities are still developing.

“In Cambodia, every stone has a story. Let VAC Travel be your storyteller.”

Your Angkor Adventure awaits. Contact our Khmer Experts Today at duke@vactravel.com or contact@vactravel.com