Destination Cambodia

Health and Safety

Health:

We recommend seeking the latest medical practitioner’s advice on vaccinations and precautions especially regarding typhoid, malaria, cholera, hepatitis B and polio.

A Malaria risk exists throughout the year in the whole country except in Phnom Penh and close around Tonle Sap. Risk within the tourist area of Angkor Wat is limited. Dengue fever, transmitted by mosquitoes, is prevalent especially in heavily populated areas. Travelers, who may engage in unprotected outdoor activities, should be vaccinated against Japanese Encephalitis.

Diarrhea is the number one ailment afflicting as you may be eating food your system in unused to. You should assume that the water is not safe to drink; bottled water is widely available. Don’t drink beverages with ice and avoid uncooked meat, unpeeled fruit, salads and food sold by street vendors.

Cambodia has one of the highest rates of HIV infection in Asia.

Besides the private hospitals in Phnom Penh and in Siem Reap medical facilities are poor. Health insurance is essential.

If you require a particular medication, ensure that you take an adequate supply, as it may not be available locally.

Safety:

Cambodia is a third world country and lavish displays of wealth only encourage petty theft. Do not wear large amounts of jewelry, handbags or cameras carried carelessly over a shoulder as passing motorbikes may easily snatch them. Being aware of your surroundings and carrying little obvious wealth is the best defense against theft. Do not take cyclos, motorbike taxis or walk deserted streets after dark in Phnom Penh or Sihanouk Ville - it is not considered safe and returning to your hotel by car after dinner is our best advice.