Destination Cambodia

Preparations & Expectations

(Information for your clients’ departure documents)

Clothing:

Light, comfortable clothing, with a light sweater for the cooler months at Angkor are recommended. Good walking shoes are also beneficial. Shorts are acceptable on foreign women however is best avoided as the Khmer are very modest and revealing clothing is frowned upon and socially unacceptable. Some temples and tourist sites do not permit shorts above the knee and it is recommended to dress accordingly. Dinner restaurants require only smart/casual clothing.

Food/Cuisine:

Bottled water is readily available and recommended at all times. Fresh salad vegetables are best avoided. Hotel dining and the restaurants recommended by Destination Asia are considered suitable for foreign visitors. We do not recommend purchasing food from street stalls.

That said, Khmer cuisine is a delight to the senses. Rice and noodles form the basis of most dishes, which also heavily rely on fish and chicken. Fresh vegetable are in abundant supply (in fact, vegetarians are very well catered for) and are most often served in a light stir-fry or in a broth, with the addition of chilli, lemongrass, coriander or special Cambodian spices.

Exotic fruit is both a common dessert and excellent breakfast accompaniment. Most dishes are designed to be shared in the middle of a table, and unlike in Vietnam, do not rely on chopsticks, with the spoon and fork being the common dining utensil.

Currency:

The Cambodian Riel is a non-convertible currency and at time of writing trades at 4,000 to $US 1. Most shops and restaurants use USD. Credit cards are not widely accepted and travellers’ cheques can only be cashed at authorised foreign exchange outlets, top hotels and banks, and do require presentation of a passport. There are plenty of ATM’s in e.g. Siem Reap, Phnom Penh or Sihanouk Ville. Small denominations of USD cash is the most practical currency to carry.

People:

The Khmer people are very receptive to foreigners and will welcome you warmly. There is little evidence of animosity, and are pleasantly graceful in their mannerisms. Many speak a certain level of English and are more than willing to engage in conversation. There is always time to stop and be friendly to the visitor.

Film/Photography:

Camera film is widely available in Cambodia; however always check the use-by date. X-ray machines in use are quite modern so there should be no need for concern, however if you are working with fast speed professional film it is best to hand carry through.

Be polite about photographing and video taping people. In general, the Khmers are remarkable courteous people and when asked nicely they mostly agree to have their pictures taken.

Mobile Phones:

The Cambodian network is compatible with most overseas networks, but it is important to check this with your phone company prior to arrival should you wish to use your mobile phone whilst in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap.

Tipping

Tipping for service is not expected in Cambodia but is most certainly appreciated. A tip of one or two dollars for a meal or $US1 to a cyclo driver can be a substantial bonus in a country where the annual average income is less than $US300! You should tip at your own discretion however we recommend you allow $US15 per day for your guide and $US10 for your driver.