Cambodia First Timer Guide

Cambodia, with its breathtaking temples, rich history, and friendly locals, is a budget traveler's paradise. You can explore the wonder of Angkor Wat and vibrant markets without breaking the bank. Understanding the practicalities of getting around, where to stay, and what to eat can help maximize your experience while keeping costs low.

Getting There and Getting Around

To get to Cambodia, the most common entry point is Siem Reap International Airport (REP), with budget airlines like AirAsia and VietJet offering competitive fares from neighboring countries. From the airport, you can take a shared taxi to the city center for around 15,000 KHR ($3.75). If you're traveling overland, buses from Thailand and Vietnam into Phnom Penh and Siem Reap are also budget-friendly, with companies like Giant Ibis offering comfortable rides for about 25,000 KHR ($6) for a six-hour trip.

Once you’re in Cambodia, getting around is straightforward and cheap. Tuk-tuks are the most popular mode of transport. In Siem Reap, a ride to the Angkor Wat entrance typically costs around 10,000 to 15,000 KHR ($2.50-$3.75), while a full-day rental can range from 20,000 KHR ($5). In Phnom Penh, you can use ride-hailing apps like Grab for quick and affordable rides, usually under 20,000 KHR ($5) for most trips within the city.

Where to Stay

Siem Reap offers a variety of budget accommodations, from hostels to guesthouses. One popular choice is the Mad Monkey Hostel, where dorm beds start at around 10,000 KHR ($2.50) per night. It has a vibrant atmosphere, a swimming pool, and organizes activities like pub crawls and temple tours. If you prefer a quieter option, check out the Golden Temple Villa, which offers private rooms from about 30,000 KHR ($7.50), including breakfast and a pool.

In Phnom Penh, the famed 'backpacker area' of Riverside boasts budget-friendly options like the Okay Boutique Hotel, where prices for dormitory beds start around 12,000 KHR ($3). The location is convenient, close to restaurants and the riverside promenade, making it ideal for evening strolls. Another great choice is the Blue Gecko Guesthouse, which has both dormitories and private rooms at reasonable rates.

What to Eat

Cambodian cuisine is a delightful mix of flavors, and street food is not only affordable but also a culinary adventure. In Siem Reap, try the famous fish amok, a coconut milk curry, at one of the many food stalls in Pub Street for about 5,000 KHR ($1.25). Another must-try is Lok Lak, a beef stir-fry served with rice and a fried egg, often found in local eateries for around 7,000 KHR ($1.75).

In Phnom Penh, head to the Russian Market (Toul Tom Poung) for an array of street food options. You can grab a bowl of kuy teav (noodle soup) for about 3,500 KHR ($0.85) or sample fried insects for the brave. For a more sit-down experience, the popular Romdeng restaurant offers traditional Khmer dishes in a beautiful setting, with mains averaging around 7,000 KHR ($1.75) and supporting local orphanages.

Practical Tips and What to Know

Visiting Cambodia can be an enriching experience, but a few tips can help you avoid common pitfalls.

• Cash is king here, so carry plenty of US dollars and riel. Most transactions can be made in USD, but small change will often be given in riel.
• Respect the local culture, particularly when visiting temples. Dress modestly—cover your shoulders and knees—and remove your shoes before entering sacred sites.
• Be prepared for the heat; hydration is essential. Buy bottled water from markets for about 1,500 KHR ($0.37) or refill your reusable water bottle with filtered water at some cafes.
• Negotiate prices with tuk-tuk drivers and vendors, as prices can often be inflated for tourists.