1. Plan for the Weather

Cambodia has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: wet season (May–October) and dry season (November–April).

Cool-dry (Nov–Feb): 24–30°C, low humidity – perfect for temple-hopping and island beaches.

Hot-dry (Mar–May): 35–40°C – visit temples at sunrise, stay hydrated, and book hotels with pools.

Wet season (Jun–Oct): Lush green rice fields, dramatic storm skies, and up to 60% off hotels – just bring a light rain jacket.

2. Be Mindful of Local Customs

Cambodians are incredibly warm, but small gestures of respect go a long way. Always remove shoes before entering homes or certain pagodas.

Dress code: Shoulders and knees covered at temples (scarves work). Never point your feet at Buddha statues or people.

Head is sacred: Don’t touch anyone’s head, even children. Use both hands when giving/receiving items.

Greeting: Say “Chum Reap Suor” with a sompiah (prayer-like gesture) – locals love it.

3. Stay Hydrated and Eat Smart

The heat is intense – drink at least 2–3 liters of water daily. Stick to sealed bottled water (20–50 cents).

Must-try dishes: Fish Amok, Lok Lak, Khmer red curry, fresh spring rolls, and Kampot pepper crab.

Street food is safe at busy stalls with high turnover. Look for smoke and crowds – that’s where locals eat.

Ice in drinks is generally safe in cities (made from purified water), but ask if unsure.

4. Get Your Visa Ahead of Time

Most nationalities need a visa. E-visa (US$36 + $6 processing) is fastest – apply at least 3 days before.

Valid for 30 days, single entry. Passport must have 6+ months validity and 2 blank pages.

Visa on arrival is available at airports and major land borders, but queues can be 30–60 min.

Overstaying costs US$10 per day – avoid it.

5. Protect Yourself with Travel Insurance

Cambodia has good private hospitals (e.g., Royal Angkor International in Siem Reap), but they require payment upfront.

Cover at least US$100,000 medical + evacuation. Include adventure activities (quad biking, zip-lining, diving).

Save digital copies of policy, passport, and vaccine card on Google Drive.

6. Learn a Few Words of Khmer

English is common in tourist areas, but Khmer phrases create instant smiles:

Hello: Chum Reap Suor
Thank you: Orkun
Delicious: Chha Ngain
How much?: Thlai ponman?

Numbers 1–5: muay, pi, bei, buan, pram.

7. Be Prepared for Limited Public Transport

In cities: PassApp and Grab are cheapest (tuk-tuk $2–4). Always agree price before riding.

Between cities: Giant Ibis, Virak Buntham, and Mekong Express are safe, air-con buses with Wi-Fi.

Private taxis (US$40–60) or minivans for comfort. Book via hotel or 12Go.asia.

Domestic flights: Cambodia Angkor Air (Siem Reap ↔ Phnom Penh ↔ Sihanoukville) – often same price as 7-hour bus.

8. Respect the Environment

Cambodia is fighting plastic pollution. Refuse straws and plastic bags – say “tech ot” (no plastic).

Bring a reusable bottle – most hotels and cafés have free filtered water stations.

Support elephant sanctuaries that don’t offer rides. Choose boat tours that don’t disturb Tonle Sap wildlife.

9. Explore Beyond the Temples

Angkor is incredible, but Cambodia has so much more:

• Koh Rong/Koh Rong Samloem: Crystal water and bioluminescent plankton
• Kampot: Pepper farms, riverside sunsets, and cave temples
• Battambang: Bamboo train and colonial architecture
• Mondulkiri: Elephant Valley Project and waterfalls