CambodiaTravel Tips

Typical weather seasons by month.

When the city is peak, balanced, or quieter.

Typical monthly AQI index trends.

What to know before drinking water, eating street food, or dining out.

• Drink sealed bottled water; hotel-filtered water is fine when clearly marked.
• Eat where turnover is fast; quiet buffet trays are the weakest bet.
• Ice is usually factory-made in cities, but skip it in remote stops.
• Street food is best early, before heat and dust sit on prepared dishes.

Common scams and safety precautions during your stay.

• Use ride-hailing apps in Phnom Penh; street fare bargaining wastes time.
• Keep phones away from traffic-side hands in tuk-tuks and open vehicles.
• Temple guides should quote a clear price before walking with you.
• Decline card games, investment pitches, and forced shopping detours.

Respectful behavior for temples, neighborhoods, and restaurants.

• Dress cleanly and cover shoulders and knees at major temple sites.
• Do not touch anyone's head; it reads as intrusive.
• Point with an open hand, not a single finger.
• Remove shoes when entering private homes and some traditional interiors.

Plugs, voltage, and electrical charging standards.

Tipping customs for dining, taxis, and services.

• Tipping is appreciated, not demanded.
• Round up small bills for drivers and casual service.
• For good private guides, USD 10 to 20 per day is normal.
• Restaurants may add service; tip extra only when the service earns it.

Essential local laws and regulations to respect.

• Carry small USD notes in clean condition; damaged bills are often refused.
• Use riel for small purchases and local change.
• Drone use near major heritage sites needs permission.
• Do not climb restricted temple structures or cross roped areas.

Health advice for climate, insects, and well-being.

• Use strong mosquito repellent outside cities, especially near water and forest edges.
• Heat management matters: start temple days before sunrise and rest at noon.
• Private clinics in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap are the better first stop for noncritical issues.
• Bring any specialist medication with packaging and prescription details.

Simple local phrases that help with greetings and polite conversation.

Useful phrases for shopping, bills, and price negotiations.

Phrases for dietary preferences, vegetarian choices, and water.

Polite ways to decline offers, transport, or street vendors.

Directions for finding toilets, basic shopping, and asking help.

Emergency calls, hospitals, and help phrases in the local language.