This country with turbulent history is starting to open itself to the world, including to international tourists. Unlike its continental Southeast Asian neighbor like Thailand, a lot of foreigners don’t have a clear idea of what to expect in Cambodia. But that’s the point of travel: discover new things, you’ll be surprised at how charming Cambodia is!

Here are some things you need to know before visiting Cambodia!

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Cambodia Climate

Like the rest of the region, the climate in Cambodia is tropical, ruled by monsoons. The country only has two seasons: dry and rainy. So it’s practically warm all year round! It’s just (very) wet sometimes. Get ready for the rain, because in this area when it rains, it pours.

Stay Modest

We understand that sometimes some of us like to let loose when we’re on holiday, but take extra care to be modest in Cambodia. No one will probably disturb you if you rock a swimsuit on the street, but it’s generally inappropriate.

This advice especially applies when you go to temples (which, if we’re being honest, why wouldn’t you go to Cambodian temples? They’re iconic!). No deep necks, no exposed torso, and your pants or skirt have to cover your knees. It’s nothing special or too uptight: just be respectful.

Get Ready To Haggle

Like in a lot of other Asian countries, you will need to haggle if you decide to shop in markets. If it doesn’t have a price tag on it, get ready to negotiate!

If you look like a tourist (which you will probably do, not even due to your features, but due to the general vibe of not belonging somewhere), you might even get offered a price double the regular one offered to everyday Cambodians, sometimes even more.

Be reasonable, though, don’t get lost in trying to get the price too low. They probably need the money more than someone fortunate enough to travel internationally.

Which Currency Do You Need?

Trick question! It’s actually two currencies: the Cambodian Riel and US Dollars.

Riels are usually used for small transactions, like around a dollar or less. In other cases, use USD. Also, keep your notes crisp. They like it fresh in Cambodia! They won’t accept your dollar bills if you give them crumpled, let alone torn bills.

Be Mindful Of Local Context

We understand that this is a piece of very general advice, but we’re gonna give you examples of what to be mindful of in Cambodia, especially related to tourist activities.

Elephant Rides

As elephants are icons of Cambodia, it’s no wonder that elephant rides are a popular attraction for tourists. However, don’t take part in this activity!

Some elephant ride providers say that elephant rides do not hurt the elephants. However, this is false. Elephants get injuries and wounds from carrying heavy loads. You wouldn’t want to harm these incredibly social and loving animals, don’t you?

If you want to interact with this dazzling animal, then we’d recommend you visit elephant conservation sanctuaries! Support their work instead of getting on rides in which these animals’ welfare is compromised.

Scams

Tourist traps, or worst, tourist-oriented scams, are unfortunately common in tourist destinations worldwide. Here’s an example: there are young women with babies who ask tourists to get them a hot meal or baby formula.

They surely tug on your heartstrings by channeling Cambodia’s image of being a struggling country in the eyes of some tourists. However, they are likely to be elaborate schemes overseen by organized crime in Cambodia.

Get A Visa

Yes, you’ll likely need to get a visa if you want to enter Cambodia. However, you’re in luck, as the Cambodian government allows online applications for tourist visas, as well as visas on arrival. Learn which one fits your needs.

Online visa applications are especially handy compared to visas on arrival, especially if you hate waiting in queues, which are likely to form if you come during high tourist seasons! While electronic visa applications are easy, make sure you don’t skip through the details, including your visa photo, which has to fulfill certain requirements. You might want to trust the professionals on this.

Get Around In Tuk-Tuks

Keep an open mind and explore Cambodia! The most practical way to get around town in Cambodia is to ride tuk-tuks. Tuk-tuk drivers won’t let you forget about that either: they’ll yell at you to get on once y