FAQ Cambodia

Your passport needs to be valid for six months after your planned departure from Cambodia. You can find out more information on entry requirements our Visa, Passport and Money Advice page.

If you are a UK passport holder, you can either apply for your visa online in advance or organise it on arrival into Cambodia. You will need to provide two passport photos and the cost is around US$35. Head over to our visa page for more information on overland crossings.

Yes, we would always recommend taking out comprehensive travel insurance when travelling, especially overseas, that is suitable for your requirements and needs.

When visiting Cambodia, it is recommended to dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites such as the Angkor Wat temple complex – it is essential to wear tops that cover your shoulders and skirts or trousers that cover your knees. Otherwise tourists can wear clothing that is cool and comfortable, but be respectful of the local culture and avoid revealing too much skin if you aren’t on the beach.

A waterproof jacket is essential, especialling in the wet season and packing a sarong can be useful as it can act as a towel, curtain, picnic blanket, or even temple cover-up.

It is always best to get the advice of a GP or travel nurse before travelling overseas to check which vaccinations you might need or if any boosters are required. The Fit for Travel website provides a comprehensive guide on all the vaccinations you should consider.

We know heading off on holiday is always a little bit stressful, especially on the day you leave, so we would advise doing these things before you depart:

• Check you have all your necessary documentation, including your passport!
• Take a photo of your documents and email it to yourself and travelling partners. Having a copy on your phone always comes in handy too.
• Ensure you have all your chargers and converters for any phones, cameras, tablets you are taking. A portable battery pack is a handy item to have in your hand luggage.
• Take snacks and a big bottle of water for your flight.
• Get to the airport with plenty of time to spare, we advise arriving 3 hours prior to your flight departure.
• Pack a change of clothes in your hand luggage and take a photo of your checked bag in case it goes missing en route.
• Sit back and relax knowing we have your holiday sorted!

The official language spoken in Cambodia is Khmer, which is spoken by almost 90% of the population.

Other languages that are widely spoken in Cambodia besides Khmer, are Cham, Chinese, Jarai, Kuy, Lao, Tumpoon, Chong, Vietnamese, Thai, French, and English.

It is always good to have a few phrases in the local language, here are some of the basics to get you started:

Hello (formal): Chom reap sour [chom-reap-sore]
Hello (informal): Susadei [soos-a-day]
Do you speak English? Kun chea mean ayu te? [koon chay mean uh-tay]
Thank you: Orkun [aw-koon]
Sorry / Excuse me: Som toh [sawm toe]
Yes: Lea heuy [lee hoo-ee]
No: Ot te [aht-tay]

Cambodian cuisine is a diverse mix of flavors and influences from various ethnic groups. Rice is the staple food, served with a choice of meat or fish along with local vegetables. Vegetables are served crisp and fresh, or stir-fried in curries, soups, and stews. There are many dishes you should try during your time in Cambodia, our favourites are Kampot pepper crab, Nom Banh Chok (Khmer noodles) and creamy Amok coconut curry. On the coast you won’t be short of fresh seafood to try straight off the boat that day!

Cambodia is a predominantly Buddhist country so here are few things to be aware of during your travels:

• Locals don’t generally shake hands but instead put their hands together and bow their head.
• If you are visiting temples please dress modestly – make sure to cover your shoulders, back and knees.
• Remove your shoes before entering a person’s home, sometimes you will see a collection of shoes outside a shop or restaurant so follow suit.
• If you are away with your partner be aware of public shows of affection so not to cause offence.
• Try not to point your finger as this could be seen as rude gesture and if beckoning someone do it with your palm facing down.
• It is very important not to touch anyone on their head as this is the most sacred part of the body.
• As feet are seen as dirty, don’t point the soles of your feet at another person or a statue of Buddha, avoid stepping over people or food and don’t stand on seats.

Cambodia is considered a very safe country to travel to. It is always best to be mindful of your surroundings and belongings as in any country though, keep large sums of cash out of sight and split your cards and cash up into several places.

We are contactable in the UK during office hours and our local partners in destination are available 24/7 for any support or help you might need. They are in the best position as they will be on the same timezone, they should be your first contact in a case of emergency.