As we always based in Siem Reap ,where the Angkor Wat temple and other famous hundreds ancient temples are now standing , so that why we established this Angkor Ancient Road Guide & Tours and page to provide you all of the information that you want to know and will need it for your holiday trip in Cambodia .we therefore have put together the following information, if ,however ,you need more information that is not mentioned in this page so please write me question and your inquiries .
Cambodia fact file :
.King : Norodom Sihamoni (crowded in 2004)
.Government : Multy-party liberal democracy under a constitutional monarchy
.Prime minister : Hun Sen (since 1998)
.Land area : 181,035 sq km (69897.683 Sq Miles)
.Population:14,5 millions(est.2013), Khmer:90% ,Vietnam:5% ,Chinese:1% and other 4%. - growth rates 1.7%, birth rates:24.88%/1000 population.
Dead rate:7.88%/1000. Infant Mortality rates:52.7/1000 live births(2010). Maternal Mortality rate:250death/100,000 live birds.,
life expectancy :65 years, density per sq km : 80
.Capital and major city :Phnom Penh , Kompong Cham , Battambang Siem Reap and Sihanouk ville .
.Monetary Unit : Riel ,but US dollar are widely accepted .
.Language : Khmer , and also English widely spoken in urban city ,mainly tourist area
.Religion : Theravada Buddhism 95% - Muslim Cham:2.1%, and other :1.3%. Literacy:73.9%
.Time zone :GMT + 7hours and BST +6hours
.Weight/Measures : Cambodian uses the metric and Kilometer system
*Money Matters :
We recommend that you bring US dollar along to Cambodia , as Riel also used ,mainly for buying a small items .There is approximately 4,000 Riel to 1 US dollar .you can use ATMs in Siem Reap ,Phnom Penh ,Battembang and Sihanouk ville(the ATMs will also gives you American dollar .the following cards are accepted at the ATMs : Visa card , master card,Maestro ,Cirrus and more. Major credits cards are accepted in the large hotels and restaurants.Traveler's check can be exchanged at the banks and most of the bigger hotels at a rates charges of about 2% .Cash advance are also available on Visa ,Master cards from most banks and money exchangers .Bank are open from 8:00am to 3:30pm ,Monday to Friday and some banks open on Saturday morning.money exchanges open early and closed around 10:00pm All major currencies are easily exchanged in Siem Reap and some others ,especially Thailand money (Bath), and Euro. Western Unions and the money gram transfers are available in most major towns and cities .if you want to transfer money so banks transfer are the cheapest way to do it .
Please be aware that there is a lot of counterfeit US dollar in Cambodia , so you should check your US dollar before you arrive and also when you in Cambodia ,even from banks -also make sure your US dollar are in good condition because most the places will not accept torn notes or very old ,even if they are very small.
*Electricity :
Since the end of 2007, the electricity in Siem Reap has been on trial period with electricity being supplied from Thailand .before Siem Reap being supplies electricity , by large diesel runs generators .Siem Reap rarely has power cuts , but they do occur now and then .most large hotels and restaurants have their own backup generators ..
The electricity supply is 220 volts AC,50Hz .Most the plugs are flat 2- pin but round 2-pin plugs also used in some places. Adapters are widely available .
* Airport Departure tax :
International exit tax for adult is US$25/pax , for children under 12 years old is US$13/pax and child under 2 years old is free of charge .Domestic departure tax for both adult and children under 12 years old is US$6 .there is no charge for children under 2 years old .
* Visas & Entry requirement :
All the visitors required Visas excepted nationalities of Malaysia , Singapore , Philippine ,Laos and Vietnam .Tourist visa are single entry and are US$20 . you will need to bring a 4 X 6 passport photo is required .The visa is valid for a one month stay but can be extended for a further month in Cambodia.However , they are expensive around US$45.children under 14 years old do need visa but they are issued free .The minimum length of stay is 24 hours and your passport must be valid for at least 6 months on arrival .
Business Visas - are single entry US$25 .they can be extended for single for i month , 3 months and multiple entry visas for 6 months or i year . overstay of any visa is charged US$5 per day . you may be also to obtain an E-visa .
The nationalities of the following countries must apply for a visa at the Cambodian embassy before entering Cambodia and they must also a have a letters of invitation or have a pre- arranged tour by a travel agent : Afghanistan ,Algeria ,Bangladesh, Iran ,Iraq Pakistan , Saudi Arabia ,Sri Lanka and Sudan and a returned is advised if you have letter of invitation . The visas are available at Cambodia embassy ,international airports ,Phnom Penh and Siem Reap s well as at most overland international border crossings with Thailand ,Vietnam and Laos . Diplomatic .official ,courtesy and special visas are issued free of charge
*Arrival & Departures :
Siem Reap international airport is a 7km distant , 15 minutes from town center .
When you arrive at the Siem Reap airport ,you will need to fill out a form called " Items to declare form " and an< arrival and departure > card. if you don't have a visa on arrival ,you will also need to complete a visa application form and attach a 4x6 passport photo .
*Health & Hygiene :
The most common illness amongst tourists to Cambodia is diarrhea or sunstroke . We recommend that you always use bottled water( it is much better if drink more water ,to be hydrated ,specially in dry season) and eat hot and well done cooked food , as this will reduce the chances of diarrhea .Avoiding ice ,salad and peeled fruit will help too.The heat and also drinking alcohol in a hot time can have a big effect on your stomach as well . wear a sunhat and keep out of direct sunlight .
-Malaria is quite common in Cambodia but not much in Siem reap and Phnom Penh .Anti-malarial tablets are not really needed but we recommend you seek experts medical advice. If you are visiting other parts of Cambodia then it's advisable to take some form of anti- malaria tablets .malaria is transmitted by mosquitoes which normally bite you in the evening . To help protect yourself against malaria then the best protection is to ensure you covered up bare skin, especially in the evening .use a Deet based repellent ,mosquito nets ,mosquito coils and also spray your room before going to bed .
-Dengue Fever - is also quite common in Cambodia and unlike malaria , it can easily contracted in Siem Reap or Phnom Penh if precaution are not taken to avoid the mosquito bites ., especially in rainy season or just after rainy season .Dengue fever like malaria is transmitted by the mosquito but this mosquitoes bites during the daylight hours (after sunrise and before sunset) unlike the malaria normally in the evening or early morning.There yet is no vaccination for the dengue fever and although, it's not pleasant when you get it .it's rarely fatal as long as you seek medical attention as soon as possible .Protection against mosquito bites is best protection against dengue fever . if you feel a strong fever please quickly look for the medical assistance .
*Postal services & Communications :
The main post office in Siem Reap is on the west bank of the river .you can find post cards ,Cambodian stamps and send postcards , letters and parcels abroad ,the service is pretty good .you also can make domestic or international phone calls and also a fax machine .it's open Monday to Sunday from 7:30am - 5:30pm .
There are also number parcel service companies in Siem Reap but the DHL express is recommended .
*Internets Cafe & Telephone :
There are probably over 200 internet cafes in Siem reap where you can use internet facilities and also make a domestic or international phone calls internet rates normally US$0.50 or US$1 per hour .
The international Cambodia code is 855 .inside country calls need you to use <0> ..
*Mobile Sim :
The tourist Sim cards are now available from $2 to $5 each and can last long for 2 weeks .passport is needed .
*Photography :
There are many photo shops in Siem Reap where you can develop photo or burn onto CD, memory cards .Digital cameras are widely sells around and cheaper than in the west . battery available everywhere .
*Security : (Siem Reap is the most safe place)
Theft is the main concern in Siem Reap as the police authorities take crime seriously when it involves ,However , Siem Reap is probably one of the safest town in Asia and in Cambodia too.
Commonsense can prevent theft , such as not carrying shoulder bags where someone on motorbike could snatch it from you .Always keep your valuables in a hotel safe or deposit box .most the hotels or guesthouse will tell you not to leave any valuables in the room because they will not be held responsible .this include cameras , money ,passports and anything else that is of great value to you .
* Angkor temple entrance pass : ( the tickets covered most the temples in Angkor )
One day pass is US$20 per person
Three day pass is US$40 per person ( you can use it in a week)
One week pass is US$60 per person ( You can use it in a month )
Beng Mealea temple pass is US$5 per person .
Koh Ker temple pass is US$10 per person
Koulen mountain pass is US$20 per person.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
What to Prepare :
Preparing for your trip to Cambodia :
Some things to know and to prepare for your trip to Cambodia !
As a new rule has just been in-forced for the visitors to Angkor wat, please remember that shirts that cover your shoulders and shorts that cover your knees are required otherwise you will be interrupted in climbing up to its most top.
Climate :
Practically speaking, Cambodia has four seasons: 1) November-February, cool/dry; 2) March-May, hot/dry, 3) June-August, hot/wet, 4) September-October, cool/wet. The hottest days of the hot season rarely climb above 35 c, though the tropical sun can be quite intense. The cool season may push the midday mercury as low as 20c. The monsoons between June and October follow a fairly regular pattern with clear morning and 1-3 hour rains in the afternoon. December-January is considered by many to have the best weather of the year and though the cool dry season is generally more comfortable, the wet season has its advantages for the temple visitor. The temples are more photogenic with their moats and pool full the vegetation green and lush and the colors in the wet temple stone standing much brighter and more apparent than when dry. The temples are also less tourist during the wet season. And the regularity of the rains makes them fairly easy to plan around.
Bring your sun screen in the dry season and bring insect repellent in the wet season !
Visas and Entry requirements :
A passport with least six-month validity is required. A visa is required for most nationalities. One-month visas are available on arrival at the international airports in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, at Cambodian Embassies and at most border crossings with Thailand, Vietnam and Laos. Tourist visa: US$ 20. Business visa: US$ 25. Visas are more expensive at some overland crossing points. Diplomatic, Official, Courtesy and Special visas are issued free of charge. One 4×6 photo is required. Tourist visa can be extended for one month, But only one time. Business visas can be renewed indefinitely. Renew visa through a travel agent or the Immigration Department located opposite the Phnom Penh International Airport.
Border crossing :
Cambodia shares international borders with Thailand, Vietnam, Laos.
Thailand : Koh Kong (Cham Yeam) , Oddar Meanchey (Chorm), Kamrieng-Battambang (Daung), Poitet (Banteay Meanchey), Pailin (Prom), Oddar Meanchey (O Smarch).
Vietnam : Bavet (Svay Rieng), Kaoam Samnor (Kandal-Mekong), Takeo (Phnom Den), Kratie (Trapaing Sre). The main border crossing are at Moc Bai and Chau Doc on the Vietnam side. Visas for Cambodia are available but Vietnam visas are not.
Loas: Stung Treng (Dong Kralo) visa for Cambodia are available at the border, visas for Laos are not.
There are many brands available in Cambodia but the most popular ones are: Angkor Beer, Anchor Beer, ABC Beer (Stout), Tiger Beer and Hennigan Beer.
What to bring :
Pack for hot, tropical weather with often fierce sunshine. Bring light, airy, clothing that will protect yourself from the sun and mosquitoes. The sun can be intense so also bring a hat, sunglasses and sun block. If you are coming during the rainy season, bring a raincoat and or an umbrella. Most things are that visitor may need are available in Cambodia, particularly in Phnom Penh, through certain prescription medicines may not be available.
Money :
Asia is continually developing and ATMs are now commonplace across the region. It is recommended that you take travelers cheques and a small amount of $US dollars in Cambodia. Taking travelers cheque will avoid unnecessary bank charges when withdrawing from an ATM and will also get a better rate than cash when exchanging money at the bank or currency exchangers, which are in most major towns and resorts. The US dollar is also widely accepted in Cambodia and can be used for payment at shops, restaurants and hotels.
Electricity :
The electric voltage throughout the region is 220 volts. Most British electrical appliances work well throughout Asia but you will find a universal adaptor is essential.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Cambodia Travel :
Cambodia Travel Information:
Traveling to Cambodia and within the country has become easier. There are international airports in each of the main cities namely; Siem Reap, Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville. Once you get to Cambodia, you will notice that there is good infrastructure characterized by main roads to and from main cities. The transport system in Cambodia does not disappoint.
International Travel, Cambodia :
You will find that there are various flights to the northwestern city, Siem Reap. For example, Vietnam and Thailand have daily flights to Siem Reap international airport. There are also direct flights from Malaysia and Singapore. Landing in Siem Reap puts you a step closer to the Angkor temples and the Tonle Sap lake. In fact, most tourists enter Cambodia via Siem Reap. Other international airports can be found in Phnom Penh (the capital city) and Sihanoukville.
Border crossing via the road:
Is an exciting affair. There are bus routes from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) in Vietnam. The closest city in Cambodia from Ho Chi Minh is Phnom Penh but you can also travel directly to Siem Reap. A bus ride from Ho Chi Minh to Siem Reap takes approximately 12-15 hours. From Bangkok to Siem Reap, you can travel by bus or taxies via Poipet border crossing. You can get the Cambodia visa at the border crossing which should cost you US$20.
Domestic travel, Cambodia
Traveling within Cambodia is now efficient and exciting. There are numerous bus companies operating on Cambodia's main roads. From Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, the road is in a very good condition and you will definitely enjoy the trip coupled with sightseeing. On average, a trip from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh and vice versa costs between US$5 and $13 depending on the bus company. There is also a route from the beach city, Sihanoukville to Siem Reap. Normally, you pass through Phnom Penh and take the route via Kampong Thom. The cost of the trip from Sihanoukville to Siem Reap is $15-$25 depending on which bus company you use. There is no shortage of buses to take you to any destination within Cambodia. During busy holidays, you may find that there are more buses and the prices go up.
Travel by boat!
You can travel by boat from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap which will give you a chance to approach the floating villages in Tonle Sap from the south. Boat trips are spectacular but relatively expensive compared to other means of transport. For instance, a trip to Siem Reap from the capital city costs between $34 and $38. The best trip is that from Battambang to Siem Reap. The boat travels along the river longer than it is on Tonle Sap lake. This trip is more scenic compared to that from Phnom Penh since you will pass through more floating villages. However, some areas of the river are too shallow during the dry season and you may find yourself pushing the boat!!
Currently, there are only three cities that offer domestic flights which are Siem Reap, Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville. There are regular flights between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh if you wish to get to your destination in the shortest time possible.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Responsible Tourism :
Cambodia boasts some of the world's most remarkable monuments and archaeological sites and the country's people will welcome you warmly .These sites represent an incredible asset which will serve to benefit the country for many generations to come .however , these sites are fragile and must be treated with respect and care .
Enjoy your visit and follow these simple suggestions to ensure Cambodia's heritage sites remain for others in the future :
Cambodia fact file :
.King : Norodom Sihamoni (crowded in 2004)
.Government : Multy-party liberal democracy under a constitutional monarchy
.Prime minister : Hun Sen (since 1998)
.Land area : 181,035 sq km (69897.683 Sq Miles)
.Population:14,5 millions(est.2013), Khmer:90% ,Vietnam:5% ,Chinese:1% and other 4%. - growth rates 1.7%, birth rates:24.88%/1000 population.
Dead rate:7.88%/1000. Infant Mortality rates:52.7/1000 live births(2010). Maternal Mortality rate:250death/100,000 live birds.,
life expectancy :65 years, density per sq km : 80
.Capital and major city :Phnom Penh , Kompong Cham , Battambang Siem Reap and Sihanouk ville .
.Monetary Unit : Riel ,but US dollar are widely accepted .
.Language : Khmer , and also English widely spoken in urban city ,mainly tourist area
.Religion : Theravada Buddhism 95% - Muslim Cham:2.1%, and other :1.3%. Literacy:73.9%
.Time zone :GMT + 7hours and BST +6hours
.Weight/Measures : Cambodian uses the metric and Kilometer system
*Money Matters :
We recommend that you bring US dollar along to Cambodia , as Riel also used ,mainly for buying a small items .There is approximately 4,000 Riel to 1 US dollar .you can use ATMs in Siem Reap ,Phnom Penh ,Battembang and Sihanouk ville(the ATMs will also gives you American dollar .the following cards are accepted at the ATMs : Visa card , master card,Maestro ,Cirrus and more. Major credits cards are accepted in the large hotels and restaurants.Traveler's check can be exchanged at the banks and most of the bigger hotels at a rates charges of about 2% .Cash advance are also available on Visa ,Master cards from most banks and money exchangers .Bank are open from 8:00am to 3:30pm ,Monday to Friday and some banks open on Saturday morning.money exchanges open early and closed around 10:00pm All major currencies are easily exchanged in Siem Reap and some others ,especially Thailand money (Bath), and Euro. Western Unions and the money gram transfers are available in most major towns and cities .if you want to transfer money so banks transfer are the cheapest way to do it .
Please be aware that there is a lot of counterfeit US dollar in Cambodia , so you should check your US dollar before you arrive and also when you in Cambodia ,even from banks -also make sure your US dollar are in good condition because most the places will not accept torn notes or very old ,even if they are very small.
*Electricity :
Since the end of 2007, the electricity in Siem Reap has been on trial period with electricity being supplied from Thailand .before Siem Reap being supplies electricity , by large diesel runs generators .Siem Reap rarely has power cuts , but they do occur now and then .most large hotels and restaurants have their own backup generators ..
The electricity supply is 220 volts AC,50Hz .Most the plugs are flat 2- pin but round 2-pin plugs also used in some places. Adapters are widely available .
* Airport Departure tax :
International exit tax for adult is US$25/pax , for children under 12 years old is US$13/pax and child under 2 years old is free of charge .Domestic departure tax for both adult and children under 12 years old is US$6 .there is no charge for children under 2 years old .
* Visas & Entry requirement :
All the visitors required Visas excepted nationalities of Malaysia , Singapore , Philippine ,Laos and Vietnam .Tourist visa are single entry and are US$20 . you will need to bring a 4 X 6 passport photo is required .The visa is valid for a one month stay but can be extended for a further month in Cambodia.However , they are expensive around US$45.children under 14 years old do need visa but they are issued free .The minimum length of stay is 24 hours and your passport must be valid for at least 6 months on arrival .
Business Visas - are single entry US$25 .they can be extended for single for i month , 3 months and multiple entry visas for 6 months or i year . overstay of any visa is charged US$5 per day . you may be also to obtain an E-visa .
The nationalities of the following countries must apply for a visa at the Cambodian embassy before entering Cambodia and they must also a have a letters of invitation or have a pre- arranged tour by a travel agent : Afghanistan ,Algeria ,Bangladesh, Iran ,Iraq Pakistan , Saudi Arabia ,Sri Lanka and Sudan and a returned is advised if you have letter of invitation . The visas are available at Cambodia embassy ,international airports ,Phnom Penh and Siem Reap s well as at most overland international border crossings with Thailand ,Vietnam and Laos . Diplomatic .official ,courtesy and special visas are issued free of charge
*Arrival & Departures :
Siem Reap international airport is a 7km distant , 15 minutes from town center .
When you arrive at the Siem Reap airport ,you will need to fill out a form called " Items to declare form " and an< arrival and departure > card. if you don't have a visa on arrival ,you will also need to complete a visa application form and attach a 4x6 passport photo .
*Health & Hygiene :
The most common illness amongst tourists to Cambodia is diarrhea or sunstroke . We recommend that you always use bottled water( it is much better if drink more water ,to be hydrated ,specially in dry season) and eat hot and well done cooked food , as this will reduce the chances of diarrhea .Avoiding ice ,salad and peeled fruit will help too.The heat and also drinking alcohol in a hot time can have a big effect on your stomach as well . wear a sunhat and keep out of direct sunlight .
-Malaria is quite common in Cambodia but not much in Siem reap and Phnom Penh .Anti-malarial tablets are not really needed but we recommend you seek experts medical advice. If you are visiting other parts of Cambodia then it's advisable to take some form of anti- malaria tablets .malaria is transmitted by mosquitoes which normally bite you in the evening . To help protect yourself against malaria then the best protection is to ensure you covered up bare skin, especially in the evening .use a Deet based repellent ,mosquito nets ,mosquito coils and also spray your room before going to bed .
-Dengue Fever - is also quite common in Cambodia and unlike malaria , it can easily contracted in Siem Reap or Phnom Penh if precaution are not taken to avoid the mosquito bites ., especially in rainy season or just after rainy season .Dengue fever like malaria is transmitted by the mosquito but this mosquitoes bites during the daylight hours (after sunrise and before sunset) unlike the malaria normally in the evening or early morning.There yet is no vaccination for the dengue fever and although, it's not pleasant when you get it .it's rarely fatal as long as you seek medical attention as soon as possible .Protection against mosquito bites is best protection against dengue fever . if you feel a strong fever please quickly look for the medical assistance .
*Postal services & Communications :
The main post office in Siem Reap is on the west bank of the river .you can find post cards ,Cambodian stamps and send postcards , letters and parcels abroad ,the service is pretty good .you also can make domestic or international phone calls and also a fax machine .it's open Monday to Sunday from 7:30am - 5:30pm .
There are also number parcel service companies in Siem Reap but the DHL express is recommended .
*Internets Cafe & Telephone :
There are probably over 200 internet cafes in Siem reap where you can use internet facilities and also make a domestic or international phone calls internet rates normally US$0.50 or US$1 per hour .
The international Cambodia code is 855 .inside country calls need you to use <0> ..
*Mobile Sim :
The tourist Sim cards are now available from $2 to $5 each and can last long for 2 weeks .passport is needed .
*Photography :
There are many photo shops in Siem Reap where you can develop photo or burn onto CD, memory cards .Digital cameras are widely sells around and cheaper than in the west . battery available everywhere .
*Security : (Siem Reap is the most safe place)
Theft is the main concern in Siem Reap as the police authorities take crime seriously when it involves ,However , Siem Reap is probably one of the safest town in Asia and in Cambodia too.
Commonsense can prevent theft , such as not carrying shoulder bags where someone on motorbike could snatch it from you .Always keep your valuables in a hotel safe or deposit box .most the hotels or guesthouse will tell you not to leave any valuables in the room because they will not be held responsible .this include cameras , money ,passports and anything else that is of great value to you .
* Angkor temple entrance pass : ( the tickets covered most the temples in Angkor )
One day pass is US$20 per person
Three day pass is US$40 per person ( you can use it in a week)
One week pass is US$60 per person ( You can use it in a month )
Beng Mealea temple pass is US$5 per person .
Koh Ker temple pass is US$10 per person
Koulen mountain pass is US$20 per person.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
What to Prepare :
Preparing for your trip to Cambodia :
Some things to know and to prepare for your trip to Cambodia !
As a new rule has just been in-forced for the visitors to Angkor wat, please remember that shirts that cover your shoulders and shorts that cover your knees are required otherwise you will be interrupted in climbing up to its most top.
Climate :
Practically speaking, Cambodia has four seasons: 1) November-February, cool/dry; 2) March-May, hot/dry, 3) June-August, hot/wet, 4) September-October, cool/wet. The hottest days of the hot season rarely climb above 35 c, though the tropical sun can be quite intense. The cool season may push the midday mercury as low as 20c. The monsoons between June and October follow a fairly regular pattern with clear morning and 1-3 hour rains in the afternoon. December-January is considered by many to have the best weather of the year and though the cool dry season is generally more comfortable, the wet season has its advantages for the temple visitor. The temples are more photogenic with their moats and pool full the vegetation green and lush and the colors in the wet temple stone standing much brighter and more apparent than when dry. The temples are also less tourist during the wet season. And the regularity of the rains makes them fairly easy to plan around.
Bring your sun screen in the dry season and bring insect repellent in the wet season !
Visas and Entry requirements :
A passport with least six-month validity is required. A visa is required for most nationalities. One-month visas are available on arrival at the international airports in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, at Cambodian Embassies and at most border crossings with Thailand, Vietnam and Laos. Tourist visa: US$ 20. Business visa: US$ 25. Visas are more expensive at some overland crossing points. Diplomatic, Official, Courtesy and Special visas are issued free of charge. One 4×6 photo is required. Tourist visa can be extended for one month, But only one time. Business visas can be renewed indefinitely. Renew visa through a travel agent or the Immigration Department located opposite the Phnom Penh International Airport.
Border crossing :
Cambodia shares international borders with Thailand, Vietnam, Laos.
Thailand : Koh Kong (Cham Yeam) , Oddar Meanchey (Chorm), Kamrieng-Battambang (Daung), Poitet (Banteay Meanchey), Pailin (Prom), Oddar Meanchey (O Smarch).
Vietnam : Bavet (Svay Rieng), Kaoam Samnor (Kandal-Mekong), Takeo (Phnom Den), Kratie (Trapaing Sre). The main border crossing are at Moc Bai and Chau Doc on the Vietnam side. Visas for Cambodia are available but Vietnam visas are not.
Loas: Stung Treng (Dong Kralo) visa for Cambodia are available at the border, visas for Laos are not.
There are many brands available in Cambodia but the most popular ones are: Angkor Beer, Anchor Beer, ABC Beer (Stout), Tiger Beer and Hennigan Beer.
What to bring :
Pack for hot, tropical weather with often fierce sunshine. Bring light, airy, clothing that will protect yourself from the sun and mosquitoes. The sun can be intense so also bring a hat, sunglasses and sun block. If you are coming during the rainy season, bring a raincoat and or an umbrella. Most things are that visitor may need are available in Cambodia, particularly in Phnom Penh, through certain prescription medicines may not be available.
Money :
Asia is continually developing and ATMs are now commonplace across the region. It is recommended that you take travelers cheques and a small amount of $US dollars in Cambodia. Taking travelers cheque will avoid unnecessary bank charges when withdrawing from an ATM and will also get a better rate than cash when exchanging money at the bank or currency exchangers, which are in most major towns and resorts. The US dollar is also widely accepted in Cambodia and can be used for payment at shops, restaurants and hotels.
Electricity :
The electric voltage throughout the region is 220 volts. Most British electrical appliances work well throughout Asia but you will find a universal adaptor is essential.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Cambodia Travel :
Cambodia Travel Information:
Traveling to Cambodia and within the country has become easier. There are international airports in each of the main cities namely; Siem Reap, Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville. Once you get to Cambodia, you will notice that there is good infrastructure characterized by main roads to and from main cities. The transport system in Cambodia does not disappoint.
International Travel, Cambodia :
You will find that there are various flights to the northwestern city, Siem Reap. For example, Vietnam and Thailand have daily flights to Siem Reap international airport. There are also direct flights from Malaysia and Singapore. Landing in Siem Reap puts you a step closer to the Angkor temples and the Tonle Sap lake. In fact, most tourists enter Cambodia via Siem Reap. Other international airports can be found in Phnom Penh (the capital city) and Sihanoukville.
Border crossing via the road:
Is an exciting affair. There are bus routes from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) in Vietnam. The closest city in Cambodia from Ho Chi Minh is Phnom Penh but you can also travel directly to Siem Reap. A bus ride from Ho Chi Minh to Siem Reap takes approximately 12-15 hours. From Bangkok to Siem Reap, you can travel by bus or taxies via Poipet border crossing. You can get the Cambodia visa at the border crossing which should cost you US$20.
Domestic travel, Cambodia
Traveling within Cambodia is now efficient and exciting. There are numerous bus companies operating on Cambodia's main roads. From Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, the road is in a very good condition and you will definitely enjoy the trip coupled with sightseeing. On average, a trip from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh and vice versa costs between US$5 and $13 depending on the bus company. There is also a route from the beach city, Sihanoukville to Siem Reap. Normally, you pass through Phnom Penh and take the route via Kampong Thom. The cost of the trip from Sihanoukville to Siem Reap is $15-$25 depending on which bus company you use. There is no shortage of buses to take you to any destination within Cambodia. During busy holidays, you may find that there are more buses and the prices go up.
Travel by boat!
You can travel by boat from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap which will give you a chance to approach the floating villages in Tonle Sap from the south. Boat trips are spectacular but relatively expensive compared to other means of transport. For instance, a trip to Siem Reap from the capital city costs between $34 and $38. The best trip is that from Battambang to Siem Reap. The boat travels along the river longer than it is on Tonle Sap lake. This trip is more scenic compared to that from Phnom Penh since you will pass through more floating villages. However, some areas of the river are too shallow during the dry season and you may find yourself pushing the boat!!
Currently, there are only three cities that offer domestic flights which are Siem Reap, Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville. There are regular flights between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh if you wish to get to your destination in the shortest time possible.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Responsible Tourism :
Cambodia boasts some of the world's most remarkable monuments and archaeological sites and the country's people will welcome you warmly .These sites represent an incredible asset which will serve to benefit the country for many generations to come .however , these sites are fragile and must be treated with respect and care .
Enjoy your visit and follow these simple suggestions to ensure Cambodia's heritage sites remain for others in the future :
- Do not purchase ancient artifacts. These include glass and stone beads,pottery stone tools and metal objects.
- Dispose of your rubbish appropriately and keep heritage sites clean .
- Respect the temple : They are active religious monuments and world heritage treasures .
- Refrain from touching carvings and bas-reliefs as this damages the stone.
- Conserve water in Siem Reap as the water table is dropping which may make the monuments unstable.
- Try to use environmentally friendly transport ; such as bicycles,electric bikes or horse-drawn carts in the park.
- Help the local economy, purchase Cambodian -made products .
- Patronize businesses that support culture and heritage , look for the Heritage Friendly Tourism logo .