Travel tips

General Tips

1. Climate

Cambodia is influenced by the tropical monsoon climate with three distinct seasons: cool season from November to February (18-27 Celcius), hot season from March to May (28-38 Celsius) and rainy season from June to October (27-35 Celcius).

2. Currency

The Riel is the local currency. However, the US Dollar is accepted everywhere (4,000 Riel to one U.S.D, September 09) and it is best to carry small denominations. Credit cards, Traveler's cheques and foreign currencies are accepted in major hotels, souvenir shops and banks. Newly installed Credit Card Teller distribution machines are now available in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.

3. Shopping

It is better to go shopping at the local markets than in tourist shops. All prices should be bargained and special attention should be paid when buying jewelry.

4. Airport Taxes

USD 25, per outgoing international passenger for flights from Phnom Penh.
USD 25, per outgoing international passenger for flights from Siem Reap
USD 6 per outgoing domestic passenger for flights from Phnom Penh and from all other domestic airports

5. Religion

The majorities of the Khmers are Buddhists and follow the doctrine of Theravada, the Small Vehicle. The Cham minority, migrated from the former Kingdom of Champa in todays Central Vietnam, is Muslim and some hilltripes in the northeast still practice some forms of animism. Elements of Hinduism are still incorporated into important ceremonies involving birth, marriage and death.

6. Passport & Visas

For USD 20, most travelers can obtain a tourist visa valid for 30 days upon arrival at Phnom Penh and Siem Reap airports (passport valid for six months beyond your visit and one ID-sized photo are needed.). For travelers joining an Asian Trails Cambodia tour departing from Bangkok, visas can be arranged there within two working days in Bangkok.
Visas are available upon arrival at Phnom Penh International Airport, Siem Reap International Airport and at the following border checkpoints: Poi Pet, Pailin, O’ Smach,  Anlong Veng,  Koh Kong (border to Thailand); Kham Samnor (border to Chau Doc by Mekong River, Vietnam), Phnom Den (border Chau Doc by road Vietnam);  Bavet (Border to Moc Bai, Vietnam) and Dong Krolor (border to Laos).  You can also get a visa on arrival via Prek Chak border (Hatien border to Vietnam). Trapeang Phlong border (Xa Mat border in Vietnam) opened officially recently and tourists can get Cambodian visa on arrival but Vietnamese visa is still not available.   
Electronic-visa can also be obtained online for Phnom Penh International Airport only. All the visitor need is to complete the application form and pay with credit card USD 25 per person. They will get their visa approved within 3 business days.
How to apply?
Go to the website, http://www.mfaic.gov.kh. Complete the online application form. Make online payment with your credit card. Upon approval, receive your e-Visa by email

7. Health Requirements

No vaccinations are required to enter Cambodia. Travelers should check in their relative countries regarding medical protection against malaria, typhoid, hepatitis A and B.

8. What To Bring Along

It’s highly recommended to bring a pair of sunglasses and some sunscreen lotion. Comfortable shoes are a must, especially for the visit of the temples. During the rainy season, a raincoat or an umbrella can be very useful. Further we recommend bringing mosquito repellent, a hat, a torch and light clothes. Photocopies of passport, visa and tickets can be very helpful in case of loss.