Cambodia
Cambodia- WHAT TO EXPECT
Cambodia is a fascinating destination with a rich history, stunning natural landscapes, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals. The ancient temples of Angkor Wat are a must-see attraction, as are other notable temples in the area. The country’s natural beauty can be seen in pristine beaches, lush jungles, and scenic waterfalls. Traditional Cambodian cuisine is a blend of Southeast Asian flavors, and visitors can sample dishes like amok, lok lak, and num pang. Above all, you’ll be greeted by friendly and welcoming locals, eager to share their culture and history. Cambodia is a unique travel experience that should not be missed!
AVERAGE COSTS IN THIS AREA
Transportation– In Cambodia, transportation is affordable and convenient. Long distance trips like Siem Reap – Koh Rong can be done by sleeper bus for $12-$15, boats to the islands from Sihanoukville are a similar price. There are loads of bus companies that run routes between destinations and you also have the more expensive option of flying between major cities like Siem Reap, Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville. Getting around in places is very affordable too, cities like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh have Grab Taxi, so you can book tuk tuks and cars via the app on your phone. In the islands you will likely walk most places or hire a moped.
Accommodation– You can definitely find cheap accommodation, specifically hostels, in Cambodia. If you prefer a private room, you can expect to pay anywhere between $8-$25 per night depending on your budget and preferences. Out of the 5 places I visited in Cambodia, only 2 of the hotels included air conditioning, the others only had fans. This is definitely something to consider when choosing your accommodation because it can be super hot here!!
Food– The average cost of food in Cambodia can vary depending on the type of food and the location. In general, street food and local eateries are the most affordable options, with prices ranging from $1 to $3 per meal. Higher-end restaurants, especially in touristy areas, can be significantly more expensive, with prices ranging from $10 to $20 or more per meal.
As a rough estimate, a budget traveller can expect to spend around $5 to $15 per day on food in Cambodia, while those who prefer mid-range to high-end dining may spend around $20 to $40 per day or more. It’s also worth noting that prices can be higher in popular tourist destinations like Siem Reap or Phnom Penh.
Of course, these are just general estimates, and your actual costs may vary based on your preferences and the places you choose to eat. If you’re on a tight budget, sticking to street food and local eateries is a great way to save money and sample delicious Cambodian cuisine.
Suggested Daily Budget– When we visited, we didn’t stick to a strict budget. Our average daily spend per person was $45 – this included all transport, visas, activities, accommodation and food. You could easily spend much less by eating more street food and staying in hostels!
tips for first visit
Transportation: Negotiate tuk-tuk fares in advance and use transportation apps like Grab and PassApp for fixed-price taxis or tuk-tuks in major cities.
Currency and Payments: Carry a mix of small US dollar bills and Cambodian Riel, use ATMs for cash in both currencies, and compare rates at currency exchange booths.
Safety and Security: Secure your belongings, be cautious when crossing streets, and research reputable companies to avoid common scams targeting tourists.
