Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Question
| Question: Is Cambodia a safe country to visit? |
| Answer: Although Cambodia has suffered years of atrocities, since 1975 the country has returned to become the peaceful state it now is. Foreigners are often misled by news about landmines and fighting, but these are all things of the past. There are a few remote areas near the borders where troops are still working on clearing landmines left behind during the war, but for the most part, Cambodia is safe. |
| Question: What type of hotels is there in Cambodia? |
| Answer: Cambodia is a modern country and many parts of it are developing at a swift rate. The tourism industry is the second largest industry in the country. Therefore, you will find international 5-star hotels such as the Intercontinental Hotel, Raffles Hotel le Royal, Le Meridien Hotel, and Sofitel, along with a multitude of chic boutique hotels. Additionally, there are more affordable hotels and guesthouses of various sizes and grades to satisfy tourists’ requirements and budget. |
| Question: Can I find accommodation for around US $15 per night and what can I expect? |
| Answer: $15-$20: May get you a room with a bed and a fan at a backpacker-friendly guesthouse. Most of these will provide a clean mattress with sheets that are changed only when you leave. You may have to share a common bathroom. Some rooms may come with hot water, many not. $20-$30: May get you a more comfortable room with an air-conditioner, a bed, and a clean bathroom. Don’t expect any frills, though some rooms may provide a fridge and cable TV. Some small guest houses have their rooms cleaned daily. $20+: This falls under small hotels and guesthouses. As the price rises, you may expect extras, such as TV with full cable, DVD player, breakfast, pool and sauna, etc. |
| Question: Should I bargain for everything I wish to buy in Cambodia? |
| Answer: Not necessarily. If an item carries a price tag, you’re not expected to bargain. You are not expected to bargain at a restaurant either. However, it’s only human to wish for a better deal and it is expected of tourists to do so at markets and tourist sites. A little friendly negotiation can sometimes make buying more fun. |
| Question: What shouldn’t I do when bargaining in Cambodia? |
| Answer: Do not yell, scream or behave such that the vendor feels intimidated. Do not lose your sense of humor or throw your money at the vendor. Do not refuse to buy something after the vendor has accepted your price. You are supposed to be having fun–don’t take it so seriously as to let bargaining ruin your fun. |
| Question: How much should I budget per day for a vacation in Cambodia? |
| Answer: Depending on your accommodation and itinerary, budget anywhere from $20-$50 per day. In Phnom Penh, you can rent a room in a guesthouse for as little as $15 a night; in more remote areas, a basic room in a guesthouse might be half that price. A plate of fried rice or noodles will only put you back by another $2, and transportation by tuk-tuk or moto will usually only be $3-$5 per trip. |
| Question: Can I drink directly from the tap in Cambodia? |
| Answer: No; generally, it’s not a good idea. If you have to drink from the tap, do make sure that you boil the water before consuming it. Bottled water is relatively inexpensive in Cambodia. What kind of food can I find in Cambodia? Answer: Cambodia welcomes a good mix of visitors from all corners of the world. There are restaurants serving all types of international cuisine. In Cambodia, you can be certain to find the kind of food to satisfy your palate, including halal, vegetarian, and vegan food. |
| Question: What is the best way to get around in Cambodia? |
| Answer: During daytime in Phnom Penh, walking is probably the best way to enjoy the city. Generally, from almost anywhere in Phnom Penh, a walk to Wat Phnom takes about a good 30 to 45 minutes at a reasonable pace. Although moto-dops (motor cycle taxis) are inexpensive and plentiful, try to spend at least some time walking around the city. There are also the tuk-tuks if you are moving around in a group of more than two. Negotiate your fare before you get on the ride so that there is no haggling when you reach your destination. The drivers usually speak some English. You can also ring for a metered taxi which is usually air-conditioned. Your hotel can help you with the booking. In Siem Reap, moto-dops and tuk-tuks are also plentiful. Siem Reap is a small town, so rides usually don’t cost more than a dollar or two within the town itself. However, you can also book these vehicles by the day and negotiate a day rate with the drivers. |
| Question: How do I get from Cambodian airports into town? |
|
Answer: Both the Phnom Penh and Siem Reap international airports have taxis outside to take you anywhere downtown. There is no public transport from either airport into town at the moment. Taxi fare from Siem Reap into town usually costs around US $10 to US $20; in Phnom Penh, the fare from the airport to town may cost between US $20 to $25 depending on the hour of the day. In Siem Reap, moto-dops and tuk-tuks are plentiful. Siem Reap is a small town, so rides usually don’t cost more than a dollar or two within the town itself. However, you can also book these vehicles by the day and negotiate on a day-rate with the drivers. |
| Question: Are credit cards accepted in Cambodia? |
| Answer: Not generally, but most hotels, upscale restaurants, and bars accept credit cards. Local restaurants and shops prefer cash. In cases where you can use a credit card, do expect to be charged a 3% surcharge. |
| Question: Are there ATMs in Cambodia? |
| Answer: ATMs can be seen almost everywhere around major cities in Cambodia. These machines operate 24/7 year round. |
| Question: How can I have money sent to me in Cambodia? |
| Answer: Using the money-transferring services at Western Union is the easiest and most reliable way to receive and send money from abroad. Western Union transfers are almost immediate. You can also receive money via wire transfers from any major bank in the country. In most cases, all you need is a passport. |
| Question: Should I bring Traveler Cheques to Cambodia? |
| Answer: Traveler cheques can be quite easily cashed at all major banks. The banking facilities in Cambodia are very modern and adequate. |
| Question: Can I use drugs in Cambodia? |
| Answer: NO. Drugs are illegal. However, like anywhere in the rest of the world, people tend to defy the law. Be forewarned: Cambodian jails are no fun. If you do try to tempt fate, be aware that although drugs are generally cheaper here than the rest of the world, quality and dosage vary dangerously. Methamphetamines are often passed off as ecstasy, heroin is commonly passed off as cocaine, and so on. Overdoses are not uncommon. When visiting Cambodia, please try to enjoy a drug-free vacation. |
| Question: What is the night life and entertainment like after hours? |
| Answer: The main entertainment and bar precinct is Pub Street and it’s a thriving night spot with many restaurants, bars and street stalls, all complemented by the busy night markets, the ideal place to pick up a bargain. (All drop-off and pick up spots on our regular free shuttle bus service). |
| Question: What is the local currency? |
| Answer: The local currency is Cambodian Reil, however most transactions are in US$. |
| Question: Will the language barrier be difficult? |
| Answer: Angkor miracle resort & spa has multilingual staff and if you require tour guides to match your particular language requirement, we can organize this for you from our tour desk. |
| Question: Is Cambodia and Siem Reap a safe and stable environment? |
| Answer: Yes, there is very little incident of illegal activity towards visitors and tourists are well respected. |
| Question: Is public transport readily available? |
| Answer: Yes, Taxi, Remork (Tuk Tuk), Moto, and limousine are the most common forms of local transport and they are reliable value for money. Longer distance destinations are serviced by regular coach companies and airline flights. |
| Question: Is the water safe to drink? |
| Answer: Yes, however for your comfort we supple two bottles of complementary water daily to assist in setting visitors minds at rest. |
| Question: What types of activities would you recommend? |
| Answer: Siem Reap and the surrounding Angkor region have many attractions sure to satisfy the adventurer in all of us. Apart from the obvious opportunity to drink in the sights and sounds of the local culture below I have listed just some of the other activities available: (Night Club, Karaoke and more …) Pagodas, Silk Farm, Quad-Bikes, War Museum, Mine Museum, Crocodile Farm, Helicopter Flights, National Museum, Siem Reap River, King Royal Palace, Angkor Balloon Ride, Cambodia Cultural Village, International Golf Resort, Angkor War Park & Temples, Water Fall Kulen Mountain, Horseback rides at Happy Ranch horse farm, Tonle Sap Lake, Floating Village, Bird Sanctuary |