At a Glance
Cambodia is situated in south eastern Asia, bordering the Gulf of Thailand, between Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos with Phnom Penh the capital. Cambodia is raw, alive, harsh, beautiful and challenging. The main tourist attraction of Cambodia is the ancient archeological ruins of Angkor, a World Heritage Site. However, the natural beauty of this country extends beyond Angkor and includes virgin forests, waterfalls, and remote hill-tribe villages in the northeastern provinces, making this a promising adventure and Eco-tourism destination.
Credit Cards
Credit card advances for MasterCard, JCB and Visa are available at the Cambodian Commercial Bank on the corner of Pochentong and Monivong streets in Phnom Penh.
Climate
Cambodia has a tropical climate that is warm and humid with two distinct seasons: rainy season and dry season. During the peak of the rainy season (June to August), the humidity is higher and the temperatures can reach the upper 30C (86F), From September to early November, it is wet and slightly cooler.
The dry season (November to May) is pleasant from November to February and becomes hotter from March to May, where temperatures can soar as high as 38C (100F).
Insurance
We strongly recommend that you take out comprehensive insurance cover that will cover any overseas medical costs, before you depart. Confirm that your insurance covers you for the whole time you will be away and check what circumstances and activities are not included in your policy. Remember, regardless of how healthy and fit you are, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.
Tipping
Tipping is not expected in Cambodia but is enormously appreciated, especially in the service industry. If you are pleased with the services provided by your tour guide and driver, then a tip for their hard work and being away from home for long periods will be very much appreciated.
Dress
Since the weather is consistently warm throughout the country, it is advisable to bring comfortable lightweight, loose fitting, cotton clothing and long-sleeved items for protection from mosquitoes and the sun. During the rainy season an umbrella and open-toe sandals are recommended.. Shorts are generally fine—as long as they aren’t too short.
When visiting pagodas and temples, shorts and tank-tops are unacceptable. Your knees and shoulders must be covered.
Safety & Health Tips
Pack medications in their original, clearly labelled, containers. A signed and dated letter from your physician describing your medical conditions and medications, including generic names, is also a good idea. Consume only bottled water outside the hotel. The World Health Organisaton provides information for travelers and also provides useful tips for traveling with medicines and staying healthy while traveling overseas. We also recommend that you visit the Commonwealth Government website: www.smarttraveller.gov.au.
Essential Items to Pack
- Small sunblock
- Small umbrella (one that will fit in your suitcase)
- Raincoat
- Hand sanitizer (about 50 or 100 ml)
- Anti-bacterial wipes – useful at all times
- Sun hat
- Comfortable Walking Shoes
- Small torch




