“Give money officially to Cambodia & it promptly disappears into the coffers of those who need it the least; put it into the hands of the child in a T-shirt with a skull on it, and at least it goes to someone who seems to need it.”
Pico Iyer
Cambodia’s heart-breaking history with the Khmer Rouge is still a fresh wound. A country left with fewer than 300 educated individuals forced to rebuild after the eradication of nearly 1/3 of the population in the 1970s. Today, Cambodia’s temples, like the world-renowned Angkor Wat, & the lovely Southern islands draw travelers in. & whether you walk away loving or despising Cambodia, you’ll gain a newfound respect for the struggles they have endured.
Cambodia Travel Guide
Recommended Cities: Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Kampot, Battambang, Tonle Sap, Koh Rong Samloem, & Kep
One Bucketlist Item You Cannot Miss: Angkor Wat. It costs $35 for a one-day pass (not including the driver) to see the temples but it’s worth it.
Things to Consider Before You Go: Unlike most countries in Asia you NEED a license to drive a motorbike here. Police in Cambodia are known for corruption & will extort you for money if stopped without one.
Recommended Minimum Trip Length: 2-3 weeks.
Expected Backpacker Budget
On a Shoestring: $35/day
Flashpacker: $45/day
Backpacker Luxury: $60/day
Keep in mind these are backpacker budgets. On a shoestring expect to be eating street food, sleeping in hostel beds, & skipping the more expensive tourist attractions. Backpacker Luxury opts for private rooms, eats mostly in restaurants, and splurges on activities. Flashpackers are the middle ground & often do a mixture of both.
Cambodia is perfect for travelers looking for powerful historical museums, ancient temples, & idyllic beaches.
Cambodia Blog Posts
5 Things I Wish I Had Known Before Visiting Cambodia (Essential Cambodia Tips)
(S)Cambodia: Why You Should Get a Cambodian E-Visa Instead of the Visa On Arrival
