Cambodia Flights and Travel Guide

Language

Khmer is the official language. French is also spoken, but English is fast becoming popular with the younger generation.

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Money

Riel (KHR) is the official currency and is divided into 100 sen. Foreign currency is difficult to exchange with the exception of US Dollars. Most transactions require cash. US dollars and Thai Baht are accepted, although smaller transactions are usually done in riel. A torn U.S. dollar note renders it useless. Credit cards are only accepted in a limited number of tourist-orientated hotels and restaurants in Phnom Penh and larger towns. There are a few ATMs in Phnom Penh, but they shouldn't be relied upon as a source of money; travelers checks in U.S. dollars or sterling can be cashed at a limited number of banks and larger hotels, though travelers checks are not recommended due to limited acceptance.

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Communications

The international access code for Cambodia is +855. The outgoing code is 001 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 00111 for the US). Phnom Penh's area code is (0)23; the code for Siem Reap is (0)63. Domestic and international calls can be made at post offices or telecom offices in most towns. Three mobile phone operators cover Phnom Penh and other major cities. The country uses GSM networks, so US phones are not compatible. Cell phones can be rented at Pochentong International Airport on arrival. Internet phones are available in Siem Reap and provide a cheaper alternative for international calls. Internet cafes provide a fast and inexpensive service in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and other main towns.

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Tipping

Tips are not expected, but are welcomed in restaurants and hotels. Hotels often add a 10 percent service charge to the bill, but small amounts for personal services are appreciated as salaries in the country are low. Tour guides should be tipped.

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Safety

There is some risk from terrorism due to continuing terrorist activity in South East Asia, and travelers are advised to be vigilant in public places and areas frequented by foreigners. Cambodia remains one of the most heavily land-mined countries in the world. Visitors should travel with a local guide and never stray off the main paths. It is not advisable to travel anywhere at night.

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Health

There are a number of health risks associated with travel to Cambodia and travelers are advised to seek the latest medical advice on vaccinations and precautions especially regarding typhoid, cholera, malaria, hepatitis B and polio, at least three weeks before traveling. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for allareas except Phnom Penh, around Lake Tonle Sap and the Angkor temple complex. Dengue fever, transmitted by mosquitoes, is prevalent especially in heavily populated areas. There have been outbreaks of bird flu with four deaths in Cambodia, and although the risk of contracting the disease is slight, travelers should avoid contact with domestic, wild and caged birds and ensure thatall poultry and egg dishes are well cooked. Diarrhea is the number one ailment afflicting travelers. Visitors should assume that the water is not safe to drink; bottled water is widely available. Avoid uncooked meat, unpeeled fruit, salads and food sold by street vendors, and don't drink beverages with ice. Medical facilities are poor, except for a few expensive private hospitals in Phnom Penh.Treatment must be paid for with cash and health insurance is essential.

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Electricity

220 volts, 50Hz. Travelers should be aware that power cuts are frequent and, outside the capital, electricity is generally only available in the evenings.

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