Cambodia – Ancient Temples, Vibrant Culture, Tropical Splendor...
Discover Cambodia, a land steeped in ancient wonders, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From the majestic Angkor Wat temples to bustling cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, Cambodia offers a rich tapestry of history and modernity. Dive into the serene beauty of the Mekong River, explore the vibrant markets, or unwind on the pristine beaches along the Gulf of Thailand. Cambodia beckons with its unique blend of ancient temples, lush jungles, and warm hospitality.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
**Requirements due to COVID-19 are constantly changing. Please check your own country's international travel advice as well as the airline requirements before travel.**
UK guests please see the UK Government Foreign Office Travel website for latest entry and exit advice; https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/cambodia/entry-requirements
US guests please see Travel State website; https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Cambodia.html
Visas:
Most nationalities, including British, American, and Canadian citizens, require a visa to enter Cambodia. When you arrive in Siem Reap Airport you can obtain your visa for $30 per person, or you can apply online for the e-visa before you travel by following this link - https://www.evisa.gov.kh/
Passports:
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date in Cambodia. Have at least one blank page for visa stamps and complete the "Emergency Next of Kin" section in your passport.
Note: Visa and entry requirements can change regularly. Verify the current requirements well in advance of your travel date.
HEALTH, INSURANCE, AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Travel Insurance:
It is company policy that all passengers must have valid travel insurance prior to travelling, to include but not limited to health insurance and cancellation insurance. It is vital that ALL members of the travelling party are fully insured for the dates of travel. All pre-existing medical conditions must be declared to the insurer and the correct cover must be taken in regard to the specific type of holiday you are taking.
The details of your insurance must be advised to The Big Journey Company at least 6 weeks before your departure date. Please make sure to write down important information from your insurance policy, such as the company’s 24hr emergency telephone number (including dial code from abroad) and your policy number and take these with you on tour.
General Health:
Consult a healthcare professional or travel clinic at least eight weeks before your trip for recommended vaccinations and health precautions. Practice good hygiene, use sunscreen, stay hydrated, and take precautions against insect bites.
Pack a basic travelers’ first-aid kit with essentials, including remedies for minor ailments. In Cambodia's tropical climate, stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and consider carrying a sun hat.
Passengers with Disabilities or Reduced Mobility:
The Cambodia tour is Activity Level 2 tour and will require moderate physical activity and include various forms of transport. Please check our Activity Levels description page to see if this level is suitable to you or contact us if you require further information on the activities involved in the tour.
Medical Conditions and Personal Medication:
Notify us in advance of any medical conditions requiring special attention during your trip. Carry sufficient medications, prescriptions, and your doctor's contact information.
Note: Some countries require medications to be in original containers with clear labels. Consult a pharmacist if you need replacements during travel.
Vaccinations:
Consult your doctor for up-to-date immunization advice tailored to your health needs before traveling to Cambodia.
Traveling with Medical Devices:
If traveling with medical devices like CPAP machines, inform The Big Journey Company early. Ensure you have appropriate adapters for power supply compatibility. Carry a doctor's letter and details for repairs or replacements if needed.
Notify us at least two weeks before travel if you require specific water types (e.g., distilled or ionized water). Additional charges may apply.
Special Dietary Requirements:
Inform us in advance of any dietary needs (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free). We will make every effort to accommodate your requirements based on available resources.
LUGGAGE
What to Pack and Wear:
Pack comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for the tour activities. Consider smart-casual attire for dinners, although there's no strict dress code.
Cambodia typically experiences warm and sunny weather. Prepare for occasional rain and cooler evenings with a light jacket. Essential items include insect repellent, sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and a camera with charger, spare batteries, and memory cards. Don't forget your swimsuit for beach opportunities.
Laundry:
Some hotels on the tour offer laundry services.
LANGUAGE
Khmer is the official language of Cambodia, with English widely spoken in tourist areas and by service providers.
TIME ZONE
Cambodia follows Indochina Time (ICT), which is 7 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+7).
WEATHER
Cambodia has a tropical climate with distinct wet (May to October) and dry seasons (November to April). Temperatures are generally warm to hot throughout the year.
ELECTRICITY
Cambodia uses a 230V supply voltage and Type A, C, and G plug sockets. Travelers may need adapters for electrical devices.
MONEY
Currency:
The official currency is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), although US dollars (USD) are widely accepted. Carry cash for use in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in major cities.
Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, but some places may not accept Diners Club or American Express. Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.
Note: Cambodia uses chip-and-pin credit cards, potentially incompatible with magnetic strip cards common in North America. Carry cash as a backup.
Tipping:
After feedback from previous guests, we offer a group tipping package for this tour. Look out for more information in your pre-tour emails.
FOOD
Cambodian cuisine features a variety of flavors, with dishes like Fish Amok and Khmer curry highlighting local ingredients such as rice, fish, and fresh herbs.
WATER
Tap water in urban areas is generally treated and safe to drink. In rural areas, opt for bottled or filtered water to avoid health risks.
OPENING HOURS
Shops typically operate from early morning until late evening, with some closures during midday. Larger stores may extend hours, while smaller shops may close on Sundays.
SAFETY & SECURITY
Cambodia is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. Exercise caution in crowded areas and safeguard personal belongings.
SMOKING
Most indoor public places prohibit smoking, with designated outdoor areas available.
RELIGION
Theravada Buddhism is the predominant religion in Cambodia, influencing cultural practices. Religious diversity includes small communities practicing Christianity and Islam.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Capture Cambodia's beauty responsibly, respecting local customs and privacy guidelines, especially at religious sites.
ARRIVAL IN CAMBODIA
Please note, standard hotel check-in is around 3pm, so should you arrive earlier than this, your room may not be available upon arrival. For those arriving early morning, we will do everything we can to work with the hotel to get you an earlier check-in subject to availability.
TOUR HOTEL INFORMATION
Refer to your tour documents for detailed hotel information specific to your departure.
FLYING & TRAVEL TIPS
• Keep photocopies of passport information pages; leave one copy at home and carry another separately from your passport.
• Keep essential travel documents, valuables, and personal items in your carry-on luggage.
• Check Duty-Free limits at your destination country before shopping.
• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes for long flights. Walk periodically, stay hydrated, and adjust to local time upon arrival to minimize jet lag.
If you have any other questions that we have not covered here; then please send us an e-mail to: info@thebigjourneycompany.com
Please note, the above information is provided as a guideline only. Although every effort has been made to provide complete and accurate information, The Big Journey Company makes no warranties, express or implied, or representations as to the accuracy of content on this website. The Big Journey Company assumes no liability or responsibility for any error or omissions in the information contained in the website.
Updated Oct 2024