My 30 class days in Cambodia are up so figured I’d dedicate a post to it, similar to my Thailand Thoughts.
Money
One of the most notable things about Cambodia—the dual currency system. They have local Riel (KHR) and the US Dollar (USD). Dollars are mostly used for bigger transactions, while Riel handles the smaller change. It’s about 4000 Riel to the Dollar and takes a bit of getting used to, trying to do the math in your head when you get a mix of change!
ATMs
The ATMs are surprisingly fancy, often have an entire booth for it rather than the hole in the wall. Taking out less than $100 you get Riel, otherwise it’s USD—and of course there’s a big feckin’ fee of a fiver every time you use it.
I also had the unfortunate experience of having my metal card being swallowed (got it back thankfully). But a reminder to have backup cards, and in my experience ABA machines are more reliable.
Khmer People
The warmth and friendliness of the Cambodian people are remarkable, especially considering the hardships the country has endured. Their resilience is a testament to their spirit.
Learning about the Khmer Rouge era was humbling—a generation of intellectuals was wiped out, leaving lasting effects that are still felt today. I even heard anecdotes about certain professions, like doctors, where some may have paid for their qualifications rather than earning them on merit. With an entire generation lost, there wasn’t always proper mentorship or training to pass down knowledge.
Food
Absolutely loved the food here. The Khmer cuisine doesn’t get the same hype as Thai, but it should. Amok curry, Lok Lak, and the street food were all unreal.
It was great being part of the Nomad crew as I’m not much of a foodie so was introduced to a variety of different dishes.
Food Poisoning
Bound to happen sooner or later 😅
Getting Around
One of my first impressions upon landing in Siem Reap is how persistent the tuk-tuk drivers are. I never bothered going with any of the lads on the side of the road, much more convenient and secure with Grab.
Fitness
Some okay routes in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh but mostly on roads with busy streets which made it more difficult. I didn’t notice the same park culture as Thailand. It was also very hot while I was there which added to the challenge.
My last days in Siem Reap the air quality got quite bad which makes it difficult as well. This is due to the yearly burning season.
Heat
Similar story to Thailand—hot and humid. Saw north of 35° for the first time in my life. Air con is a must if you want any proper rest (fans just don’t cut it), and exploring the temples of Angkor Wat in that heat was a sweaty affair, to say the least. Early starts are key.
Temples
Not as many Wats around as Thailand, but it is home to the wonderful Angkor Wat.
Summary
Other than Angkor Wat I really didn’t know what to expect from Cambodia, but it ended up being a great experience.
Had an amazing time in Cambodia. The Nomad in Wonderland retreat in Siem Reap was absolutely class, as was meeting up with friends in Phnom Penh.
It’s a bit rougher around the edges than Thailand, and Thailand is definitely an easier country to start off in—ease yourself into the culture shock. I can see myself returning to check out Komput and Koh Rong in the south—supposedly beautiful places I hadn’t heard of before and didn’t have time to fit in, this time!
DavAI SummAIriser
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