Cambodia

For many travellers the allure of an unspoilt and little-explored country is irresistible. Emerging from a violent past of human rights atrocities, war and political instability, Cambodia is recovering from its past and slowly becoming a top destination on the South East Asian travel map. The magnificent temples of the 'Lost City' of Angkor are an irresistible attraction that, despite the dangers of unexploded landmines and the threat of rural banditry, is a must-see for any determined traveller.

Modern day Cambodia is the successor kingdom of the powerful Khmer Empire which ruled most of what is today Vietnam, Laos and Thailand from the 9th to 14th centuries. Although the country does not have the same volume of attractions as some of its neighbours, the Cambodian people are incredibly friendly, providing a welcoming embrace for travellers.

This fact in itself is amazing given the suffering that Cambodians had to endure during the three-and-a-half year reign of Pol Pot, which resulted in the deaths of an estimated two million people. The Khmer Rouge period under Pol Pot's leadership, altered the face of the country. Overnight cities were emptied and property destroyed, the economy was left in shatters and so were the lives of countless families. This period between 1975 and 1979 represents a particularly dark one in the nation's history.

Travellers to Cambodia can now enjoy many wonderful aspects of this country. Pleasurable moments can be had in the snatches of friendly conversations, in the tranquillity ushered in by Buddhist prayer or in the sounds of workers in the rice paddies. One can also search for the charms of the French-era capital city Phnom Penh, visit the tragic horrors of the Killing Fields or drift past sleepy riverside locations on a boat.

The scenery is beautiful and abundant, shaped by landscapes of lush green forests and jungles, banana plantations, agricultural fields and mighty rivers. People here live modest and simple lifestyles and the populace are largely rural. It is not a place of fast and efficient transport or luxurious hotels and resort living. Infrastructure is basic (much of it having been destroyed) and travelling between destinations can be quite an experience - fun for some and frustrating for others. The country's world-class attractions and less-explored reaches, golden beaches and islands beckon the enterprising traveller, and make this unique destination the equivalent of a pearl in an unopened oyster.

Climate

Cambodia's climate can generally be described as tropical with seasonal monsoons. There are two distinct seasons, the rainy and dry. Temperatures during the rainy season, between June and October, average 81-95°F (27-35°C). The dry season is characterised by cool months, November to February, with temperatures averaging 63-81°F (17-27°C) and hot months, from March till May, which sees temperature range between 84-100°F (29-38°C).

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 US 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; travellers cheques in US dollars or sterling can be cashed at a limited number of banks and larger hotels, though travellers cheques are not recommended due to limited acceptance.

Passport Visa

All visitors must have sufficient funds to cover their stay. An e-Visa can be applied for online (single entry tourist visas) that allows for stays of up to 30 days. See www.mfaic.gov.khfor more information. Otherwise, a visa can be issued on arrival for 30 days. One passport photo is required along with US$20 for a tourist visa or US%25 for a business visa.

Entry Requirements

• US travellers must have a passport valid for four months and a holiday or business visa, which can be obtained on arrival for up to 30 days.
• UK travellers must have a passport valid for four months and a tourist or business visa, which can be obtained on arrival for one month.
• Canadians must have a passport valid for four months and a visa is required. A visa can be obtained on arrival, if travel is for touristic or business purposes for up to one month.
• Australians must have a passport valid for four months and a visa is required. A visa can be obtained on arrival, if travel is for touristic or business purposes for up to one month.
• South African nationals must have a passport valid for four months and require a holiday or business visa, which can be obtained on arrival for one month.
• Irish nationals must have a passport valid for four months and require a holiday or business visa, which can be obtained on arrival for one month.
• New Zealanders must have a passport valid for four months and require a business or tourist visa, which can be obtained on arrival for one month.

Health

Malaria and dengue fever are common in Cambodia. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for all areas and dengue fever, transmitted by mosquitoes, is prevalent especially in the heavily populated areas. Insect protection measures should be taken throughout the day. Travellers staying long-term, or for more than one month and who may engage in unprotected outdoor activities, should be vaccinated against Japanese Encephalitis. There have been outbreaks of bird flu with four deaths in Cambodia, and although the risk of contracting the disease is slight, travellers should avoid contact with domestic, wild and caged birds and ensure that all poultry and egg dishes are well cooked. Mains water is not suitable for drinking but 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 clinics in Phnom Penh. Treatment must be paid for with cash and health insurance is essential.

Embassy Consulates

• Embassy of Cambodia, Washington DC, United States: +1 206 726 7742.
• Embassy of Cambodia, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland): +44 (0)20 8451 7850
• Embassy of Cambodia, Canberra, Australia (also responsible for New Zealand): +61 (0)2 6273 1259

Foreign Embassies

• United States Embassy, Phnom Penh: +855 (0)23 728 000.
• British Embassy, Phnom Penh: +855 (0)23 427 124.
• Canadian-Australian Embassy, Phnom Penh: +855 (0)23 213 470.
• South African Embassy, Bangkok, Thailand (also responsible for Cambodia): + 66 (0)2 659 2900
• Irish Embassy, Hanoi, Vietnam (also responsible for Cambodia): +84 (0)4 974 3291.
• New Zealand Embassy, Bangkok, Thailand (also responsible for Cambodia): +66 (0)2 254 2530.