Travel tips for Cambodia - what to prepare in advance and what to obey

1. Cambodia cannot be called an absolutely safe place. There is an extremely controversial and unstable situation in the country. Echoes of the past military operations can still be noticed. Many Cambodians have weapons, and some guerrilla groups are still hiding in the forests. Mines left over from wartime are often found in Cambodia. To avoid contact with a mine, you should be careful when going to remote locations.

2. The most dangerous and unstable time in the country is the periods of all kinds of festivals and celebrations when crimes and accidents become more frequent. Bandits seeking for easy money go out into the city streets. Pickpockets work in crowded places. It is recommended to keep a close eye on the wallet and other personal belongings.

3. If possible, keep valuable things with you, not at the hotel. Documents, money, and jewelry should be in a safe place. Do not demonstrate the presence of large amounts of money in your wallet in crowded places.

4. Using the public transport or taxi services, keep an eye on the baggage so that it cannot suddenly disappear during the trip.

5. The manner of communication of some local law enforcement officers may shock unprepared tourists. Despite this, most policemen are always polite and ready to help confused or violated tourists.

6. A contact with the military police may become a serious problem. Its representatives have black and white armbands. If you don't want to get into a sticky situation, it is recommended that you always have your passport and other necessary documents on hand.

7. In Cambodia, it is forbidden to take pictures at the airport, as well as photos of local military facilities. An additional fee may be required to obtain permission for taking a photo of a temple or monks. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

8. Going to the street market, it is important to remember that most of them open at sunrise and close at sunset. At three o'clock in the afternoon, market workers leave for lunch.

9. Exchanging funds for the local currency is not necessary in the country. Prices are quoted in dollars virtually everywhere.

10. Residents of Cambodia are not used to giving tips in cafes and restaurants. However, when leaving the hotel, you can thank the stuff by leaving some extra money.

11. It is prohibited to import narcotic substances, alcoholic beverages and other things that could harm local residents. Money can be imported in the amount not exceeding $ 10,000.

12. It is not easy to rent a car in Cambodia, but you can always use the services of local taxi drivers.

13. When visiting the temple, the dress code must be observed. Clothes must be modest, so try to give up tank tops, shorts or short skirts, as well as open flip-flops.

14. Residents of Cambodia respect the rights of animals and take care of them in every possible way. It is not recommended to harm even small insects - Khmer people believe they can hide the souls of deceased ancestors.

15. Any water should be boiled before drinking - that's how you can protect yourself from intestinal infections and stomach upsets.