Anna KH

Moving to Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia, is a life-changing experience filled with rich culture, buzzing streets, affordable living, and warm smiles 😊. But like any major move, there are things I wish I had known beforehand that would’ve made the transition smoother.

If you’re planning to move here — whether for work, lifestyle, or just the adventure — here are some personal insights to guide your journey!

🛬 1. Visa & Immigration Rules Change Often

While Cambodia offers generous visa options, especially for expats, the rules can change quickly.

Tips:

• Get an Ordinary (E-class) visa on arrival if you plan to stay long-term.
• Apply for a Business Visa Extension (ER, EG, or EB) from a reputable agent.
• Keep digital and printed copies of your passport and visa at all times.

👉 Find a trusted visa agent:
📍 Google Maps – Visa Agent in Phnom Penh

🏙️ 2. Neighborhoods Matter More Than You Think

Each area in Phnom Penh has its own vibe:

• BKK1 – Modern cafes, gyms, and condos. Popular with expats.
• Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market) – Affordable and artsy, with lots of food options.
• Riverside – Tourist-heavy, scenic but noisy.
• Sen Sok or Chroy Changvar – Quieter and family-friendly.

🗺️ Google Map of Phnom Penh Neighborhoods

💵 3. Dual Currency = Double Confusion

Phnom Penh uses both US dollars and Cambodian riel (KHR). It’s common to receive change in riel, even when paying in dollars.

Important:

• $1 = ~4100 riel
• Carry small USD bills and riel for tuk-tuks or street food.
• ATMs give USD but check fees! ABA and Canadia Bank are most expat-friendly.

🗺️ Google Map

🛵 4. Transport: Tuk-Tuks, Apps & Traffic 😅

Forget owning a car — most expats rely on:

• 🛺 Tuk-tuks (Use Grab or PassApp)
• 🛵 Moto-taxis (motodops)
• 🚶 Walking is possible, but sidewalks can be unpredictable.

Pro Tip:
Download Grab App and PassApp.

Book Me Bus go now 😉👇

🍛 5. Street Food is Cheap & Delicious, But… Be Cautious

Street food in Phnom Penh is part of daily life 🍜 — from grilled skewers to Num Banh Chok (Khmer noodles).

Do this:

• Eat at busy stalls (high turnover = fresh food).
• Carry charcoal pills or probiotics.
• Don’t drink tap water — bottled or filtered only!

♨️ Try:

🌐 6. Internet is Fast, But Power Cuts Happen

Phnom Penh’s Wi-Fi is surprisingly good 💻 — perfect for digital nomads. Most cafes offer fast, free Wi-Fi.

But beware:
⛔️ Power cuts during storms or construction can interrupt work.

Tip: Get a portable Wi-Fi hotspot and work from cafes like:

• Brown Coffee (BKK1)
• The Desk (Co-working)
• Factory Phnom Penh

🏥 7. Health & Insurance: Get Covered!

While basic healthcare is affordable, serious conditions should be treated in Bangkok or Singapore. Always get health insurance that covers evacuation.

Recommended Clinics:

• Royal Phnom Penh Hospital
• International SOS
• Khema Clinic (BKK1)

🗺️ Google Map

📅 8. Festivals & Holidays Are Big — Plan Ahead!

Cambodian festivals are colorful, loud, and city-wide 🇰🇭🎉. During Khmer New Year or Pchum Ben, the city empties out — banks, offices, and even restaurants close.

Mark These Dates:

• Khmer New Year – April
• Water Festival – November
• Pchum Ben – September/October

🧠 9. Learning Basic Khmer Goes a Long Way

English is widely spoken in touristy areas, but basic Khmer phrases help you connect with locals and avoid scams.

Start with:

• Hello – Sous-dey (សួស្តី)
• Thank you – Aw kohn (អរគុណ)
• How much? – Thlay pohn maan? (ថ្លៃប៉ុន្មាន?)

📱 Try: Simply Learn Khmer or Mondly Khmer App

❤️ 10. The People Will Steal Your Heart

Cambodians are among the friendliest, most welcoming people you’ll meet. Smile back, be respectful, and you’ll build deep local friendships.

Final Thoughts ✨

Moving to Phnom Penh is more than a relocation — it’s an adventure of flavor, culture, and warmth. While I had my fair share of surprises, I’ve grown to love this chaotic, beautiful city.

Take it slow, be open, and soak it all in. Welcome to your new home 🇰🇭❤️!

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