April 2nd, 2010 | 
Author: Cambodia Travel Guide
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Cambodia is rich in history culture and amazing tourism resources. Cambodia also provides visitors with a variety of once undiscovered cultural and historical attractions throughout the Kingdom and the dual theme guiding Cambodia tourism is Culture and Nature. But there are lot of things you should know before discover this beautiful countryhellip;
Passport and Visas:
Cambodia has very liberal visa regulations. It is meant to say a valid passport and visa are required for entry. Visas can be obtained at Phnom Penh International Airport or Siem Reap Angkor Airport. All travelers have to do is bring along two passport size photos and fill up visa application. A onemonth tourist visa costs US20 while a business visa costs US25.00. Visa application form will be provided on inbound flights. Visas are also available at Thai/Cambodian overland border crossing.
Currency:
Riel is the Cambodias currency. To check for the todays exchange rate please refer to our GoCambodias frontpage located top right page. However the US dollar is widely accepted.
Transportation:
middot; To and From Cambodia: Most tourists are flying into the International Airports at either Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. Recently a growing numbers of visitors are also arriving overland from Cambodia and Thailand.
middot; On arrival Motorcycle taxis Motodub and taxis can be rented just outside the arrival lobby. From Phnom Penh International airport to anywhere in Phnom Penh will cost you 7.00 while Motordub is charging 1.00 to 2.00. The distance is about 8 kilometers to town.
Hotel:
Room rate is starting from 3 to 200 per night. Whether you prefer to stay at Guest Houses with no aircon but fan a motel style will cost you from 10 to 45 or you may stay at one of the 5 stars hotel e.g. Cambodiana Le Royal or InterContinental. The cost of 10 and up will equip with air conditioner refrigerator and a cable TV.
Tipping and Bargaining:
Tipping is not expected in Cambodia but if you meet with exceptional services or kindness a tip is always appreciated. Salaries remain extremely low in Cambodia. Bargaining is the rule in the markets when you are hiring vehicles or buying things. A persuasive smile and a little friendly personality is usually enough to get a good price.
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The tourist behavior code is written with the intention to minimize any that may arise between tourists and residents due to differences in language and customs. It is also to reinforce and even renew a sense of pride in the local people their culture and provide an opportunity for tourists to learn appreciate and respect the Khmer culture. It aims to inform tourists about the local society its customs dress code and acceptable behavior in religious and other places.
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Swakum ! Welcome !
Welcome to the Kingdom of Cambodia. It makes no difference whether you are here on business or pleasure. You are in for a treat. You will catch a glimpse of the Khmer people their history culture and nature through the pristine beaches natural landscapes quaint villages exotic traditional dances the world famous Angkor complex and archaeological treasures.
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Proper Greetings
Cambodians traditionally greet each other by joining their hands together in front of their chest and bowing often Chum Reap Suor followed by the western practice of shaking hands.Although men tend to shake ands with each other women usually use the traditional greeting with both men and other women. It is considered acceptable for foreigners to shake hands with Cambodians of both sexes. When you are invited to a gathering it is polite to make an effort to properly greet the
people you meet on your arrival.
middot; You should respond to greetings from others. It is considered disrespectful not to return greetings by other people.
middot; When you enter pagodas wats sit with your feet to the side rather than in lotus position then you join both hands together under chin and bow three times to the floor. Always be seated when the monks are seated.
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Photography
There are many photographic shops in Cambodia offering international standard services. Be sure to take plenty of photographs so you can take back good memories of the Kingdom. Photographers are free to shoot almost everything. However a few principles should be observed.
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middot; If photographing local people always ask their permission first. Most of them will be happy to pose for you.
middot; Taking photographs of military bases and other designated security areas is prohibited.
middot; Ask permission before taking photos inside pagodas royal palaces other sacred places or special events.
Visiting Pagodas Wats and other religious and traditional places
The official religion of Cambodia is Theravada Buddhism which is also practiced in neighboring countries like Laos Thailand Myanmar and Sri Lanka. The sight of a saffronrobed monk is common throughout the Kingdom and almost every village had a pagoda wat.
middot; Visitors should dress neatly in all religious places. They should never go shirtless in shorts hot pants or other unsuitable attire.
middot; Shoes sandals and a hat should be removed when entering a mosque or a pagoda wat where Buddhist images are kept. Each Buddha image large or small well kept or in ruins is regarded sacred.
middot; Never climb onto a Buddha or photograph a Buddha inside a temple without asking permission. Always be respectful when viewing a Buddha image.
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Tipping
There is no regulation on tipping in Cambodia. However tipping is greatly appreciated as salaries are low. The value of the tip is optional depending on individual generosity. It should commensurate with the level of service rendered.
A small present instead of a tip is greatly appreciated.
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Shopping
Bargaining is a way of life in Cambodia and many shops will offer discounts after negotiation. Cambodia is noted for its handicrafts handmade articles such as silk materials wood carvings stone copies of Khmer art silver items and jeweler are worth buying. It is illegal to export any antique art objects.
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Personal Behavior
Polite behavior is welcome everywhere. What is considered polite in other countries is probably considered polite in Cambodia too. However there are few customs social and religious taboos.
middot; Cambodians admire a calm and considered approach to all aspects of life. Open show of temper and anger should be avoided.
middot; It is considered a grave insult to touch another person’s head even if is meant as a friendly gesture.
middot; Use the right hand to accept things or shake hands.
middot; It is considered rude to point your foot at a person or object.
middot; Keep an open mind and do not demand much from your host. Loud voices and boisterous behavior are considered impolite. Smiling and nodding establishes good intent.
middot; Public displays of affection between men and women are frowned upon.
If you like someone to come over to you motion with your whole hand palm down. Do not signal with your finger.
middot; When picking your teeth with a toothpick after a meal it is considered polite to hold the toothpick with one hand and to cover your open mouth with the other.
middot; In private homes it is polite to remove your shoes when entering the house.
middot; Be appreciative of people who appreciate
middot; By observing the behavior code you can thoroughly enjoy your stay in Cambodia and take home pleasant memories.
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For more tips about traveling in Cambodia please visit : http://www.activetravelcambodia.com
You will find what you need for an adventure journey to Cambodia.
And remember that : The more you go the more you get.
About the writer:nbsp;nbsp;I love Cambodia .Exploring this fantastic destination is a great adventure in my life.
I want to share all my experiences to make you feel this beautiful country. Hope that you will love Cambodia as much as I love it.
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