Angkor Wat temple reflected in a pond, Cambodia
South East Asia

Cambodia

A beautiful country of ancient temples, welcoming culture, and affordable living β€” with growing digital nomad communities from Phnom Penh to the coast.

πŸ—ΊοΈ Getting Around

The essential apps and websites every traveller needs before hitting the road

πŸ’‘ Pro tip: PassApp requires a Cambodian number to register β€” tourists can use Grab instead since it accepts international cards and works straight out of the box.

πŸ“Ά Best Local SIMs
1
Smart Largest 4G network β€” best all-round coverage nationwide
Top pick
2
Metfone Strong in rural areas β€” most affordable plans

πŸ“ Where to buy: Both SIMs are sold at Phnom Penh & Siem Reap airports. No passport required.

Airport tips

Phnom Penh (PNH)
The main international gateway to Cambodia. Conveniently located near the city center with various transport options, including tuk-tuks and taxis. It's usually the best entry point for long-term stays.

Siem Reap (SAI)
The new international airport, perfect for visiting the Angkor temples. It has modern facilities but is located slightly further from the city center, so plan your transport ahead.

Sihanoukville (KOS)
Best for accessing coastal areas and islands like Koh Rong, though with fewer international connections compared to PNH or SAI.
Aerial view of Phnom Penh's Royal Palace and riverfront
South East Asia

Phnom Penh

  • πŸŽ’ Backpackers β€” Riverside (Sisowath Quay). A lively area with affordable hostels, bars, and beautiful views of the Tonle Sap River. Great for meeting other travelers.
  • ⏱️ Best for a Few Days β€” BKK1 (Boeung Keng Kang 1). Phnom Penh's most walkable and comfortable neighborhood. Stay here to be within easy reach of the Russian Market for souvenirs and street food, the National Museum, and the Royal Palace. The tree-lined streets and excellent restaurant scene make it a pleasant base for 2-3 days of city exploration without feeling overwhelmed.
  • πŸ‘” Business & Upscale β€” Daun Penh. Historic and administrative center. Close to the Royal Palace, upscale hotels, and refined dining options.
  • 🍜 Restaurants β€” Russian Market (Toul Tom Poung). A vibrant neighborhood full of street food stalls, trendy cafes, and diverse culinary options at reasonable prices.
  • 🌳 Family Friendly β€” Koh Pich (Diamond Island). A newer, quieter development area with spacious parks, family entertainment, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
  • πŸŽ‰ Nightlife β€” Bassac Lane. A narrow alley packed with boutique bars, craft cocktails, and a great vibe for socializing.
Angkor Wat silhouetted at sunrise near Siem Reap
South East Asia

Siem Reap

  • πŸŽ’ Backpackers & Party β€” Pub Street Area. The vibrant center of nightlife and budget accommodation. Extremely lively, especially after a day of temple hopping.
  • ⏱️ Best for a Few Days β€” Wat Bo Area. The quieter, more charming side of Siem Reap, just a short walk from Pub Street but without the noise. Boutique hotels, local restaurants, and tree-shaded streets make it the best base for temple days. You'll be at Angkor Wat for sunrise, back for a nap by noon, and exploring the local market by late afternoon β€” exactly the right pace for 2-3 days.
  • πŸ‘” Hotels & Luxury β€” Charles de Gaulle Blvd. The main road leading to Angkor Wat, lined with luxury resorts and large hotels.
  • 🍜 Restaurants β€” Old Market (Phsar Chas). Great for browsing local products, trying authentic Khmer street food, and experiencing the bustling market life.
  • 🌳 Family Friendly β€” French Quarter. Peaceful, tree-lined streets with colonial architecture, nice cafes, and a more relaxed walking environment.
  • πŸŽ‰ Nightlife β€” Sok San Road. An alternative to Pub Street, offering cheaper drinks, laid-back bars, and a more relaxed backpacker scene.

Others

Kampot

🚌 Getting there: Minibus from Phnom Penh (~3 hr) or from Sihanoukville (~1.5 hr) πŸ“… Best time: Nov – Apr β€” dry season; pepper harvest at its peak Nov–Mar

A charming riverside town famous for its pepper plantations and relaxed vibe. Perfect for exploring the countryside, kayaking on the river, or visiting nearby Bokor Mountain.


Koh Rong

⛴️ Getting there: Ferry from Sihanoukville pier β€” ~45 min to Koh Rong, ~30 min to Koh Rong Samloem πŸ“… Best time: Nov – May β€” dry and calm; Jun–Oct ferries are often cancelled in rough weather

A tropical island paradise with stunning white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Ideal for both party-goers and those seeking quiet, secluded bays to relax.


Battambang

🚌 Getting there: Bus from Phnom Penh (~5 hr) or from Siem Reap (~3 hr) πŸ“… Best time: Nov – Feb β€” cooler and dry, perfect for cycling the rice fields

Cambodia's second-largest city, known for its well-preserved French colonial architecture, thriving arts scene, and the famous Bamboo Train.


Kep

🚌 Getting there: Shared taxi or minibus from Phnom Penh (~3 hr) or Kampot (~30 min) πŸ“… Best time: Nov – Apr β€” peak crab season, calm and dry weather

A quiet coastal town known for its fresh seafood, particularly the famous Kep crab. Great for a romantic getaway or a peaceful weekend retreat.