A country plagued by invasions, wars, and heavy and oppressed governments, Cambodia is slowly beginning to develop a safe road infrastructure. Emerging from a varied history, including the 1970s genocide perpetrated by Khmer Rouge dictator Pol Pot, the friendly but poor people of Cambodia began to cautiously share their country with Western foreigners. The major tourist attraction is Angkor Wat, a temple known internationally for its archaeological value. Angkor Wat is located a few miles from the city of Reap Siem in the northern quarter of the country.
Although it remains one of the poorest countries in Southeast Asia, after Vietnam and Thailand, Cambodia now offers a safe trip to Siem Reap and the Angkor Wat complex. Of course, Americans and other Western tourists should beware. The following are some recommendations for safe travel to Angkor Wat and Siem Reap, Cambodia.
Visas and Documents for safe travel
In addition to a valid passport, American travelers need a visa to enter Cambodia. But it is a great formality, and it is not necessary that it should be ordered by premisses. A visa can be obtained upon entry to either international airport (either in the capital Phnom Penh or in Siem Reap) for a fee paying about $25 in US dollars. It is a passport size photo. If you are planning a long and uncomfortable ride from Bangkok, Thailand to Angkor Wat and the Siem Reap area, consult the Cambodian Embassy in advance for details on purchasing a visa at the Thai border.
Unlike some countries in nearby Central Asia, Cambodia does not recklessly bribe American travelers with paperwork and most officials (at least at the airport). The local police are also generally tolerant of tourists, and at worst, will gruffly ask to see your visa and passport.
Earth mines in Cambodia
Siem Reap is one of the provinces still affected by land mines laid down in previous generations. Recognizing the effect of this terror on tourism, the government has decided to close the city of Siem Reap, the road to Angkor Wat, and the temple zone. Still, safe travel guidelines advise tourists to stick to heavily traveled zones and not deviate from the more commercial pedestrian streets or villages. It is difficult to predict where the land mines are still located, although village areas, bridges, and streams are still suspected.
Robbery and Theft
Robbery is more of a business in Phnom Penh than in Siem Reap. While many Siem Reap residents smuggle weapons from war stocks (or even hand-crafted weapons), the problem in the Angkor Wat area is not so much armed robbery as petty theft. Pickpocketing is rampant in Siem Reap due to the region’s “rich flower shop” reputation. Even innocent children can be seen in groups to snatch purses and steal purses.
In addition, the US State Department continues to warn American citizens about bike bag theft. Thieves are slowly targeting purses and wallets, using either a regular bike or a motorized vehicle to make a hasty escape. . Tourists are advised to carry money in person in multiple-personality-disorder and to wear flashy coins, jewelry , to avoid, etc.
Repay pro-picture Scam
More cunningly, some urchins in Siem Reap will offer to pose for photographs with tourists, often using their basic English skills to do the job. While it may seem quaint, this can result in two problems for travelers to be safe in Cambodia. First, if the people seize the camera itself, they sometimes threaten to destroy it or run away unless they receive a payment. Another more straightforward scam occurs when some Cambodians insist on getting paid for their image, even though it was their idea in the first place. These missions are rarely accomplished by force, but the hassle is enough.
Additional Precautions for Women
Women should especially avoid walking alone at night, although they are not exactly recommended for men. Although Americans know that this action is not an invitation to sexual advances, Cambodia has very different social attitudes towards women. Many young Cambodian men especially see western women walking as targets.
Other Tips for Safe Travel to Angkor Wat and Siem Reap
– Avoid drinking water that does not come from a bottle.
– Escape the open-air public transit (buggy-like vehicles are sometimes called “bicycles”).
– Purchase travel insurance in advance and make sure it covers you in Cambodia.
Last Note
Despite the discussions about thefts mentioned above, most Cambodians are not criminals, and many tourists even undertake them for legitimate economic reasons. There are many new veggie markets and craft market stalls, for example. It is often difficult to distinguish the difference between hospitality and deception. Travelers to the Siem Reap and Angkor Wat areas proceed with caution, but that doesn’t mean everyone avoids interactions with locals.
