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Exo Travel Guides www.exotissimo.com Introducing Cambodia

Thank you for choosing Exotissimo Travel Cambodia to of Angkor, and then leave the country. This is a real skies are clear. However, the dust at this time of year organize your travel arrangements in the kingdom of shame as the rest of the country is filled with fantastic can be irritating and the crowds at the Angkor temples Cambodia. This document will give you some more in- natural beauty and historic temples. So, depending on are at their highest numbers. March to May sees hot- formation about the country, the different destinations how long you have and where your interests like, the ter temperatures and dry skies, and the heat continues within Cambodia, useful facts for travelers, and a list- guide below can help you plan your trip. in to June through August when the monsoon season ing of the Exotissimo preferred hotels. starts. The rains, however, do not usually cause a ma- To truly experience Cambodia, you need to spend a jor problem for travelers as they tend to be short- but In Cambodia, Exotissimo has been very successful at of- few weeks traveling around. Natural attractions range hard- afternoon showers. fering tours which show a little bit more of the country from the northeastern jungles, to the lovely beaches then just the mass tourism places. We opened our first of Sihanoukville, and the mighty rivers that cut across The Cambodian water festival in October is a lively af- office in in 2000 and have since added an the country. Our staff and guides are enthusiastic about fair with 3 days of dragon boat racing taking place in office in Siem Reap. We believe it is very important to their country of residence and are more than happy to Siem Reap and Phnom Penh and Buddhist New Year in show you the unknown treasure of the real Cambodia. help you plan a journey perfectly suited to your needs. April as well as Pchum Ben Festival in September see Of course we will take you to see the highlights, as no Whether you seek luxury travel, an adventurous jour- families gathering at temples to celebrate. Although visitor should miss Angkor Wat, but we are also pleased ney, or a classic tour of Cambodia’s main sites Exotis- all of these are spectacular events, several restaurants to show you lesser known sites - something which is simo knows the best program for your holiday. and shops are closed meaning slight disruptions may often promised but not always delivered. occur in your travel plans. When to go in Cambodia? Where to go in Cambodia? The winter months (October to February) are the best Most visitors fly in to Siem Reap, visit the Temples time to travel to Cambodia as the air is cool and the luxury property: Tucked away from the tourist hubbub art work and traditional textiles. The hotel also has a excursion, buzzing around the temples in a helicopter Siem Reap of Siem Reap, the unique boutique hotel is part of the strong commitment to community development and its is an unparalleled experience. Relais et Chateaux network and offers 26 individually responsible travel outings are a great way to give back Most visitors to Siem Reap are there to visit the decorated rooms and suites in a unique architectural to the community. Any itinerary should include Angkor Wat, the magnifi- famed Temples of Angkor and who can blame style, and the combination with natural products and cent legendary temple. Bayon is another favorite with them? These spectacular ruins from the 9-14th elements provide for an artsy yet very comfortable at- its mysterious faces smiling down on visitors, while centuries are an adventurer’s dream. Located just What to see in Siem Reap? 7km from the entrance gate, Siem Reap has be- mosphere. the jungle covered Ta Phrom is an evocative blend of come a popular stop on the tourist trail of Asia. Of course, no visit to Siem Reap would be complete nature and architecture. Other temples in the vicinity Once a sleepy town full of farms and small shops, Mid Range without a visit to the Temples of Angkor. Over 100 tem- worth seeing are Phnom Bakeng, Pre Rup, Baphoun, the increase in tourists over the past 15 years has ples lie within the Siem Reap province dating from the and Preah Khan. brought an international feel to the town. Mod- ern hotels, internet cafes, and international res- An Exotissimo favorite, the Tara Angkor is a chic modern 9th-14th century. Passes are sold for 1 day, 3 days or 1 taurants are a welcome treat after a day spent hotel with quality rooms, welcoming staff, and a great week and whilst you could spend a lifetime exploring, If you have more time, trips further afield lead to less exploring the temples in the Cambodian heat. Yet, location near the Temples of Angkor. Equally recom- we recommend at least 2 full days for temple explora- crowded temples and spectacular photo opportunities. Siem Reap retains its small town charm and visi- mendable, Borei Angkor Resort & Spa comes in a classic tion. This will allow you to see all of the main temples, Just 12 km from Siem Reap are the Rolous Group of tors who take the time to explore the town and its surroundings are rewarded with a deeper insight Cambodian style of true elegance and comfort. plus a few outlying ruins without racing around. temples, some of the earliest ruins in the region. The in to Cambodian culture and lifestyle. petite Banteay Srey features intricate carvings in pink Splurge There are several options for getting around the tem- sandstone and nearby Banteay Samre is a hidden gem Although a three night stay is the perfect amount Where to stay in Siem Reap? Boutique ples. Car, bus, and van remain the vehicles of choice, tucked away in the jungle. of time for exploring the temples, however we strongly recommend a longer stay to truly experi- For those seeking the ultimate in luxury, there is no but we recommend taking a day to cycle through the ence Siem Reap and its many wonders. Whatever your budget and whatever your accommo- A hidden gem in Siem Reap is Viroth’s, a small hotel doubt that Amansara is the place to stay. Housed in temples. Traveling by two wheels gives you a unique Beng Melea sprawls across one square kilometer and dation needs, Siem Reap has something to suit your with just seven rooms tucked on a quiet side street the grounds of a former royal palace and featuring top perspective and an eco-friendly way to see the temples. remains covered in trees, roots, and vines. Constructed Activities around Angkor & Siem Reap tastes. With over hundreds of hotels and guesthouses near the heart of the city. Trendy, relaxing, and inti- of the line service and facilities, the Amansara is re- Elephant Rides are available and you’ll feel as if you’ve in a similar style to Angkor Wat yet overrun by nature, There is more to Angkor than Temples! Jump on a bicycle and pedal among Angkor’s fabled temples, to choose from, selecting accommodation can seem mate, Viroth’s made the Conde Nast Hot List in 2008. defining the face of luxury in Cambodia. La Residence stepped back in time to the days of the Angkorian Beng Melea is a truly adventurous place to visit. Koh ramble through Siem Reap’s untouched suburban like a daunting task. However, our team in Siem Reap is The new and intimate Villa Kiara is tucked away in a D’Angkor is an ideal base for exploring the temples, kings as you meander through the woods and temples. Ker, situated to the northeast of Siem Reap, is the rem- pockets on an ox-cart, watch rural landscapes constantly researching and visiting hotels, both old and typical Cambodian village setting and boasts with its with leafy green gardens, warm hospitality and luxuri- A tethered hellium balloon is available near Angkor Wat nants of the Khmer capital in the late 9th century and whiz by on a horse riding adventure around Siem new, to stay up to date on the best options in town and tranquil, beautiful garden with pool. The 16 rooms ous rooms. Likewise, the Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa is which gives distant, but sweeping views of the temples features a circular loop of about a dozen ruins. Reap. to find the perfect hotel for you. Below is a selection come in a minimalist, trendy style where local materi- graceful colonial building offering a refined atmosphere and their surroundings. But the most exciting experi- of our recommended hotels for each category which we als add comfort and a twist - a haven of relaxation! in the heart of Siem Reap. A bit trendier, the Hotel de la ence available is a helicopter flight around the area. Need a break from temple touring? Siem Reap has sev- hope will make your decision easier. The classy Heritage Suites Hotel is a somewhat different Paix features stunning Art Deco rooms accented by local Ranging in length from 8 minutes to chartered half day eral other activities and opportunities for travelers. A boat trip on the Tonle Sap Lake should also not be Shopping and Dining overlooked. Each year during the rainy season, the lake swells to five times larger and the plethora of fish Artisan’s D’Angkor is a unique organization working to provide the livelihood for the lake’s residents. An Exo- preserve traditional Khmer arts and crafts. They have tissimo favorite is the Paneman Boat, a large wooden established two centers in Siem Reap. The location cruising boat run by an eco-tourism company which in town features a wood and stone carving workshop provides an elegant ride along the water. A boat trip where magnificent sculptures are produced, while the departing from Kampong Phluck takes you through the silk centre is a bit further afield. At the Angkor Silk floating villages and ancient mangrove forests of the Farm, you can see the entire process of silk creation: lake, a great way to see the unique lifestyle of the from the breeding of the silk worms, to the dyeing and lake’s residents. weaving of the material.

Horse-back riding to the rarely visited temple of Wat Siem Reap’s small downtown turns in to a hive of ac- Athvea or quad riding through the local villages and the tivity as the sun begins to set. The small ‘Old Market’ rice fields are unique activities that ensure you can feel closes down and tourists flood in to town to enjoy cock- the real Cambodia. tails on ‘Pub Street’ and dinner in one of the many natural products and traditional techniques. Cambodia - if not the world - than a candle lit dinner at restaurants. Vendors have capitalized on this area’s Sra Srang. Catered by the Amansara chefs, your meal is Enjoying a full or half day cooking class and learning popularity by establishing a night market at the south Siem Reap is a diner’s paradise with a vast array of enhanced by the tranquil surroundings of this ancient how to prepare the delicious Khmer cuisine by yourself end of Pub Street. Cambodian crafts such as artwork, cuisines on offer. Seemingly every week a new restau- baray. A romantic candle lit meal, delicious food, ex- is an opportunity not be missed. A trip to the market is silks, carvings, and t-shirts are for sale in an open air rant emerges from fine French menus to local crocodile quisite wine, and a tranquil setting - what more could the usual way to start the course, where the cook will market off a tranquil side street making it the perfect barbeques! Madame Butterfly is a ‘can’t miss’ in Siem you ask for? explain everything about the typical ingredients, before place to pick up souvenirs. Reap. The food is authentic, delicious Thai and Khmer you go on to prepare an array of dishes. Of course you cuisine served in an understated, elegant restaurant - Dinner at Prasat Kravan within the grounds of one of can taste your own creations as the perfect climax of A traditional Apsara Dance performance is a great the perfect combination for a relaxing evening out in the Angkorian temples is an experienced unmatched your day. evening activity as the elegant dancers, elaborate Siem Reap. Viroth’s also features fine Khmer dining in a elsewhere in the world. Guests experience a private costumes, and live music create an enchanting atmo- nice setting while Meric at Hotel de la Paix is reinvent- Apsara dance performance and shadow puppet show sphere. Another treat is a traditional massage at our ing modern Khmer cuisine. whilst dining by candlelight in the grounds of a temple. favorite shop, bodia spa. Here you will be treated to a relaxing spa or massage treatment, using top quality For a romantic table for two, there is no better place in Phnom Penh

Although overshadowed by the popularity of Siem modern amenities, and reasonable prices. The Kabiki Reap, Cambodia’s capital is slowly seeing an increase is the perfect accommodation for families that comes in tourist numbers. Often dusty and chaotic, the city with a swimming pool in a spacious garden and plenty might not showcase the charm of Siem Reap but those of entertainment for the children. In the sometimes who scratch the surface are often surprised at what bustling capital, these hotels are peaceful retreats and they find in Phnom Penh. With a host of new dining havens of calm. options, boutique shops, and trendy cafes, the city is hotel group will be opening another 5 star property in For a look in to the country’s tragic recent history, a the art-deco Central Market, and cruise the riverfront undergoing a modern renaissance. Classy Amanjaya and the minimalist and carbon-neu- 2010 that is sure to be added to our luxe list. tour of Tuol Sleng Prison (S-21) and the Killing Fields for a glimpse of the colonial buildings and local lifestyle tral The Quay are trendy hotels located right on the is a sobering reminder of the evils of the Khmer Rouge of the people. Spending a few days in the capital city, visitors will not riverfront, in the heart of the city. This new wave of What to see in Phnom Penh? regime. Although not a joyful tour, visiting these monu- only uncover the historic side of the country but also chic boutique hotels promises to continue as tourists ments unlocks keys to understanding the development For those interested in architecture, walking tours give experience the true vibe of an emerging capital. continue to flock to Cambodia. Cambodia’s Royal Palace stands majestically in the city of this still developing country. you a different view of Phnom Penh. Follow a detailed centre just off the riverfront area. Several buildings are map or go with a guide and explore the contemporary Boutique Luxury open to visitors including the ‘Silver Pagoda’ whose An hour or two spent touring the city in a cyclo is one of and ancient buildings of the city. floor is lined with solid silver tiles. Nearby, the National Exotissimo’s favourite tours. These three wheeled rick- Phnom Penh offers an array of small boutique hotels. The Raffles Hotel Le Royal has been the luxury hotel Museum is a fabulous old building filled with art and shaws allow you to sit in comfort with the wind blow- Favorites include Villa Langka, The Pavillion and River of choice in Phnom Penh for decades, and has housed artifacts dating back to the pre-Angkorian era. ing in your face as your driver pedals you through the 108 each of which offers tastefully decorated rooms, statesmen and legends in its colonial halls. The Sofitel streets. Along the way, stop at Wat Phnom, travel past The Provinces Sihanoukville, Kep, Kampot and Koh Kong. Each of these is further east and also showcases Cambodia’s natural towns has a different allure - Sihanoukville is a coastal beauty. Although the largest province in the country, it Cambodia is a diverse country with mountains and town with nice beaches and great day trips to remote is one of the least populated and hill tribe trekking is beaches, rivers and jungles. Traveling through the rural and uninhabited tropical islands available. Nearby is the most popular activity for visitors. areas is a great way to not only experience the variety Ream National Park where mangrove forests, a diverse of natural landscapes, but also unveils the lifestyle and selection of wildlife, and tranquil nature await. Kampot genuine warmth of the Cambodian people. is a riverside town with colonial buildings and nearby Or what about an exotic overnight stay in a safari tent caves and waterfalls. Still less discovered, Kep is a fa- for that unique camping experience that no hotel room Kampong Thom is located between Siem Reap and vorite Exotissimo destination. A quiet beach, lush hills, can provide? A beach camp on a deserted tropical is- Phnom Penh and is an excellent stopover for those and delicious seafood make Kep a great place to ‘get land or by the river and an Indiana Jones style jungle traveling overland. Near this sleepy riverside town lie away from it all’ especially if you take a trip out to camp at your favorite temple or on a mountain top are the temples of Sambor Prei Kuk, a collection of 7th cen- nearby Rabbit Island. Koh Kong is the place in Cam- only the tip of our ideas for this special accommoda- tury temples. Tucked in the forest, these ancient ruins bodia with the greatest potential for Eco-Tourism. With tion. Enjoy delicious meals prepared by your private can be explored on foot or by bike traversing small dirt the wild Cardamom Mountains with its waterfalls and chef in comfortable sitting areas before you set out to paths which wind among the temples. A visit here is trekking opportunities as a backdrop, mangrove forests explore the surroundings. Experience Cambodia in a to- practising eco-tourism as it supports community devel- that are among Southeast Asia’s largest, and untouched tally unique way! Shopping and Dining opment. tropical islands on it’s shores, this is a place for nature lovers. Phnom Penh is a shoppers’ paradise with everything spending your money there, you will help alleviate sine in a beautiful colonial house. North of the Cambodian capital is the town of Kratie. from fake Louis Vitton handbags to fine silk household poverty in the country. Shops such as Smateria, Rehab This typical Khmer small town is located on the banks To the northeast, two provinces are worth exploring. items. The crowded Russian Market is the place to test Craft, and ART Café sell high quality arts and crafts and For fine dining in the capital, look no further than To- of the Mekong River and the endangered Irrawaddy Dol- Although the roads are not in the best conditions, the out your bargaining skills, while the art-deco Central the proceeds benefit local residents. paz. This long standing French Bistro is a favorite of ex- phins are frequently spotted. Kratie makes a great stop scenery is fantastic and the trip is rewarding. Rattana- Market features more local products mixed in with the pats and tourists, while the newer 102 is a formidable on the way to Stung Treng, another rural town located kiri province is located near the Vietnam and Laos bor- souvenirs. For fine home wares and clothes, the shops You can also dine for a cause in Phnom Penh as many opponent. The casual atmosphere and great food at the on the Laos border. This beautiful riverside town pro- ders and is home to a variety of Cambodia’s ethnic mi- on Street 240 are filled with luxurious goods and Street restaurants feature charity connections. Friends is per- FCC always draws a crowd, and a few doors down is the vides a relaxing atmosphere and chance to experience norities. An endless amount of trekking opportunities, 178 is filled with art galleries selling traditional and haps the area’s longest standing establishment of its Spanish-inspired Pacharan which is always packed full the local culture and participate in community-based dozens of waterfalls, and great wildlife spotting can modern pieces created by Khmer artists. type serving delectable tapas whilst supporting the of folks gathering for tapas and paella. For local cuisine, tourism projects, for example on a tour by bicycle or be done in Rattanakari. Also, the area is home to the country’s street children. The same organization has Khmer Surin and Malis top our list! horsecart around Koh Trong, an island in the Mekong. beautiful Yeak Loam Lake, a volcanic crater whose clear Several shops are affiliated with charities and by opened Romdeng which serves fresh, traditional cui- Heading south of Phnom Penh, you reach the towns of waters are perfect for swimming. Mondulkiri province Eating and drinking in Cambodia

Although Thai and Vietnamese cuisine is well known throughout the world, few know about Cambodian Cui- sine. It derives its flavor from spices and herbs which are grown locally and sweet, sour, salty, and bitter are blended seamlessly. With the abundance of freshwater fish in the country, it comes as no surprise that fish is the most common meat used in Cambodian cook- ing with a wide array of vegetables accompanying the dishes.

Adventurous A typical Cambodian meal consists of a light soup, a salad, a fish dish, and of course rice. ‘Must try’ dishes include amok, a steamed fish dish accompanied by Cambodia an array of herbs and spices bringing out the flavor of the fish without masking its taste. Another must try Cambodia is an adventurer’s paradise. Cycling and Angkor Cycling is a great tour, traveling by two wheels area. Upon reaching the Laos border there many soft is samlor korko, a mixed vegetable and fish soup and trekking opportunities abound, both in the Siem Reap from Southern Vietnam across to Siem Reap. adventure activities are available to continue your trav- char kdao, meat stir fried with basil, lemongrass and area and in all of the provinces. For a unique perspec- els along the Mekong. galangal. tive on the temples of Angkor, we highly recommend After months of dedicated research, the Mekong Dis- spending a few days exploring the area. Our Temple covery Trail is a network of safe, ecotourism journeys During the hot Cambodian summer there is no more Trek is a fantastic tour - trekking past temples and through some of the least populated areas of the Me- refreshing treat than a fresh fruit shake. Combining lo- through the countryside, camping out under the stars, kong River. The 180km trail runs from Kratie north to cal fruits with a dollop of sweetened condensed milk, and meeting locals along the way. Short cycling day the Laos border. Cycling this route is an eco-friendly these blended beverages are a traveler’s delight! Anoth- trips or multi-day trips around Siem Reap are great for way in which travelers can experience the beauty of er sweet treat is sugar cane juice which is extracted by temple exploration - the roads are flat and tree lined the region. Along the way, you can participate in a va- mashing the stalks of sugar cane. The resulting juice is and seeing the ruins hidden amongst the forest is a riety of community-based tourism activities and make then combined with a splash of lime, and is the perfect beautiful experience. For a longer journey, Saigon to a positive impact on the villages and people of the pick me up on a hot day! AIRPORT TAX ENTERTAINMENT track. Please consult with your usual doctor or a doctor many Internet cafes from which to stay in contact with usually necessary to visit a bank. Traveler’s checks An international airport tax of 25 USD per person is specialized in tropical countries before traveling. your home. In outlying regions, many hotels provide can be exchanged at banks and some hotels but can Cambodia - FAQs payable in cash in when departing Cambodia on an Western style entertainment is easy to find in Cambo- Internet access. be difficult to change outside of the major cities. Visa international flight. Departure tax is included on do- dia and Phnom Penh and Siem Reap have a wealth of HOURS OF BUSINESS Card and MasterCard are now accepted in many hotels, mestic flights. good restaurants and a large number of bars and some LANGUAGE restaurants and shops in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. AIRLINES nightclubs. In the rest of the country, entertainment Offices are usually open from Monday to Friday from However, US dollars cash are still the most reliable form CLOTHING is still emerging, but some tourist-oriented restaurants 07:30 or 08:00 until 17:00 and often close for lunch be- Cambodia’s national language is called Khmer and un- of money to carry. AIRLINES (DOMESTIC) and bars can be found in any place in Cambodia. tween 12:00 and 14:00. Shops open early and close any like the other languages of the region is not a tonal Comfortable lightweight clothing in natural fabrics such time between 18:00 and 22:00. Most shops are open 7 language. The written script originated in southern In- PHOTOGRAPHY is the only airline currently op- as cotton is most suitable for traveling in Cambodia. FOOD days a week. dia. As in other former French colonies the educated erating domestic flights in Cambodia. This airline uses The dress code is fairly casual as in most parts of the older generation often speaks very good French while Normal print films are available in Cambodia but profes- French-Italian ATR turboprop planes (Avions de Trans- tropics but it is advisable to cover arms and legs in the As in many Asian countries, the staple food of the Cam- INSURANCE the younger generation prefers English. Outside the ma- sional quality films (like slide films) are very difficult ports Régionaux), a type of plane well suited for the evenings against biting insects. A lightweight raincoat bodian diet is rice. This is usually served with dried, jor centers of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap most people to find and it is better to bring your own. In cities like local conditions, airports and distances. The configu- and umbrella are a good idea in the rainy season and salted fish, chicken, beef or pork. Fish is often fresh Medical facilities are rather limited in Cambodia and it speak only Khmer. Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, digital photos can easily ration is 70-seats (ATR 72) in rows of 4 seats with a the umbrella can also offer useful shade from the sun. from Tonle Sap Lake and is eaten with a spicy peanut is essential to take out a good medical insurance policy be downloaded and loaded onto a CD-ROM in case you middle aisle. Entry-exit is at the back of the plane. sauce called tuk trey. Popular dishes include sam chruk, before traveling. Such an insurance should absolutely MONEY run out of memory. Standard one-class configuration. Cambodia Angkor Air Shoes (and socks!) must be removed before entering a roll of sticky rice stuffed with soya bean and chopped cover the cost of an evacuation flight out of Cambodia is owned by Vietnam Airlines and Cambodia and also any religious building or private home. It is therefore pork and amok, a soup of boneless fish with coconut (most of the time to Bangkok or Singapore) which is The currency of Cambodia is called the riel. There is PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2011 operates some international flights with plans for ex- useful to wear shoes without too many laces and which and spices. In Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, Western sometimes necessary either on a regular flight or on a however no need to change your currency into riels pansion within the region. can easily be taken off. We provide small towels to food is widely available. special flight. For adventure tours such as cycling proof as is common with most Asian countries, US dollars January 1 clean your feet before putting back on your shoes. of purchase of a travel insurance policy will be required. are accepted in many places and are used to pay for New Year’s Day AIRLINES (INTERNATIONAL) HEALTH In Siem Reap the Royal Angkor International Hospital airline tickets, airport taxes, visa fees, hotel and res- The following airlines currently fly into Cambodia: Thai ELECTRICITY (affiliated with the Bangkok Hospital Medical Center) taurant bills. Please note that ripped, torn, or old bills January 7 Airways, Bangkok Airways, Air Asia, Airways, EVA No vaccinations are required except for yellow fever has been fully operational since November 2007. will not be accepted. ATM machines, which distribute Victory over Genocide Day Air, Malaysia Airlines, Silk Air, Korean Air, China South- Cambodia uses 220V, and a mixture of flat 2-pin, round if you are coming from an area where the disease is US dollars, are found throughout Siem Reap and Phnom ern, Dragon Air, Vietnam Airlines, Asiana Airlines, Lao 2-pin or 3 pin plugs. It is recommended to bring a uni- present. However visitors should be inoculated against INTERNET Penh. Banks are open Monday to Friday from 08:00 to February 3-5 Air, Jetstar Asia, Shanghai Air and Angkor Airways. versal plug adaptor. Power outages happen occasionally typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A & B, tetanus and polio. 15:00 and Saturday morning until 12:00. In the major Chinese New Year but most hotels have their own generator. Malaria is present in Cambodia and it is advisable to Internet access is widely available in every major city cities there are exchange bureaus and most hotels will take precautions especially if traveling off the beaten in Cambodia. In Phnom Penh and Siem Reap there are change US dollars although for other currencies it is February 18 September 26-28 SAFETY TIME country and all travelers must have a passport valid for hours. The dry season can be very dusty, but easier for Meak Bochea Day Pchumben Festival 6 months after their planned exit from Cambodia. walking through the jungle terrain around the temples. Despite its turbulent history, Cambodia is a safe coun- Cambodia is GMT 7 and does not operate daylight-sav- The temperature is fairly steady 30-35 Celsius during March 8 October 29 try to visit. All tourist areas have been cleared of land- ing system. Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival at the inter- the day time, although November to January often has International Women’s Day Paris Peace Accords mines and UXOs with only a small portion remaining national airports (Siem Reap and Phnom Penh) without cooler temperatures. in the very remote areas. As a global rule, never leave TIPPING prior registration. These Visa On Arrivals are valid for April 14-16 October 31 your belongings unattended and always maintain eye 30 days, single entry and cost 20-25 USD and requires WATER Khmer New Year Former King Sihanouk’s Birthday contact or a firm grip on cameras and shoulder bags Tipping for good service is not expected but is always one photo. appreciated in a country where the average annual in- It is not advisable to drink tap water but bottled mineral May 1 November 9 SHOPPING come is quite low compared to Europe for example. It is Electronic Visas are now available through the Ministry’s water is safe and available everywhere. All hotels pro- Labour Day Independence Day customary to tip tour guides and drivers at the end of website with a processing time of 3 days. A scanned vide a complimentary bottle of local mineral water per Cambodian handicrafts include silks, woodcarvings, a tour. Hotel and station porters should also be tipped. copy of the passport and 25USD paid by credit card will person in the room. Ice cubes in drinks is generally OK May 13-15 November 9-11 rattan weavings, handmade papers and the krama , Do not let guide talk you into tipping more than you issue an emailed visa which the traveler must print and in good standard hotels and restaurants but it is best to King Sihamoni’s Birthday Water Festival the traditional Cambodian scarf. Phnom Penh and Siem plan to. It is totally up to you who you tip, when and bring with them. Most border crossings accept e-visas, avoid it on street stalls or in country areas. Some minor Reap’s local markets are the best places for shopping how much however it is recommended to double check with the stomach problems are always possible when travelling May 17 December 10 and there are also dozens of charity-run shops through- government or Exotissimo first. in exotic countries. Bring a supply of your usual anti- Visakha Bochea Day Human Rights Day out the country where you can shop for a cause. Ask TRAVELERS CHECKS diarrhoea medicine. your guide for more information. Visas are available at the Thailand/Cambodian check- May 21 RELIGION Banks such as ANZ Bank and ACLEDA will change your points however scams are rampant and it is recom- Royal Ploughing Ceremony TELEPHONE Travelers Checks for US Dollars but a commission ap- mended to arrange visas in advance in your home Buddhism is the dominant religion in Cambodia with plies (2% to 5%). Very few shops, hotels or restaurants country or through the e-visa program. June 1 90-95% of the population being Buddhist. Islam is prac- If you have worldwide coverage, you can bring your accept Travelers Checks. Children’s day ticed by a small percentage of the population, mainly own mobile phone and use it to make domestic or in- WEATHER the Cham people residing near the Vietnam border, and ternational calls. Check with your mobile phone pro- NOTE: Travelers Checks can be difficult to change out- June 18 Christianity and Hinduism are the religions of less than vider for the costs before using it abroad - it may be side of major cities. Cambodia has two distinctive seasons: Rainy from June Queen’s Birthday 1% of the Cambodian people. expensive. Internet cafes offer the best deals with pro- to October and dry from November to May. Traveling grams such as Skype providing cheap, decent quality VISAS during the rainy season has its benefits as the temple September 24 overseas calls. moats in Siem Reap are full, making for great photos. Constitution Day Most visitors to Cambodia require a visa to enter the The rains are usually in the afternoon and last 2-3 www.exotissimo.com

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Phnom Penh - Main Office Siem Reap - Office 6th Floor, SSN Center No.66, Norodom Boulevard No. B20-21, Street 60m(Spean Neak) Phnom Penh, CAMBODIA Siem Reap - CAMBODIA Tel: +855 (0) 23 218 948 Tel: +855 (0) 63 964 323 Fax: +855 (0) 23 426 585 Fax: +855 (0) 63 963 621 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]