General Information about Siem Reap

Airport Tax    25 US dollars (children 7) for international flights and 6 US dollars (children as well) for domestic flights.

Dangers    As anywhere else in the world, just apply common sense, but normally it is absolutely very safe to go out on your own even at evening times.

Dress Code    Temples are places of worship. Please show the most respect and dress accordingly. Shorts are fine, but miniskirt should be avoided. You should prefer to wear airy, light and covering clothes, to protect your skin from the sun and mosquitoes. The air-condition inside the vehicles might be in strong contrast with the outside temperature, so a light jacket or scarf may be useful. Always wear a hat during the hottest hour and apply plenty of sun cream, as the sun is quite strong. Open sandals are a common choice, but socks and more comfortable shoes should be preferred.

Internet    The cheapest and most efficient option is to use one of the dozens of Internet cafes, which are, spread overall the town. Average price is 1 US dollar per hour.

Local uses    Never touch the head of anybody, even if in a friendly way by western standards, because it is considered the most sacred part of the body. Always avoid showing or pointing out your feet to anyone, as this considered the lowest sign of respect. If you are not satisfied about something, try to solve the matter in the most calm and smiley way, don’t loose your temper and don’t shout or things would just get worse. This is Asia at its utmost, and good and polite manners are not just welcome, they are a way of living.

Markets    Psas Chas (old market) in the central colonial area caters for both locals and foreigners, Psas Kandal mostly for tourists and Psas Loeu is the one attended by local people, but a little outside from the centre.

Massages    Should you need to relax this way, always ask your guide for the best and most serious places. You will be advised according to your needs

Medical Help    Should you need any urgent assistance please first apply to us or to the hotel you are staying. Qualified and multilingual round the clock medical services are ready available in Siam Reap.

Money    The local currency is the Riel and it is exchanged at approximately 4000 R for 1 US dollar. In Cambodia US dollars are used as commonly as Riel. If the amount you have to pay is for instance 2500 Riel, it is normal practice to give 1 US dollar and receive the rest of 1500 Riel. You will get used to the system very quickly

Monkeys    You will see a lot of them during the visits at the temples and along the roads. Remember they might bite, so don’t get too close, particularly if you are wearing red clothes, which seem to be hated by these cute wild animals.

Pubs, Cafes    Plenty of them, especially around the old market area. Just stroll around and choose the one you feel better.

Shopping    It is easy to find local handicrafts, artistic sculptures, paintings, local spices, Khmer scarves, and some items may even be shipped overseas. Please ask your guide for details.

Telephone    Rates for overseas telephone calls from hotels are quite high from Cambodia. A valid and cheaper alternative can be to use the online systems from the various Internet points.

Transport     Motorcycle taxis and two-persons motorcycle trailers. Price ranges between one and two US dollars per ride within the town area.

Voltage            220 Volts / 50 Hertz