Getting to Phnom Penh
Getting to Phnom Penh nowadays is relatively easy.
Air
Arriving by air into Phnom Penh International Airport has become a lot easier now the new terminal has been complete. The Arrivals and Departure halls are modern and efficient, with immigration and customs being a quick experience compared to some other South East Asian airports. Many international flights code-share and stop in Phnom Penh via other cities.
Popular airlines in the region are:
Both airlines have extensive routes in SE Asia and offer exciting destinations to and from Phnom Penh. Information on Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sikanoukvilla airports can be found at www.cambodia-airports.aero.
Taxi
Phnom Penh airport is no different to the usual Asian taxi-hustle you will experience when you leave departures. The cost from the airport to Sisowath Quay is $15-18 dollars but this must be negotiated as the 10km journey is about 30-60 minutes depending on traffic and road works.
To Samrong Farm a taxi will quote about $15-20 for the 10km journey. Make sure you are prepared with directions and a map, or use one of our recommended firms. (See Taxis & Tuk Tuks section)
Bus
Many visitors to Cambodia like the flexibility of coach/bus/mini vans. Several agencies on Sisowath Quay offer a vast array of destinations with day and night sleeper services.
From our experience, there are two companies that provide a regular and efficient service from the choices offered; Giant Ibis Coach Service, and Mekong Coach Services.
Giant Ibis Coach Service
www.giantibis.com
Mekong Coach Service
www.catmekongexpress.com
Example fares, accurate January 2017.
| Company | PP to Saigon | PP to Siem Reap | PP to Sihanoukville |
|---|---|---|---|
| Giant Ibis | US$18 | US$15 | US$11 |
| Mekong Coach | US$14 | US$13 | US$12 |
VISA
On arrival into Cambodia ALL visitors require a Visa.
Depending on how you arrive at the Cambodian border, Visas can be either ‘on arrival’ or ‘e-visa’. Not all land borders accept e-visa, so make sure you check the Visa website.
E-Visas cost US$37 and can be booked online at www.evisa.gov.hk
E-visas are valid for a stay of 1 month and can be applied for up to 3 months in advance. It is an efficient website and e-visas should be confirmed within a few days. If you plan on a longer stay it would be worth applying for a business visa which can be extended for longer periods and allows multiple entry.
Information on Cambodian visas can be obtained on the Embassy of Cambodia website. Beware that many online agencies operate with official looking website and charge a large administration fee. If in doubt get in touch with us and we’ll point you in the right direction.
The cost of a visa on arrival, which includes queueing, is US$35 (plus US$3 if you don’t have passport photos). In our opinion the e-visa is the better option because the lines at entry are much shorter.
Immunisation
Please check with your Doctor or health care professional, but we would recommend the following being up to date for anyone visiting the Samrong Children’s Farm:
- Polio
- Diphtheria
- Tetanus
- Hepatitis A & B
- Typhoid
- Japanese B Encephalitis
Malaria prophylactics are not recommended unless travelling to very remote areas, the same for rabies.
If travelling via Bangkok the Travel Clinic at the Hospital for Tropical Diseases offers a quick and reasonably price service. Booking is advised.
Diarrhoea treatments should also be considered as some travellers are affected. Preventative habits such as always washing hands, and avoiding tap water or ice is strongly advised.
Communication and Media
Most hotels, restaurant and cafes (and of course the Samrong Children’s Farm) have internet access and Wi-Fi. Cell (mobile) phone coverage across the country is good, and local sim cards are available from the airport or border crossings for a few dollars.
Currency
Travellers should carry both US$ and Riel. The US$ is accepted everywhere though change may be given in Riel. There is no coinage, and old or torn US$ are not accepted.
ATM’s are common but some may not accept your card; we have found reliable banks to be Canadia and ANZ.
The exchange rate hovers around 4,000 Riel to 1 US$ and money exchange booths can be found easily. Please note that Riel cannot be exported so try to spend or exchange before leaving. A few 500 and 1.000 Riel notes are always handy for paying your Tuk-Tuk driver.