Staying Safe in Cambodia
Local Laws
When you visit Cambodia, it's important to be mindful of and follow the local laws and traditions. You should know that it's against the law to say anything critical or disrespectful about the King or the royal family.
Be aware that drug offenses are taken very seriously, and penalties can include lengthy prison sentences, even for small quantities. It's also illegal to be publicly nude, to have or create pornography, and to commit any offenses involving children.
At religious sites, such as Angkor Wat, Cambodian officials expect visitors to dress modestly, meaning your knees and shoulders should be covered. It's a common practice to take off your shoes before entering temples, private homes, and some dining establishments.
When taking pictures, please be considerate and ask for permission before photographing people, including monks. It's also best to steer clear of sensitive locations like military installations or government buildings.
Culturally, it's considered impolite to touch a monk, especially their head. Women should avoid touching monks altogether or handing them anything directly.
In Cambodia, feet are seen as the least clean and sacred part of the body. Therefore, it's important not to point your feet at people or Buddha images, or to show the soles of your feet.
When conducting business or eating, it's customary to use your right hand, as the left hand is generally used for personal hygiene.
Activities that might be considered normal freedom of expression elsewhere could be viewed as crimes in Cambodia, potentially leading to detention or legal charges. It's also advisable to avoid protests and large public gatherings, as these can sometimes become volatile, and foreign nationals involved may face arrest and deportation.
LGBTQ+ Travellers
Cambodia generally offers a safe and welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ travelers, with same-sex sexual activity being legal and never criminalized in the country's history. While specific anti-discrimination laws for LGBTQ+ individuals are not yet in place, major cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap feature visible LGBTQ+ scenes with gay-friendly establishments.
Social attitudes are complex; though many Cambodians accept diverse sexualities, some traditional views persist, and local LGBTQ+ individuals may still face societal pressures and discrimination. However, instances of violence or outright discrimination against LGBTQ+ travelers are uncommon, though public displays of affection are generally not practiced regardless of sexual orientation.
Scams
When you're traveling in Cambodia, it's good to be aware of a few common scams. You might encounter fake dollar bills when receiving change, or get caught up in card games where you could be pressured into withdrawing money from ATMs.
At land borders, be cautious of people pretending to be officials who might ask for extra fees for visas or claim your paperwork is incorrect, then charge you a lot to "help" fix it. You might also see women with children asking for milk or food, only to steer you towards shops selling things at inflated prices, with the shopkeepers then sharing the profits.
Watch out for coin collectors who offer poor exchange rates, and be aware that touts near popular spots like Angkor Wat might try to overcharge you by saying things like food and water aren't available inside the park. Sadly, there are also reports of job scams, especially in Sihanoukville, where people are tricked into fraudulent activities.
Crime
You'll find that petty theft is quite common in Cambodia, particularly in places where tourists tend to gather. Think of areas like Phnom Penh's riverfront and Boeung Keng Kang district, Siem Reap's bustling night markets and Pub Street, and Sihanoukville's beaches, tourist spots, and casino strip.
The most common issue involves quick "snatch-and-grab" style thefts. Thieves on motorbikes often target people walking or riding in open tuk-tuks, making off with bags, phones, and passports, which can unfortunately lead to injuries. We also hear about belongings being stolen from luggage on buses and from hotel rooms, especially in more budget-friendly accommodations.
While less common, there have been instances of violent crime, including sexual assault, in tourist areas. Some of these incidents have involved drinks being tampered with. It's also worth noting that some motorcycle and taxi drivers have been reported to assault and rob foreigners late at night. You might also hear about gun-related incidents and shootouts, which usually arise from business or personal disagreements, and there have been explosions in various places, including popular tourist spots.
To help keep yourself safe and avoid becoming a target, it's a good idea to keep your valuables out of sight. Try to carry only the cash you'll need for the day and make sure your bags are secured. It's often best to keep them on the side of your body away from the road, or consider using tuk-tuks that have barriers.
For getting around, especially after dark, using ride-hailing apps like Grab or Passap can offer a bit more security. We also suggest avoiding walking alone late at night and sticking to well-lit, public areas if you do need to travel after dark. If you ever find yourself in a robbery situation, it's generally advised not to resist, as this can help prevent the situation from becoming more dangerous.
