11 Reasons Why We Love Living in Cambodia - Living In
Channel: Sunshine State
Date: 2019-01-12

Living in Cambodia

Once you make the move to Cambodia, you’ll have a lot to do–and we’re here to help!

First you have to decide where to live: most expats choose Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, or Sihanoukville. We’ve got advice on homes and apartments, from long-term guesthouses to stay in while you look for an apartment to advice on buying property and hiring household staff and information about utilities.

We’ve got practical advice about how currency works in Cambodia (it’s more complicated than it might seem), tips on how to get a local phone and SIM card and open a bank account, and the information you need to know about sending and receiving mail.

It makes you think
While the country has moved on since the tragedy caused by the Khmer Rouge, reminders of Cambodia’s recent bitter history lurk around every corner. Poverty is still prevalent and child beggars are never far away. This leaves those more fortunate constantly questioning how lucky they are and valuing what they have in life.


It’s humbling
The kindness and generosity offered by Cambodians who have nothing will never fail to amaze. Despite not knowing where their next meal is coming from, Cambodians will happily welcome you into their homes and show an incredible hospitality that is hard to find anywhere else in the world. It truly is heart-warming.


It’s really special
One thing you’ll notice when you move to Cambodia is the number of expats who initially came for a few months and have extended their stay to several years. The reason? It’s difficult to put your finger on but there’s just something really special about Cambodia that captures a part of many visitors’ hearts.


Getaways are easy
Weekends are so much more fun – and let’s not forget the insane amount of public holidays enjoyed in Cambodia, which average out at about 27 a year – because you can hit the beach, relax on the river or go deep into the jungle. Cambodia is also well positioned to explore the rest of the region, with a range of budget airlines operating from the country.


It doesn’t get boring
Cambodia never ceases to amaze, whether it be a motorbike transporting 20 live chickens and a family of five, a bizarre building being built, a hilarious mis-translated sign or just one of those crazy, comical Cambodian moments, amusement is never far away in the aptly named Kingdom of Wonder.

The people
It may sound like a cliché, but Cambodians are friendly, open and kind – and there’s never a smile far away. This makes daily woes much more bearable, with the sound of laughter ready to lift your mood whenever you’re feeling down, and a gentle face always willing to help out when you need it.
The weather
Yes, April may be unbearable with the oh-so oppressive humidity that hangs heavy in the air, but, hailing from England, give me the tropics ANY day. Waking up to the sun shining is a fantastic start to the day – just think of all that free Vitamin D. And during monsoon, the insane rains and thunder and lightning storms are something pretty special.

It’s cheap
Yes, prices are rising, but it’s still possible to grab a 50-cent beer sat next to a place serving them for $3 – and that’s considered expensive in Phnom Penh. In Cambodia, it’s possible to live the life of a king, for a fraction of the price of many countries in the West. At the very least you can live on a shoestring budget and still enjoy life at the same time.


It’s easy
Living in a country where laws are enforced on an ad-hoc basis, rules are rarely abided by and health and safety is scarce, definitely has its ups and downs. The ups being it’s rare something can’t be done in Cambodia – and with no red tape, it can [usually] be done pretty quickly. Of course, the exception to the rule is when it comes to dealing with ministries – although money still often talks.


It has a rich culture
Cambodians are proud to be Cambodian and they love to share their culture and heritage. From the iconic Angkor Wat and the thousands of ancient temples and religious sites that dot the country, to their traditional dance, music, arts and folklore, delving into Cambodia’s history is always an intriguing journey.