Phnom Penh: Travel Tips
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The practical rules for Phnom Penh changed more than the cultural ones in the last year, entry paperwork and the airport itself are both new. Here’s what actually matters, split between what’s changed and what’s always been true.
What’s new for 2026
Fly into Techo International Airport (KTI), about 25-30km south of the city, which opened 9 September 2025 and fully replaced the old Phnom Penh International; budget 45-75 minutes for the transfer. Most visitors need an e-visa (about $36 total via evisa.gov.kh ) or a visa on arrival (about $30), plus the Cambodia e-Arrival Card at arrival.gov.kh , mandatory for all air arrivals since January 2025 and filed within 7 days before landing. Book both before you fly, not at the airport.
Money
The US dollar is used for nearly everything; Cambodian riel (about 4,000 to the dollar) covers change under a dollar. Only crisp, undamaged bills are accepted, torn or heavily worn US notes get refused more often than visitors expect, so bring clean $10s and $20s. ATMs dispense USD with a $4-6 fee. Tipping around 5-10% is appreciated, not required.
Safety, honestly
Motorbike bag and phone snatching along the riverfront and BKK1 is a real, documented problem, not a rare exception. Hold bags away from the road side, don’t use your phone near passing traffic, and if a snatcher does grab something, don’t resist, chasing a moving motorbike is more dangerous than the loss itself. Tuk-tuk overcharging, gem scams and fake-monk solicitations also show up around tourist areas; agree fares before you get in or use PassApp/Grab for a locked-in price. Drink-spiking has been reported around Street 51 and the Pontoon nightlife strip, keep an eye on your drink. Tap water isn’t potable, and dengue is present in the rainy season, use repellent during the day, not just at dusk.
Dress code and temple etiquette
The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda enforce a genuinely strict dress code: shoulders and knees covered, no exceptions, and sarongs are for rent at the gate if you arrive underdressed. The same modesty applies at any active wat. Remove shoes before entering homes and temple interiors. Cambodians greet with the sampeah, palms pressed together at chest height with a slight bow, most visible with elders and monks; a handshake is fine among equals.
Around monks and the Royal Family
Monks hold high social standing; women shouldn’t touch a monk directly or hand something to one, and it’s respectful not to stand taller than a seated monk if you can avoid it. The King and Royal Family are genuinely revered, avoid criticism or joking about them, and steer clear of political discussion generally, Cambodia’s history here is more sensitive than it might first appear.
Bargaining and public conduct
Bargaining is expected in markets and with tuk-tuk drivers, do it with a smile rather than an edge, you’re negotiating with someone making a living from the sale. Public displays of affection are better kept low-key than at home. Always ask before photographing someone directly, particularly monks.
For the fuller sightseeing and logistics picture, see our Phnom Penh guide and our 2-day itinerary , which puts these rules into a day-by-day plan.