Travel To Cambodia From Australia - The Most Helpful Tips

Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, Cambodia is a country of incredible beauty and rich cultural heritage. Cambodia's majestic temples of Angkor Wat, the bustling streets of Phnom Penh, and its pristine beaches are sure to leave tourists in awe. Having a chance to this  Southeast Asian nation, you will discover a land steeped in history and tradition. From the ancient Khmer Empire to the French colonial period and the turbulent years of the Khmer Rouge, Cambodia has a complex and fascinating past waiting to be uncovered.

In recent years, Cambodia has welcomed numerous travelers from Australia. That's why Cambodia Immigration Services have a topic about travel from Australia to Cambodia to provide tourists with all the necessary information about traveling between these two countries. Let's keep reading!

Travel To Cambodia From Australia: Useful Tips To Take Note

How far is it from Australia to Cambodia?

Australia to Cambodia's distance is about 5,223 kilometers. The time difference between Australia and Cambodia is 3 hours. Cambodia time is behind the time of Australia by 3 hours. The fastest way from Australia to Cambodia travel is by air.

Flights from Australia to Cambodia

Malaysia Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Vietnam Airlines, and Thai Airways are among the major airlines that offer flights from Australia to Cambodia. Since there are no direct flights between Australia and Cambodia, Australian tourists will need to get a connecting flight from a nearby country in Southeast or East Asia.

The total flight duration from Melbourne, Australia, to Phnom Penh, is approximately 11 hours, while a flight to Cambodia from Sydney is 11 hours and 30 minutes with connecting flights.

Flights from Australia to Cambodia

AUD to Cambodia Currency

The related exchange rate Australian dollar to Cambodian Riel is 1 AUD = 2664.29000 KHR.

The official currency of Cambodia is the Cambodian riel (KHR), which is also known as "riel". However, the US dollar is widely accepted and used in Cambodia, especially in tourist areas.

ATM facilities are available in major cities, including Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Battambang, Sihanoukville, and Kampot. In most hotels and restaurants in Cambodia, cards or credit cards are also accepted. However, tourists are strongly advised to prepare some cash as a backup. Australian travelers should also note that they should check money in advance when shopping in Cambodia. This is because sellers there may not accept dirty notes, torn notes, or high-value notes. 

The best time to travel to Cambodia from Australia

November to April is the ideal time to travel to Cambodia. During this time, the weather is pleasant, with less rain, making it a great time to explore the country's top-rated attractions. The clear blue skies and comfortable temperatures are especially conducive to enjoying a relaxing getaway on the southern coast. However, it's worth noting that this is also the busiest time of year for tourism in Cambodia; popular sites like Angkor Wat and the beaches of Sihanoukville can get crowded. 

If you can only plan a trip to Cambodia in the rainy season, which runs from May to October, then you shouldn't be deterred. While the humidity increases and the rains come, this period also has its alluring charm. The countryside is covered with lush greenery, the rivers are full and flowing, and the temples are quiet. This is the best time to visit some of the lesser-known temples and witness rain's vital role in the country's agriculture.

The best time to travel to Cambodia from Australia

Common Means of Transportation in Cambodia

If you are seeking the most common and affordable means of transportation in Cambodia, consider buses that connect all major cities and towns. Laan tom or local buses are the cheapest and most convenient option for those on a budget, with fares starting at around $6 from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville and $8 to Siem Reap. Traveling long distances by bus is also a good way to explore the country and take in the sights along the way. 

For those who want a slightly faster option, minibuses are available as an alternative to buses. These leave from local transport stops and serve the same routes as buses, but they are slightly faster. Overall, buses and minibuses are an affordable and reliable way to get around Cambodia and explore the country's many attractions.

There are other popular means of transportation to get around Cambodia, each offering a unique experience. Shared taxis are the third most popular option, offering faster travel than buses and minibuses. These taxis can take you to local destinations not served by buses and minibuses, though they are slightly more expensive. 

For those looking to explore off the beaten track, motorbikes are a great option, as most roads are relatively empty and make for stress-free riding. However, helmets are compulsory for both drivers and passengers in Cambodia. 

Short trips around the city are best made with motos and tuk-tuks, which are popular in many parts of Cambodia. Tuk-tuks are the most popular form of transport around the temples of Angkor, while motos are sometimes the only way to reach sites that are not accessible by sealed roads. 

Tuk-tuks are the most popular form of transport in Cambodia

Local Customs in Cambodia

When traveling to Cambodia, Australian tourists should be aware of some local customs in the country to build positive relationships with the local community.

At most religious sites, such as Angkor Wat, Cambodian authorities enforce “modesty” laws that tourists must dress appropriately, covering their shoulders and knees. When greeting someone, it is respectful to press your palms together in front of your chest and slightly bow your head, which is known as a sampeah.

If you want to take a photo of a person, especially a monk, you should ask for permission in advance. Additionally, it is advisable to refrain from taking pictures in locations that require sensitivity, such as military zones, military personnel or assets, transportation facilities, and government buildings.

Accommodation in Cambodia

Luxury hotels in Phnom Penh

Some of the top luxury hotels in Phnom Penh include Plantation, Raffles Hotel Le Royal, La Rose Boutique Hotel & Spa, La Rose Suites, Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra, Pavilon.

The best hotels in Siem Riep

Siem Reap, home to the world-famous Angkor Wat temple complex, has a plethora of hotels to choose from. Tourists can choose one of these top-rated hotels in Siem Riep for their trip: Park Hyatt Siem Reap, Jaya House River Park, Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor, Phum Baitang, Belmond La Résidence d'Angkor, Heritage Suites Hotel.

The best hotel in Sihanoukville

Here are some recommendations for luxury hotels in Sihanoukville tourists can refer to Sokha Beach Resort, Queenco Hotel & Casino, Xihu Resort Hotel, Junlan Hotel, and Independence Hotel Resort & Spa.

Cambodia Visa for Australian citizens: General Visa Requirements

Australian visitors, who want to travel to Cambodia from Australia, a visa is a must. Australia is among the eligible countries for a Cambodia electronic visa which was implemented by the Cambodian government.

It is highly recommended that those traveling to Cambodia for tourist activities apply for this type of visa. The entire visa application process, including filling out the form, paying the fees, and receiving the visa, can be done online, which is a cost-effective and time-saving option. Applicants can check the requirements for Cambodia visa for Australian citizens here to be well-prepared for their visa applications.

A Cambodia electronic visa is acceptable at most international airports in the country, which are Phnom Penh International Airport, Sihanouk International Airport, and Siem Reap International Airport. Australian tourists can also use this visa to enter the country by border crossing, including  Cham Yeam (Koh Kong Province) (from Thailand), Poi Pet (Banteay Meanchey Province)(from Thailand), Bavet (Svay Rieng Province) (from Vietnam), or Tropaeng Kreal Border Post (Stung Treang Province) (from Laos).

Cambodia Travel Insurance is obtainable on the Cambodian Immigration Services website. Without Travel Insurance, the Government may reject visa applications. It’s not to mention travel insurance coverage protects you against unforeseen events that may occur during your trip. This can include coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption, personal liability, and emergency assistance.

Australian citizens can apply for a Cambodia visa online from the comfort of their homes. Once possessing a valid visa, tourists can start their journey in Cambodia. Let’s sample the delicious local cuisine, meet the friendly locals, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this great country.