 The official Cambodian language, called Khmer, is part of the Mon-Khmer family, enriched by the Indian Bali and Sanskrit languages and influenced by Thai and French. Khmer is related to the languages spoken by hill tribe people of Laos and Vietnam. The script is derived from the South-Indian alphabet and is written from left to right and leaves no spaces between the words. English and French are also spoken - French mainly by older people, while the younger generations learn English.
Currency : The currency of Cambodia is the riel. With an average inflation rate of four percent, it is advisable to check again before traveling. However, for tourists, the real currency of Cambodia is the US dollar. Riel are useful mainly for tipping and small purchases. Since travelers are often given riel as change for purchases made in dollars, most find that they quickly collect enough riel for their needs.
It is also advisable to carry only US dollars, as visitors are not supposed to take riel into or out of country. All foreign currency should be declared on arrival. Keep all exchange slips in case you need to submit these on departure.
There are no ATMs in Cambodia, and the use of credit cards is not widespread. Travelers’ cheques are difficult to exchange outside Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, Battambang and Kompong Cham. Although cash advances on credit cards are available in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville and Battambang, associated fees are high.
Eating, Drinking & Shopping
 Khmer food is usually spicy and has a high proportion of fish. Fish combined with rice forms the basis of the Cambodian diet. Local specialties include curries, soups, and many varieties of dish prepared with beef, pork, poultry, and seafood, which is abundant in the rivers and Gulf of Thailand. Chinese, Thai, and Indian dishes are also common in Cambodia as well as a variety of Western cuisines, which can be found in the capital and areas frequented by tourists.
The French gastronomic influence is still evident - fresh French bread can be purchased daily in Phnom Penh and other major cities where bakeries are found. It is sold all day in the markets and even on street corners. It is called num pang in the Khmer language.
Shopping : Cambodia is widely recognized for its beautiful religious carvings, often featuring the Indian Ramayana and Mahabharata motifs, and its bas-reliefs. Collector-quality replicas are available in both Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Cambodia has excellent silverware of both classical Khmer and Chinese design, which can be found and purchased, in local markets and in hotel shops.
Beautiful textiles made from silk and cotton, woven in traditional designs and tie-dyed, are also available. A traditional and popular item, mostly made from cotton, is the krama, a colored, checker scarf.
Time Zone
Standard time in Cambodia is 6 hours ahead of Central European Time (CET), 7 hours ahead of GMT, 12 hours ahead of time in New York, 3 hours behind time in Sydney, two hours behind of Tokyo and in the same time zone as Bangkok.
Electricity
Electricity. 220V / 50V. Electricity supply can be unreliable in smaller towns. |
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