Health
Cambodia is a poor country with a tropical climate so certain precautions must be taken by visitors:
• 4 - 6 weeks before travelling see the Vaccinations Advisory link
Malaria and Dengue fever in Cambodia:
The temple complex around Siem Reap is regarded as a low-risk area for malaria transmission. Coupled with evidence that many of the malarial strains found in Cambodia are highly drug-resistant and the added presence of dengue fever leads visitors increasingly to opt for transmission protection (covered shoes, long sleeves/trousers, and regular applications of DEET insect repellent) rather than take drugs. Sensible precautions should ensure you do not get bitten.
Drinking water:
Generally water is not potable. Use bottled water and ensure it is opened in front of you.
Sun:
Sun hat, sunglasses and sunscreen recommended
Hygiene:
Wash your hands frequently in clean water. Tip: bring a pack of moist disinfectant wipes (baby wipes) with you for this purpose.
Hospitals in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh can provide international standards of care. Outside of these cities medical support is rather thin on the ground. Remember to give blood when in Cambodia. Visit Jayavarman VII hospital for children in Siem Reap and help a cambodian Child. If concerned take your own needle but it is very professionally run.
For hospital, clinic and emergency contact details click Siem Reap health and child care
Safety
With the dissolving of the Khmer Rouge in 1998 the risk of kidnapping or other violent crime has all but vanished in Cambodia. It is a safe country to visit with two notable exceptions:
• Do not walk around Phnom Penh at night especially off the main roads. Only a couple of years ago some Japanese tourists were beatenand threatened for money in Penom Penh by a gang (it is a large city like many others).
• If you intend travelling beyond the regular tourist areas, especially to the forested border areas of the country, you must seek advice on safety precautions from local authorities or travel experts. Independent travel to such areas is not recommended.
• Always stay on the path. There are still an estimated 6 million landmines in Cambodia
Pickpocketting and bag snatching seems unfortunately to be on the increase. Keep your valuables safe and a photocopy of your passport separate from your passport. Siem Reap is a pretty safe town. The town's residents appreciate the value of tourism and want to keep it that way. Going for a stroll even in the evening is safe but do not put your wealth on display.
Cambodia Travel and tour
essential links