Whether you’re seeing historic temples or peaceful seaside communities, travelling through Cambodia as a woman can be immensely fulfilling. Cambodia is great for women to travel alone, in groups, or with kids because of its kind people, vibrant culture, and breathtaking scenery.
Here are some practical, culturally sensitive, and safety-oriented suggestions to make the most of your trip.
Top 5 Crucial Tips
1. Research your destination
Before visiting the country, study the local customs, laws, and cultural expectations regarding etiquette, behaviour, clothing, and religious sites like Angkor Wat. Learn which areas are safe and which areas to avoid. Check the recent travel advisory for tourists on your country’s official government website for Visa, travel documents, safety, weather, etc.
2. Register with your embassy
Countries like the UK, the US, Australia, and Canada offer FREE embassy registration services. For example, for US citizens, the Smart Traveller Enrolment Program. This lets your embassy alert you during emergencies like natural disasters, protests, etc., and helps them connect quickly if required.
3. Secure your valuables
Although petty theft is not common, it is wise to be ready.
- Put your valuables in money belts or crossbody bags.
- Leave pricey jewellery and superfluous electronics at your lodging.
- Maintain copies of your visa and passport.
4. Share Your Location
Share your live location with your family or trusted friends. Most accommodations in Cambodia have Wi-Fi, allowing for real-time check-ins. In less connected areas like the rural areas of Mondulkiri or remote islands like Koh Rong, share your itinerary in advance, as mobile coverage can be patchy.
5. Use the redBus female seating option
redBus’ Female Seat Selection Feature Makes Travelling Safer! Regardless of your destination—Phnom Penh, Battambang, Kampot, or Siem Reap—redBus Cambodia contributes to a more secure and comfortable intercity bus ride.
The feature for choosing a female seat guarantees:
- Women travelling alone have the option to sit close to other women exclusively.
- For convenience, female-booked seats are indicated in pink during the booking process.
- Safe and convenient for long-distance or night travel.
Your comfort and safety come first, so choose the “Female Seat” option when purchasing your ticket online or through the app.
Other Safety Measures for Female Travellers:
6. Adhere to regional dress codes
Since Cambodia is a very religious nation, modest clothing is customary, particularly when touring local pagodas or temples like Angkor Wat.
- Cover your legs and shoulders with clothing.
- When necessary, keep a lightweight scarf or shawl on hand for protection.
7. Walk Confidently While Remaining Aware
Like in any other nation, it’s essential to be on your guard, but Cambodians are generally helpful and friendly.
- At night, steer clear of dark or deserted streets and walk with assurance.
- For night buses, use reliable transportation applications like redBus, or make reservations on reputable websites.
- To help locals find you if you get lost, write down the name and address of your hotel in Khmer.
8. Stay in Female-Friendly Accommodation
Meeting other travellers and feeling comfortable is easier because many hostels and guesthouses feature female-only dorms or cater only to ladies. Only make a reservation after reading platform reviews and selecting a female-friendly platform to ensure cleanliness and safety.
9. Obtain a SIM card that is local
SIM cards from Cellcard or Smart are generally accessible and reasonably priced at convenience stores and airports. Having mobile internet is essential for:
- Safe route navigation.
- Khmer translation
- Purchasing tickets for buses and city rides
10. Pay Attention When Eating
There are lots of quaint cafés and street food vendors in Solo, Cambodia. Dining alone is typical, but:
- Steer clear of dimly lit or remote eateries after dark.
- Choose locations with good reviews or kitchens that are visible.
- When dining at local restaurants, exercise caution when consuming ice and undercooked fish.
Conclusion
Cambodia is not just safe but also incredibly hospitable to female travellers with a bit of preparation and information. You will treasure this excursion, which includes trips to temples and beach vacations.
Are you prepared to confidently explore Cambodia? Use redBus to purchase your bus tickets now!
FAQs
1. Is it safe for women to travel alone in Cambodia?
Yes, it is generally safe for women to travel alone in Cambodia, particularly in popular destinations like Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and Kampot. However, in Phnom Penh, petty thefts such as bag snatching can happen, so carry a crossbody bag and refrain from using your phone when strolling along the side of the road.
2. What are the top-rated hostels or lodgings ideal for female travellers?
A few of the top-rated backpacker hostels are listed below:
- Lub d Cambodia, Onederz Hostel and Sweet Dreams Guesthouse in Siem Reap
- Mad Monkey in Phenom Pneh
- Koh Rong Backpackers on the beautiful island of Koh Rong
3. Can I go out at night by myself?
The nightlife in tourist cities is usually secure; however, avoid crowded locations like Riverside (Phnom Penh) or Pub Street (Siem Reap). Don’t flag tuk-tuks on the street late at night; reserve one using the verified cab booking apps.
4. How secure is it to go from one province to another?
Use reliable and secure VIP mini vans for women, such as Giant Ibis or Virak Buntham Buses. Board night buses only when necessary.
- Book bus tickets from redBus as they list only verified buses.
- You can check the customer reviews on their site to know which bus fits your requirements.
- Bus amenities and images of the interior and exterior are also listed.
- Above all, female passengers can select seats of their choice.
- Bus boarding and dropping details and the live tracking facility are also available on redBus.
5. Which apps are helpful for solo travellers?
- To safely reserve taxis and tuk-tuks, use PassApp or Grab.
- For bus travel reviews, schedules, and ticket booking, use redBus.
- Use Messenger or Telegram to keep in touch with loved ones.
6. How do I respond to harassment?
- Firmly say “Ot teh” (no).
- Quickly leave the location and head to a hotel or café nearby.
- Call the police at 117, available 24/7, or ask your hotel for assistance.
7. Can I go to beaches or waterfalls in a swimsuit?
Yes, but when you’re not in the water, cover up. Bikinis are acceptable at locations such as Otres Beach (Sihanoukville), but wearing a T-shirt over your swimwear is more appropriate at local locations such as Kbal Chhay Waterfall.
8. What sort of clothing should I pack?
Bring breathable and light clothing. When visiting temples such as Angkor Wat or Banteay Srei, wear shoulder-covering tops and knee-length slacks or skirts. Keep a shawl or scarf handy.
