Cambodia, a country rich in history and culture, beckons travelers with its ancient temples, bustling cities, and serene landscapes. However, like any destination, it’s important for visitors to be aware of potential safety concerns. This guide, tailored for U.S. citizens planning Cambodia Travel, provides essential information to ensure a secure and enjoyable trip. While Cambodia generally experiences a low threat of terrorism, and extremist attacks are not common, it’s wise to stay informed and vigilant.
Understanding Potential Terrorism Risks in Cambodia
The U.S. Department of State advises caution due to the possibility of terrorist actions targeting U.S. citizens and interests in Southeast Asia, including locations popular with Westerners. Extremist groups in the region have demonstrated the capacity for transnational attacks. Although the direct threat in Cambodia is considered low, it is prudent for U.S. citizens during their Cambodia travel to exercise caution in places frequented by foreigners. These include clubs, discos, bars, restaurants, hotels, places of worship, schools, outdoor recreation venues, tourist areas, and beach resorts. Maintaining a high level of personal security awareness and avoiding large crowds or demonstrations is recommended for safe Cambodia travel. For the most current broad security advice, refer to the Department of State’s Worldwide Caution.
Navigating Landmine and Unexploded Ordnance Dangers
A serious concern in Cambodia, particularly in rural areas, is the presence of landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO). These remnants of past conflicts are prevalent in remote regions, especially in provinces like Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Pursat, Siem Reap, Kampong Thom, and Oddar Meanchey. For those venturing into these areas during Cambodia travel, it is crucial to never walk in forested areas or even dry rice paddies without a knowledgeable local guide. Areas around small bridges on secondary roads are particularly hazardous. If you encounter anything resembling a mine or UXO, do not touch it. Instead, immediately notify the Cambodia Mine Action Center at 012-800-473 or 023-995-437. Your safety during Cambodia travel in these regions depends on extreme caution and local expertise.
Crime Awareness for Cambodia Travel
Cambodia faces a critical crime rate, encompassing various forms of street crime. Despite efforts by authorities, military weapons and explosives remain accessible to criminals. Armed robberies are a frequent occurrence, and unfortunately, foreign residents and visitors, including U.S. citizens undertaking Cambodia travel, are often targeted. Reports received by the U.S. Embassy indicate burglaries of residences and hotel rooms of U.S. citizens in Phnom Penh, sometimes even while occupants are asleep.
Snatch and Grab Theft: The most prevalent type of theft is “snatch and grab” robbery. Anything easily grabbed, such as cameras, jewelry, purses, backpacks, and mobile phones, is at risk. When using “tuk-tuks” for transportation during Cambodia travel, be especially cautious and keep belongings out of sight, as passengers in these open vehicles are common targets for thieves. When walking, position bags and items on the shoulder or hand furthest from the street to minimize risk. If confronted by a robber, it is imperative to surrender valuables immediately. Resistance can provoke physical violence, potentially lethal. Tragically, the U.S. Embassy has received reports of violent robberies escalating to fatalities.
Pickpockets: Be aware of pickpockets, some disguised as beggars, operating in markets and tourist hotspots. They may use overly friendly tactics, like placing a hand on your shoulder or back, to distract you while picking your pocket. Remain vigilant in crowded tourist areas during your Cambodia travel.
Document Security: To mitigate the risk of theft or confiscation of original documents, the U.S. Embassy strongly advises U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Cambodia to carry photocopies of their U.S. passport, driver’s license, and other critical documents. Keep originals secured in a hotel safe or other secure location. Avoid using your passport as collateral for rentals or hotel stays. Be aware that local police investigations into crimes against tourists are infrequent, and recovery of stolen items is unlikely. Furthermore, some police stations have been reported to charge foreigners between $20 and $100 simply to file a police report, which is important to note for Cambodia travel.
Tourist Scams: Foreigners engaging in Cambodia travel should be wary of common scams targeting tourists, often involving card games. Individuals may approach tourists in public places, such as shopping malls, inviting them to homes under false pretenses, which then lead to rigged card games designed to steal money. If you become a victim of such a scam, contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.
Drugged Drinks: Another significant concern for Cambodia travel is drink drugging targeting tourists. Reports indicate drinks being spiked at bars to incapacitate victims for theft or sexual assault. Never accept drinks from strangers and never leave your drinks unattended. Protect yourself from this serious risk during your Cambodia travel.
Online and Financial Scams: Be cautious of scams involving individuals claiming to be in Cambodia and requesting financial assistance from the United States. The U.S. Embassy has identified many such requests as fraudulent, often using false identities. Recent media reports have highlighted large-scale scam operations leading to crackdowns by Cambodian authorities. These operations lure non-Cambodians with fake job offers, then force them to participate in online and phone-based financial confidence scams. For more information, consult the Department of State and the FBI pages on scams.
Fake Currency: Numerous reports exist of visitors receiving counterfeit or novelty $50 and $100 bills from ATMs and banks across Cambodia. When withdrawing or exchanging money, carefully count and examine each bill while still at the ATM or bank teller. Fake bills often feel different and may have markings indicating “novelty” on the lower left. If you suspect a bill is fake, show it to the ATM camera or teller and notify the bank immediately. Vigilance is key when handling currency during Cambodia travel.
Provincial and Nighttime Safety: The U.S. Embassy advises personnel traveling outside Phnom Penh to exercise constant caution, particularly outside provincial towns. Many rural areas lack effective policing. Avoid walking alone after dark anywhere in Sihanoukville, especially along the waterfront. Be extra vigilant during annual festivals and in tourist areas of Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville, where motorcycle “snatch and grab” thefts increase significantly.
General Safety Practices: To enhance your safety during Cambodia travel, practice sound personal security awareness. Vary your routes and routines, maintain a low profile, avoid carrying or displaying large amounts of cash or wearing expensive jewelry, and refrain from walking alone after dark. Opt for automobile travel instead of local moto-taxis or cyclos, which are more vulnerable to armed robberies and offer no protection in traffic accidents.
Commercial Surrogacy and Gambling: U.S. citizens are strongly advised against engaging in commercial surrogacy arrangements in Cambodia, which has been officially banned since October 2016. Remember that U.S. citizens in Cambodia are subject to Cambodian laws. While gambling and casinos are legal, the U.S. Embassy strongly urges caution if visiting casinos or gambling centers in Cambodia. Numerous incidents, including fires with fatalities, violent assaults, murders, and suspicious suicides, have been reported at casinos across Cambodia in the past year. Exercise extreme caution and consider the risks associated with gambling during Cambodia travel.
What to Do if You Become a Victim of Crime
If you become a victim of crime during your Cambodia travel, report it to the local police and contact the U.S. Embassy at 023-728-000. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. In cases of sexual assault, U.S. citizen victims should contact the U.S. Embassy first before contacting local police.
The U.S. Embassy can provide assistance in several ways:
- Help you find appropriate medical care.
- Assist in reporting a crime to the police.
- Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
- Explain the local criminal justice process.
- Provide a list of local attorneys.
- Offer information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
- Provide an emergency loan for repatriation and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
- Help arrange accommodation and flights home.
- Replace a stolen or lost passport.
For more detailed information, see our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.
Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence in Cambodia can also contact the Embassy for assistance.
Tourism Safety Considerations
The tourism industry in Cambodia has uneven regulation, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities are not consistently performed. Hazardous areas or activities may lack proper signage, and staff may not be adequately trained or certified. In case of injury, appropriate medical treatment is generally only accessible in or near major cities. First responders often cannot reach areas outside major cities quickly or provide urgent medical care. Therefore, U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance for their Cambodia travel.
By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, U.S. citizens can experience the wonders of Cambodia travel while minimizing potential risks. Prioritize your safety and enjoy your journey.
