Cambodia: Ancient Ruins & Boat Rides - 10 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 18 travellers, with an average group size of 12.

• What is the age range for participants on this tour?

  This tour is designed for young travellers aged 18 to 39 years old.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travellers?

  No, single travellers on group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex, so there is no single supplement charge. Note that for multi-share hostels, specific rooming requests cannot be taken.

• What type of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

  Accommodation will be varied, including simple hotels (5 nights, twin-share), hostels (3 nights, multi-share), and a homestay (1 night). Most accommodations will have shared bathroom facilities. The Chambok Homestay has basic facilities such as a squat toilet and a bucket shower.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner.

• Are there opportunities to try local cuisine, and what kind of meals can I expect?

  Yes, you will experience a delicious local Khmer meal at a restaurant supported by our non-profit partner, Planeterra, or with a local family. You'll also discover the foodie side of Phnom Penh on a street food crawl and enjoy a Cambodian home-cooked meal at the Chambok Homestay.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  Highlights include exploring bustling Bangkok, catching the sunrise over Angkor Wat, enjoying a delicious local Khmer meal in a small village, relaxing on the golden beaches of Koh Rong, and connecting with locals during an overnight homestay.

• Are there any optional activities available, and what are their estimated costs?

  Yes, optional activities include: In Siem Reap, Phare Circus (can be pre-booked), Angkor Museum Visit (12 USD per person), and Tonle Sap Floating Village (25-30 USD per person). In Phnom Penh, National Museum Visit (10 USD per person), Silver Pagoda Visit (10 USD per person), and Tuol Sleng Museum (S-21 Prison) & Choeung Ek (Killing Fields) Half-Day Guided Tour (22-26 USD per person).

• What is included in the tour services?

  Included are a local Khmer Meal in Siem Reap, a welcome meeting with your CEO and group, a night out in Siem Reap, a discovery moment in Phnom Penh, a home meal at Chambok Homestay, a street food crawl, a guided sunrise tour of the Angkor Wat temple complex, and all transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

• Who will be leading the tour group?

  A CEO (Chief Experience Officer) will lead the tour throughout, supported by local guides in various locations.

• What happens if I encounter problems upon arrival or during the trip?

  You should first contact your starting point hotel and ask to speak to your CEO. If you cannot reach them, use the provided emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and are not met within 30 minutes, you should make your own way to the hotel via taxi and seek a refund from your travel agent.

• What are the general safety and security considerations for this trip?

  It's recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables (passport, tickets, cash), leave expensive jewelry at home, and use hotel safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is advised. Your CEO may alter the itinerary for safety reasons. During free time, exercise good judgment, stay in small groups at night, and use taxis. Avoid protests and participate in water activities only when accompanied by a guide. Always check your government's travel advice before departure.

• Are there any specific rules I need to be aware of?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, and engaging with prostitutes is against the tour philosophy. Violation of these rules may result in expulsion from the group without a refund.

• What should LGBTQ+ travellers know about safety on this trip?

  The tour operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of all travellers, including the LGBTQ+ community. They encourage visiting their dedicated LGBTQ+ travel page for resources and information, including the Equaldex tool, to help with specific concerns.

• What currencies should I bring, and what payment methods are accepted?

  The local currencies are Thai Baht, US Dollar, Cambodian Riel, and Vietnamese Dong. Debit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are recommended for ATM withdrawals. It's advisable to carry both Visa and Mastercard as a backup. USD cash is useful for emergencies when ATMs are not accessible, but ensure notes are new and in good condition. Credit cards can be used in some upscale restaurants and larger stores.

• How much emergency money is recommended?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional 250 USD (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• Is tipping customary, and what are the guidelines?

  Tipping is customary in Asia (approximately 10%) and is a way to show satisfaction. For drivers and local guides, a tip of $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day is recommended. For your CEO, a guideline of $20-25 USD per person per week is suggested.

• Do I need to pay a departure tax?

  Departure tax is included in all international and domestic tickets for Thailand and Vietnam.

• Are there any health considerations or required inoculations for this trip?

  You are responsible for consulting your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations well before departure. It's recommended to carry a first aid kit, hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes, and any personal medical requirements. Tour leaders are prohibited from administering drugs. In Asia, pharmacies often stock local versions of Western drugs, so bring full drug names for prescriptions.

• How should I dress to respect local customs, especially at religious sites?

  In Asia, a more conservative dress standard is generally expected. Pack loose, lightweight clothing that covers knees and shoulders (long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders). A shawl or scarf is recommended for temple visits. For Pakistan, a headscarf for women is advised when walking around (general advice for Asia, not specifically Cambodia/Vietnam).

• What is Planeterra, and how does this tour support local communities?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating economic opportunities for local communities through tourism. They develop and support community-owned businesses (e.g., Indigenous groups, women, youth) and integrate their projects into tour itineraries. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, ensuring 100% of donations go directly to these projects. This tour includes a 'G for Good Moment' with a local Khmer meal in Siem Reap and a 'Local Living Moment' with a home meal in Chambok, which directly support these initiatives.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Some hotels offer laundry facilities for a charge. It is also suggested to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap for hand-washing laundry, as there may be times you need to do your own.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have medical coverage with a minimum of $200,000 USD for repatriation and emergency rescue. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage is also strongly recommended.

• Are local flights included in the tour price?

  Yes, any local flights mentioned in the itinerary for this tour are included in the tour services.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation includes local bus, air-conditioned private vehicle, ferry, walking, and plane.