Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Coronation Day 29 October
King Father's Birthday 31 October
Independence Day 9 November
International Human Rights Day 10 December
SAFE TRAVEL
Crime
Given the number of guns in Cambodia, there is less armed theft than one might expect.
Still, hold-ups and motorcycle theft are a potential danger in Phnom Penh and Sihanouk-
ville. There is no need to be paranoid, just cautious. Walking or riding alone late at night
is not ideal, certainly not in rural areas.
Bag snatching has become an increasing problem in Phnom Penh in recent years and
the motorbike thieves don't let go, dragging passengers off motos and endangering lives.
If riding a moto carry your shoulder bag in front of you and be careful when riding on
remorques as well.
Should anyone be unlucky enough to be robbed, it is important to note that the Cam-
bodian police are the best that money can buy! Any help, such as a police report, is going
to cost you. The going rate depends on the size of the claim, but anywhere from US$5 to
US$50 is a common charge.
Drugs
Be very careful about buying 'cocaine'. Most of what is sold as coke, particularly in Ph-
nom Penh, is actually pure heroin and far stronger than any smack found on the streets
back home. Bang that up your hooter and you'll be doing impressions of Uma Thurman in
Pulp Fiction . See Safe Travel ( Click here ) in the regional Directory for more on drug risks
in the Mekong region.
Mines & Mortars
Cambodia is one of the most heavily mined countries in the world, especially in the north-
west of the country near the Thai border. Many mined areas are unmarked, so do not stray
from well-worn paths and never , ever touch any unexploded ordnance (UXO) you come
across, including mortars and artillery shells. If you find yourself in a mined area, retrace
your steps only if you can clearly see your footprints. If not, stay where you are and call
for help. If someone is injured in a minefield, do not rush in to help even if they are crying
out in pain - find someone who knows how to enter a mined area safely.
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