Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Information
DANGERS & ANNOYANCES
Phnom Penh is not as dangerous as people imagine, but it is important to take care. Armed
robberies do sometimes occur, but statistically you would be very unlucky to be a victim.
However, bag (and smartphone) snatching is a huge problem, and victims are often hurt
when they are dragged off their bicycles or motorbikes.
Should you become the victim of a robbery, do not panic and do not, under any circum-
stances, struggle. Calmly raise your hands and let your attacker take what they want.
Do
not
reach for your pockets, as the assailant may think you are reaching for a gun. Do not
carry a bag at night, because it is more likely to make you a target.
If you ride your own motorbike during the day, some police may try to fine you for the
most trivial of offences, such as turning left in violation of a no-left-turn sign. At their
most audacious, they may try to get you for riding with your headlights on during the day
although, worryingly, it does not seem to be illegal for Cambodians to travel without their
headlights on at night. The police will most likely demand US$5 from you and threaten to
take you to the police station for an official US$20 fine if you do not pay. If you are pa-
tient with them and smile, you can usually get away with handing over US$1. The trick is
to not stop in the first place by not catching their eye.
The riverfront area of Phnom Penh, particularly places with outdoor seating, attracts
many beggars, as do Psar Thmei and Russian Market. Generally, however, there is little in
the way of push and shove.
Flooding is a major problem in the wet season (June to October), and heavy downpours
see some streets turn into canals for a few hours.
