Moving To Cambodia Pros And Cons – that will be the topic of today’s article.
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Introduction
Despite the traces of war which are still visible, Cambodia has a lot to offer. In fact, the country is becoming increasingly popular in recent years. As the country develops in leaps and bounds, settling into your new life abroad will become increasingly easier. Do you really want to travel to Cambodia in 2021?
If that sounds like a YES, we’ve got you covered. Not only that we will walk you through the expat guide to moving to Cambodia, but we’ve compiled all it takes to relocate to the country. In our previous article, we explain deeply about the visa guide to relocate to Cambodia. Have you gone through it?
Well, it would be better to understand the visa process before planning your relocation. In today’s modern century, Cambodia is set to embrace an upbeat new beginning, backed by strong and overwhelming support from different foreign organizations. Would you like to explore the country?
Of course, there are many things to explore in Cambodia. Also, expat will be glad to know that the nation is gradually being rebuilt to rekindle back its former glory. Surrounded by Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, and bordering the Gulf of Thailand, the benefits of moving to the country cannot be overemphasized.
However, in this article, we will walk you through the pros and cons of living in the country. Aside from that, we will explore the cultures, traditions, norms, and values of living in this country. Expatriates from all walks of life move to Cambodia for many reasons. Read further to get the full details about Cambodia.
Few Reasons to Settle in Cambodia
As said earlier, Cambodia is known as the Kingdom of Wonder. It is a charming country that’s not only popular with tourists but has a growing number of expats. If you’re considering moving to Southeast Asia, you should put Cambodia on your radar. Without further ado, below are the reasons to relocate.
1. Easy Visa Application
Getting a visa in Cambodia is relatively easy. Almost anyone can get a visa to stay in the country because it has one of the most relaxed visa programs in the world. Aside from this fact, Cambodia is cheap, and you can survive in the country as a foreigner moving to the country for the first time.
2. Filled With Great Opportunities
Whether you’re looking to get work experience in the development sector or want teaching experience in the country, Cambodia is undoubtedly the best as of today. They offer an abundance of opportunities for those willing to pursue different things in the country. Not only that, but the foreign experience is highly valued, and most expats can find a job without much stress.
3. Friendly Citizens in Cambodia
One of the countries that you’d ever find a friendly local is Cambodia. Even small interactions like bargaining with a driver usually involve smiles and laughter. In fact, male expats also find that their c8harms are magnified, and they are impressed with Khmer women than the girls in their home country.
4. Pristine Beaches and Remote Islands
Expats moving to this country will also enjoy different outdoor activities, including the pristine beaches and Remote Island. The vast stretches of white sandy beaches and deep blue sea make a perfect combination of things to look out for in the country. Also, you can try some water sports like surfing.
5. Varied Wildlife and Unexplored Jungles
Perhaps the thought of adventure treks and wildlife in Cambodia can be an interesting thing to watch out for. This is because; Cambodia has an interesting and extensive tropical jungles scene where foreigners can spot elephants, sun bears, and other animals from hundreds of beautiful birds.
6. Delicious Foods with Affordable Prices
Whether you’re in Phnom Penh or Siem reap, the local markets will just leave you feeling in awe! Moreover, you’ll find everything from clothes, household foods, jewelry, and many others cheap and affordable, unlike other Western world. With that being said, night markets are amazing, and they’re totally worth a visit.
7. Volunteer for the Underprivileged Ones
Your journey will find its true meaning if you associate yourself with something good. If you wish to touch the children’s lives, many locals will love you because you’re trying to educate and give proper training to those that don’t have access to it. Meanwhile, if you wish to touch their lives positively, then it can be an incredible opportunity for you to live with the natives, knowing their traditions, cultural backgrounds, and different lifestyles while helping them to have a better future.
8. Cambodia Doesn’t Get Boring
Cambodia never ceases to amaze everyone. Whether it is a motorbike transporting, or just one of those crazy, comical Cambodian moments, amusement is never far away. That’s why Cambodia is known as the city of wonders, and you’ll definitely enjoy different outdoor activities in the country.
9. Perfect Tropical Island
Cambodia is home to a smattering of idyllic islands. These islands are waiting to be explored by foreigners visiting the country for the first time. With Koh Rong been the largest and most developed of the islands, it tends to be where the parties are for people with a livelier slice of the action.
10. Chill on River and Explore Bike
It’s not that you’ll explore bike on the river, but you can chill on the river and also explore the country by bike in the long run. Aside from this fact, the country’s rugged landscape can be a biker’s dream, with several operators putting on their bikes to take visitors around. On the flip side, you can chill on the riverside with your food and drinks.
Why You Can Fall in Love with Cambodia’s People
Foreigners in Cambodia will agree that it is the citizens that make this country so special. With smiles aplenty, an abundance of generosity, and a lot of kindness from their heart, Cambodian’s gentle nature keeps travelers wanting to come back for more outdoor activities and fun. Let’s take a look at the reasons.
Cambodian Smile a Lot
This is one essential thing that’d make you fall in love with the country’s culture and tradition. Regardless of what you do, the locals will always laugh, so don’t get confused if you feel embarrassed. Often coupled with a twinkle in the eye, it is this trait that’d make the visitor feel at ease from the moment they set foot in the country, while the returnees feel like they are back to their country of residence.
Cambodian Love to Helps
As a foreigner in the country, if you’re looking lost, your motorbike has broken down, and in fact, the locals are willing to help. Within minutes, you’ll find Khmers collectively trying to find a solution to get you out of whatever pickle or situation you may be in. moreover, they are social by nature, and they even find it easier to invite you to their table for drinks and food.
Cambodians Are Curious and Inquisitive
It’s no doubt that Cambodians are very curious, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself bombarded with questions, starting from where you’re going, where you’re from, what to do, and whether you have kids. This will quickly be followed by multiple questions about your country, tradition, and your way of life.
They Are Kind and Humble
It’s part of the Cambodians way of life to be kind and humble. Possessing heaps of humility, Khmers are known to be the modest people that also know the meaning of the word respect and hold it in high regard. However, this is a factor that every visitor would love to see in a country they have never been to.
Cambodians Are Proud of Their Culture
Cambodians are always happy to show you their homeland because they are proud people. Besides, they are proud of their strong history, their rich culture, which takes in apsara dancing, traditional arts, and a great love for artisanal crafts. Also, many Cambodians will happily invite you to join them on a trip home to enjoy their family life.
Cambodians Are Hardworking
In this country, the family sits at the core of the citizen’s life, and providing for their family is one of their utmost importance. For many locals, this means long working hours, seven days a week, and often without complaint is what they admire. They are problem solvers, and they put others people’s problems in their care to provide a possible solution.
They Have a Spiritual Sense
Another reason why you should fall in love with the Cambodian culture is that they have a spiritual sense. Don’t be surprised when you hear the sound of the monks chanting through the air in the country. This is because; Cambodians have a spiritual sense, and they’re blessed by Buddhism just like other Asia countries. Not only that, but their country’s spiritual side has given way to a host of meditation and yoga retreats, where a cool sense of calm is waiting to wash over your soul.
Essential Tips for Moving To Cambodia
As the country develops in leaps and bounds, settling into your new life abroad could become great. If you’re looking for warm weather, friendly people, and beautiful scenery, moving to Cambodia is the right choice. Without further ado, let’s quickly walk you through the tips for moving to this great country.
Learn the Language
Many travel agencies will tell you to learn the country’s language before planning your relocation. Of course, that’s the best way to get connected with the locals quickly. Meanwhile, if you don’t know the language, you can still relocate, but we’re saying that understanding some of the basic words in their language could help you get better and make friends easier in the country.
Locate Where to Live
Since you’re moving to Cambodia for the first time, it’s quite essential to find a place to live apart from the hotel you arrive in. while there are several options to choose from, many foreigners have flocked to Phnom Penh because it’s a bustling city with great opportunities. Other cities on the rise in the country include; Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville and this is because they still provide a great place to live, just like the country’s capital.
Get a Good Healthcare System
You must get a good healthcare system for yourself while planning to relocate to Cambodia. This is because; the country’s healthcare system is lacking, and it would be better to invest in solid healthcare to protect yourself. Private hospitals and clinics will be able to treat many illnesses, but it will come at a reasonable price. That way, make sure you get health insurance while relocating here.
Finding an Accommodation
Finding somewhere to live is super easy in Cambodia. Moreover, many estate agents offer a range of properties from upmarket, sprawling villas and western-style apartments. However, these tend to sit in the higher price brackets, but if you’re looking for something cheaper, or a fancy sharing house, you’ll need to meet with the real estate agent in the country.
Make New Friends
One of the most daunting aspects of relocating abroad and starting a new life from scratch is making new friends. Thankfully, the expat life in Cambodia has become relatively easy to meet with people from all corners of the globe and all walks of life, choosing the country as their current place of residence. In addition, there are activities, clubs, and events to attend while you meet new friends.
Furthermore, this makes a great place to pick up a new hobby and make new friends. On the other hand, you can keep an eye on Facebook as bars and hotels constantly promote their eclectic range of events in the country. So, pick the friends you think it’s okay with, head along, and get chatting.
Attend Events and Get Networking
As we’ve mentioned earlier, Cambodians love to network, and there’s no shortage of networking events in a healthy mix of locals in the country. More so, attending these events comes highly recommended as a good way to meet people when you’ve just landed. Meanwhile, there are many chambers of commerce operating in the country to meet people. For example, EuroCham, AmCham, and many others hold monthly meetings with people, including the free flow of wine and tickets.
Finding the Right Job
Many people travel to Cambodia without securing a job from their home country. Well, it’s sometimes good because finding a new job in Cambodia is relatively easy. Meanwhile, several recruitment agencies and job boards such as Bong Thom, Facebook groups, and other Cambodia job announcement platforms. As with the previous point, networking is also a good bet to meet new friends in the country.
Pros and Cons of Moving to Cambodia
Lately, there have been a lot of Westerners moving to Cambodia because of its excellent features and partly due to the difficult job market in many Western countries. Besides, Cambodia is long becoming a more mainstream destination for expatriates and tourists. Again, some of the recent interest in Cambodia has come from Westerners living in neighboring countries like Thailand and others.
Rising prices in Thailand and stricter Thai visa regulations have already contributed to a noticeable influx of shifted-eyed creeping across the border into Cambodia. Fortunately, a lot of foreigners haven’t made it past the Sihanoukville. With such an overwhelming interest to move here, it’s better to understand the pros and cons. We have taken the time to explain the pros and cons. Take a look at it below.
Pros of Moving to Cambodia
1. So much Holidays
Cambodia is no doubt one of the countries with a ridiculous amount of national holidays. What really makes this holiday special is that unwritten policy allows people to take off a couple of days before and after the holiday. So, you won’t have a negative vibe, and you’ll enjoy different holidays while working in Cambodia.
2. Cheaper Beer Price
Surprisingly, it’s only in Cambodia you can see that the price of beer is quite lower than water. Speaking of beer, this isn’t true everywhere and for every beer. So, if you love beer, this could be one of your favorite locations to explore. Meanwhile, there are restrictions to drinking beer for some age groups.
3. Everyday Adventure in Cambodia
Cambodia is developing at a rapid-fire pace. With this in mind, locals and foreigners make use of this opportunity to explore the country. In Cambodia, every day is seen as an adventure. From their traditional cuisine to different outdoor activities, the benefits of living in Cambodia cannot be overemphasized.
4. Getting Around Is Easy
Unlike other neighboring countries, getting around in Cambodia is relatively easy. With about a million people or more, Phnom Penh is hardly the biggest city, but there are many day trips to explore. Also, transportation is quite affordable for expat moving to the country for the first time.
5. Cheap and Affordable Accommodation
There are many cheap and affordable apartments in Cambodia. This varies from neighborhood to neighborhood and the kind of city you choose to live in. No matter what you prefer, you’ll always get the one that meets your budget. Meanwhile, it’s better to be wary of the real estate agencies in the country.
6. Cambodia Low Cost of Living
We can tell you that the low cost of living is one reason why Cambodia has become the new expat paradise in today’s 21st century. The country may not be as cheap as backpackers and foreigners would wish, but it is undoubtedly one of the best places to start a new life. This means you can survive in this country with the low cost of living and affordability.
7. Pleasant Weather and Amazing Opportunity
The year-round pleasant weather of Cambodia is enjoyable. If you want to experience harsh winters in the past, this is a place you would love to spend your time. Not only that, but the tropical clime will encourage you to stay outdoors and indulge in various water activities during your leisure time.
Cons of Moving to Cambodia
1. Poor Infrastructure and Medical Care
Cambodia is a horrible place to raise a child because of its educational system, inadequate medical attention, and poor infrastructure. If you compare the neighboring countries like Vietnam and Thailand, you’ll see that the Cambodian nation is truly appalling. Besides, many expats report regular power outages in their neighborhood, which has put a major damper on the online porn habit in the country.
2. Police Corruption in the Country
Another problem you’ll likely face when you relocate to this country is police corruption. This is because; the majority of the police officers in the country are not paid enough salary to support themselves and their families. So, if you’re traveling by car, you may be fine at some point by the traffic police officers. On the other hand, there are a couple of ways to avoid police corruption.
3. High Drug Crime in Cambodia
While drugs are illegal in this country, many locals still find it easy to commit crimes. As an expat, it’s always best to avoid such circumstances for any unnecessary immigration rules and allegations. Also, there are many police set-ups and sting operations that could make you land in Cambodian jail indefinitely. So, be wary of the worse places to visit and avoid drugs and similar risky situations.
4. Poorest Country in Asia
Despite the recent achievements in the country, it remains one of the poorest countries in Asia. The nation’s deep-rooted corruption hinders further economic development. Also, limited human resources and high-income inequality are majorly the influential factors of poverty in the country.
Conclusion
Before moving to Cambodia, you must know the advantages and the disadvantages. Over the past decades, more and more expats have been moving to the Kingdom of wonders. But, I think it’s fair to say that many foreigners forget to weigh the benefits and cons. With this guide, we hope that your relocation would become easier.
