Buying your first home is always an exciting endeavour, but don’t let the excitement get the best of you. Read our quick guide so you know what to consider when buying your first home!Always think of a house as a long-term investmentBuying a house is a long-term investment regardless of whether you’re renting it, flipping it, or living in it. For the average person, a home constitutes half of their net worth - which means you should meticulously crunch the numbers to know if you can still make ends meet after purchasing the property. This includes being able to make the required payments, down to being able to keep the lights on.LocationThis is one of the best business advice out there, and we believe this applies to prospective home-owners as well. While a home’s value can be determined by the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, parking spaces, and a bunch of other criteria, people often forget the value it brings through its location.A prospective home’s location should be greatly considered according to one’s needs. For example, if a single man or woman is looking to buy a home, they normally wouldn’t worry about its proximity to a nearby school. On the other hand, a family would have a nearby school on top of their requirements.Whatever your needs may be, we suggest you consider the location of your home based on what you need - both in the short-term and the long-term.Land appreciates, Buildings DepreciateThis is another important principle to remember for future home-owners, especially those wondering whether they should buy an apartment or a house.A small house on a plot of land is generally going to be a better long-term investment compared to an apartment. The house can easily be remodeled, or set aside altogether, to build a new (and better) house. And if you ever decide to move, you can still rent it or sell it, and with land prices almost always rising, you can expect a healthy return on your initial investment.On the other hand, an apartment is much easier to acquire than a house. You don’t have to go through the headaches of building one, as the developer already took care of that for you. Higher-end apartments may also feature grant access to amenities such as pools, gyms, and spas - amenities that usually drive a house’s price much higher than an apartment.Whatever choice you make depends entirely on you. Just remember that buildings can be demolished, but the land underneath can’t, and thus, will always be valuable.How much should I spend on a home in Cambodia?How much you should spend depends entirely up to you and your needs. Unless you’re a cash whale, a downpayment of ~30% of the property’s value is required by banks or other lending institutions in Cambodia. Some property developers even offer loans to buyers, because, why not? If you’ve got the downpayment ready, it’s helpful to know that interest rates for housing loans can go up to 12% per annum in the country.But loan interest isn’t the only thing your wallet should be worried about. There are other upfront costs that require attention such as legal and transfer fees. If you’re acquiring a land title within the municipality of Phnom Penh, a transfer tax of 4% is required for both Soft and Hard titles. It’s important to note that this 4% transfer tax is based on separate criteria held by the relevant land office and NOT based on the property’s sale value. Whether or not the separate criteria will cost more is dependent on the criteria set by the land office.NOTE: If you’re a foreign national, you cannot buy landed property in Cambodia. There are, however, mechanisms to foreign ownership which you can in our Cambodia Investor Guide.Much like the first point of this guide, make sure you crunch the numbers well before investing your hard-earned money.What if I just want to keep renting?That is a valid choice for new home buyers. Many people do so because renting has fewer upfront costs, maintenance costs are carried by the landlord, and it gives them greater flexibility to move around should they change jobs or experience significant lifestyle changes, such as getting married or having children.But, keep in mind that if you buy a house and later wish to move, you do not necessarily have to sell it. You can choose to rent it out, thereby treating it as an investment property, while you go live elsewhere.In the long run, real estate is one of the safest investments on the planet and its value only tends to go up. As they say: "They aren't making any more land." If you can afford to buy, doing so is usually the wiser choice.Some general tips for negotiating your first home loanLoans are always open to negotiation, always. If there are concessions you think the bank can make, don’t be afraid to raise them up. For example, you can try asking for a better interest rate or waive the early termination fees. Remember that loans are how banks make money and they’ll try to do what they can to make their offer more appealing. Do you know why? Because there are more than a dozen big banks in Cambodia and they wouldn’t want you walking out that door.You can further leverage your position if you’re a long-time depositor in the bank. Having a good long-standing relationship with your bank lets them know you’re gonna be a good investment - and you should use that to get a better deal.Stay up-to-date on the real estate industry in Cambodia and get real-time updates on real estate news as they happen. Download the Realestate.com.kh App now!Article by:

A lot of foreign businesses are taking an interest in the Kingdom of Cambodia due to its attractive investment environment. As such, local entrepreneurs have thrown in their lot to set up real estate companies to meet the demands of both fellow Cambodians and foreigners. But setting up a real estate company is easier said than done.In this Realestate.com.kh guide, we will give you the guidelines for starting a real estate company with the necessary paperwork and licenses pertinent to Cambodia’s laws and regulations.DISCLAIMER: Realestate.com.kh strongly recommends consulting a lawyer for their professional guidance. This guide is only meant to give prospecting business owners an overview of starting a real estate company in the KingdomKey considerations in starting a real estate agencyInvestors looking to start a real estate agency in Cambodia will need to consider things such as company registration, tax obligations, real estate licenses, office setups, recruitment, and business plans.If you’re interested in starting a different kind of business, you can check Realestate.com.kh’s general guide to starting a business in Cambodia.For the purposes of this guide, we will specifically talk about how to start a real estate agency in Cambodia.Registration with the Ministry of CommerceBusiness registration is required at the Ministry of Commerce of the Kingdom of Cambodia. Registered businesses within the Kingdom are given a certificate of registration.The company must meet these following requirements from the Ministry of Commerce:Shall define a company name to be approved by the Ministry of CommerceShall come up with the company’s terms and conditions, documents to prove where the company is located, identity card of the company owner, certificate of bank deposit (at least $1,000), company stamp, appointment letter, and business registration application.The registration period at the Ministry of Commerce takes about two weeks and costs around $370. There are services rendered free of charge.Paying taxes at the General Department of TaxationAfter registering with the Ministry of Commerce, the applicant must submit the certificate of registration, along with other relevant documents, to the general Department of Taxation to pay their registration tax and annual patent tax for the initial registration.Patent Tax is derived from the taxpayer classification of the business owner under the Self-Assessment Regime of Taxation and is payable between January 1 to March 31 of each year. We advise consulting a lawyer on how you can properly asses your taxation regime to start a business in Cambodia.New taxpayers, whose business began within the first six months of the year will pay their annual tax in full. Those who begin their business within the last six months of the year will only have to pay half of their annual tax.Business owners who own several assets (such as warehouses, offices, etc) under one business in the same province only have to pay their patent tax within that province. Businesses who own assets across provinces will, however, have to meet their patent tax obligations in each province.Business owners are required to display the patent at their place of business. These patents take about 1 to 2 weeks to obtain and will cost 1,200,000 riels (US$290).Obtaining a license from the Ministry of Economy and FinanceThe last general step is to obtain a license from the Ministry of Economy and Finance. In order to apply for a license, the applicant must prepare the following documents:Completed application license formPhoto of the license owner and certificate of professional real estate serviceBackground of shareholder or company ownerLetter from the Ministry of Justice of CambodiaPhotocopy of a national identity card and residence bookDocuments issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Taxation, the company’s certificate of registration, and a copy of a letter of business registration and patent.Letter of business location issued by the local authority, together with photos of the business location.A 3-year business plan.Applying for a license at the Ministry of Economy and Finance takes about one month from the date of filing the sufficient paperwork without error.The required fees for a real estate agent license are as follows:Real estate agent license is 500,000 riels (US$ 120) plus an administration fee of 100,000 riels (US$ 25)Certificate of professional real estate service is 200,000 riels (US$ 50) plus an administration fee of 40,000 riels (US$ 10), totaling 840,000 riels (US$ 210).Once you have been issued a license and professional certificate from the Ministry of Economy and Finance, you can legally operate your business in Cambodia.You can register to be a member of the Cambodian Valuers and Estate Agents Association. Currently, CVEA has over 100 member companies, working as a network to promote real estate in Cambodia.Stay up-to-date on the real estate industry in Cambodia and get real-time updates on real estate news as they happen. Download the Realestate.com.kh App now!Article by:

Want to start living in the Kingdom of Wonder? It is one of the best places in Asia to live as an expat. Over 100,000 expats are currently residing here, and life is good! To help you, Realestate.com.kh has put together a definitive Cambodia expat guide.We’ll take you on a complete tour with this guide, include quotes from long-time expats, and even give you some Khmer language phrases to go with each section.ContentsCambodia basicsMoving to Cambodia: What to expectCost of living in CambodiaCambodian visas for expatsCambodian living conditions for expatsBest place to live in CambodiaHow many expats are there in Cambodia?Getting around CambodiaShopping for groceries in CambodiaJobs for expats in CambodiaCambodia basicsBefore you come to Cambodia, it’s good to know a little background information. We’ve got you covered. Consider the following section to be your crash course on where Cambodia is, its history, religion, government and language.Where is Cambodia?Cambodia is in Southeast Asia. On a map, it sits between Thailand and Vietnam and below Laos. Cambodia’s southern coast is off the Gulf of Thailand. Cambodia historyThe Khmer Empire of 800 to 1300 AD encompassed most of Southeast Asia. A great legacy of this era is the Angkor Wat temples in Siem Reap. This site is one of the most significant religious monuments in the world.From 1867 to 1953 Cambodia was a “protectorate” in the area known as French Indochina. This area also included most of Vietnam and Laos. Cambodia is still profoundly influenced by France’s legacy.The other most well-known period of Khmer history is the infamous Khmer Rouge era. This ultra-Maoist regime, led by Pol Pot, ruled the country from 1975 to 1979. During their brief time in power, the Khmer Rouge committed one of the worst genocides the world has ever seen. Nearly two million people were killed, or almost a quarter of the country’s population.Religion in CambodiaRoughly 97% of Cambodia’s population practices Theravada Buddhism, the official state religion. However, the influence of the country’s Hindu past can still be felt, especially at historic sites. Around 2% of the population belong to the Cham ethnic group who practice Islam. In addition to small groups of Christians in the country, there are also many ethnic-religious groups in the north.Cambodia’s governmentCambodia is, by definition, a constitutional monarchy. The King’s power is mostly symbolic. In practice, Cambodia is a parliamentary democracy. Norodom Sihamoni is the current King of Cambodia. Hun Sen, the current prime minister, has presided over the National Assembly since 1985. His Cambodia People’s Party won re-election in July of 2018 for another five-year term.What language do they speak in Cambodia?Khmer is the official language of Cambodia. It is in the same language family as Vietnamese. However, unlike its cousin, which in the recent past converted to use the Latin alphabet, Khmer still uses a unique alphabet.Basic English is widely spoken in Cambodia, and Mandarin Chinese is gaining momentum. Nonetheless, many foreigners coming to Cambodia learn at least a few simple phrases in Khmer.  Key Khmer phrases: Hello (formal) - jum riab sua Hello (informal) – suos deiCambodia- KompucheaKhmer language – paisa KhmaiYes (male speaker) - batYes (female speaker) - jaaNo – ot teiBack to top  Moving to Cambodia: What to expectNow that you know a little bit about the country, it’s time to layout your plan for moving to Cambodia. Living in a new country can be disorienting at first. Chances are, you’re moving to Cambodia from a country with a different culture. The following section is a practical guide to everything you’ll need before moving to Cambodia. What to pack for CambodiaYou might be tempted to bring a couple of huge suitcases or backpacks when you are moving to Cambodia. Sure, it’s good to be prepared. But don’t go overboard. Cambodia is a country with tons of cheap consumer goods. For example, you can buy a t-shirt here for a couple of dollars. So don’t stress too much about what to bring. If you are concerned, there are many Facebook Groups created by expats living in Cambodia, some are for specific nationalities and discuss specific items they miss from their home country or discuss what items they might bring to the Kingdom.Weather in CambodiaCambodia is hot all year. However, there is a rainy season and a dry season. December to April is considered the dry season. The worst heat comes near the end of this period, just before the rains start to cool everything off in May. September and October are the peak rainy months. The heat can be sweltering in Cambodia. In the middle of the day, it can hit 40C+ (104F). Even in the coldest months of the year, it stays around 30C! Make sure you're a lover of the heat if you’re moving to Cambodia. Here’s the current weather in Phnom Penh:The currency in CambodiaCambodia uses both the US dollar and the Cambodia Riel. The exchange rate is 4,000 Riel to 1 USD, and there are no coins. More and more places are accepting credit cards and digital payments, but cash is still the default currency in Cambodia. The situation surrounding the currency in Cambodia is a bit peculiar. People tend to use USD for larger payments. However, vendors are very particular about the condition of bills. A $100 or $50 bill with a small tear will be refused. Riel, on the other hand, is generally used for smaller amounts. They come in denominations between 100 riels and 50,000 riels.Since 2019 however, the National Bank of Cambodia has been pushing for the de-dollarisation which has been supported by businesses. NBC also launched Bakong, a central bank digital currency (CBDC) and encourage more digital payments since the global pandemic started in 2020.ATMs are ubiquitous in the city, so it’s usually not hard to get cash from your international bank account.Wall outlets in CambodiaThankfully, most buildings in Cambodia have wall sockets that accept Type A, Type C and Type G plugs. No matter whether you’re coming from the US, Europe, UK, Australia, or South America, you won’t need adapters. Even if you do, they are readily available. Anything between 220V and 240V is ok here.Can you drink Cambodian water?Tap water in Cambodia’s bigger cities should be safe to drink. However, plumbing rules are spotty, so most people drink bottled or filtered water. Municipal water is safe for washing and brushing your teeth.In rural Cambodia, most people still collect rainwater for daily use. It’s best to stick to bottled water in this case. Phone service and Wi-Fi in CambodiaCambodia has some of the best Wi-Fi coverage in Southeast Asia. In the bigger cities, every restaurant, guesthouse, and hotel will have it often for free.Mobile service is also, generally speaking, excellent. The leading providers are Cellcard, Smart, and Metfone. You can buy sim cards on every corner (you will need to present your passport), and data plans cost less than $3 a week.Key Khmer phrases: Money - louyPhone - touresapHot - kdauCold - rongeaRain - pliangPants- khaoShirt- auBack to top  Cost of living in CambodiaThe cost of living in Cambodia is quite low. However, it all depends on your lifestyle. The three main expenses while living here will probably be rent, food, and entertainment. Let’s break them down one by one:Rent costs in CambodiaRent fees can vary widely depending on where you live, what type of housing and whether or not you have roommates. You can get a place for as little as $150 per month in a shared apartment, or as much as $500 per month in a luxury building. On average, expect to pay between $300 and $500 per month for each bedroom. Our site has thousands of listings of apartments for rent in Phnom Penh from $300 to $500.You can rent authentically Cambodian digs for less than $300 per month.Western-style luxury apartments, called serviced apartments, are excellent. You can find them for $500-$2,000 per month. These usually come fully furnished and the buildings host pools, gyms and security. We’ve also got you covered here. Start browsing to find a condo for rent in Phnom Penh.You can track the price trends using our Cambodia Real Estate Trends tool.The official rate for electricity is 720 riel per kWh. However, many landlords will round this up to $0.25 for large buildings. The city's official water rate for residential spaces is between 550 and 1,270 riels per cubic metre. You should be paying between $20 to $60 per month for internet. If you pay for cleaning, you should look to spend from $30 to $100 a month, depending on the frequency.Food costs in CambodiaYou can find food for as little as $1.50 per meal. Cheap eats can be located on almost every street corner in urban centres. This dining is bare-bones, however. You’ll probably be outside on a plastic chair and with some covering. A mid-priced restaurant meal for two is approximately $15-20. There are more and more places in this range popping up in the cities and the quality of food and the range of cuisine can be excellent. Some expats in Cambodia eat out almost every meal. Others choose to buy groceries and cook at home. Food delivery apps and home grocery deliveries have also improved massively. Skip down to read more about buying groceries in Cambodia. On average most people spend between $200 and $500 on food every month.Cost of entertainment in CambodiaCambodia is still a developing country. But in the city, there are more and more modern amenities being developed. Shopping centres are some of the hottest destinations in the capital. The most prominent malls in Phnom Penh are Aeon Mall, Exchange Square, Sorya Centre Point, City Mall and Aeon Sen Sok. But there are dozens more planned in the capital alone. Most of these malls host cinemas, restaurants, arcade games, bowling and other forms of entertainment.Nightclubs and bars are also popular venues for expats to spend their time on the weekends. These tend to be in the central part of the city, near popular expat neighbourhoods. Pools are also popular places to hang out during the day. Check out our list of all Phnom Penh pools open to the public.Taking short trips around the country is a popular activity for many living in Cambodia. Since prices are lower in rural areas, you can often head away for an extended weekend for less than $200. Popular destinations include Kep, Kampot, Sihanoukville, Siem Reap and Mondulkiri.The final cost of living can be as low as $600 per month or up to $2,000 per month - it really depends on personal choice and budgets.Key Khmer phrases: Watch a movie - mul konSwimming - hael tukDance - roamDrink - pukCoffeeshop - haang cafeGo on a trip - dal leng Back to top  Cambodian visas for expatsGetting a visa in Cambodia is pretty straightforward. Most people show up and get one on arrival. But Cambodian visas for expats can cover a few different types. Read through the following section to learn about the visa that is right for you.Cambodia airportsThere are international airports in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville. If you’re coming from far away, you will usually arrive by way of another regional hub like Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangkok or Taipei. Cambodia’s airports are quite small, but that means getting in and out is simple. That said, more and more flights are being added each year as the number of tourist arrivals increase. As far as baggage and security, Cambodia airports are generally the same as any other country. The main airports also have seen several upgrades and new airports are being developed in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Koh Kong.Crossing the border into CambodiaCambodia officially has 15 border crossings. There are eight with Vietnam, six with Thailand and one with Laos. The majority of traffic to Thailand passes through the crossing at Poipet. Most buses going between Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and Cambodia cross at Bavet. Meanwhile, any passage to Laos goes through the crossing in Stung Treng.Cambodia visas for expatsCambodia usually does visas on arrival*. This means you’ll get them when you land at the airport or cross the border. All you’ll need are your passport and a passport size photograph. If you don’t have a photo, they will charge you $2 to scan the one in your passport. Most people arriving in Cambodia get either a T (tourist) visa or an E (ordinary) visa. E visa does not mean an electronic visa!There are a couple of other types of visas, such as B-type for NGO workers and K-type for foreign-born Khmer, but most people get T or E visas. These are both valid for 30 days. The T visa costs $30, and the E visa cost $35.Note: You can only extend the T visa once. You can get an additional 30 days for $45. Any travel agency can facilitate this in a few days. However, after that, you must leave the country and re-enter if you want to stay longer. E visas, on the other hand, are the better option if you plan to stay long term. You can extend E visas indefinitely. There are four types of extensions:EB for those with jobs in CambodiaEG for those looking for a jobER for those who want to retire in CambodiaES for studentsYou can get extensions that last one, three, six, or 12 months. The six and 12-month extensions are for multiple entries. Paying for one year gets you the best deal. It costs just under $300. Sounds expensive, but if you overstay your visa, you’ll have to pay $10 per day.*(Please note that since the COVID-19 pandemic, the visa situation has changed several times and it's best to visit the official Cambodian government websites' and embassy announcements for updates).Key Khmer phrases: Airplane – yun hauDay – tingaiOne – muoyTwo – bpiThree – beyFour – buonFive – bpramSix – bpram muoyTen – dop100 – muoy roi1,000 – muoy bpoanBack to top  Cambodian living conditions for expatsThere’s a reason that expats are attracted to the country: Cambodian living conditions for expats is pretty low-key. Cambodia is a developing country. Life moves at a slower pace, in general. But living conditions are still good, depending on how much you want to pay. The following section will take you through all the significant types of housing for expats in Cambodia. It will also give you instructions on how to find an agent and what to expect about Cambodian living conditions for expats.Types of expat housing in CambodiaChoosing what type of accommodation you want to live in is a big choice in Cambodia. If you’re only planning to stay for a short time, try getting a monthly rate at a guesthouse or hotel. Often, there will be a slight discount. If you’re on a budget, living in a shophouse is the way to go. These are the long, narrow buildings that often have shops and stores on the ground floor. Rent out an upper level with one or two friends, and you could pay as little as $150 per month. Dedicated apartment buildings are becoming more popular in Cambodia. Most come fully furnished and are more or less what you’d find in any other big city. They usually have one or two bedrooms and go for between $300 and $700 per month depending on the location. We have a massive list of expat rentals in Phnom Penh that you can start browsing right now.Serviced apartments are apartments decked out with luxury amenities. They have gyms, pools, and housekeeping service. They come in a range of sizes and can cost more than $1,500 per month. Most are in Phnom Penh, but you will find a few in Siem Reap and Sihanoukville.Villas are freestanding houses that can have between three and 10 bedrooms. Most span two or three floors, have a parking area, and some even have pools. People can use these as residences or businesses. Prices vary widely. But you can scope them all out now and find the perfect villa for rent in Phnom Penh.Hiring an agent, signing a lease in CambodiaIf you’re new to Cambodia, using a real estate agent is probably the best way to find your perfect property. Here most agents get paid a commission by the building owner, so there’s no extra cost to you. Just tell them what you’re looking for, and they’ll even arrange transportation to all of the viewings.If you hire an agent, they can also help negotiate the rental price. Usually, you can get them to reduce the rate a bit. After all, many apartments in the big cities sit empty.Make sure you get an English copy of the lease agreement, and you understand it before you sign. Usually, leases are for six months or a year. Deposits shouldn’t be any more than one month’s rent, electricity should be $0.25 per kWh or less, and water should be less than $0.50 per cubic metre.You can check our guide to pre-agreement considerations for renting in Cambodia for additional tips!Key Khmer phrases:House – pteaCity – tikrongProvince – khaetBathroom – bantub teukBedroom – bantub geengFloor___ - joan ti ________Door – tveaBack to top  Best place to live in CambodiaMost foreigners coming to Cambodia live in one of the three major cities; Phnom Penh, Siem Reap or Sihanoukville. There are a few smaller cities that attract both tourists and long-term visitors. Kampot, Kep, Battambang and Koh Kong are also popular.Finding the best place to live in Cambodia is all about what you want. Do you want to be near the beach? Near the amenities of the city? If you like having some luxuries, Phnom Penh is probably the best place to live in Cambodia. However, if you want nature and art, Siem Reap is probably the place for you.Are you looking to chill? If so, maybe choose Kampot or Kep. One of those towns is the best place to live in Cambodia for expats looking for a chill life with a cool sea breeze.Expat districts of Phnom PenhGenerally, expats in Cambodia live near the centre of their respective cities. In Phnom Penh, BKK1 is probably the most popular expat area, along with BKK2, BKK3, Toul Tum Poung 1 (Russian Market) and Tonle Bassac.BKK 1 and 2 are more upscale, with more amenities explicitly geared towards foreigners. Real estate for rent in BKK 1 can be a bit more expensive because of all the amenities. BKK1 is the best place to live in Cambodia if you are a Starbucks addict. If you want to learn more about the area, read our ultimate guide to BKK1. Or, watch this video that counts the top three reasons why expats love BKK1:BKK 3 and Toul Tum Poung 1 (Russian Market) both offer an attractive mix of western and local shops. Real estate for rent in Toul Tum Poung 1 tends to be more local-style. But you’ll find some great affordable places. If you love chill vibes, this is probably the best place to live in Cambodia.The Riverside area is popular with tourists and has many bars and nightclubs. It is, perhaps, less family-friendly than the other neighbourhoods, but it’s one of the best places to live in Cambodia if you love the nightlife. Our listings for real estate for rent in Daun Penh have tons of apartments right off the river. Find yours!More recently, Tuol Kork is a neighbourhood about 30 minutes out of the city centre that is increasingly attracting expats. Just like other large cities, commuting to a suburb outside the densely developed downtown area is an excellent way to find places renting for much less money. Start looking at the prices of real estate for rent in Toul Kork. Or, if you want to learn more, read the ultimate guide to Toul Kork to get more information about this marvelous area.Where to stay in Siem ReapIn Siem Reap, Wat Bo and Sala Kamreuk are two of the most popular areas for expats to live in. Here the primary industry is tourism, but many expats also come to work in the NGO sector. Do you have a heart of gold and a soft spot for ancient architecture?If yes, this is the best place to live in Cambodia for you. Find your accommodations right now at our page of real estate for rent in Siem Reap.Where to stay in SihanoukvilleDown south in Sihanoukville, many expats used to live near Victory Beach and ner Otres Beach. Over recent years, Sihanoukville has been undergoing massive changes and is now seeing brand new infrastructure, roads, refurbished sidewalks and beachside pathways as well as many new condos, hotels and grand mixed developments.  Many people opt for apartments in these new developments.Sihanoukville is the best place to live in Cambodia if you enjoy the seaside. Real estate for rent in Sihanoukville is also undergoing massive changes and prices are on the rise because of the city’s growth. You can easily find a deal on our listings page.Key Khmer phrases:To go -MovLet’s go - tosBeach - sa motCity - tikrongCommune - sangkatDistrict - khanBack to top  How many expats are there in Cambodia?It’s hard to say for sure exactly how many expats there are in Cambodia. Currently, between 150,000 and 200,000 foreigners live in Cambodia. In 2018, the government said that the total number of expats in Cambodia was 160,000, and with the introduction of the FPCS (Foreigners Present in Cambodia System) app in 2020, nearly 160,000 foreigners from 183 countries were recorded as living in Cambodia.Asian and Western expats in CambodiaExpats from Asian countries make up most of the expats in Cambodia. These include Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai, Malaysian, Indian, Indonesian, Korean, Japanese and Filipino.There are also plenty of Western expats in Cambodia. Most are French, British, Australian and American. However, many other European expats also live here. Retiring to CambodiaCambodia is consistently in the top 20 on InternationalLiving.com’s yearly index of best countries for retirement. Retiring in developing economies is becoming a global trend among heaps of expats.Meanwhile, the government has released plans to increase Cambodia’s attractiveness as a destination for foreign retirees. The proposed policies would give retirees the right to buy, rent or sell a property.For more info about retirement in the Kingdom, read our guide to retirement in Cambodia.Cambodia is expat-friendlyCambodia consistently ranks in the top five for most expat-friendly nations in the world. The local population is helpful and kind. Making friends is easy here. In less than a month, you'll probably be invited to a Cambodian wedding!It is easy to make friends with both locals and expats. Becoming friends with coworkers is very common. Many offices have football teams or go out drinking together. To meet other expats, you can visit one of the many expat-geared bars or join an activity group. Dodgeball, volleyball, rugby, and badminton are a few common sports that have leagues around town.Key Khmer phrases:Foreigner - bora teyExpat  - barang (literal translation means “French” but often used for all expats)“I come from…” – knyom mau bpiSports - keilaPlay - lengChinese - chenJapan - japonEnglish - angleAustralian - australiAmerican - americkBack to top  Getting around CambodiaGetting around Cambodia can be tricky for the uninitiated. Traffic is a bit disorganised, but paying for transport is generally cheap and easy to find. Most expats use tuk-tuks or autorickshaws for getting around the cities in Cambodia. Ride-hailing apps are convenient because the price is fixed, and it’s easy to map your route. On the other hand, some expats buy motorbikes or cars of their own to make getting around Cambodia more convenient. The following section will walk you through all these options for getting around.Cambodian tuk-tuks, taxis and ride-hailing appsMost foreigners will catch rides around the area in tuk-tuks, autorickshaws or taxis. Tuk-tuks are the carriages pulled by small motorbikes. They can usually fit up to four people. Don’t worry about finding them, if you’re in a busy area, they will find you! Going across a city like Phnom Penh via tuk-tuk should cost around $5 at the maximum. Shorter trips within the city will be less - for reference, trips around 2km are a little over $1 (4,400 KHR to 4,600 KHR).Ride-hailing apps are growing more popular every day for getting around Cambodia. The most significant local player is called PassApp. There’s also Grab, the Southeast Asian version of Uber. You can hail an autorickshaw for two or three people, or pay a bit more for a car. Buses and trains in CambodiaIf you’re travelling a longer distance, say from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville, there are a few options open to you. Of course, you could take an aeroplane. Flights are fairly cheap if you manage to get a promotion for domestic flights. If you want to save a few bucks, however, the bus, train or minivan might be better.There are tons of companies that run coach buses between all areas of Cambodia. Some are more comfortable than others. Giant Ibis is one of the more reputable names. The revamped train service between Phnom Penh, Kampot, and Sihanoukville costs $4 to go from the capital to Kampot or $7 to go to Sihanoukville. Buying a car or motorbike in CambodiaSome foreigners coming to Cambodia want to buy motorcycles or cars. Luckily, you don’t need a licence to drive bikes smaller than 125cc. Always wear a helmet and make sure you can handle Cambodian traffic before driving.To drive a car, you’ll need to get a special permit for Cambodia. Thankfully, there is a driver’s licence centre in Aeon 2 where you can apply for a permit. Just bring the driver’s licence for your home country, two passport photos, a visa and 30,000 riels for the fee.Key Khmer phrases: Motorbike – motoTurn right – bat sdamTurn left – bat chvengGo straight – tov trongCar – laanBus – laan krongTrain – roteh plungRoad – phlauv Back to top  Shopping for groceries in CambodiaAfter arriving, you’ll need some food. Fortunately, Cambodia has a great variety of food. As you’ll see, it’s quite cheap to eat out, so some choose to go to restaurants almost every day. Others prefer shopping for groceries in Cambodia and cooking on their own.While you’re shopping for groceries in Cambodia, you have to keep a few things in mind. Imported foods are going to be expensive. On the other hand, local produce is guaranteed to be fresh and natural as there aren’t massive factory farms like in more industrialized countries. This section will walk you through the steps to take when shopping for groceries in Cambodia. It will also tell you about restaurant etiquette, tipping, drinking culture and the types of cuisine in Cambodia.Grocery stores and markets in CambodiaIf you want to cook at home, there are plenty of places to buy food and ingredients. The cheapest option is to go to a local wet market. Markets can be tricky, but with a bit of Khmer language and some bargaining skills, you can come out on top. International-style grocery stores are growing in popularity. So are small convenience stores that sell dry goods. There’s Lucky, Thai Huot and Super Duper as well as Aeon Maxvalu Express, Circle K and Kiwi Mart (with 7-Eleven due to open in 2021). Prices are more expensive, but they also have imported goods. More international and regional brands are also entering the market.Unsurprisingly, they are more readily available in some of the same neighbourhoods where expats tend to concentrate in the cities, such as BKK 1 and 2 or the Russian Market in Phnom Penh. Do you tip in Cambodian restaurants?Eating out at restaurants is very common in the Kingdom. Nearly every cuisine and price point is covered. Usually, the waitstaff can speak some English, but when in doubt just use the menu to point.Tipping is generally not practised in Cambodia except in upscale restaurants. Even in that case, service fees will often be added. If you want to tip, leaving a few extra dollars is fine. Service can be a bit lax compared to what you’re used to in restaurants in Western countries. Don’t feel bad about waving down a waiter if you need something. That’s just the way it works.Drinking culture in CambodiaThe drinking culture is quite widespread in Cambodia. Bars serve almost everything, but beer is the most popular drink for locals. The big names are Angkor, Anchor (pronounced ann-chore), Cambodia, Ganzberg and Tiger.You can also find wine shops and craft beers which are on the rise. Many bars and restaurants will serve you cocktails and specialist bars for whiskies, cocktails and other beverages are increasing in popularity. Happy Hour often means alcoholic beverages such as cocktails can be half price, and quite often happy hours run for several hours. Cafes in CambodiaCoffee culture is a rapidly growing part of Cambodian society. The younger generation loves to drink coffee and hang out at the many cafes in the city. Read our list of the top 10 cafes in Phnom Penh to learn more.What to eat in Cambodia Cambodian food shares some similarities with cuisines from neighbouring Thailand and Vietnam. However, it has many dishes of its own. In general, every meal comes with steamed white rice or fried rice. Fresh vegetables are common ingredients, as are lemongrass, lime, black pepper and herbs.One of the most famous, or infamous, food in Cambodia is prahok, or fermented fish. Fish is one of the most common proteins in the country. It can be found grilled, boiled, fried and everything in between. Chicken, beef, pork, duck and seafood are all common as well.Noodle soup is one of the most traditional breakfasts in Cambodia. Kuy teav is comparable to Phở in Vietnam and features rice vermicelli and beef. Pork with egg and rice is another popular breakfast, think of it as a version of bacon and eggs. Rice porridge is another popular dish, but people eat it at any time of day.Num bahn chok is another signature noodle dish; this one is noodles served in curry. It can be eaten hot or cold and with your choice of meat. In general, food in Cambodia isn’t as spicy as Thai food. But chili sauce is always available for heat lovers.If you’re looking for something quick and easy, many street vendors sell nompang or sandwiches. These are nearly identical to the famous Bánh mì of Vietnam. There are also vendors who sell all manner of fried noodles, fried rice or spring rolls.If you're feeling adventurous, try pong tea kon, known elsewhere as balut, which is duck/chicken fetus. Also, give durian a try, or even fried crickets, which are a typical snack while drinking beer.Key Khmer phrases: Food – mhobChicken – sach moanPork – sach chroukBeef – sach koFish – sach treyVegetable – bun leyFruit – plech cheu“Can I pay the bill?” – Som kut luyBeer – bee yahCheers – chul muyBack to top  Jobs for expats in CambodiaFinding jobs for expats in Cambodia can seem complicated. But several key industries are keen to hire those already in the country or ready to relocate. Most expats in Phnom Penh make anywhere from $12,000 to $60,000 per year. They work at NGOs, or in hospitality, tourism, education, tech or business. Some are hired to come here. Others choose to show up and look for work. Merely showing up is not as crazy as it might sound.The two most popular Cambodian job sites are BongThom.com and HRinc. You can also look to targeted Facebook groups to find out about jobs for expats in Cambodia.Teaching jobs in CambodiaThe first thing that many foreigners think of is English teaching. Lots of schools want to hire native English speakers to teach their students. Additionally, tons of tutoring gigs are available both for the English and Chinese languages. To help in your search, look through our complete list of Phnom Penh international schools and universities. NGO Jobs in CambodiaAnother important sector for expats is the NGO arena. Many foreign-backed non-profit organisations hire for a multitude of positions. There are also tons of international companies that hire foreigners. Many specifically target English or Chinese speakers.Start your own business in CambodiaMany people come to Cambodia to start their own business. Overhead is low, and the market is growing fast. Many choose to open bars, restaurants, guesthouses or tour companies. There is also a growing market for tech companies. For more information about starting your own business, read our guide to starting a business in Cambodia. Salary in CambodiaThe next big question is about money: How much can foreigners make while working in Cambodia. The answer varies a ton. Expat salaries can range from $800 to over $4,000 per month. Keep in mind that the cost of living here is much lower than what you’re used to, and the average salary for locals is less than $300 per month.Foreigners’ salaries are taxed at 15% by the state through payroll. Most employers will use specific banks and have direct deposit set up for all workers. The big banks in Cambodia are ABA Bank, Acleda Bank, Satthapana Bank, FTB Bank, Canadia Bank, ANZ Bank and many others. Most of these banks have numerous branches and ATMs throughout big cities.You can check out guide to banking for foreigners in Cambodia for more information.National holidays in CambodiaUntil recently, Cambodia had the highest number of national holidays in the world, spanning 28 days of the year. These have been reduced to 21 starting in 2022. These are the official holidays for Cambodia in 2022:January 1 New Year’s Day (Saturday)January 7 Victory over Genocide Day (Friday)March 8 International Women’s Day (Tuesday)April 14, 15, 16 Khmer New Year (Thursday, Friday, Saturday)May 1 International Labor Day (Sunday)May 14 The Royal Birthday of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni, King of Cambodia (Saturday)May 15 Vesak Bochea Festival (Sunday)May 19 Royal Plowing Ceremony (Thursday)June 18 Royal Birthday of Her Majesty Queen Norodom Monineath Sihanouk, the Queen Mother of Cambodia (Saturday)September 24 Constitution Day (Saturday)September 24, 25, 26 Pchum Ben Festival (Saturday, Sunday, Monday)October 15 Day in Honor of the Late King Norodom Sihanouk, His Majesty the King Father (Saturday)October 29 Royal Ceremony of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni, King of the Kingdom of Cambodia (Saturday)November 7, 8, 9 Royal Water Festival (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday)November 9 National Independence Day (Wednesday)Medical care in CambodiaHealthcare in Cambodia doesn’t always get the best reputation. Many suggest going to Thailand for any significant issues. There are many clinics, hospitals, and dental facilities, however, that do offer high-quality healthcare.Refer to our guide to medical facilities in Cambodia to see all the best hospitals, clinics, and dental facilities. Key Khmer phrases:Work – twerkaCompany – krom hunOrganisation – angkarHoliday – tingai somrakSalary – brak kaiBank – thnia kearHospital – monti bpetDoctor – bpetDentist – bpet tmin  Back to top Expat life in CambodiaExpat life in Cambodia might not be for everyone. If you crave a unique experience in one of the most exciting parts of the world, you'll love it here. To be sure, life as an expat in Cambodia can be full of challenges. But the people you'll meet, the sights, sounds and smells you'll experience will be something you will take with you for the rest of your life.We hope you are successful in finding your home in Cambodia. Make sure to come back here for all of your real estate needs and use this page as your guide while navigating life as an expatriate in Cambodia, the Kingdom of Wonder. Looking to buy or rent in Cambodia? Let us help!Article by:

Whether you’re just a visitor or a permanent resident in Cambodia, you’ll want to be informed on the state of healthcare here. Realestate.com.kh has you covered with another comprehensive guide to Phnom Penh hospitals, clinics, dentists and pharmacies.If you’re searching for an apartment for rent in Phnom Penh or a condo for rent in Phnom Penh you might want to be near a good clinic. Perhaps you want to live in a district with the best hospital. Anyway, it doesn’t hurt to stay informed.Scroll down the page to browse the complete list of medical facilities below. However, if you want a bit of background on medical facilities in Cambodia here’s a breakdown:Should you use Phnom Penh hospitals or get airlifted?If you peruse forums online you’ll find that Phnom Penh hospitals sometimes get a bad rap for the state of their healthcare. In fact, many people will say you should head to Thailand for anything more than a routine doctor visit. These sentiments can definitely be exaggerated. There are plenty of quality medical facilities in Phnom Penh and the state of medical care is constantly improving. You just have to know where to look and the Facebook expat groups can be useful although you will rarely get a unified opinion about a place.In an emergency, there are private hospitals in Phnom Penh that can properly assist you. In non-urgent cases try looking around for s medical professional with a clinic in Phnom Penh and/or a specialist with a good reputation. Foreigners usually steer clear of state hospitals, with perhaps Calmette hospital being an exception in some cases.If you have traveller’s insurance or get coverage through your work, make sure you know which facilities are covered by your provider. In 2020, medical insurance in Cambodia grew by 2.2 per cent, mainly influenced by COVID-19.Expatriates will often look for insurance cover that includes medivac (medical evacuation) to hospital care services in nearby countries such as Thailand in medical emergencies.Not covered? This might not be a huge deal for minor medical conditions, at least in Cambodia. Hospitals and clinics in Phnom Penh are quite cheap compared to many other countries across the world.We’ve also given a cost rating to the facilities on the list below.Find a pharmacy after visiting Phnom Penh hospitalsWhen they say “don’t judge a book by its cover” they probably didn’t have clinics in mind. Every street seems to have a clinic, in Phnom Penh, at least. Ignore the dingy-looking places and generally go to a clinic in a bigger, nicer building. Many hospitals in Phnom Penh even have their own clinic onsite.Healthcare isn’t an area of your life in which you should be stingy, so medical insurance and the knowledge you can be airlifted to international hospitals in the region does offer peace of mind.There are tons of pharmacies and dental clinics across Phnom Penh. Your best bet for quality service is to go to one of the most upscale facilities - Stick to the ones on our list and you’ll be fine but it never hurts to do some research before you go.So, without further ado, here’s the complete list of quality Phnom Penh hospitals, clinics, dentists, and pharmacies:Full list of hospitals, clinics, dentists, and pharmacies in Phnom Penh+ Means the facility is open 24 hours. NameLocationTypeSpecialtyCostPhoneSummaryApsara Phnom Penh Clinic+7 MakaraClinicGeneral$023 218 583Apsara is an unassuming local clinic. Most feedback on this facility is positive.Sihanouk Hospital Center of Hope7 MakaraNon-profit HospitalInfectious diseases, HIV and TBfree023 882 484Run by US-based HOPE, this facility aims to help poor Cambodians.Malis Dental Clinic7 MakaraDental ClinicDentistry$$023 964 142Malis hosts four dentists: two from Japan, one from Korean and one from Cambodia.Sun Int'l ClinicBKK1ClinicGeneral$$023 956 777SIC hosts Japanese doctors. They also prescribe Japanese approved medicine.European Dental ClinicBKK1Dental ClinicDentistry$$$012 340 393European Dental was started by a French dentist and today has a staff of both foreigners and locals.Khmer Soviet Friendship Hospital+ChamkarmonPublic HospitalGeneral$023 217 524The Khmer-Soviet Friendship Hospital was started with funding from the former Soviet Union. It is colloquially known as Russian Hospital.Mercy Medical CenterChamkarmonChristian Charity ClinicWomen's Health$097 850 0448MMC, a faith-based medical organisation runs this health centre in Chamkarmon.Master Care Dental ClinicChamkarmonDental ClinicDentistry$$016 820 081Master Care has some dentists who were trained abroad. It gets many positive reviews for its affordability.Physiotherapy Phnom PenhBoeng TumpunClinicPhysical therapy$$023 996 344This therapy centre is run primarily by Dutch doctors and is well regarded for physiotherapy treatment.Roomchang Dental HospitalChbar Ampov, Daun Penh, Sen Sok, and Tonle BassacDental ClinicDentistry$$023 211 338Roomchang has many locations around the city that all get good reviews.Sunrise Japan Hospital Phnom Penh+Chroy ChangvarHospital / ClinicGeneral, Neurology$$023 260 152This Japan-run medical facility offers everything from emergency care to pediatrics. It is located in Chroy Changvar.European MedicareDaun PenhClinicGeneral$$011 811 175Merger of “Cabinet Français” and  Naga Clinic. Only for consultationsCalmette Hospital+Daun PenhPublic HospitalSurgery$012 772 789Calmette was established jointly between France and Cambodia in 1950. Many Cambodians travel to the capital to get treatment here.Ang Duong Hospital+Daun PenhPublic HospitalEar and eye treatment$023 218 875This is another state hospitals. It is known for ear, nose and eye treatment.Central Hospital+Daun PenhPrivate HospitalGeneral$$$023 214 955This facility claims to be Cambodia's first modern private hospital. It has 80 beds, two delivery rooms and two operating theaters.Embassy Medical CenterDaun PenhGeneral MedicineWomen's Health, Pediatrics$017 490 650Embassy is part of the HOPE network of facilities and has three different branches around Phnom Penh.International SOS CambodiaDaun PenhGeneral MedicineGeneral$$$+66 2 205 7866International SOS is a worldwide company, and they claim to offer Western-level health care. They have both foreign and local doctors.Raffles Medical Phnom PenhDaun PenhPrivate HospitalGeneral$$$023 216 911This Singaporean hospital is one of the top facilities in the country. Many upper-class Cambodians come here for medical treatment.Traveller's Medical ClinicDaun PenhClinicTropical ailments, STDs$$023 306 802Traveller's Medical Clinic is a small office operated by a British doctor who has been practicing in Cambodia for many years.Pasteur InstituteDaun PenhResearch HospitalVaccinations, rabies$$012 812 003IPC operates as a research hospital under the government. It is the only international vaccination centre in the country.Procare MedicalDaun PenhMedical CentreGeneral$$$061 828 410Procare aims to provide international-level health care to everyone from babies to adults. Prices for regular visits are $40 for children or adults or $50 for babies.Kantha Bopha Hospital+Daun PenhPublic Children's HospitalChildren's healthfree023 428 009Established by Swiss pediatrician Beat Richner in 1992, Kantha Bopha is a free children's hospital. In 2018, Richner passed away and the hospital would come under state control.Pharmacie De La GareDaun Penh and BKKPharmacy $$092 711 771De La Gare is considered by expats to be the top pharmacy in the country. It stocks medicines brands from Europe and the US.U-Care PharmacyMany locations across Phnom PenhPharmacy $$$023 224 099With almost 15 locations across the city, U-Care is usually the best place to go if you just need some headache medicine or something for a cold.Royal Phnom Penh Hospital+Sen SokPrivate HospitalGeneral$$$023 991 000Often considered one of the top hospitals in the country, Royal Phnom Penh Hospital is a Thai-backed enterprise. They have both Khmer and foreign doctors.Sen Sok International University Hospital+Sen SokGeneral MedicineGeneral$$023 883 713Sen Sok University Hospital is a facility trusted by both locals and expats. There are one or two international doctors here.Khema ClinicToul KorkClinicMaternity$023 880 949Specialising in pre-natal care, Khema is popular with both local and foreign expectant mother in Cambodia.Preah Kossamak HospitalToul KorkPublic HospitalDermatology$023 883 047Kossamak was expanded in 2014 with German and British funding. It attracts patients from the province, especially for skin-related ailments.Map of the best Phnom Penh hospitals, clinics, dentists and pharmacies:We hope you find all the information you're looking for about Phnom Penh hospitals and medical facilities in the list and map above. Stay safe while you're in the Kingdom of Wonder!Stay up-to-date on the real estate industry in Cambodia and get real-time updates on real estate news as they happen. Download the Realestate.com.kh App now!

It is the first question parents ask when they buy a new house in the capital: What are the schools like here? For this reason, many parents (especially expatriates) seek out international schools in Phnom Penh.Realestate.com.kh wants to help answer that question for all the districts of the capital. We’ve compiled this full list of Phnom Penh international schools and universities. Scroll down and you’ll find a full list of the schools, their location, speciality, tuition fees, and a short summary.NOTE: During the COVID-19 pandemic from 2020-2021, Distance Learning and E-Learning programmes for students were implemented at most schools - the quality of the education, teaching salaries and the number of students have all been affected.First, here’s a short intro on the different types of education on offer in Cambodia:Phnom Penh international schools and private schoolsThese types of schools make up a huge part of education in Phnom Penh. Many offer mixed curriculums and some focus on English-language education. These schools can offer programs starting at nursery age all the way up through to high school.Beware: The term “international school” is thrown around liberally and we advise parents to do their due diligence If you want your child to get truly international education, look for the schools that have certified International Baccalaureate (IB) instructors. According to the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports (MOEYS), between the academic year 2018 to 2019, 218,357 students were enrolled in 1,222 private schools nationwide, ranging from preschool to grade 12.You can find a range of available properties in Phnom Penh here.Things to consider in choosing an International SchoolLocationThere are plenty of international schools in Cambodia, but international schools in Cambodia are more focused on the Phnom Penh area because this is where a large concentration of expatriates is located.But there are also a couple of international schools in other parts of the country that you can take a look at if you’re establishing your temporary home outside the capital, such as the International School of Siem Reap and the Ecole Française de Battambang.It’s important to choose the right school with an accessible location so that children will find it convenient to come to and from your home, given that Phnom Penh can experience some serious congestion around peak travel times. It also helps in terms of attending school gatherings when parents are expected to attend.Find all of the latest properties and homes for sale and rent in Siem Reap and Battambang.Adherence to international education standardsIt’s important to note that public schooling in Cambodia is not something that’s offered to expat students. This is why you’ll see most of the expat children attending international schools. Beware, however, that the term "international school" is used liberally by schools as a marketing tool. So, we advise parents to consider asking if the school's teachers have International Baccalaureate (IB) qualifications.Before deciding, you may also have to first carefully consider the next few months, or years, of your family's stay in Cambodia. It would be helpful to know whether or not you’ll be staying for the long term and where you’ll be moving to in the near future as different schools will offer varying curriculums. Some of them might not be accepted in other countries when you decide to move and to your next 'home'.If your family is thinking of moving to Canada, or a place with a similar educational system, the Canadian International School has adopted the Canadian K-9 Curriculum in English which is approved and regulated by the province of Alberta to make sure that the school maintains the quality that is consistent to the education given in Canada.Northbridge International School, iCAN British International School, and the International School of Phnom Penh (ISPP) are some other institutions in Phnom Penh that import international standards of teaching and offer universally accredited qualifications.By ensuring that your child undergoes a curriculum that is compatible with the next country you’ll be living in, your kids will make the transitions much easier and you’ll also avoid getting into complications such as repeating grade levels. This is also applicable to expatriate secondary students who are thinking of attending universities around the world.Qualifications and credentials of teachersSome institutions will claim international status but will not have the proper resources and facilities to justify this. So, taking your time to visit and ask officials from schools to clarify the status should be a vital part of your decision-making process. This way, you can see the facilities and safety standards of the schools, and also interview them about the experience and background of their teachers.Because international schools in Cambodia are mostly home to children of different cultures, one thing you can look for is a school that has teachers with the necessary experience to lead a multicultural class.In addition to checking the school’s physical infrastructure, do a bit of online research and see if the school’s been accredited by any international regulating bodies. An example would be the Northbridge International School which has the Western Association of Schools and Colleges international accreditation.Skills training for studentsThe iCAN British International School is one of the more popular international schools in Cambodia because, beyond the academic aspect, they also focus on integrating skills development through their Early Years and Foundation Stage program where students are able to enhance their skills inside and outside their classrooms.Expatriates will find this as an attractive quality because it offers their children something to do while they’re in another country. At this point, they not only develop skills but also friends that will have the same interests as them.Tuition fees and other miscellaneous expensesTuition fees for Phnom Penh international schools and private schools range from as low as $300 per year to over $20,000.A study released by the International Schools Database (ISB) in late 2019 suggested international school fees are the cheapest in Cambodia’s capital city (Phnom Penh) among major cities in Asia.Check the full list below for price ranges.Cambodia's public schoolsState education is governed by the Cambodian Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport (MOEYS) at a national level and the Department of Education at a provincial level.State-run schools are responsible for educating the majority of the country's children. However, these schools often suffer from extremely low funding as well as a lack of resources and infrastructure.In 2010, Cambodia sat in the bottom part of the global list for public education funding. At that time it spent just 2.6% of GDP on education, as opposed to over 6% in nearby Vietnam. Because of this, Most families opted for private schools as soon as they can afford to do so. There are public primary and high schools across the capital. Some of the most well-known Phnom Penh are:Bak Tuk High School in 7 MakaraChea Sim Beung Keng Kong in BKK1Beung Trabek High School in ChamkarmonPrek Leap High School in Chroy ChangvarSisowat High School, Chatumok High School, Norodom School, and Wat Koh School in Daun PenhRussey Keo School in Russey KeoHun Sen Phnom Penh Thmey in Sen SokChea Sim Santhormuk in Toul KorkToul Tompong High School in Toul Tum PoungPhnom Penh universitiesThere are both public and private Phnom Penh universities. When searching for universities, students and parents usually look at the specialities of the school. Many universities focus on economics, business, humanities, tech, and many other subjects. Refer to the table below for more information.Some Phnom Penh universities offer student housing, but the majority of Cambodian students choose to live with family or friends. Tuition fees at public universities tend to be lower than in private universities. Some universities offer a range of extra-curricular activities such as clubs and sports.There has also been a drive from the Cambodian government to focus on technologies and Industry 4.0 skills as well as Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).In 2021, partnerships between international universities and private Engineering graduate schools from France and ASEAN with Cambodian education centres were also announced.There has also been a desire for Cambodian and international students to study overseas in the UK and Europe, the US, Australia and across Asia with many programs established for scholarships.Chinese schoolsDespite not being as prevalent as English-based education, there are many Chinese schools in Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville. Mixed families or Cambodians of Chinese descent are the main demographic represented at these schools.Often these schools prepare students for careers in business or other paths that favour Chinese language skills.Full list of Phnom Penh international schools and universities: SchoolLocationTypeCurriculum / specialtyTuition (per year)PhoneSummaryPhnom Penh International University7 MakaraPrivate UniversityGeneral Research$5,000023 999 908PPIU aims to be a school for those looking for holistic education. They offer courses in Education, Law, Economics, and Business.New Gateway International School7 MakaraInternational School (Primary)Mixed (Khmer, English, Chinese)$2,000 to $5,000017 717 879New Gateway pitches itself as a tri-lingual school, offering instruction in English, Chinese, and Khmer. It has over 1,400 students.Tuan Hua Chinese School7 MakaraChinese SchoolChinese 016 688 286One of the largest Chinese schools in Southeast Asia, Tuan Hua follows the Khmer curriculum but instruction happens in Chinese.Chhong Zheng Chinese School7 MakaraChinese SchoolChinese  Chong Zheng is one of the few schools that follow the Chinese model in Phnom Penh.Pannasastra University of CambodiaBKK, Duan Penh, and Toul KorkPrivate UniversityGeneral Research$2,500023 986 909Pannasastra University has three branches across the city and prides itself on its high level of instruction. Education here is all based in English.The Giving TreeBKK1International School (Primary)English-based$1,000 to $3,000017 997 112The Giving Tree positions itself as an environmentally conscious centre for early education. Their curriculum is play-based.Heritage International SchoolBKK1International School (Primary)Mixed curriculum$1,000 to $3,000023 244 179This mixed primary school claims that most of its students come from middle-class families.Bamboo International SchoolBKK1International School (Pre-K)Montessori$2,000 to $3,000092 800 701Bamboo is another school in Phnom Penh offering a Montessori curriculum through classes in both Khmer and English.Brighton International SchoolBKK1International School (Primary)Mixed curriculum (Khmer and English)$2,000 to $4,000023 213 149BIS was opened in 2015 to provide holistic education to the youngsters of the capital. The school has a mixed Khmer and English curriculum.Harrods International AcademyBKK1International School (Pre-12)Singaporean-British 023 973 999Harrods is one of the most well-known primary schools in the city. They have a unique campus and they offer tons of activities for children.Raffles Montessori International School of Phnom PenhBKK1International School (Primary)Montessori 023 993 999RMISPP is a licensed Singaporean school and offers English-based education through its Montessori curriculum. Home of English International SchoolBKK3International School (Pre-12)English-based$3,000 to $5,000023 220 960Home of English has been operating in Cambodia for over two decades. It aims to provide quality English-based instruction at an affordable price.East-West International SchoolBKK3International School (Pre-12)Mixed curriculum (Khmer and English)$3,000 to $6,000023 998 244East-West is a bilingual school that offers a full curriculum to students. According to its materials, each classroom is led by two teachers, one fluent in English and one fluent in Khmer.Cam-Asean UniversityChamkarmonPrivate UniversityEnglish and Chinese$200070 774 450Focusing on language studies, Cam-Asean University aims to prepare its students for work in other countries in the region.Vanda InstituteChamkarmonPrivate UniversityAccounting, Finance$470023 213 563Vanda has been around since 1997. It specializes in training students of jobs in the fields of accounting, finance, and business.Royal University of Law and EconomicsChamkarmonPublic UniversityLaw and Economics$2,500023 214 703Over 15,000 students attend this institution which is the oldest in the country, having been established in 1949.Human Resource UniversityChamkarmonPrivate UniversityHuman Resources$300 to $400023 987 826This school was first established as a non-profit organisation in 1998. Now, however, if trains some of the top HR professionals in the country.Southbridge International SchoolChbar AmpovInternational School (Pre-12)Mixed curriculum$4,000 to $7,500017 222 090Located just off the grounds of Borey Peng Huot in Chbar Ampov.Norton UniversityChroy ChangvarPrivate UniversityGeneral Research$1,000 to $1,500023 982 166Norton University was established in 1996, making it one of the first private schools in the country. Royal University of AgricultureDangkorPublic UniversityAgriculture$2,500023 219 829This school is operated in part by Cambodia's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries. It offers courses in everything from veterinary medicine to sustainability.IT Academy STEPDaun PenhPrivate SchoolTechnology$1,200085 777 120IT Academy STEP is a private school that provides students with professional computer education. The school also offers short courses and a special program on Sundays for children from 9 to 15 years old.National University of ManagementDaun PenhPublic UniversityBusiness$500023 428 120The National University of Management has been in operation since 1983. It focuses on business topics and offers courses in management, economics, commerce, tech, law, tourism, and languages.University of PuthisastraDaun PenhPrivate UniversityHealth Science, Technology 023 220 476Puthisastra is a school that focuses on health sciences and health tech. They have been operating since 2007University of Health SciencesDaun PenhPublic UniversityHealth Sciences$1,000 to $2,000023 430 559The University of Health Sciences is the main institute to train Cambodia's doctors, nurses, dentists, and other health professionals. The school enrolls over 6,000 students.Footprints International SchoolDaun PenhInternational School (Pre-12)Mixed curriculum (Khmer and English)$2,000 to $5,000095 222 084Footprints operate under the Cambridge system. It was established in 2007 and is set to see its first graduating class in 2020.American Pacific International SchoolDaun PenhInternational School (Pre-12)Cambridge$3,000 to $4,000015 716 727APIS has two branches in Phnom Penh and educates around 500 students. It employs 87 full-time teachers and boasts a maximum class size of 24.CamEd Business SchoolDaun PenhPrivate UniversityBusiness$4,000 to $6,000023 986 523Students here aim to go into the fields of finance, accounting, and entrepreneurship. The school has a relationship with the local European Chamber of Commerce.Lycee Rene Descartes (French Int'l School)Daun PenhInternational SchoolFrench curriculum$5,000 to $10,000023 722 044This private French school is operated partly under the auspices of the French government. Many students who go here end up studying in Europe.University of Fine ArtsDaun PenhPublic UniversityFine Arts$500 to $1,000023 986 417UFA is the oldest university in the country. It offers programs in art, music, dance and other humanities. The school hosts many art shows.ICS International SchoolDaun PenhInternational School (Pre-12)Cambridge 099 509 998ICS first opened its doors in 2005. Interestingly, its website claims that the school is "about education, not recreation". The school offers both IETLS and TOEFL exams."National Institute of EducationDaun PenhPublic UniversityEducation 070 392 532The National Insitute of Education is a higher learning institute for those wanting to become teachers and instructors. It offers a number of specialties, everything from economics to history.Golden Gate American SchoolDaun Penh and Toul KorkInternational School (Pre-12)Mixed curriculum$1,000 to $2,000023 212 154GGAS is one of the only schools in Cambodia that offers a program where students get a certified American high school diploma. They also offer Khmer and Chinese.American Intercon Institute / School (AII/AIS)Daun Penh, Toul Kork and Toul Tum PoungInternational SchoolEnglish language$200 to $300 per 50-day term077 217 700AII is one of the more affordable options for English-based classes in the capital. They offer both full and part-time classes for the full spectrum of students.Australian Centre for Education (ACE)Daun Penh, Toul Kork and Toul Tum PoungInternational SchoolEnglish language$200 to $500 per term023 222 325ACE offers a wide range of courses for every level of skill. Many families choose to enroll their children part-time in the evenings or afternoons.Canadian International School of Phnom Penh (CIS)Koh Pich and Toul KorkInternational School (Pre-8)Canadian curriculum$5,000 to $20,000023 900 399CIS is one of the most highly regarded international primary schools in Phnom Penh. Currently, they have campuses in Toul Kork and on Koh Pich.National Institute of BusinessMeancheyPublic UniversityBusiness$400 to $500023 424 591The school is an affordable alternative to some of the more high-profile business schools in the city.International School of Phnom Penh (ISPP)MeancheyInternational School (Pre-12)IB$8,000 to $25,000023 425 088ISPP is perhaps the most well-known international school in the city. It offers IB programs from pre-K to 12th grade.American University of Phnom PenhRussey KeoPrivate UniversityGeneral Research$3,000 to $5,000023 990 023Centered around an international curriculum, AUPP has campuses in Russey Keo and Toul Kork. It also offers a full range of exchange programs.Logos International SchoolRussey KeoInternational SchoolChristian, American curriculum$4,000 to $8,000017 473 515Logos is a well-known Christian school in Cambodia. The school operates under the Asian Hope Ministry.Australian International School of Phnom Penh (AISPP)Russey KeoInternational School (Primary-12)IB$5,000 to $22,0000092 111 136This is an IB school modeled after those in Australia. It boasts faculty from Australia, New Zealand, and the UK.Royal Academy of CambodiaRussey KeoPublic UniversitySocial Sciences 023 890 180This university is one of the nation's leading institutions. Social sciences are the leading focus of the school.University of CambodiaSen SokPrivate UniversityGeneral Research$1,000023 993 274The University of Cambodia is perhaps the most prestigious private university in the country. It offers programs in almost every discipline. Northbridge International School (NIS)Sen SokInternational School (Pre-12)IB$10,000 to $25,000023 900 749Northbridge offers IB programs to students aged 2 to 18. Over 700 students from across the world attend the school which has a diverse faculty and is part of a global network of 66 premium international schools.CIA First International SchoolSen SokInternational School (K-12)English-based$3,000 to $6,000095 200 011CIA First began in 2004 but is currently home to over 2,000 students. It has grown to become one of the top international schools in the city.Pannasastra International SchoolSen SokInternational School (Junior and senior high)Mixed curriculum$300 to $500023 987 989Affiliated with the university of the same name, PIS is a junior and senior high school that offers education and ample extracurriculars.Cambodia Mekong UniversitySen SokPrivate UniversityGeneral Studies$500 to $2,000023 882 211CMU offers many different fields of study to students. The school has ties to other institutions across the world.iCAN British International SchoolTonle BassacInternational School (Pre-9)British curriculum$5,000 to $13,000023 222 416iCan offers British-style learning for primary to middle school level children.Build Bright UniversityTonle BassacPrivate UniversityGeneral Research$500 to $1,000023 987 700BBU is one of the most affordable universities in the city and many students chose to study part-time. Invictus International School Phnom PenhTonle BassacInternational School (Pre-12)International Primary Curriculum (IPC) and Cambridge$3,600 to $7,000023 723 212Invictus International School Phnom Penh offers private international education from Early Years (Kindergarten) through to Year 13. The school is located in central Phnom Penh and is equipped with modern learning facilities and qualified educators who are experienced in delivering holistic English curricula to cultivate international learners. French, Chinese, and Khmer are offered as additional languages from Reception through to Cambridge A-Levels.Paragon International SchoolTonle Bassac and Toul KorkInternational School (Pre-12)Mixed curriculum (Khmer and English)$3,000 to $10,000023 214 040Formerly known as Zaman International School, this school was founded by Turkish journalist Atilla Yusuf Guleker in 1997. They have three campuses.Western UniversityToul KorkPrivate UniversityEconomics, Business, English$450023 998 233Western University aims to offer a broad curriculum while still giving its students expertise in Economics and business.Royal University of Phnom PenhToul KorkPublic UniversityGeneral Research$1,000023 883 640This is the Kingdom's largest university at over 20,000 students. It hosts the Institute of Foreign Language (IFL) the country's top language university.Institute of Technology of CambodiaToul KorkPublic UniversityTechnology$1,000023 880 370Renowned for its science and engineering, the Institute of Technology of Cambodia enrolls around 4,000 students.Asia Euro UniversityToul KorkPrivate UniversityGeneral Research$2,000023 998 124EU says it focuses on provided an international education. The school has been accredited since 2005 and offers a wide range of programs.Paragon International UniversityToul KorkPrivate UniversityEngineering, Economics, IT$5,000023 996 111Formerly known as Zaman University and established in 2010, Paragon's curriculum focuses on sciences and engineering.Beijing International AcademyToul KorkInternational SchoolChinese 023 989 666BIA has been around for seven years. It offers general study programs and those attuned specifically to Chinese.SIS International SchoolToul KorkInternational School (K-12)Mixed (Khmer and English) 081 330 330SIS offers primary through high school level classes and has a number of sports programs.Singapore (Cambodia) International AcademyToul KorkInternational School (Pre-12)Singapore-Cambridge 061 777 818SCIA brings a Singapore-Cambridge curriculum to Phnom Penh. Classes are based in English or Khmer, but Chinese is also offered.Zion International School of Phnom PenhToul Tum PoungInternational School (Pre-12)British curriculum$2,000 to $3,000023 986 596Zion is run by an NGO. They have a very diverse staff and even have a swimming pool on their campus.Beltei International SchoolVarious locationsInternational SchoolMixed curriculum$350 to $500023 999 777Belted has dozens of schools in the city. They have various options for full and part-time study.Map of Phnom Penh international schools and universities:We hope you find all the information you're looking for with the list above. Find profiles of all the districts above on our location profile page.Realestate.com.kh is more than just a site for property listings. It is our goal to educate the market and provide accurate information to our readers.Article by: Updated by:

The dry season can be quite a scorcher every year in Cambodia, although it's always on the tropical side no matter the season! A favourite pastime for plenty of residents is to hit the swimming pools in Phnom Penh when it gets too hot.Most of the big developments in the country include rooftop pools, as do many serviced apartments. But for those of you who don’t have that luxury, we’ve got you covered.Realestate.com.kh has put together a list of the top swimming pools in Phnom Penh. Plus, if you scroll down to the bottom we pulled together a massive list of pools open to the public in Phnom Penh and a map of pools open to the public in the capital!We’ve also included their district so you can find the one closest to your home.Some general advice for using the pools:Most hotels, guesthouses, and resorts in Phnom Penh make their pool areas available to drop-ins (i.e. non-guests).As a non-guest, you might need to pay a fixed fee or buy some food and drink which might waive the fee.It's understandable that some hotels give preference to paying guests, and pools can get busy during peak tourist season. We suggest you check beforehand on the availability for using the pool.Some locations introduced half-day room usage and pool access as a range of packages to entice customers during the low season and during the pandemic to boost business.(Please Note: that during the COVID-19 pandemic a number of pools, hotels and residences have put in place temporary restrictions to comply with health regulations. Prices and opening times have also been adjusted. Please try and contact the venue directly to find out the most up to date information).Our top pool picks in Phnom Penh:DIB ClubThis massive pool is one of the largest in Phnom Penh -There’s even a small island in the middle! DIB is family-friendly and has a kid’s area and plenty of cabana tables. Located on Koh Pich, it’s adjacent to astroturf soccer fields and a number of larger developments have sprung up around the pool area.The place can get busy with families on the weekends. There is usually no fee if you buy $5 or more in food and drinks per person but they may charge extra for towels.If you want a place for a group gathering or a lazy day of swimming and tanning, DIB could be your place.If you are interested in living in the same neighbourhood as DIB, make sure to read our ultimate guide to Tonle Bassac - one of the swankiest districts in the capital.DIB ClubKoh Pich St, Phnom Penh - 099 997 740Open everyday 9am-10pmPrice: $5 per person or purchase food and drinksRambutan ResortBKK1’s Rambutan Resort is a gay-friendly boutique resort in the trendy BKK1 neighbourhood. Their saltwater pool area is adults only and the premises have an artsy, quiet vibe.They’ve also got a well-stocked bar and a full menu and rotating weekly food and drink specials.A day pass will cost $8 but buy an entree with a drink and the fee will be waived. The mini waterfall is also a great place to snap a photo.In general, BKK1, 2, and 3 is where many expats choose to live in Cambodia so the pool can be a popular hangout.Rambutan also has a sister resort in Siem Riep.Rambutan ResortBKK1, 29 St 71, Phnom Penh - 017 992 240Open everyday 6am-9pmPrice: $8 per person or purchase food and drinksNational Olympic Stadium PoolAs the only full public accessible Olympic-sized pool in the country, this is where you’ll want to go to do some lap training but the pool can also get busy. This outdoor pool is 50 metres long and it costs less than a dollar for a day pass. There were plans in the works for an updated $2 million indoor facility that could be potentially free to use.To find out more about gyms and fitness in Cambodia browse our list of the best gyms in Phnom Penh.Olympic Stadium PoolCharles de Gaulle Boulevard- 086 734 905Open every day 6am-8pmPrice: $1Mad Monkey Phnom PenhMad Monkey is a popular backpacker chain hostel and their location in Phnom Penh features a small swimming pool, bar and full menu. They also show sports and hold BBQ and other events.They don’t charge to use the pool if you buy food or drinks. There is usually a mixed crowd if expats, locals, and travellers with a good vibe.Mad Monkey Phnom PenhStreet 302, Beoung Keng Kang I- 023 987 091Price: Free with food purchaseAquarius Hotel & Urban ResortThe pool at Aquarius is picturesque and offers some great views from the saltwater, glass-walled, rooftop infinity pool. What more do you need to say? Oh yes, sky bar, maybe?It's also a popular place for a mini staycation near Phnom Penh’s riverside. There is free swimming pool access if you spend $12 on food and drinks.If you’re addicted to Instagram, this is probably the place for you. And while you’re there, follow Realestate.com.kh on Instagram. There are many similar fantastic rooftop & infinity pools in the city such as at Sun & Moon Hotel, Patio Hotel & Urban Resort, or Penh House.Aquarius HotelPreah Ang Phanavong St. (240), Phnom Penh- 017 220 075Open everyday 7am-11pmPrice: $12The Balé Phnom PenhThe Balé Phnom Penh is slightly further from the capital's centre and is a more luxurious retreat and resort getaway that has proven popular with expats. The views of the Mekong Delta landscape from the resort’s pool is beautiful and access is open to non-guests for only USD $15net per person.There is also a gourmet dining selection and the pool is perfect for a romantic getaway and some tranquillity from the city.The Bale Phnom PenhNational Road 6A, Bridge 8- 023 987 091Price: $15netSome other classy and luxury pools which you can access at hotels and resorts in Phnom Penh include those at The Plantation, Palace Gate Hotel, Marriott Courtyard, Baitong Hotel, and the Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh.Pools open to the public in Phnom PenhStill didn’t find what you were looking for in the five swimming pools above? Well, here’s an updated list of all the swimming pools in Phnom Penh that are currently open to the public. Find the ones in your neighbourhood, grab your towel, and let us know what's the best swimming pool in Phnom Penh! NameLocationFeePhoneAnik Boutique Hotel and SpaBKK$10023 222 507Anise VillaBKK$5012 985 400House Boutique HotelBKK$5023 220 884Le Safran HotelBKK$5070 739 915Manor House HotelBKK$5023 992 566The Mekong Dragon HotelBKK$5023 982 666Ming Hour Sport ClubBKK$3015 558 789Palm Tree Boutique HotelBKKBuy food or drink023 229 933Patio HotelBKK$10023 997 900The Place GymBKK$15069 876 777Prasats Boutique HotelBKK$5077 465 533Skyline Boutique HotelBKK$8023 210 015Villa SamnangBKK$5023 221 644Great Duke HotelChamkarmon$25023 424 888Jasmin Monument HotelChamkarmon$4023 221 322La Rose Boutique HotelChamkarmon$5023 211 130New Midtown HotelChamkarmon$4023 986 828Sofitel Phnom PenhChamkarmon$15023 999 200SuperFit GymChamkarmon$8023 999 229Teav Bassac Boutique HotelChamkarmon$5023 982 828YK Art HouseChamkarmon$3070 740 051The Kingdom ResortChbar Ampov$3023 721 514High Sky HotelChroy Changvar$3023 966 111Sokha Phnom Penh HotelChroy Changvar$10023 685 8888The 252 Boutique HotelDaun Penh$5023 998 252Blue LimeDaun Penh$6023 222 260The Billabong HotelDaun Penh$5023 223 703Essence HotelDaun Penh$10023 999 938Eureka VillasDaun Penh$5023 699 9020Grand Waterfront HotelDaun Penh$5092 887 879Harmony HotelDaun Penh$6023 967 068Himawari HotelDaun Penh$7023 214 555Hotel CambodianaDaun Penh$12023 426 288The KabikiDaun Penh$5023 222 290Okay Boutique HotelDaun Penh$5023 979 666Phnom Penh HotelDaun Penh$6023 991 868River Home Boutique HotelDaun Penh$4023 221 992The Sangkum HotelDaun Penh$10096 286 0106S.D. Holiday HotelDaun Penh$5085 353 585Sun & Moon Urban HotelDaun Penh$18023 961 888Sundance Inn & SaloonDaun PenhBuy food or drink016 802 090Teahouse HotelDaun Penh$5023 212 789VMansion Boutique HotelDaun Penh$5023 219 000Good Time Health & FitnessRussey Keo$4023 986 686Cambodian Country ClubSen Sok$12093 885 591Dara Airport HotelSen Sok$8023 888 668International Youth Sport ClubToul Kork$5095 777 088Double Leaf HotelToul Tum Poung$7023 226 288Phnom Penh Sport ClubToul Tum Poung$5023 215 561Map of pools in Phnom PenhIt's cool to hit the pools in Phnom Penh If you've been in Phnom Penh for any length of time, you know it gets hot. Entertainment options are growing day by day in the city.However, lounging at the nearest pool while sipping a cold beverage is still a go-to activity for most city dwellers.So, after reading this guide you should know all the ins and outs of pools in Phnom Penh. Now just grab the sunblock and find an open lounge chair.To find an apartment building that has a pool of its own start browsing apartments for rent in Phnom Penh.

Can foreigners own land in Cambodia? The simple answer is no. But the truth is never simple, right? If you’re a foreigner there are a few different ways you can control property. We will walk you through those methods here. And we’ll even talk to a few expats who have gone through the process themselves.Condo can do!Maybe owning land isn’t important to you. In that case you should look to the condo sector. As long as the condo you want to own is above the ground floor you can own it outright. Learn more about Strata titles in our Investment Guide 2019. In fact, you can start browsing for condos in Phnom Penh right now. There are also condos for sale in Siem Reap and Sihanoukville.   Choose your own adventureBesides owning a strata-titled unit in a co-owned building there are five other ways to control land as a foreigner. They are:Company structureNominee structureLong-term leaseLand concessionBecoming a Cambodian citizenLet’s take them in reverse order. You can actually become an honorary citizen if you invest a certain amount of money into businesses in the country. This used to be around $300,000 but was recently upped to around $1 million. If you marry and have children here you can also become naturalised. Find out more from this guide by B2B Cambodia.Getting a land concession is also a very in-depth process. For a full rundown read our Investment Guide 2019.Long-term leaseWhile this option is technically not ownership, it can be a good fit for many purposes. Long-term leases can last between 15 and 50 years. They are registered through the government and can include rights to develop the land in question.Nominee structure  Enlisting the help of a Cambodian nominee for ownership was used in past years. Now, however, it sits in a legal grey area and is not a valid structure under Cambodian law.Company structureThis is arguably the most common route that foreigners use for land ownership. They simply buy the land through an incorporated company. The catch here is that land-owning companies must be at least 51% owned by Cambodians. For many cases, this is enough. However, there is another mechanism you can use for further security.Two companies can be formed. The first company (51% Cambodian-owned) purchases the land, and then signs it over to an investor through a long-term lease. This method comes in hand if you want to keep the landowning part of the business separate from the rest of the firm.If you’re interested in opening an operation in Cambodia, read our full guide to starting a business here.Word on the streetThough there are clear frameworks in Cambodia for foreigners to control land, many still follow less formal methods. Often they have property registered in the name of a spouse or partner.Daniel, an expat living in Kep who gave only his first name, said that property he bought was all registered in his Cambodian partner’s name. He noted, however, that this method was not normally advisable, going as far as to say that there were horror stories in the area of foreigners being left with nothing after paying for land.To make sure you’re not the victim of a real estate scam, check out our guide to real estate scams in Cambodia here.Another expat living in Kampot told Realestate.com.kh that he owned property through a business. He noted however that legalities of property were much less stringent when he purchased over 10 years ago.Lastly, to learn more about everything to do with property, browse our Investment Guide 2019.

More than ever, people are interested in staying fit and increased physical activity, whether it be through social sports, Kun Khmer classes, high-intensity cardio or lifting iron at the gym.Many of the biggest new developments in Cambodia feature fitness centres and gyms in their buildings. But if you want something optimal gym gear and access to trained professionals, you’re probably looking for the best gym in Phnom Penh.We have plenty for you to choose from, scroll down and check out the map of the best gyms in Phnom Penh.Please Note: During the COVID-19 pandemic, a number of gyms and fitness centres had to enforce stricter health and safety requirements and adjust opening times. We suggest you contact these locations beforehand.Here’s our pick of the top 10 gyms in Phnom Penh:Olympic Stadium - Phnom Penh's budget gymIf you want to work out but are strapped for cash, just head to the city's Olympic Stadium which is centrally located in the capital.There you can kick around a soccer ball, jog on the stadium concourse (sometimes even on the track) or even do some aerobic dancing! There are almost always people there exercising, especially in the mornings and at dusk- but there is plenty of room to roam.If you're there in the evening you can sometimes sit and watch a local football match taking place on the pitch, even the national team plays their home games at Olympic Stadium.Although Cambodia has never hosted the Olympic Games, the stadium and the surrounding spots facilities are iconic in the city.Olympic StadiumCharles de Gaulle Boulevard, Phnom Penh - 086 734 905The Place - Phnom Penh's eclectic gymWith locations in BKK1, Toul Kork, and at AEON 1 Mall - The Place offers members a little bit of everything with its modern premises and equipment. The weekly schedule at The Place covers everything from yoga to cardio boxing and two branches have poolsThe facilities are well equipped but the gyms are known for being the place to be - and to be seen.Passes can be purchased for single visits, or memberships for two years are available. They’ve also got tons of professionally trained personal trainers ready to whip you into shape.The Place11 Rue Pasteur No. 51, BKK1 - 069 876 777Samdach Penn Nouth St. (289), Toul Kork - 069 452 777AEON 1 - 301 452 777Open 6am-9:30pm (check with the locations)Toul Kork is a new hotspot for residential life. Read more about it in our profile of Toul Kork.Banteay Center - The Modern Multi-purpose Fitness CentreSituated in Toul Kork, this modern fitness centre offers a world-class athlete development facility & elite fitness facilities. The international and local trainers provide training, education, health services a mix of individual and group classes for S&C, cardio, yoga, pilates and an area for weights.There is an indoor Signature Jogging Track, Battle Ropes, Resistance Bands and a range of useful equipment which marks it out from most gyms in the city.The community centre marked a dynamic shift in the types of gym facilities being offered when it opened.Banteay Center#30, St 347, Sangkat Beoung Kak 1, Toul Kork - 066 606 000Open 6:30am-8pm weekdays (contact for weekend timesTo learn more background about the Kingdom in our Investment Guide.Yoga Phnom Penh - For Cambodia yogisThis facility, run by the Azahar Foundation, offers up classes in almost every style of yoga. Their studio is centrally located in Tonle Bassac district and they operate every day of the week.No worries if you’re new to the ancient Indian discipline either. They’ve got beginner classes and drop-in classes are just $3 for locals and $7 for foreigners.The organisation is a local not-for-profit that also taps into local Cambodian arts and culture and there are classes for Bokator and even modern Fly Yoga.They have a sister site in Siem Reap.Yoga Phnom Penhhouse 39, street 21 Preah Norodom Blvd (41), Phnom Penh - 077 541 975Open 7am-8pm dailyDrop-in $7 for foreigners $3 for KhmerYou can find all the properties for rent in the popular Tonle Bassac area.SuperFit - Phnom Penh's family health gymLocated just off Mao Tse Tung Blvd near Russian Market, is the SuperFit health club which features a massive pool and plenty of high-quality training equipment. \It's a popular gym with locals and expats and the occasional local Influencer and Insta model - so it can be fun to come here if you want to just do a little bit of everything.Watch out for discounts and family packages here. Drop-in rates are pretty affordable but if you plan on coming regularly it can be worth it to get a membership.SuperFit341 Mao Tse Toung Boulevard (245), Phnom Penh - 023 999 229Open 6am-10pmPhysique Club - Phnom Penh's riverside gymPart of Hotel Cambodiana, the Physique Club offers up fitness facilities and various membership packages, access to the pool is one of the real benefits of this iconic hotel in the Phnom Penh riverside.There are tennis courts, aerobics and yoga classes, in addition to all the typical gym facilities. If you live in the Riverside area this is one of the best options around.It’s also great if you want a really spacious and modern place to exercise and the facilities have been renovated.For other offerings in the area, check out our Daun Penh guide. Physique ClubNo. 313 Hotel Cambodiana, Preah Sisowath Quay - 023 218 189Open 6am-10pmMuscle Fitness - The no-nonsense Phnom Penh gymThis compact gym is popular with both locals and expats alike. Located in BKK3, it has treadmills, bikes, lifting racks, equipment and even a small area for stretching and the like. They will even whip up protein smoothies for you at the front desk.Affordability is the name of the game here. A single entry is just $4 but monthly passes are also available. If you plan to work out on your lunch break or after work, this is a great venue. Muscle Fitness67 St 95, Phnom Penh - 012 796 374Open 6am-9pmDrop-in $4There are a number of similar local gyms in many Sangkats such as Core Explore Fitness and Keven Fitness in TTP. Many basic local Cambodian gyms have drop-in rates for as little as $1 for foreigners and slightly less for Cambodians. These can be more basic and less clean so try out your area.Phnom Climb - Cambodia's Community Climbing GymSure, Cambodia isn’t exactly in mountainous terrain. But that doesn’t mean rock climbing isn’t a good growing sport and hobby.Phnom Climb, occupying a warehouse-style space near Russian Market, has both bouldering walls and full top-rope facilities. If you’ve never done bouldering before it's basically climbing without a rope. Don’t worry! There are thick mats to cushion if you fall.There are also kid-friendly activities and group/corporate activities. With one-day passes, or if you’re really into the climbing lifestyle you can opt for a year pass - and they also host excursions if you want to try your skills on actual rock faces.  A staff member at Phnom Climb said that the gym attracts a unique community. "Climbing is a lifetime sport, therefore we have people of all ages. We have expats and locals. Many of our locals and expats that live here are members. We also have quite a few drop-ins from travellers who are only in Phnom Penh for a few days."To discover all the other offerings in Russian Market, read our quick guide to the vibrant area.Phnom ClimbSt.460 Number 345 Phnom Penh, Phnom Penh - 017 897 105Check Website for opening times.Drop-in $9Crossfit Amatak - Phnom Penh Crossfitters RejoiceCrossFit Amatak is the first CrossFit™ affiliate in Cambodia and is located near Russian Market. At one point several CrossFit gyms opened in the capital but Amatak survived and is the go-to place for CrossFit enthusiasts.There is a range of sessions and classes run for 60 minutes long, while there are also boot camps and competitions. The on-site Kettlebell Cafe also offers healthy, nutritious food to fuel workouts and aid post-workout recovery.CrossFit Amatak #16 Street 470, Phnom Penh - 012 749 744Open 5:30am-8pmFly Phnom Penh - The Trampoliners DelightFly is Cambodia's first and only free-flying experience on a trampoline park and is based at the popular Factory to the south of the capital.The trained team can show you how to have the most fun safely and groups, kid sessions and event bookings are all possible. It is a great place to get your bounce on, on your own too, or bring a group along.Fly Phnom PenhFACTORY Phnom Penh, National Road Nº 2, - 017 288 223Open 7am-9pmMap of the best Phnom Penh gyms:Work it out in Phnom Penh's gymsThere you have it! Whether you want a place to do yoga or a place to practice your punches, Phnom Penh has something for you.There are also loads of sports clubs for martial arts, BJJ, running, cycling, soccer, rugby, AFL, hockey, dodgeball, ultimate frisbee and so much more!If you want to find out more about living in Phnom Penh as an expat, read out Expat Guide!Browse the rest of Realestate.com.kh’s guides. We have rundowns of everything from Cambodian casinos and co-working spaces to coffee shops.

Coffee. It's the third most consumed beverage in the world after water and tea. 172.8 million bags of coffee are produced yearly worldwide and Cambodia consumes a lot of the roasted beans.In Cambodia, the beverage has traditionally been an older person's drink among the locals but with the growing influence of cafe culture from the West, a younger generation is spending more and more time in coffee shops (also for the social media photo opportunities)Before choosing a house or apartment, many people want to make sure the neighbourhood has a safe & comfortable vibe. Having at least one cafe within the area is something individuals consider but cafe hotspots have also sprung up in the capital.Realestate.com.kh has drawn up a list of the top cafes in Phnom Penh. No matter where you choose to live, chances are you'll be close to a coffee shop in Cambodia's capital. There are also many, many franchises such as Starbucks and Amazon throughout the city.We've even put all the best cafes in Phnom Penh into a map for you - Scroll down to see more!We think the best cafes in Phnom Penh are:Java Creative Cafe - The artsy cafeThis stylish joint has cafes in Toul Kork, Russian Market and near the Royal Palace. Previously it had a popular location near Independence Monument, in Tonle Bassac, which closed during the pandemic in 2020. Based on the review, you’ll find that people love the food but Java also strives to be a hub for local artists and creatives.“[Java has] been serving up homemade food and organic coffee for nearly 20 years. We love art as much as we love food and as a cultural enterprise, we are a platform to launch Cambodian artists and public art events thanks to all our customers,” said Java owner Dana Langlois.Java Cafe (three locations)53 Street 468, Toul Tum Poung - 077 873 92920A Street 337, Toul Kork - 077 657 570Futures Factory, 215 Street 13 - 012 833 51256 Sihanouk Blvd, Tonle Bassac  -  (CLOSED)Open 7am-9pm  Metro Hassakan - The swanky cafeRiverside might be known for its happy hour deals but Metro is one of the best places for a midday coffee break. Kick back and enjoy a java while gazing out at the Mighty Mekong while enjoying excellent service.In addition to the Riverside location, Metro has a cafe in Toul Kork. It’s one of the fastest-growing areas of the capital, praised for its amenities and security.If you’re curious about living there, watch our video guide to Toul Kork and see more about properties in the area.Metro Hassakan & Metro Azura (two locations)House 271 Preah Sisowath Quay - 023 222 275TK Avenue Corner of St. 315 - 012 274 060Open 11am - 10pm  Backyard Cafe - The health-nut cafeThe Backyard Cafes may share the crown for best health food restaurants in the capital since opening in 2015. On the menus, you’ll find everything from trendy avocado toast to veggie burgers. Just as much care is put into the coffee too. If you’re vegetarian, vegan, or want to level up your quinoa game, stop by one of their two locations in BKK1 and near Riverside. They also have a sister cafe, Vibe, in the Russian Market area.If you like the look of the districts read our expat rental guide to Phnom Penh to find out what an apartment should cost.Backyard Cafe 11B Vimol Thoam Thong St. (246) - 078 751 715Open 7:30am-8pmBackyard Cafe BKKCorner Street 63 and Street 278- 096 853 4334Open 7:30am-8pmVibe Cafe26A, St 446, Russian Market - 061 764 937  Lot 369 - The neighbourhood jointNestled among the shophouses of Toul Tum Poung (Russian Market) sits Lot 369, which changed location and is now on St 155 (entrance via the back alley between streets 446 and 440). The popular cafe is spread over a couple of floors and has views over the TTP market. Order any of a wide selection of hot or cold coffees and you'll even get a few chocolate-covered coffee beans. According to co-owner James Wilson, the idea for Lot 369 is to “offer a relaxed, chilled atmosphere that reminds travellers of a casual cafe off a Melbourne alleyway,” she said, adding that the food is a fusion of Australia's brunch culture and Cambodia's local flavours.Wednesdays are very popular as all coffees are only $1!Like a few of the other expat-aimed spots on this list, Lot 369 is health-conscious and eco-friendly. (They previously had a location in BKK1 which has since closed).Lot 369Street 446 Toul Tum Poung I - 012 345 541Open 7:30am-5pm  Feel Good Cafe - The roastersIt isn’t just the caffeine that will have you feeling good here. With two outlets in the capital, Feel Good Cafe is a social enterprise that serves up organic fair-trade coffee and food. The cafes are employee-owned and seek to empower the local staff and suppliers.The place was started in 2013 by two expat coffee roasters, and still serves up single-origin blends sourced from around SE Asia. The Feel Good group operates social enterprises across the Kingdom including in Battambang.The locations also serve a mix of local and western food and have many popular dishes such as the breakfast muesli, burrito bowls and rotating specials.The location on St 29 in Phnom Penh has closed.Feel Good Cafe (two locations)House 79 Street 136 - 077 694 702Open 7:30am-6pmFulcrum Cafe (The Factory) - 085 914 918Open 6:30am-6pmNo. 11B, St 29 - CLOSED  The Shop - The foodie cafeAre you guilty of Instagramming your food? If reading the words “goats cheese” makes your mouth start watering, The Shop is probably for you. This brunch-centric place has four locations in Phnom Penh and a speciality chocolate shop in the capital - they have been operating since 2001.If you end up at any of their cafes and snap some photos of your artisan quiche, don’t forget to follow Realestate.com.kh on Instagram. We’ve got some killer interior design photos that you’ll love!The Shop (four locations)#39 Street 240 - 092 955 963The Chocolate Shop 240 - 012 872 840Wat, 1B Preah Ang Non (St. 102) - 077 666 115#38 Street 337, Toul Kork - 012 952 839(Check location for opening times)  Eric Kayser - The boulangerIf you didn’t know, French culture still has a strong legacy in Cambodia. Heck, we even did a special article on the French colonial architecture in Cambodia. It makes sense that there’s at least one cafe chain offering up traditional “barang” baked goods.Eric Kayser is a popular cafe franchise in Phnom Penh and it’s got several locations in the capital.If you’ve got a craving for a traditional French croissant, and a huge selection of bread and pastries - this is the place to go. No beret is necessary ;)Eric Kayser (Several locations in Phnom Penh)Samdach Sothearos Blvd (3) - 077 573 027Eric Kayser De Castle Royal, St 288, BKK1 (4th floor)House 219Eo Street 63 - 077 573 09726 Street 240 - 089 926 681Check locations for opening times  SUZY Anti-café - The digital nomads' cafeSUZY Anti-Cafe is a novel concept in the crowded cafe scene in the capital and one of the few great choices in BKK3. The cafe offers customers the chance to pay for unlimited snacks and coffees for the time spent in the cafe and is a popular choice among remote workers and digital nomads.As well as all the typical coffee drinks, they have several promotions and have Game Days. For those working there are free cookies and a free printer, paper, pens and more!You can find our selection of apartments for rent in bKK3 here.Suzy Anti-Cafe59A street 350, BKK3 - 092 259 157Open 8:30am-7pm  Brown Cafe - The hometown heroWith nearly 20 cafes around the city, Brown is a popular coffee shop in Phnom Penh and is a common go-to meeting spot, especially among Cambodian students. The Cambodian-established chain isn’t just another Starbucks knockoff either. Every branch has a unique setup. They’ve got all the normal tea and coffee variations as well as shakes and a full food menu. Local consultant Soumy Phan said he liked Brown not only for its coffee but for how it could be used for meetings or as a workspace.“I don't have my own office, so it is a good place for me both personally and professionally. I like the fact that it is an original brand started by Cambodians,” he said.No matter where you live in the city, you're probably close to a Brown. The flagship store is in BKK1 district, often considered the "foreign quarter" of Phnom Penh because of all the embassies, NGOs, and foreign businesses.Given its popularity among residents could Brown have the best coffee in Phnom Penh?Brown Cafe (Nearly 20 locations in Phnom Penh)Rue Pasteur No. 51 - 023 217 262Check branches for opening times.  Farm To Table - The sustainable cafeWith open outdoor eating, regular sustainable and farmers markets, Farm To Table is a popular choice for many expats in the capital.In addition to coffee, they’ve got some killer healthy food, providing healthy & sustainably produced dishes. They also partner with growers, farmers, and cooperatives in Cambodia to support local organic farming. If you’re looking for a more professional place to work, check out the list we drew up of all the coworking spaces in Cambodia. Farm To Table N° 16, Street 360. BKK 1 - 078 899 722Open 8am-9pm  Map of the best cafes in Phnom Penh Coffee culture at cafes in Phnom PenhMany may instantly think of Australia or even Vietnam with regards to coffee culture in the Asia Pacific region. Indeed, Vietnam is the world’s number two exporter of coffee, and the average Ozzie consumes around three kilograms of the stuff per year.But there’s a culture forming around coffee in the Kingdom. A young, urbanised population means there’s plenty of javaheads. You don’t need to go far in Phnom Penh to find the best coffee in Phnom Penh for you. Phan added that the cafe atmosphere was a significant factor for the success of shops in the Kingdom.“I think the coffee culture here is mostly a social thing, and it’s proliferating among younger Cambodians.”Which one of these cafes is your favourite? Let us know if we missed any by commenting below.Article by:

Cambodia consistently ranks well on InternationalLiving.com's Annual Global Retirement Index and also has easy to obtain visas for retirees compacted to other ASEAN nations. In the 2019 InternationalLiving.com's Annual Global Retirement Index, Cambodia was named as the 12th best place in the world to retire.  This was the fourth year in a row that the Kingdom held that title.In the 2021 edition, Cambodia again ranked as one of the most affordable destinations to retire and one of the best countries to retire overall. Nine.com.au has also named the Kingdom as one of the best places to retire. Realestate.com.kh provides you with a step-by-step guide for retirement in Cambodia. We'll cover renting, getting a visa, and even how to stay active.Renting when you retire in CambodiaRent, of course, is very affordable in Cambodia. You can get a Western-style apartment for rent in Phnom Penh for as little as $300 per month. That’s in the capital, too. It’s even cheaper in some other popular towns like Kampot, Sihanoukville, Battambang and Siem Reap.For those on a fixed income, it is still possible to live comfortably in the Kingdom. There are serviced apartments that cover nearly every need for you. Most prv]ovide cleaning services, a fitness centre and even a pool. You can find one-bedroom places like this starting at around $500 per month in Phnom Penh.Other options include getting a house for rent in Cambodia, or a condo for rent in Cambodia. These can be a bit more expensive close to city centres and depending on the amenities you ideally want included. Getting a Cambodia retirement visaThe process for visas is pretty straightforward here. There’s even a special category for retirees. When you arrive in the country, make sure you get the regular (E class) visa, and not a tourist visa so you can get the Cambodia retirement visa. After that, you will simply apply for ER (retirement) extensions.Here are the retirement visa requirements:You must be 55 or older.You cannot be employed.You must be able to prove you are retired (with a pension or social security documentation) and have enough funds (bank or retirement fund statements).These extensions can be valid for various lengths up to one year. Prices are similar to working visa extensions which cost around $290 for a full year with multiple entries. Head to any travel agency in town and they can help you with processing.Please note that immigration officials can fine an ER holder working in Cambodia, and potentially issue jail time and deportation if the laws are broken.2019 also saw the introduction of the Foreigners Present in Cambodia System (FPCS) and every expat is required to register on the system.The Cambodian ministry working group was drafting a new law on immigration to manage foreigners in the SEA country but these are yet to be finalised.Where to retire in CambodiaCambodia is chosen by many Western expats for its laid back atmosphere and considerably lower living costs. The most popular place to retire is, of course, in Phnom Penh. It has everything any retiree may want from good food, a variety of entertainment, and sociable company.Vital public and healthcare services are also easily found in Phnom Penh. Given that healthcare is a concern for retirees, we've come up with a comprehensive list of hospitals and clinics in Phnom Penh.Though if a fast modernising city isn't to your liking, Siem Reap or Sihanoukville may be a good choice if you still want some urban comforts. These don't feature the same kind of lifestyle as Phnom Penh but instead, they are busier when it comes to tourists visiting the iconic Angkor Wat Temples or the islands off the southern coast.Siem Reap itself has a growing portfolio of property developments of its own that can keep anyone's retirement interesting. It is more laid back, has excellent food and drink options, nature on its doorstep and a vibrant arts and culture scene.Sihanoukville has undergone major development and the city itself is now sprawling, offers malls, condos and planned gold curses and is the gateway to the beautiful islands.Kampot and Battambang are even more reserved but have become increasingly popular with expats and retirees for the lifestyle.After all, a new world of fun starts at retirement!Buying food while retired in CambodiaWhether you want to cook for yourself or eat at a restaurant, dining in Cambodia is a relatively minor expense but you can also wine and dine at gourmet eateries and five-star hotels.A meal at an inexpensive restaurant will only set you back about $4 in Phnom Penh. Elsewhere in the country prices are even lower.Just for reference, here’s a list of some common groceries, and what their averages prices are in Phnom Penh:A loaf of white bread - $1.75A dozen eggs - $1.60One kilo of chicken - $4.47A litre of milk - $2.27Latte or cappuccino at a cafe - $2.50One bottle of beer - $1.00As you can see, daily life is definitely affordable. If you want to find cheap food, goods and houseware, go to a local wet market. Otherwise, hit a local convenience store or the western-style supermarkets for something more Western, or even the growing number of specialist stores.Brands like Circle K, Super Duper and Aeon Express are growing quickly and expanding in the cities with international brands constantly opening in the Kingdom.Retired? No, staying active in CambodiaIt’s easy to find a productive hobby in Cambodia. If you’re the active type there are clubs for all kinds of sports like tennis, golf or jogging. If you like riding or fixing motorcycles, Cambodia is great. Riding happens all year round!Is humanitarian work more your style? There are plenty of NGOs here that need your help. You could even volunteer and mentor local youngsters but many reputable non-governmental organisations and schools should carry background checks.Travel while being retired. It's the Cambodia way!If you’re a retiree from the West and you’ve decided to settle in Cambodia, chances are you already caught the travel bug. Luckily, the country sits right in the middle of Southeast Asia, one of the most popular tourist regions in the world.Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Hong Kong and several other countries are just a short plane ride away. Further afield, but still within close reach are China, India, Australia, Japan and South Korea.And, of course, travelling around Cambodia is an adventure in itself. Read more in our expats guide to Cambodia. Healthcare isn't expensive for Cambodia retireesGetting medical treatment in Cambodia can be a mixed bag. There are pros and cons.The positives are:Medication in Cambodia is incredibly affordable. Almost everything is available over the counter.Seeing doctors for routine ailments like the flu or a stomach bug is usually quick and easy.Higher-end clinics and hospitals in Phnom Penh tend to have great doctors who speak fluent English.If you prefer to see a Western doctor there are a handful practising in the Kingdom.There are a few drawbacks, however. This is still a developing country, after all:For serious issues, many people (locals included) opt to visit doctors in Thailand, Vietnam or Singapore. Generally, the level of treatment thee is better, and still quite affordable.Make sure you are getting medication from a reputable pharmacy. Better safe than sorry.We advise anyone living or visiting Cambodia to have the necessary travel and medical insurance.Loving the retired lifestyle in CambodiaAt the end of the day, it all comes down to what makes you happy. Thousands of people choose to retire abroad every year. If Cambodia is the place that makes you happy, that’s where you should be.Realestate.com.kh hopes this guide can be helpful to all the Kingdom’s retirees. Comment below if you’re retired here and have anything to add. And don't forget to browse our listings for real estate for rent in Cambodia. You can start your journey as a retiree today!Stay up-to-date on the real estate industry in Cambodia and get real-time updates on real estate news as they happen. Download the Realestate.com.kh App now!Article by:

Like any other business enterprise, real estate development is governed by a legal framework. These set of laws and regulations, though complicated, ensure operations and activities related to the sector are done legally without ill effects on people and the environment.  Co-owned buildings are covered by most existing real estate laws in Cambodia but there are a few regulations exclusive to this type of property. Developers can be heavily penalised if they don’t follow these regulations in the Kingdom.We will guide you on the legal frameworks of co-owned buildings. Additionally, you will learn what is required if you are a developer in Cambodia.Keep in mind that you can browse hundreds of co-owned buildings on our site and you should always consult with a qualified legal team if you have doubts.What is a co-owned building?When people say “condominium” they are usually referring to a co-owned residential building. Under a co-ownership arrangement in Cambodia, several owners live in the same building. A co-owned building consists of units that are exclusively owned, with common areas whose use and benefits are shared among the co-owners.There are several types of co-owned buildings:Detached buildingsSemi-detached buildingsAttached housesIn the past, foreigners weren’t allowed to buy condos in Cambodia. In 2010, however, the law changed. Anything from the first floor and up can be owned by a foreigner. Also, foreigner ownership cannot exceed 70% in a single building.Find out more about buying a condo in Cambodia as a foreigner.Legal aspects for developers:Project licenceBefore work begins, a developer is required to obtain a project licence from the Ministry of Finance and Economy (MEF).This requirement was set forth in Prakas 965 and there are two types of licences:Type 1 licence is for developers who finance their projects by themselves. Type 2 license is issued to developers who raise money from their buyers.Holders of a Type 1 licence can only sell units within the development once the project is complete. Developers having a Type 2 licence can pre-sell, but only after obtaining a construction permit and a project permit from the MEF.Developers must make a deposit of 2% of the total value of the project into an account with the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC). This measure is meant to protect investors and their money in the event the project is not completed.The government has the right to revoke the licence if the developer fails to finish the project on time or if the developer fails to follow the legal obligations required under the law.Construction permitsSave for a few exemptions, a construction permit is required for any construction work or development in Cambodia.Applicants must complete forms and submit them to the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction (MLMUPC). Supporting documents must also be filed at the commune, district and municipal levels. All submissions must be made in Khmer.The application must bear the signature of the landowner and a licensed project designer or architect.The authority to issue construction permits mostly falls within the jurisdiction of municipal or provincial officials. For big projects like airports and seaports, it is the National Committee of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction that issues the necessary permits.Under Cambodian law, a construction permit is only issued if the applicant follows or is compliant with the master plan, land use plan, and other governing rules and regulations.Other relevant permits in CambodiaIn addition to the permits mentioned above, there are others that will be required throughout the process of development:A site opening permit is required to open a building site. This is issued by the MLMUPC. The ground cannot be broken before obtaining this permit.A site closing permit is required once the construction is finished. This is a key component in the process. A certificate of compliance is also required before the project is considered finished. Keeping to codeIt’s important to follow the letter of the law when it comes to real estate in Cambodia. If problems occur, court cases can be long and painful affairs. It’s important to do all your research before beginning the process. Realestate.com.kh urges everyone to enlist the help of qualified legal professionals.Note: This is a general guide and does not constitute definitive legal advice. Always do your own research and invest at your own risk.Looking for property investments in Cambodia? Let us help!

Cambodia is in the middle of a property boom. Commercial, residential, and mixed-use developments are sprouting one after the other in the Kingdom’s urban areas like Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, and Battambang.This phenomenon is being fuelled by massive local and foreign investments.Seeing the boundless opportunities before them, many wealthy Cambodians who previously have no engagement with Cambodia’s real estate industry have started investing heavily in the sector. The Kingdom has also become a favourite destination for property investors across the globe.Developers are drawn by a growing economy, political stability, business-friendly laws, and the promise of high returns. Chinese, Japanese, Koreans, Singaporeans, and Thais are among the top real estate investors in Cambodia.But property investors still face many hurdles when investing in Cambodia. Like in other developing nations, bureaucratic delays are common. There is also the problem of outdated laws regulating investment activity. Areas for investmentThe real estate market in Cambodia has a few key segments:The market for residential condos is huge. Currently, most of the supply here is in the middle and high-end of the market. Condos are popular with international investors.Boreys, or gated residential communities, tend to be the focus for local buyers. These are often landed properties.Key concernsEveryone knows that high risk brings a high reward. Fortunately, Cambodia brings a healthy balance between the two. Here are some key concerns about investing:You need to properly structure co-ownership rules. Enforcing leases is something that is possible in Cambodia, but going to court is still a bit of a problem. It is important to structure your co-ownership rules with very detailed information, including checks and balances, to make sure you are not subject to claims. Otherwise, you are inviting the possibility of being sued, and this will not be good for your project or company.Shortcuts in the construction permit application are a no-no. Make sure the construction permit application procedures are followed strictly. You also need to have the right support from the start. Otherwise, you will encounter many problems with titling and other matters along the way. For instance, some developers have complained of being unable to title the entire size of their building despite their layout being approved.  So-called “gaps” in the process are the most likely culprit. Fixing things when they are already done on paper in Cambodia is quite difficult. Problems can also impact negatively the sales process.Timely issuance of titles is important. If buyers want to have a property purchase refinanced by a bank, it is quite important to have a title in hand. Some banks won’t allow refinancing without a title. For certain developments, it can take two or three to have a title issued. You buy the house, the house is already there, but you don’t have your title in hand. As a developer, you want to make sure that you can issue a title on time so your clients will not be in default of payment.  You need to have internal regulations in place before sales commence. You must have clear regulations setting forth the rights of customers before announcing sales. Quite often, the regulations are an essential part of your sales process and give you an edge over your competition, especially if you are prompt in issuing them.  Knowledge about property taxes is critical. This is an important concern for developers. You can make informed decisions only if you have at least a basic knowledge about the different kinds of property taxes, where they apply, or how they are computed. Your profits might also depend on this. Get the right helpAt the end of the day, it pays off to get the help of legal professionals. It’s better to pay for help upfront than to have major problems later on. There are plenty of legal firms in the country which specialise in real estate law. Note: This is a general guide and does not constitute definitive legal advice. Always do your own research and invest at your own risk.Looking for property investments in Cambodia? Let us help!

The real estate sector has grown tremendously over the last two years. Much of the activity is being seen in the construction sector.Prakas 965Issued by the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF), this prakas has served to establish a system to manage real estate development in Cambodia. It was passed in 2016 and replaced a previous prakas that was less comprehensive. Prakas 965 also serves to regulate the housing business and establish rules for operation. It calls for every developer to be properly licenced. Any business that is developing four or more flats, three or more villas or at least four units in a co-owned must have a licence.Prakas 089The Ministry of Economy and Finance (“MEF”) issued Prakas No. 089 SHV on 20 January 2020 relating to the Management of Real Estate Development Business. The new prakas distinguishes between three different types of licenses or permits depending on the activity performed by the real estate developer:Residential development business license/permitsCo-owned building development business license/permitsLand parcel development business license/permitsPrakas No. 089 specifically instructs that the listed three activities above are subject to obtaining a license or permit if the real estate developer endeavors or performs a business activity for the purposes of a sale or long-term lease. Prakas No. 089 merely reintroduces leasing activities that were excluded by Prakas No. 965.Types of Housing Development LicencesThere are two different types of residential development licences for housing developers in Cambodia.Type 1 Licence: All capital is held by the developer. For this type of licence, construction must be totally complete before the housing is sold.Type 2 Licence: This type allows for investments from many sources such as banks, private investors, or pre-sale buyers. With this licence, sales are allowed during the construction period.The licence fee for developing a flat or single villa is around $25, the exact fee is determined by the MEF.There are two tiers for fees. Units with more than three bedrooms or twin villas have developing fees of $50.Requirements for Developing LicenceIn order to obtain a developing licence in Cambodia, you must meet certain criteria.You must have a company set up. Before the new prakas in 2016 individuals could develop real estate. Now, however, there must be a registered company on the books.The project must be backed up by $500,000 in capital. A housing development account is required. This account is monitored by the Ministry of Economy and Finance.You must have a detailed business plan.The person whose name is on the licence must be a chairman for the associated company.A deposit must be paid for 2% of the total investment of the project. This must be deposited at a branch of the National Bank of Cambodia, or a local affiliate.Note: To withdraw this deposit you will need a closing permit and a report on the completion of construction, issued by the Ministry of Land Management. You also need an assessment from the MEF.A construction licence must be held for the building site.Buying and selling There is plenty of unscrupulous development activity in Cambodia. Article 19 of the prakas lays down regulations for buying and selling. Rules for buying and selling are different depending on which licence you have, Type 1 or Type 2:Type 1 LicenceBefore you start selling under this type of licence, you must have a model home or model unit. You must also have a closing permit and an assessment from the MEF before beginning sales.If you begin sales without a model you can be subject to a fine.Type 2 LicenceYou must also have a model unit for this type of licence, as well as a MEF assessment and closing permit. Under this licence, you are only allowed to take a maximum 1% deposit from buyers before you obtain a construction permit. This must be deposited into the housing development account.Purchase AgreementThere are a few key stipulations about the purchase agreement. It must contain:Names of the buyer and sellerDetails about the plot of land (location, size, etc)Purchase price and payment conditions Responsibility for taxes and processing feesProject completion date and reference to construction permit detailsAdvertising and marketingA developer licence must be obtained before any advertising or marketing takes place. The location of the project must be mentioned in any advertising. The project name must also be mentioned, as well as price, date of commencement and completion.Land declarationIn every step of the development process, it must be clear whether the land is leasehold or freehold. Freehold land is completely held by the property owner. Leasehold land is held under a lease agreement for a certain amount of time.Since foreigners cannot technically own land in Cambodia, those developers can get a long-term lease on the land instead.Monthly reportsThe developer is required to submit monthly reports to the MEF during the life of the project. This report must document all movements of funds in the developer's account. PenaltiesFines for breaking any regulations set down in the prakas can be subject to fines of $25,000. If developers are found to be using accounts separate from the monitored developer account, they can be subject to a fine of $2,500. Advertising without a licence can lead to penalties of $200 per day. Note: This is a general guide and does not constitute definitive legal advice. Always do your own research and invest at your own risk.Looking for property in Cambodia? Let us help!

The beautiful beaches, amazing scenery and relaxed lifestyle are just a few reasons expats choose to live in Sihanoukville. It used to be a sleepy backpacker oasis. Now it’s one of the busiest places in Cambodia.This guide will walk you through every step of finding real estate for rent in Sihanoukville. We’ll run through all the options you have. Of course, we’ll give you a ballpark price for each kind of accommodation. Then we’ll finish up by giving you the local trick to reducing your monthly rent.What types of housing are available in Sihanoukville?Options used to be pretty limited here. In the past few years, however, development has exploded in the province. Every month sees more projects and more renovations.Long-term guesthouse stayIt’s common to hear expats say they came to Cambodia just for a visit then ended up staying for years. Maybe this is why so many guesthouses in Sihanoukville offer their rooms up for monthly rates.You can usually find rooms or even bungalows for around $300 a month. This includes cleaning, too. It can be a good option if you are still deciding whether you want to move here long term.VillasVillas for rent in Sihanoukville are freestanding concrete houses located on their own plot. They are usually fenced in by a wall and sometimes even have trees and a pool.If you need more than three bedrooms and want a bit of privacy, villas are great. They are especially great for hosting barbeques or other functions. Smaller villas can be rented for between $1,000 to $2,500 per month. Bigger villas with more than six bedrooms and luxury features can go for as much as $9,000 per month.ApartmentsFor most expats in Sihanoukville, an apartments for rent in Sihanoukville will do. These can be found in a wide range of setups. Most have either one or two bedrooms, a kitchen, and, most likely, a balcony.Simple spaces can be found for as little as $400 per month. For a building with more amenities, you will pay more, of course. A luxury two-bedroom can be rented for between $1,500 and $2,000 per month.ShophousesMain roads have tons of shophouses for rent in Sihanoukville. They are the tall skinny buildings that are often used as shops on the ground floor. Landlords often rent them out by floors. If you want to live in a place with two or three bedrooms, this could be the option for you. Full shophouse buildings are three to four floors high. The whole property can be rented for $8,000 to $10,000 per month. Of course, it will be a fraction of this if you are just renting one floor.Traditional Khmer housesIf you drive through Cambodia, you’ll see plenty of these houses for rent in Sihanoukville. They are usually on stilts and made of wood. This is a rare option for expats, but it’s still possible to rent a house like this.Prices here are slightly lower than villas. Numbers vary based on location and number of bedrooms.Where do the expats live?Unlike Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville is still quite small. You can easily ride across town on a motorbike in a jiffy. Many expats still choose to live in a few areas with more restaurants, Western-style shops and bars, however.Victory Beach might be most reminiscent of old Sihanoukville. Things have grown, of course, but the vibe is still similar.Central Sihanoukville (near Gold Lion statue). Just off Ouchheuteal Beach, this area has tons of backpacker hostels and casinos. Live here to stay close to the action.Otres Beach is a 20-minute ride from the Gold Lion Roundabout. Aspiring beach bums will want to live here. Koh Rong is an island connected to Sihanoukville by ferry. This is mainly a backpacker island. Many expats have been known to lay down roots there. If you want to start your own hostel or bar, this is a great place to do it.Average monthly rentExpats living in Sihanoukville should expect to pay:Around $300 or $400 on the low end for either an apartment or one room in a small villa with roommates.Up to $800 per month for a more luxurious apartment or a room in a larger villa with roommates.Keep in mind that rent will decrease the further away from the centre you are. It is possible to find rooms for as little as $200 per month.The official electricity rate for Sihanoukville is 720 riel per kWh. Some landlords will try to tack on extra charges here. Internet fees are usually around $30 per month. Water rates are between 1,500 and 2,000 riel per cubic metre, depending on usage. This shouldn’t be higher than $5 or $10 per month, normally.Insider tipDrumroll, please. The easiest way to cut down your monthly rent is to shop around and negotiate. True, Sihanoukville is experiencing high demand right now. But there’s still plenty of places eager for tenants. To become a master negotiator, read our top five negotiating tips to seal the best deal.A simple way to find an apartment is to have a trusted agent in Cambodia show you around. That way you’ll get a better sense of what’s available. For example, if you see three similar places which are asking for $450 a month offer $400. It’s as simple as that!Comment and let us know if this guide was helpful. Tell us about your experience finding a place in Sihanoukville.If you want a free crash course on business and real estate in Sihanoukville and all of Cambodia, browse through out Investment Guide 2019. It has everything an investor or renter would want to know!Plus, check out our expat rental guide to Phnom Penh and expat rental guide to Siem Reap if you’re looking to live there.

A majority of Siem Reap’s roads are paved, making it easier for residents to move around. Photo from Khmer Times.Siem Reap is an amazing area of Cambodia filled with history. It’s no surprise that many expats chose to move here when they arrived in the Kingdom. Temples, nature, culture and arts are just a few of the factors that make Temple Town so great.This Expat Rental Guide will help you figure out how to find the best expat rentals in Siem Reap. This guide will also answer the following questions you need to know before signing that rental agreement:How much does it cost to rent in Siem Reap?What’s the best property for an expat to rent in Siem Reap?What should I keep in mind before renting in Siem Reap?Realestate.com.kh is Cambodia’s largest real estate classifieds portal. It is home to over 30,000 (and growing) property listings and works with the most reliable real estate developers and agencies across the Kingdom.For this guide Realestate.com.kh is collaborating with Daka Kun Realty, a popular real estate agency in Siem Reap staffed by local real estate experts, to help expats find the right property for their needs!How much does it cost to rent in Siem Reap?There are plenty of quality houses/villas for rent in Siem Reap without breaking the bank, like this one from Daka Kun Realty.For a ballpark estimate, renting in Siem Reap can cost anywhere from US $350 - $2,000 including utilities, this figure is dependent on several factors like type of property, size, facilities and location. Check out our breakdown of the different costs in the guide below.Monthly Rent in Siem ReapRenting a residential property in Siem Reap can cost anywhere from $250 to upwards of $1,800 per month depending on type of property, amenities available and location. A 1-bedroom apartment could cost $300 USD a month or even $600 USD a month if you’re feeling fancy, while a 2-bedroom can cost as low as $500. Siem Reap has a lot of rental properties to the point that your mileage may vary.Houses and villas (houses with yards) are also available for rent in Siem Reap. According to Daka Kun Realty, which has a whole portfolio of landed properties for rent, landed houses usually start rentals at $300 per month.Check available rentals in Siem Reap todayRental Deposit in Siem ReapRental Deposits in Siem Reap (and Cambodia in general) can be the equivalent of 1-2 month’s rent. According to Daka Kun Realty, this depends on the length of stay agreed on: a 6-month lease commonly asks for a 1-month rental equivalent and a 12-month lease could be up to 2 months. Although this may vary from landlord to landlord.The deposit is used to pay for any damages/lost items incurred during your stay on the property. Sometimes this is used to pay for your last month of renting the property. Though this depends on the rental agreement.Electricity cost in Siem ReapElectricity cost in Cambodia is around 800 - 1000 KHR per kWh (0.21 - 0.25 USD cents per kWh). Yes, it is considerably more expensive compared to neighbouring countries like Thailand and Vietnam. It is important to note that some landlords round this up to 0.25 USD per kWh.According to Daka Kun Realty, expat renters can expect the electricity costs in Siem Reap.Property typeCost in KHR per kWhCost in USD per kWhApartment1,0000.25House/Villa7800.19Water cost in Siem reapWater utility in Siem Reap is adjusted depending on monthly consumption. But generally, there are fixed rates employed by landlords to simplify calculations.Property typeCost in KHR per m3Cost in USD per m3Apartment2,5000.62House/Villa1,7000.42Rental TaxesThere is a withholding tax of 14% for rental properties in Cambodia. However, it is common practice for landlords to cover this.What is the best property to rent as an expat in Siem Reap?Siem Reap offers a lot of choices that cater to many different walks of life. Given its diverse population, much of its rentals have also grown to accommodate many different tastes. Find out which one is right for you (and your budget!)Apartments/CondosExpect around $250 per month as a starting price for new/renovated 1-bedroom apartments in Siem Reap. You can find a table below of what prices to expect when renting in the city.Cost of renting an apartment in Siem ReapNumber of bedsMedian rent per month1-bedroom$2502-bedroom$3503-bedroom$500NOTE: These are starting prices of recommended properties for expatriates, especially those looking for western-style apartments like in the image above. You can still find more affordable/premium accommodations by searching on Realestate.com.khAmenities to expect in apartments in Siem ReapRentals in Siem Reap have usual inclusions such as furnishings, appliances, and common fixtures. The only thing missing might be a WiFi connection. However, more landlords have started installing WiFi to make things easier for expatriates.Apartments for rent in Siem ReapHouse/VillaAccording to Daka Kun Realty, houses start at $300 while villas start at $500 per month. Houses/Villas available for rent often come complete with furnished interiors and some additions depending on how premium the property is.Houses/Villas are interchangeable when referring to rental properties. Villas, however, usually have large yards and spacious interiors.Cost of renting a house/villa in Siem ReapType of PropertyStarting rentHouse$300Villa$500NOTE: These are starting prices of recommended properties for expatriates, especially those looking for western-style homes/home interiors like in the image above. You can still find more affordable accommodations by searching on Realestate.com.kh.Amenities to expect in houses/villas in Siem ReapUsual inclusions are the furnishings, appliances and common fixtures. The only thing missing might be a WiFi connection. However, more landlords have started installing WiFi to make things easier for expatriates.Houses for rent in Siem ReapWhere are the best areas for expats to rent?Siem Reap’s central areas are the best areas for expats to rent. They’re close to supermarkets, restaurants, shops, and anywhere else you might need something from. Daka Kun Realty recommends the following areas:Sala KamreukSala Kamraeuk commune. East of the river and south of Highway 6, this area is fairly quiet, but still has a range of restaurants and shops.Svay DangkumSvay Dangkum is across the river from Sala Kamraeuk. Most of the backpacker hostels are here. And don’t forget the famous Pub Street!Sla KramSla Kram is north of Sala Kamraeuk. It’s closer to Angkor Wat park and has tons of local flavour.Things to consider before renting in Siem ReapWhen signing on the dotted line for rental properties, small very important details are oftentimes overlooked. But you should remember that your final lease agreement might not include many important elements that will ultimately make or break a rental agreement. You can check out our guide on a rental checklist worth going over before signing any lease!Things to consider when renting in CambodiaWhether you’re someone new to renting or it’s your first time coming to Siem Reap, we hope this guide has given you a few things to consider for your future rental in the temple town. Now, the real step begins: Find the right rental property in Siem Reap for you!Help me find an apartment/house for rent in Siem ReapArticle by:

Cambodia is one of the most popular destinations for casino gaming in Asia. Because of this, casinos in Cambodia have been growing and playing a bigger part in contributing to the economy.Every year, tens of thousands of foreigners, mostly from China, Vietnam, and Thailand, visited the 100+ casinos in Cambodia (at its peak). In 2019 Cambodia hosted the most casinos in Southeast Asia, followed by Myanmar, Laos, and the Philippines.Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Myanmar all have laws banning their citizens from gambling. Although this is also true in the Kingdom, which also has anti-gaming laws on the books, Cambodia has become a regional hub for betting.The Asia Pacific was the largest region in the global gambling market, accounting for 38% of the market in 2020 which was valued at USD $465.76 billion in 2020.Gaming establishments contribute hundreds of millions of dollars to the Kingdom’s economy every year through employment, attracting tourists and tax revenues etc. However, they have also been blamed for an array of social problems.Casinos in Cambodia saw a huge jump in 2018Over the course of 2018, the government granted 52 gaming licences to casinos in Cambodia. This brought the total up to 150 casinos in Cambodia.This figure represented a 53% increase from 2017 when the Kingdom only had 98 casinos. Increasing demand, especially from record numbers of Chinese tourists, was cited as a reason for the growth.More than 1.6 million Chinese tourists visited Cambodia in 2018, accounting for 26% of all foreign arrivals to the Kingdom.Nearly 90 of the 150 casinos in Cambodia at the time were located in coastal Sihanoukville. Poipet on the Thai border, and Bavet near Vietnam each host more than 10 gaming venues.With 1,658 rooms and suites across its two properties, NagaWorld in Phnom Penh is the largest casino in Cambodia. NagaWorld is a subsidiary of NagaCorp, which was given exclusive rights to operate the only casino within 200 km of Phnom Penh. That deal was initially valid until 2035 and was then extended with the Cambodian government by 10 years until 2045.NagaWorld also is developing a third site close to its exiting property-  Naga 3 is planned – the company expects to expand the resort’s total room capacity to about 5,000 rooms by 2025.You can search for luxurious villas for rent near NagaWorld here.Other notable casinos in Cambodia include Holiday Palace Casino & Resort, Poipet Resort Casino, Star Vegas Casino (Poipet), Lucky Ruby Border Casino, Las Vegas Sun Casino, Le Macau Casino & Hotel (Bavet), Fortuna Hotel & Casino, Queenco Hotel & Casino, Golden Sand Hotel & Casino (Sihanoukville), Dara Sakor Seashore Resort Casino (Koh Kong), and Thansur Sokha Hotel (Kampot).Scroll down to view a map we made of all the prominent casinos in Cambodia!Is gambling legal in Cambodia?Save for a few exceptions, gambling is illegal in Cambodia under the 1996 Law on the Suppression of Gambling. However, the ban only extends to Cambodian citizens.Locals are allowed to buy into five privately operated national lotteries. Up until 2009, Cambodians were allowed to use slot machines. This practice was then prohibited by the government and gambling-related violence was cited as a cause.The enforcement of the gambling ban is somewhat spotty. Yet, by the letter of the law, violation of the ban can lead to a fine or even jail time.Is Cambodia the next Macau?Supporters of Cambodian casinos often say that the increased tax revenues more than make up for any negative impacts. There are claims that gaming taxes were instrumental in the economic prosperity of both Singapore and Macau.Or Saroeun, Preah Sihanouk provincial hall spokesperson, told the local media that more casinos in Cambodia will be good for the economy.He said at the time that there will a bigger demand for products and services that vendors, businessmen, and others will be happy to meet. “It also means more money for the government’s coffers,” he stressed.The annual licence fee for Cambodian casino operators is pegged at $40,000. Casinos have contributed more than $50 million annually in tax revenues - in 2020, tax collections from casinos dropped to $40 million, less than 50 per cent compared to collections of $85 million in 2019.Some figures say that gambling is indirectly responsible for contributing more than $2 billion to Cambodia’s economy. Below are the annual tax collections in Cambodia from the casino industry:2011: $20 million in tax revenue was generated from the casinos in Cambodia.2014: $25 million in revenue tax collections.2015: $29 million in revenue tax collections (However it is believed that Casinos in Cambodia generated $2 billion in income for casino owners, by 2015.)2018: $46 million in revenue tax collections.2019: $85 million in revenue tax collections.2020: $40 million in revenue tax collections.Proponents say that Cambodian casinos bring more employment opportunities and increase the value of land for sale in Cambodia.Popular casinos in CambodiaNagaworld, Phnom PenhPhoto from Nikkei Asia.Nagaworld is the largest casino in Cambodia and the only one in Phnom Penh. It serves as a landmark for many residents of the city and also provides many entertainment and food and beverage options for local residents and international visitors.Apart from its expansive casino floors, Nagaworld also provides a hotel, events centres, and a commercial area across the two existing properties which are also connected by an underground duty-free shopping area.The addition of Naga 3 is expected to expand the resort’s total room capacity to about 5,000 rooms by 2025.Galaxy Casino, PoipetPhoto from Poipet Guide.Galaxy Casino is a relatively new hotel-casino in Krong Poipet having only opened in mid-2019. It's popular among Thai border crossers.Star Casino, PoipetPhoto from RGB Games.DNA Star Vegas casino is one of the oldest standing hotel-casinos in Poipet and is popular among Thai and Chinese gamblers in the city.Social impact concerns of Cambodian casinosThe mere mention of casinos often generates controversy. Countries such as Pakistan, China, Mexico, Brazil, Thailand, and Ethiopia don’t have a single casino within their borders.In countries where they are present, casinos are often heavily regulated.Many medical bodies across the world have recognised the problem of compulsive gambling.There have been reports of both foreigners and locals in the Kingdom who have resorted to crime because of their addiction to gambling.Additionally, some allegations claim that certain casinos in Cambodia are being used for money laundering. The Basel Anti-Money Laundering Index ranked Cambodia among the countries in the world most vulnerable to money laundering.However, the Cambodian government’s decision to ban all types of online gambling in the Kingdom, also aimed at tackling money laundering and potential terrorism financing, saw a number of operations cease.The Cambodian government’s decision to ban online gambling, which took effect on 1st January 2020, has slowed the growth of the rapid rise of casinos especially in the coastal city of Sihanoukville.What are Sihanoukville casinos like?Many of Cambodia's casinos are in Sihanoukville and expanding into Dara Sakor. These mainly cater to Chinese patrons. Here are some quick facts about Sihanoukville casinos:You can find slot machines for anywhere from a few cents to $5 per game.Slot machines are quite popular and usually only accept US currency.Many are starting to accept the Chinese Yuan and most have currency exchanges onsite.Table games include baccarat, roulette, and blackjack.Most casinos have Chinese-speaking staff and service Chinese food.Many casinos offer free rooms for between $300 and $800 buy-ins.Looking for condos to rent in Sihanoukville? Use our search tool here.Map of all major Cambodia casinosOnline casinos in CambodiaWhile landed casinos definitely made visiting Cambodia more intriguing, the country's online casino industry was growing fast behind the scenes. The primary places online casino operators established their operations were in Sihanoukville, Krong Poi Pet, and Krong Bavet.The most prominent of these locations was Sihanoukville as the burgeoning port city was already home to big casinos and a host of large commercial property developments that had the capacity for modern conveniences such as large office spaces, high-bandwidth internet, and centralized airconditioning.It was noted by international news outlets that Sihanoukville owed its fast expansion not just to landed casinos, but online casinos as well. A large portion of their workforce employed Chinese workers as a majority of these online casinos catering to online casino players in mainland China. The arrival of this large workforce was felt the most in Sihanoukville's property market as rental prices skyrocketed in a matter of months.Cambodia banned online casinos Over the past decade, Cambodia was trying to reform laws governing gambling and related activities. In 2014, legislation was proposed that would overhaul the current regulations. The proposal was meant to generate more state revenue while also attracting more visitors from around the globe. This would effectively double the tax rate up to 5%.Proponents of the measure saw their effort come to fruition when, in 2019, the Cambodian government announced that it would no longer be renewing online gambling permits for 2020. Operators who still had their licenses that year will be given till the end of their license to operate within the Kingdom. It's important to note that the decree only covered online casinos operators; landed casinos, with proper permits, were still allowed to operate.The exodus of many expatriate workers, largely Chinese, was estimated to be in the hundreds of thousands.The immigration office estimated that over 400,000 Chinese nationals left Cambodia by January 2020 - the time when law enforcers cracked down on illegal operations.Casinos Affected by COVID-19During the COVID-19 global pandemic, Cambodian casinos were forced to close for a period from April-July 2020 - many re-opened but were forced shut again in periods of 2021 which has led to mass layoffs and some casinos have closed - although the full extent of the impact is yet to be known.

So you’ve landed in the “Kingdom of Wonder.” Now you’re ready to find a place to live. Don’t be scared! This process might be difficult in other parts of the world. Here, however, finding expat rentals in Phnom Penh is simple.First, this guide will outline what choices you have. Do you want to live in an apartment? A villa? A shophouse maybe?We will take you through all of these things. Also, we will let you know how much it costs to rent in Phnom Penh. In the end, we will tell you the secret of getting the best deal on rent.But first, here’s a few key facts you need to know about accommodation in Phnom Penh:Keep transportation in mind. Will you be riding a motorbike? Taking Grab? Most people choose to live close to where they work because the city tends to get heavily congested during rush hourMeet the landlord. Since they will be your contact on everything to do with the house, make sure the landlord is friendly. Most even speak English.Pick your area. Different neighbourhoods of Phnom Penh are very different. Make sure your place is close to everything you need.Agents are great. Rather than searching on your own, it’s usually easiest to get an agent. They can usually find you the perfect place in a matter of hours. Luckily, we have a list of the best agents in Phnom Penh.Types of accommodation in PPCompared to other cities in the world, Phnom Penh places tend to be straightforward. In fact, they fall into a few basic categories. For the most part, places in the same category will be almost identical.ShophousesThese are shophouses for rent in Phnom Penh because people often use the ground floor as a place for their business. Not always, though. These places are often rented out on each floor (they are usually three to four storeys high).Expats looking for affordability usually live in a shophouse. You can usually rent them out with one or two other roommates. Or sometimes you can find groups that are already looking for another roommate to fill one of their rooms.Either way, these places usually have bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, full kitchens and at least one balcony. Shophouses in Phnom Penh are great places to live while on a budget.ApartmentWestern-style apartments for rent in Phnom Penh are becoming more and more popular in Phnom Penh these days. These are usually fully furnished. They can be found in a range of sizes.Different buildings will have different amenities. Smaller ones will just have parking and wifi. Bigger ones often have pools, gyms, security and weekly cleaning. We call these serviced apartments.If you’re an on-the-go kind of person this can often be the best option. Since everything is already there for you moving in is simple.For apartments, you can find anything from one to four bedrooms. VillasFreestanding houses are called villas for rent in Phnom Penh. They can vary in size, but usually, they have at least three or four bedrooms. Some are furnished, some aren’t. Most have dedicated parking and surrounded by fencing or walls, however.These can be a great option if you have a large group and you all want to live together. Villas in Phnom Penh are becoming rarer with every passing day. So, snatch them up while you can!Neighbourhoods of Phnom PenhChoosing where you want to live might be the most important decision you make. If you want to be in the centre of the city consider:expat rentals in Tonle Bassacexpat rentals in BKK1, expat rentals in BKK2 or expat rentals in BKK3expat rentals in Toul Tum Poung (aka Russian Market)expat rentals in Daun PenhOtherwise, if you want more of a quiet feel, try out:expat rentals in Toul Korkreal estate for rent in Wat Phnom, or evenexpat rentals in Chroy ChangvarWe have profiles of all these areas and more. So check those out if you need more details.PriceLastly, we have the million-dollar question: How much does it cost to rent a place in Phnom Penh?In short, you can find really affordable places and really expensive places. It all depends on what and where.On the low end, you can find rooms in shophouses for as little as $200 per month. This rate might be higher if you’re closer to the centre. Apartments will start at around $350 per month and go up from there. Look to pay around $500 for a well-furnished place in one of the central districts. Apartments with more than one bedroom can go for $700 to $2,000Villas usually start at around $1,000 per month. They can be as much as $5,000 per month in the centre of town. (Hint: If you opt for a villa it is wise to look in outer areas for the best deal)The official rate for electricity is 720 riel per kWh. However, many landlords will round this up to $0.25 for large buildings. The city's official water rate for residential spaces is between 550 and 1,270 riel per cubic metre. You should be paying between $20 to $60 per month for internet. If you pay for cleaning, you should look to spend from $30 to $100 a month, depending on the frequency.The secret to getting a dealSo, you know where you want to live. You know what kind of housing you want. What now?Well here’s the secret. Most landlords are open to negotiating rent rates. True, for newer places this might be harder. After taking a few tours, however, you will notice that there is no shortage of places to live.Because of this, you can often get them to knock down the monthly rent by $20 or so if you want to move in immediately. Heck, many agents will even negotiate on your behalf. To become a master negotiator, check out our five tips for negotiating.If you want to learn more about the business atmosphere in Cambodia, make sure to browse through our Investment Guide 2019. It covers everything an investor or renter should know.There you have it. Now get out there and find your new home in Phnom Penh.If you're already an expat living in Phnom Penh maybe you have thought about buying property. Browse through our listings for condos for sale in Phnom Penh. Get in on the action now!

Prior to 2020, imagining a future where no one went to work from an office, but rather, did all their work via the internet seemed like science fiction.Cambodia, and Phnom Penh in particular, saw a rise in the number of coworking spaces targeting digital nomads open up between 2016 and 2020, then the COVID-19 and pandemic totally changed the work dynamic globally and remote working and the gig economy seems more than likely a part of the modern workforce.The independence of being a freelancer, entrepreneur or digital nomad, or working remotely for full-time work has become more of a reality for more people.Cambodia was even ranked among the top ten nations for remote workers (digital nomads) to work from according to Club Med in 2021.There are also a wealth of options for finding office space in Cambodia. In 2020, Phnom Penh added 11 centrally owned office buildings - an additional 125,500 square metres (sqm) of office space- and a 34 per cent increase compared with 2019.Fast forward to the latter stages of COVID-19, by mid-2021 and the office building market is plentiful following the pandemic but CBRE said "previous economic downturns have been historically followed by leaps in technology, activity, and overall growth for economies, including real estate."As the population becomes more urbanised and more connected via tech, startup culture and opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are growing. However, these enterprises often have trouble securing capital. Coworking spaces can mitigate this problem.Coworking spaces usually offer up desk space, internet and other office amenities for a daily or monthly fee. They are a niche market but are also seeing integration into new mixed-use developments. These can be used as yet another outlet for developers and landlords wanting to hedge their bets in larger complexes.Here’s a guide to the best Cambodian coworking spaces.Coworking spaces in Phnom Penh:Phnom Penh is where most of the Cambodia coworking spaces are located. They all have a different vibe. We've given the most prominent spaces a short profile so you can decide which is the best suited for you.Impact Hub - The revolutionary coworking space Located in the heart of Phnom Penh’s BKK1, Impact Hub is a coworking space in Phnom Penh that aims to be more than just a place to work. They have tons of incubator programs and supportive programmes, workshops & events, mentorships, and resourceful networks.Impact Hub has a wide range of payment plans and its best to contact them for the latest rates to suit your needs.Weighing in on the startup culture in Cambodia, Impact Hub’s Director of Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Melanie Mossard, said the community of Khmer entrepreneurs there was mostly young graduates who were eager to bring innovation to the country.“The most pressing challenges for local entrepreneurs are getting access to capital, building communications skills for the business sector and developing human resources,” she noted, explaining that Impact Hub was adding even more programs such as mentorships, masterclasses, and an Innovation Space.They have partnered with several leading tech companies over recent years and also added a number of platforms to allow innovators to develop projects.Impact Hub17 Saint 306, Phnom Penh - 015 674 048Open 8am-8pm  WS1 by Factory Phnom Penh - The urban coworking space Just off National Highway 2 south of Phnom Penh, you’ll find the stylish Factory complex. The name says it all as this compound was set up in what used to be a factory. Graffiti pieces adorn the walls, and there’s a bike-share system. There is a whole community and tons of space offering a great vibe.Renting a coworking space at the WS1 Factory Workspace differs from a one-day pass or month access which has more features. Full offices can also be rented on a monthly agreement and they have more long-term options as well that span as much as 160 square metres.According to the Factory’s Corbett Hix, visitors to Workspace 1 include foreigners, local freelancers and startups. The rest of the campus, however, is occupied mostly by local businesses. “The truth is, despite the lack of a mature banking sector, there is a lot of private money floating around this country looking for an investment ...What we’re trying to do here at Factory, over the long term, is provide a place of inspiration, a place that will help cultivate original business ideas,” he said, adding that they wanted to provide training covering the less exciting parts of starting a business.The Factory is always evolving and there are on-site cafes, eateries, a craft beer brewery, art and performance spaces and a trampoline park.The Factory WS1 1159 NR2, Phnom Penh - 017 999 546 Emerald Hub - The startup coworking spaceWith Phnom Penh locations in both 7 Makara and BKK3, Emerald Hub’s coworking spaces seem to be tailored directly to the startup crowd. They boast a ton of community programming, mentor programs and partnerships with big names such as Smart and Sabay Digital.Day passes and monthly passes can also be purchased. You will get a feel for the local business scene if you spend enough time at Emerald Hub. Chea Mara, Emerald Hub’s general manager, said that 90% of the workers there are locals who are either long-time freelancers or part of established enterprises.“I think commitment and business operations are the biggest challenges for entrepreneurs in the country,” Mara said.(By mid-2021 it looked as if operations may have ceased).Emerald HubPPIU Building, 11th Floor, Phnom Penh - 093 316 781Open 8am-8:30pm  SmallWorld Realty - The original Cambodia coworking spaceTouting itself as Cambodia’s first homegrown workspace, SmallWorld is set up in the capital and was founded by local maverick Rithy Thul back in December of 2011. He is the brains behind several startups in Cambodia including Koompi, VitaminAir, and Selandra (Blockchain network focusing on empowering developers to build real-world Apps/Dapps)SmallWorld Realty was set up to look after the shared working space which is located at Raintree in 2021. They have co-working spaces, virtual offices, meeting rooms and within the building ar a rooftop area and cafe.SmallWorld Realty#2F-01, Raintree, #299 Preah Ang Duong - 017 669 881Open 7am-8pm  The Desk - The micro-office coworking spaceSelling itself as a space for micro-businesses in the ramp-up stage (but there are also freelancers, bloggers, etc). The Desk is a co-working space in Phnom Penh that aims to provide a community around their Tonle Bassac office.In addition to offering free mentorships, the organisation behind The Desk has ties to other coworking spaces in the region so they can facilitate travel between them for those on longer trips.A single desk here starts at $60 a month. Other plans are tailored to larger groups, such as the private offices that cost $350 per month and can accommodate six people. Norith Kim, a co-founder of The Desk, said that around 30% of the patrons there are foreigners, but the rest are mostly young local entrepreneurs. He added that there was no shortage of passion or enthusiasm in the country. However, he said the biggest challenge for newcomers is often establishing an airtight plan and assembling all the necessary skills.“Most of them are just inspired to run the business without a solid plan. They need to invest at least three to five years working for different companies so they can build their capacity before investing in [their own] business,” he urged.The Desk 206 Eo Preah Norodom Blvd (41), Phnom Penh - 097 217 7777Open 8am-8pm  Sahaka - The inspiring Cambodian coworking spaceFounded by four local ladies, this space on the south end of Phnom Penh with a tall ceiling and spacious design. Sahaka is pitched as a space that is both affordable and professional. If you’re keen on starting a business in Cambodia, this could be a place you want to try out. In addition to co-working facilities, they also offer consulting services on business registration and tax compliance in the country.There are serviced and private offices as well as open workspaces. Even if you aren’t looking for desk space, they host some great training seminars and lectures from regional experts.SahakaStreet 484, Phnom Penh - 088 208 1111Open 8:30am-8pm The Atom Vattanac- The classy business spaceThe Atom is one of the newest working spaces in Phnom Penh, entering the market late in 2020 and offers a premium co-working hub located on the sixth floor of the Vattanac Capital Lifestyle Cube. There is an in-house cafe and a selection of open working spaces and private offices, meeting spaces and premium lounge seating to work from. This will be an ideal business hub for professionals staying in the area.AtomVattanac Capital Lifestyle Cube, Level 6, Phnom Penh  - 023 963 039Open 8am-8pm  The Outpost - The boutique coworking spaceRelatively secluded on the Chroy Changvar peninsula is Outpost, a co-living and a 24-hour co-working space that offers up a well-tailored experience. They are on the top two floors of a green penthouse and boast balconies, a library and even meditation areas. David Abraham, is the co-founder of Outpost and added that they collaborate with the Yellow Tower, offering advice and thoughts on what makes a good community.The living space saw a mix of first-time travellers and established entrepreneurs. At the coworking space, however, it was a vast mix of locals and visitors.The Outpost was looking at moving location in mid-2021, posting online:  "Outpost Cambodia is currently moving. We will be reopening shortly in a new location. We can’t wait to welcome you to our new destination."Yellow Tower - The Urban Oasis was still promoting office space and co-working space by July 2021.The OutpostYellow Tower 191 Tonle Sap Street, Phnom Penh - 012 731 103Open 24 hours  Map of Phnom Penh coworking spaces:If you want to discover all of the different visa options to work in Cambodia legally, see our guide on visas in Cambodia.Siem Reap coworking spaces:Siem Reap has also seen coworking spaces pop up over recent years. However, the venues here can blur the line between business and hospitality and still compete with the numerous coffee shops in the Kingdom.The coworking spaces that offer accommodation have guesthouses and hotels to contend with as well.AngkorHUB - The digital nomad spaceSiem Reap’s AngkorHUB was one of the nation’s first coworking and living spaces with a social mission when it began operating. Since it has both workspace and accommodation on offer near one of the nation’s top tourist draws, it’s no surprise that it attracts those who work and travel simultaneously.Their space offers a range of features including SIM cards, airport pickup, food and even a cat named Tyler. They offer daily and monthly plans as well as accommodation plans that include access to the working space.Speaking on the evolution of coworking spaces in Cambodia, AngkorHUB founder Jeff Laflamme said that people are still accustomed to the idea of working for free in cafes. Businesses are evolving, however, and offering more help to new entrepreneurs.Even though a large chunk of AngkorHUB's customers are travellers, Laflamme added that promoting awareness about new working opportunities was a central mission of the place.“One of the biggest obstacles for Cambodians is that they are unaware of the opportunities of entrepreneurship. The current education system doesn’t seem to be addressing the current global workplace shifts,” Laflamme said.AngkorHUB896 Angkor Night Market St, Siem Reap - 088 706 8879Open 8am-6pm  BioLab - The coffee lover’s coworking spaceIf you love that coffeehouse vibe but want a dedicated place to work, Siem Reap’s BioLab may be the perfect middle ground. In addition to serving up java and snacks, this place offers a slew of productivity features. They have printing and scanning facilities as well as stationary available. The coffee served in glass beakers, is the focus here. It could be the best choice if you are a new entrepreneur and don’t yet want to commit to a more business-focused workspace. Buying food or drinks gets you access here, so it’s one of the cheapest options.BioLab’s manager Samnang Chou claimed that the majority of the patrons here are local freelancers. “Most of them depend on the flow of tourists. To overcome this they should focus on both local and tourist customers.”BioLab#0418 Wat Bo Rd Wat Bo, Siem Reap - 087 616 816Open 7am-9:30pm  Map of Siem Reap coworking spaces:Kampot coworking spaces:Kampot has always had a roaming and easy-come-easy-go expat population but more digital nomads and remote workers have opted for the laid back lifestyle in Kampot.This has seen more dedicated working spaces being added, but completion with the many excellent cafes in the riverside town is still fierce.Nomad Working Space - The mixed living digital nomad hangoutThis mixed hostel and guesthouse in Kampot also offer working spaces for short to mod term remote workers and digital nomads. There is a large roof space and a gym has also been added in 2021. Conference rooms and private offices are available to rent with access to A.V, projectors, whiteboards, flipcharts, desktop computers, super-fast fibre optic internet etcThere are 3 restaurants on-site and access to coffee and snacks.Nomad Working SpaceKampot - 088 441 3833Open 8am-8pmA niche marketCoworking spaces have had to ride out a turbulent time with the pandemic and some are still out of reach to some entrepreneurs and freelancers.Cafes are abundant throughout Cambodia and often preferred by some working remotely but for digital nomads, online teachers, startups and other tech-savvy professionals, a better-dedicated co-working space is better suited.Some of the requirements are the stability of printer access, consistent and fast wifi and air conditioning. Some remote workers also prefer to have green or open spaces when escaping their living environmentIf you want to elevate your business skills to the next level, download our free Investment Guide. It's got a full rundown of everything about enterprise in the Kingdom!

This year’s World Bank Ease of Doing Business report ranked the country 185 out of 190 when it comes to starting a business in Cambodia. However, many foreigners are still attracted to the Kingdom as a place to begin their journey as entrepreneurs. The report showed that it took an average of 99 days to complete all the legal procedures to register an enterprise. It should be noted, however, that there are a wealth of options other than starting from the ground up. Many people choose to join up with a business that is already established. Others will hire a local fixer to help smooth the process of starting up an operation.Michelle Brown, the founder of Kampot’s Bohemiaz Resort and Spa, notes that she had a close friend living in the country help with the initial process of starting a business in Cambodia. Her associate then came on as a manager and helped find staff when they opened in 2014.Indeed, if you decide you want to try starting a business in Cambodia in either the food and beverage or hospitality sector, you can often find places that are already for sale. Perhaps you want to start a bar, guesthouse or restaurant. Just search business for sale in Cambodia on our site to check out options.‘Unofficial fees’ for doing business in CambodiaUnfortunately, Cambodia still has a reputation for being a place where bribes are a part of the business environment. To be sure, however, things are getting better day by day. Since many processes are quite slow, business owners will sometimes pay unofficial fees to expedite them. Realestate.com.kh does not endorse any form of bribery and recommends full compliance through official channels only.Sole proprietorship in CambodiaDo you want to start a sole proprietorship or a partnership? What licenses will you need? Will you be hiring workers? These are all questions you should be answering before you start the registration process. BNG Legal has this handy guide on their website that you can use as a jumping off point when you begin the process of starting a business in Cambodia.In fact, it wouldn’t hurt to get legal advice from a lawyer in the country. Just a short meeting can often be indispensable for sending you in the right direction. Registering a company in CambodiaBefore starting the registration process you will need:a valid business visaa local bank account with at least $1,000 depositeda certificate of health and a criminal background check from your home countryNote that you should open a bank account with a bank where you can pay government fees such as Acleda, FTB or Canadia Bank.After you have these materials it’s time to start the government registration process. This process will take you through the Ministry of Commerce (MoC), the General Department of Taxation (GDT) and the Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training (MLVT). Luckily, much of the MoC process can be completed online. Refer to the government's guide to registering a Cambodia business for more details.Cambodia business license costWhen the MoC process is complete you will only have two weeks to register as a taxpayer with the GDT. There you can either register for six months or one year as a taxpayer. The fee is $500 or $650, respectively. All documentation from the GDT is usually completed in less than a month.The MLVT process can also be completed—at least in part—online. Note also, that businesses will have to register for the National Social Security Fund here, dependent on how many employees they have.Additionally, there are licences that will be needed. This depends on the sector in which your business operates. If you are starting a guesthouse or restaurant the Ministry of Tourism will be where you go. These licences usually need to be renewed annually.Paying salary tax, profit tax and value-added tax (VAT) is done by the 20th of each month.Securing funding for your Cambodian businessThere are many different ways of getting the capital you need to initiate starting a business in Cambodia. Perhaps you want to scout out investors. Or maybe you want to raise the money yourself or pool funds with a partner. Every industry will have different needs when it comes to initial investments.What kind of business could you start in Cambodia?Traditionally, most foreigners coming to the country start Cambodian businesses in the tourism industry. This means bars, restaurants, guesthouses or tour companies. Many from other areas of Asia also find success expanding their existing operations in manufacturing or production. Increasingly, there are companies springing up in the tech, real estate and financial sectors. This is because the country has reasonably good technical infrastructure and a quickly growing and urbanising population. Make sure to do your research before diving into the country.Finding a space for your Cambodian businessOne of the biggest attractions of starting a business in Cambodia is the affordable real estate here. What’s more, it can be easy to find a space for sale that is already set up for what you need. If you want to start a hotel just search the listings on our site. Looking for a place with everything you need can sometimes be difficult. We recommend consulting the expert assistance of a real estate agent. They can help you zero in on what you need. Of course, if your operation is small you can look at coworking spaces. These are becoming more and more popular in the country and can be an affordable way to get started quickly.Hiring staff for your business in CambodiaHiring staff members is a long and intimate process. However, if it is done right your business will reap the rewards. The Kingdom is disproportionately young, so take this into consideration. A job with the right salary and a possibility of advancement will, hopefully, generate lots of interest.Training can be absolutely pivotal for new employees. Don’t let the cultural divide get in the way, either. If your enterprise is big enough, definitely consider hiring a professional HR manager that can solve any staffing issues.Cambodian offices are usually open for 40 hours a week, but many also work Saturday mornings as well to hit 45 hours a week. The Kingdom has a whopping 28 days of public holiday a year. Many businesses are starting to move towards a less holiday-intensive schedule, but compromises often need to be made. Family is a very important aspect in Khmer culture. Some businesses also choose to add one workday every month to make up for the holidays.Benefits and health insurance are on the rise in Cambodia. However, salary is still one of the most important factors for new hires. There is no hard and fast rule for Cambodian wages. In general, you get what you pay for. Staff with higher skills and more job prospects will command a higher wage. The best way to settle on a fair salary is to do plenty of research. Find out what similar positions in the country are offering. Staff retention is one of the biggest problems you could encounter after starting a business in Cambodia. It’s vital to find the right workers, invest in them and build a strong workplace culture. You can use a staffing agency, job site such as BongThom.com or ask for recommendations from trusted friends. If you plan ahead and emphasise thorough training you and your staff will succeed.Commenting on the rewards and challenges of hiring local staff, Bohemiaz’s Michelle Brown said that seeing her employees grow has been one of the most exciting parts of her experience after starting a business in Cambodia.“It just took some time to adjust to learning how to communicate … the most rewarding thing about what I have created at Bohemiaz isn't the development of the resort but seeing the young girls I employed four years ago blossom into amazing young ladies with real career aspirations and desire to travel and learn,” she said.Buying a business in CambodiaAnother popular option is to buy a business that is already set up. This is especially good if you want to start a hospitality business. Usually, you can find turnkey operations that already have a staff in place, all the needed infrastructure and even a customer base.A few specialty agents operate in the selling of turnkey businesses. One of the major names is Asian Business Brokers. What's more, these agents can also help new owners navigate the laws and requirements to help them get off the ground. Many agents suggest doing your research and having a good plan in place. Watch the video above, Crispian Knowles from Asian Business Brokers says that people need to be fully prepared before they start a business in Cambodia.There are tons of events going on across the country where you can spread the word about your business. Expos and trade shows go on all the time for sectors ranging from real estate and construction to cosmetics and travel. Get your brand out there!Networking with other Cambodia business ownersFellow business owners can be some of the best resources for advice. There are already tons of organisations in the country where you can connect with entrepreneurs from your country. Check out the American Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia (AmCham), BritCham and EuroCham. Their sites have tons of resources and their events are a great place for networking.More informal networks can be found in groups on Facebook and other social media. Finding like-minded individuals will help while you are starting a business in Cambodia. You will eventually get to know other business owners in the area and it can be good to show support for each other. After all, everyone benefits from a growing economy, right?Business Etiquette: Doing business in CambodiaJust like in any other country there are difficult parts to starting a business in Cambodia. You can learn from the mistakes of others, however, and come out ahead. One of the biggest tips you hear from entrepreneurs is to surround yourself with people you trust. Whether it’s business partners, staff or landlords, only rely on people who you truly have faith in. Your business should be like your child. After all, you wouldn’t let just anyone off the street babysit for you, right?Make sure you plan ahead. Do your research. Talk to experts. Ask lots and lots of questions. There is no such thing as too much preparation. Calculate everything out and have a plan in case it all goes wrong. You will thank yourself later.Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, stay flexible. Remember, Cambodia is still a developing nation. There will be setbacks and there will be headaches. If you can roll with the punches you will be that much better off.Brown mentioned that one of the biggest challenges she has faced has been with bank and government contracts. She urged business owners to be totally sure of all the details before signing on the dotted line.“Initially it was also difficult to get a regular supply of imported products, however in the last couple of years the supply chain has vastly improved and the range of western products in Kampot is now amazing,” she added. Creating a successful Cambodia businessGrowing a successful business isn’t easy. It definitely is possible, however. If you work hard you will have something to show for it. Surely you will learn loads about yourself and about this wonderful country.Don’t forget that Realestate.com.kh can help you nearly every step of the way, either. Besides helping you find real estate, our news section can keep you up to date on the sector. Click over to our reports section to check out surveys and reports. Additionally, we have other guides like this one that can help educate you and improve your skills.If you liked this guide you'll love our Investment Guide 2019. Download it for free and learn everything you need to know to start a business! Article by:

Located on the southwest part of Cambodia, Sihanoukville, formerly Kampong Som, is one of the Kingdom’s most important urban centres. Additionally, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Kingdom. Here's Realestate.com.kh's visitor's guide to the coastal city.To learn about different areas of Cambodia check out all of our guides, and location profiles. If you want to stay up to date, click over to our news section.If you're wanting to relocate to Sihanoukville we also have hundreds of listings for real estate for rent in Sihanoukville, or even real estate for sale. Without futher ado, here's the guide:Sihanoukville was carved out of the jungle by the French in the 1950s. After a short period of growth, the coastal city became entangled in the Vietnam War and subsequent Civil War which precipitated a period of decline that only ended after the signing of the 1991 Paris Peace Accords.Today, Sihanoukville, which was named after the late King Norodom Sihanouk, is an economically vibrant city of nearly 160,000 people. Sihanoukville is once again an important centre for trade, commerce, and tourism. It has earned the moniker “Rising Star of the Southwest”.A city rebornSihanoukville’s current economic renaissance is mainly due to its strategic location and presence of important businesses and industries.Sihanoukville hosts the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port (PAS), Cambodia’s sole deepwater seaport. This is an important trade gateway to Asean and the world beyond. The Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone (SSEZ), the Kingdom’s largest and most important special economic zone, is located within the city.In the last few years, Sihanoukville has also emerged as one of the most sought-after travel destinations in Cambodia. Millions of visitors from all over the world visit every year. People from China, Korea, Japan, the US and Europe savour its pristine beaches, historic temples and coterie of casinos.More information about business in the Kingdom can be found in our annual investment guide.The New York Times ranked Sihanoukville 13 in its 2018 list of best places to visit around the world.Rain, rain, go awayMost tourist opt to visit Sihanoukville during the dry season, avoiding the local monsoon season. The high season begins in November and ends around March. At this time it is sunny but still relatively cool in the mornings and evenings. The afternoon heat will still have you craving a dip in the ocean, however.Planes, trains and minibusesThere are many buses, minibuses, and minivans that travel to and from Sihanoukville. Capitol Bus, Mekong Express, Giant Ibis, Mey Hong, and Larryta Express are among the companies plying the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville route daily. On average, foreigners pay around $10 for the trip, while Khmers are charged less.For between $45 and $60, you can hire a private taxi to bring you to Sihanoukville from the capital. These taxis can usually seat four people with luggage. There are also shared taxis you can get at the Central Market in Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville's old bus station. These are usually cars that charge $7 to $10 per seat.A bus, minibus, taxi, or minivan ride from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville and vice versa takes between 3.5 and six hours.  Trains on the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville line run three times a week (Friday, Saturday and Sunday). The train trip, which costs $7, usually takes seven hours. In Phnom Penh, the trip starts from the Cambodia Railways Station and makes stops in Takeo and Kampot.Coming by airThere are regular international flights to Sihanoukville from China, Vietnam, the Philippines and Malaysia. Local carriers Sky Angkor Air, JC International Airlines, Cambodia Angkor, and Bayon Airlines have regularly scheduled domestic flights to Sihanoukville from Siem Reap and vice versa. Meanwhile, the Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville air route is served by Bayon Airlines which flies to the port city three times a week. King of the beachesSihanoukville is famous for having some of the best beaches in Cambodia. They are known for their immaculate white sands and crystal clear waters. Below are some of the best and most popular beaches in and around Sihanoukville:Independence BeachDespite a large portion of it taken over by massive new property developments, Independence Beach is still one of the best beaches in Sihanoukville. There is a long stretch of white sand, said to be the best in the city, where you can relax and soak up the sun. The sparkling clear waters make for a great swimming, and an array of restaurants and bars make this an ideal place for dining and partying. Serendipity BeachOften described as the party beach, Serendipity is popular with Western visitors. It hosts an excellent array of restaurants, beach huts, and bars offering Western and local dishes and a wide variety of amazingly cheap drinks. Before the partying starts, this is a good place to relax and sit on all the beach chairs.Otres BeachConsidered one of the most beautiful beaches in the country, Otres was once ranked by Forbes among the top 22 beaches in Asia. Largely untouched, the beach offers a relaxed atmosphere. Along with its three-mile stretch are seafood restaurants and plenty of accommodation options, including guest houses, small resorts, and upmarket boutique hotels. Otres Beach has less development than neighbouring tracts. That may change soon, however, as it has been eyed as the location for huge hotel complexes. Stop by soon to experience it as it is.Ochheuteal BeachOchheuteal Beach is often considered the most popular oceanside spot in Sihanoukville. Expats from Phnom Penh and holidaymakers flock there on weekends and holidays. There is a wide range of accommodations just off the four-km stretch from hotels to budget bungalows. This is a popular spot to lounge in a grass hut shelter or get a beachside massage. Everywhere you go you’ll be within arm’s reach of drink stands and restaurants galore.The island lifeA few miles off the coast of Sihanoukville are a bevy of tropical islands. While not as well-known as Phu Quoc in Vietnam or Koh Tao in Thailand, these islands are increasingly becoming popular with locals and foreign visitors alike. They are popular for diving, snorkeling, fishing and swimming.Here are some of the best and most well-known islands off the Sihanoukville coast:Koh Rong Koh Rong is an island 25 km off the coast of Sihanoukville, in the Gulf of Thailand. With an area 78 square kilometres, it is the second largest island in Cambodia. Largely undeveloped, the island has earned the moniker of “unexploited paradise island”. Spread over 45 km of the island are 23 white sand beaches, making it a premier destination for beach lovers.The waters surrounding the island are excellent for snorkeling and scuba diving. Accommodations vary widely in the area. There are wooden bungalows, hotels and almost everything in between. There are also restaurants, bars, laundry shops, stores, ATMs, and pharmacies. To get to and from Koh Rong, there are five modern ferries and a few slower boats running the route daily. Speed Ferries Cambodia (SFC), Island Speed Boat Cambodia (ISC), Buva Sea, Angkor Speed Ferry (ASF), and GTVC Speedboat do the trip in around 45 minutes. They usually depart from Serendipity Pier and cost $25 round trip. The slower boats are around $5 to $10 but take twice as long.Koh Rong SanloemSimilar to Koh Rong, nearby Koh Rong Sanloem has developed rapidly in the last few years. While the interior is mostly covered by dense jungle, the coastline features an array of beautiful beaches. The crescent-shaped Saracen bay is the leading tourist attraction in Koh Rong Sanloem. Other notable tourist spots in the area include Lazy Beach, Sunset Beach, and the village of M'pai Bai. The island boasts of more than a dozen guesthouses, private beach bungalows and villa resorts.  Lovers of luxury can rent villas with full amenities, while shoestring travellers can easily find dorm beds.The ferries that go to Koh Rong stop at Koh Rong Sanloem first. So, tickets there are just $20 round trip.Koh TangThis largely uninhabited island is just three square kilometres and sits four to five hours off the mainland. Though it has limited tourist facilities there are plans to develop it. Several tour companies operating out of Sihanoukville run overnight trips to the island.Koh Pos (Snake Island)This island, less than a kilometre off Sihanoukville, is largely undeveloped. It hosts several species of snakes including king cobras and pythons. One of the sole buildings on the island is Treasure Island Seafood where you can get heaps of crab, fish, shrimp, lobster and squid. The island is connected by bridge to the mainland.And don’t forget about Sihanoukville’s other tourist sites:Wat Leu Many visitors to Sihanoukville make a pilgrimage to this Buddhist temple. Wat Leu, located in forested area atop Sihanoukville Mountain, is 1.5 kilometres from the centre of the city. Many people looking for peace and quiet have trekked up the mountain to visit the sacred spot. In addition, Wat Leu is also visited by many photography enthusiasts, who note that it is one of the best places to take pictures of Sihanoukville. To reach Wat Leu you can take a moto or tuk-tuk. A moto ride from the city centre costs around $2. A more scenic tuk-tuk ride costs a bit more, however.Ream National ParkThis vast area is a paradise of exotic flora and fauna. Located around 18 kilometres east of Sihanoukville, Ream was established on 210 hectares by the King in 1993. The park hosts pangolins, sun bears, dugongs, dolphins, deer, wild boars and birds. Tour agencies offer full-day tours that cost around $15 to $20 and include transportation, food and a guide.Food, glorious foodSihanoukville has excellent dining options. Both Khmer and international food are abundant. Indeed, restaurants run the gamut from budget eats to luxury dining. You’ll surely want to try the seafood at Treasure Island. Ernie’s Burger is purported to be amazing and Douceur du Cambodge offers up loads of French pastries.If you want to dine while also supporting a humanitarian cause, head to Sandan. Part of the Friends International Group, the restaurant serves local fare and trains underprivileged youth to be food industry stars.Want to take a culinary journey? Try falafel at Sok San Village, Mediterranean food at Olive to Olive, Kamasutra’s Indian food or the Western dishes of Globetrotter Cafe and Tavern.Living for the nightSihanoukville has one of the best nightlife scenes in all of Cambodia. Many beach bars host all-night parties. Dolphin Shack Club at Serendipity Beach leads the charge. Foreigners seem to congregate there nightly.Five Men Fresh Bar is modeled after German beer halls. They make all the beers on site. Other popular haunts include Maybe Later, Rocky Bar and Otres Corner Bar Sessions. Some of Sihanoukville’s main attractions are casinos. Currently, there are more than 30 with a whopping 70 more in the works. Holiday Palace Casino sits near Victory Beach while Fortuna is adjacent to Serendipity and New Macau by Ochheuteal.Lay your weary head to restAs a leading tourist destination, Sihanoukville has tons of places to stay for local and foreign visitors. The type of accommodations available in Sihanoukville can be divided into luxury, mid-range and budget categories.Keeping it classyThere is a coterie of luxury hotels and resorts in Sihanoukville. Most of these accommodations are located within the city, though a few are situated in some of the islands off the coast. These usually have amenities like swimming pools, gyms, saunas and jacuzzis.Among these are Song Saa Private Island, Sokha Beach Resort, Moha Mohori by Sokha Beach Resort, and Lakeside by Sokha Beach Resort. Staying at places in this category can set you back between $120 and $900 a night.The middle pathDominating the mid-range accommodations in Cambodia are boutique hotels, which first appeared on the scene two decades ago. Sihanoukville currently hosts more than 80 hotels, most of which are boutique hotels or similar accommodations.While prices and amenities vary, a typical boutique hotel in the Kingdom has a rooftop bar, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. Boutique hotels here are known for their luxurious rooms and facilities, a wide variety of fine dining options, excellent in-room service with a personalized touch, and way cheaper than similar accommodations in other countries.In Sihanoukville, hotels and other accommodations falling under this category include Ren Resort, Deluxx Boutique Hotel, Tamu Hotel, Naia Resort, Legacy Hotel & Resort, and Mary Beach Hotel & Resort.Staying at these accommodations will cost you approximately $60 to $120 per night.BudgetSihanoukville does not lack in budget accommodations. At present, the city hosts more than 300 guesthouses and similar accommodations.There are dorm-style shared rooms favoured by many backpackers and other budget travellers that can be rented for $10 or less a night.For a better and more comfortable stay, there are private rooms available in many guesthouses. Prices here range from $12 to $40 a night. You can choose the number of beds, air conditioning or fan and other amenities.There’s an app for thatThe rental app Airbnb is becoming more widespread in the country. Currently, there are nearly 200 listings on the mobile app that range from full house rentals to shared rooms. For most accommodations in the coastal town, you can book in advance or simply walk in. During high season or local holidays, it can be wise to secure lodging ahead of time.Shop ‘til you dropCompared to the capital, Sihanoukville shopping options are a bit limited. Though there are no international-grade shopping centres there similar to Aeon Mall, that could soon change. Construction of Furi Times Square Mall is currently underway. It is expected to be completed before the end of 2019. For now, the best shopping options are Samudera Market, Orange Market and Lucky Ocean Supermarket. Orange Market has a wide selection of imported goods, as does Samudera. Want to pick up some souvenirs? Stop by Unique, M’Lop Tapang, Sihanoukville Duty Free Shop, Rajana, Khmer Artisans or Element. If you want to truly shop like a local make sure to visit either Phsar Leu or Central Market.Hitch a rideThere is a wealth of transport opportunities in the city. The traditional remorques and converted trucks are still the most common. Stiff competition is coming in the form of auto rickshaws and motorcycle taxis, however. These moto taxis usually charge $1 to take you from the city centre to any of the beaches. If you have more people a remorque will cost around $2.Interestingly, the local ride hailing service PassAp is now being used in Sihanoukville. This is a local equivalent to Uber or Grab. Using the app you can map out where you want to go and choose anything from SUV to a moped. The fare is all calculated for you as well, so there’s no need to negotiate price.If you love the freedom of the road, renting your own motorbike is a great option. Traffic isn’t as hectic as the big city so adventurous visitors often do this. Stray Dog Adventures, Mr Yeat’s, Mottah Cambodia, DH Cambodia, Lim Henghoo and Wonderful Travel and Tours all have motos on offer. Guesthouses can usually arrange rentals for you and fees are between $4 and $7 per day.Safety is a prioritySihanoukville is generally quite safe. It has been in the spotlight recently for an uptick in fraud and theft cases. Some have attributed this to an influx of labourers due to the recent construction boom. Government officials have create special working groups to address this issue. The only thing visitors should be vigilant about, however, is keeping bags with money and travel documents secured. Emergency servicesHospital and medical service in Sihanoukville have markedly improved in the last few years. However, facilities in the province are still relatively limited. The Sihanoukville International Clinic has the best reputation and is a favourite among expats. It offers 24-hour medical care and has specialists in obstetrics, ophthalmology, dermatology, and gynecology. The CT Clinic has good equipment and a few English-speaking staff. Services offered include minor operations and doctor visitations. For more serious cases, it would be better to head to Phnom Penh where there are more international-standard hospitals and clinics. Like in other urban areas of Cambodia, there are many pharmacies around town. Chamroeum Chanlida Pharmacy, which is well-stocked and has a large selection of prescription and over-the-counter medicines, has the best reputation and is a favourite among expats.Like nowhere elseThere’s a reason that Preah Sihanouk province was originally named after the King. There’s definitely something magical about the enchanting landscape. Indeed, the lifestyle in Sihanoukville is one of leisure and calm. You really have to experience it to truly understand.Looking for real estate for rent in Sihanoukville  or real estate for sale in Sihanoukville?Need more guides? Check out other great resources such as Location Profiles and Investor Guides on Realestate.com.kh now!