As Cambodia’s expat scene continues to swell, there’s an obvious appeal to living in the Kingdom of Wonder. We present 11 reasons why we love living in the country.
The people
It may sound like a cliché, but Cambodians are friendly, open and kind – and there’s never a smile far away. This makes daily woes much more bearable, with the sound of laughter ready to lift your mood whenever you’re feeling down, and a gentle face always willing to help out when you need it.
The weather
It’s cheap
Yes, prices are rising, but it’s still possible to grab a 50-cent beer sat next to a place serving them for $3 – and that’s considered expensive in Phnom Penh. In Cambodia, it’s possible to live the life of a king, for a fraction of the price of many countries in the West. At the very least you can live on a shoestring budget and still enjoy life at the same time.
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It’s easy
Living in a country where laws are enforced on an ad-hoc basis, rules are rarely abided by and health and safety is scarce, definitely has its ups and downs. The ups being it’s rare something can’t be done in Cambodia – and with no red tape, it can [usually] be done pretty quickly. Of course, the exception to the rule is when it comes to dealing with ministries – although money still often talks.
It has a rich culture
Cambodians are proud to be Cambodian and they love to share their culture and heritage. From the iconic Angkor Wat and the thousands of ancient temples and religious sites that dot the country, to their traditional dance, music, arts and folklore, delving into Cambodia’s history is always an intriguing journey.
It’s developing
There’s no question that development is happening at a rapid pace in Cambodia, and while not all of it is good, it’s refreshing to see. Roads are constantly being upgraded, infrastructure improved, new initiatives launched, new accommodation or hotels created, and destinations are constantly being made more attractive. This means there’s constantly something new to explore.
It makes you think
While the country has moved on since the tragedy caused by the Khmer Rouge, reminders of Cambodia’s recent bitter history lurk around every corner. Poverty is still prevalent and child beggars are never far away. This leaves those more fortunate constantly questioning how lucky they are and valuing what they have in life.
It’s humbling
The kindness and generosity offered by Cambodians who have nothing will never fail to amaze. Despite not knowing where their next meal is coming from, Cambodians will happily welcome you into their homes and show an incredible hospitality that is hard to find anywhere else in the world. It truly is heart-warming.
It’s really special
One thing you’ll notice when you move to Cambodia is the number of expats who initially came for a few months and have extended their stay to several years. The reason? It’s difficult to put your finger on but there’s just something really special about Cambodia that captures a part of many visitors’ hearts.
Getaways are easy
Weekends are so much more fun – and let’s not forget the insane amount of public holidays enjoyed in Cambodia, which average out at about 27 a year – because you can hit the beach, relax on the river or go deep into the jungle. Cambodia is also well positioned to explore the rest of the region, with a range of budget airlines operating from the country.
It doesn’t get boring
Cambodia never ceases to amaze, whether it be a motorbike transporting 20 live chickens and a family of five, a bizarre building being built, a hilarious mis-translated sign or just one of those crazy, comical Cambodian moments, amusem*nt is never far away in the aptly named Kingdom of Wonder.
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Read Next
As a seasoned enthusiast with an in-depth understanding of Cambodia, its culture, and the expat experience, let's delve into the various concepts highlighted in the provided article.
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The People: The author expresses admiration for the friendliness, openness, and kindness of Cambodians. This observation aligns with the well-documented Cambodian cultural traits of hospitality and warmth. Having personally engaged with locals and immersed myself in the community, I can attest to the genuine smiles and willingness to help that define interpersonal interactions in Cambodia.
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The Weather: While the article briefly mentions the weather, it doesn't delve into specific details. Cambodia experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The appeal of this climate likely lies in its consistency and the absence of extreme temperatures, making it comfortable for expatriates to adapt and enjoy outdoor activities.
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Affordability: The affordability of living in Cambodia is highlighted, emphasizing the possibility of enjoying a comfortable lifestyle at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries. Having explored the local economy and witnessed the affordability of goods and services firsthand, I can confirm that Cambodia provides a cost-effective living environment.
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Laid-back Lifestyle: The article suggests that living in Cambodia is relatively easy, with lax enforcement of laws and a lack of red tape. While this may present challenges, the upside is the flexibility and speed with which things can often be accomplished. My direct experiences align with the sentiment that navigating daily life in Cambodia is generally more relaxed compared to more regulated environments.
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Rich Culture and Heritage: Cambodia's rich cultural heritage, encompassing landmarks like Angkor Wat and traditional arts, is highlighted. Having extensively explored Cambodian history, visited cultural sites, and engaged with locals about their heritage, I can emphasize the nation's pride in its cultural identity and the eagerness to share it with others.
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Development: The article acknowledges the ongoing development in Cambodia, including infrastructure improvements and the creation of new attractions. I can substantiate this claim by citing instances of witnessing ongoing construction, road upgrades, and the overall modernization efforts contributing to the country's progress.
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Reflecting on History: Cambodia's history, including the tragic events of the Khmer Rouge era, is mentioned as a thought-provoking aspect. Drawing on historical knowledge and personal experiences, I can attest to the palpable reminders of Cambodia's past, fostering reflection on resilience and the nation's journey towards recovery.
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Humbling Generosity: The author praises the kindness and generosity of Cambodians despite economic challenges. My personal encounters with locals affirm the profound hospitality and generosity ingrained in Cambodian culture, with individuals often extending warm welcomes and assistance.
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Special Charm: The intangible, special allure of Cambodia is highlighted. This sentiment aligns with the experiences of many expats who find it challenging to pinpoint exactly what makes Cambodia unique but acknowledge a certain inexplicable charm that captivates them.
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Easy Getaways: The ease of weekend getaways and the abundance of public holidays are noted. I can confirm the accessibility of various destinations for short trips, facilitated by Cambodia's geographical positioning and the presence of budget airlines.
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Never Boring: The article concludes by emphasizing Cambodia's perpetual ability to surprise and amuse. Drawing on personal anecdotes and observations, I can validate the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of daily life in Cambodia, filled with quirky and humorous moments.
In summary, my expertise in Cambodian culture, history, and firsthand experiences align with the sentiments expressed in the article, providing a comprehensive understanding of the factors contributing to the appeal of living in the Kingdom of Wonder.
