Guide on Traveling to Cambodia with Kids
Traveling with kids to a new country can be daunting. Balancing their needs, quality experiences, and cultural immersion requires thoughtful planning.
Many parents struggle with logistics, so if you are wondering how to get from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap with kids, fear not! A well-defined plan is key to a smooth journey. This guide will explore essential tips for a fantastic Cambodian adventure with your little ones.
To make things easier for you, we will highlight all the tips that you need to keep in mind when travelling to Cambodia with kids.
Planning The Trip
Once you have finalized within the family that you will be visiting Cambodia, the first thing you need to do next is plan the trip. When is it happening? Who will accompany you? How long will you stay for? Which places do you want to explore?
These are a handful of the questions that need to be clarified to ensure that your trip is a successful one.
Most nationalities require visas for entry. Apply online or upon arrival at major airports and border crossings. Children under a certain age (usually 2 or 3) may be exempt; check with Cambodian authorities.
Additionally, you have to get the transportation sorted, especially from popular places like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Having the transportation booked will take away that worry.
Book The Accommodation
When you are traveling with kids to Cambodia, the last thing you want to do is leave things to the last minute. This involves your accommodation as well. You want to ensure that the accommodation you are booking is kid-friendly, meaning that there are amenities to keep them engaged.
Also, try and find accommodation that’s close to most of the places that you are planning to visit and explore. Having done that will ensure that you don’t have to worry about finding last-minute accommodation in the places you are visiting around Cambodia.
Transportation In And Around Cambodia
Getting around Cambodia with kids offers a unique adventure in itself. For short distances, tuk-tuks, the iconic open-air carriages pulled by motorbikes, are a fun and affordable option. However, for longer journeys, consider air-conditioned taxis or comfortable minivan buses, which often have bathrooms onboard. If you’re feeling adventurous, renting bicycles for short rides around town can be a great way to explore at your own pace alongside the locals. Find various transportation options throughout Cambodia available to suit your itinerary. Remember, Cambodia’s scorching midday sun can be intense, so plan your walks accordingly.
Exploring Cambodia With Kids
Concerning the places you will explore when in Cambodia, that’s another thing that needs to be planned into a concrete itinerary. What this does is ensure that you don’t have to rush through things at the last minute.
Some of the top kid-friendly spots in Cambodia include:
- Angkor Wat is the crown jewel, but exploring smaller temples like Ta Prohm (the “Tomb Raider” temple) can be just as exciting for kids.
- In Siem Reap, visit the Phare Circus, a dazzling show blending acrobatics and traditional dance. Phnom Penh boasts the Royal Palace and the National Museum.
- Take a boat trip on Tonle Sap, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake. Spot floating villages, see fascinating birdlife, and learn about the lake’s ecological importance
At the end of the day, these are just a few of the places you can explore. We’d recommend asking the locals for recommendations too.
Additional Tips
Besides having a solid itinerary, we’d recommend you keep the following factors in mind:
- Always relax and adjust to the experiences, even when kids are involved.
- Pack light, breathable clothing, comfortable shoes, and a hat.
- Let your kids enjoy different kinds of food and try to opt for the milder options in terms of spice levels.
- Dress modestly when visiting temples.
- Always pack standard medications that could come in handy for you during times of crisis.
Conclusion
If this is your first time exploring Cambodia with kids, the key here is to have a concrete plan in action. You don’t want to rush through with things and you also don’t want to leave things until the last minute. So, with a little preparation and a sense of adventure, you too can embark on your trip in no time.
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