Learning through mistakes has been a recurring theme throughout my life, especially during my extensive travels in South East Asia and particularly in Cambodia. I'd like to share some practical advice to help you navigate this beautiful country with ease.

Choosing an Apartment:

When selecting an apartment, consider not opting for one on the top floor. Cambodia's weather is consistently hot, even during the wet season. As a result, you'll find yourself relying on air conditioning or fans more frequently. Keep in mind that electricity in Cambodia costs 0.25 cents per kWh.

Access to and from your apartment is also crucial. Many roads in Siem Reap and other parts of Cambodia are unpaved, which means they turn into fine red dust in the dry season and become muddy in the wet season.

Inspect Your Money:

To avoid frustration, carefully examine the condition of your US dollars, whether you bring them from home or exchange them locally. Look out for any nicks, tears, writing, stamps, wear, or damage. If you find any imperfections, request a replacement note. Additionally, store your bills in a way that prevents them from getting creased, and you'll thank me later.

Drinking Water:

Resist the urge to drink tap water if you want to avoid spending excessive time in the bathroom. It's safe for showering and dishwashing, but definitely not for drinking. Bottled water is widely available and affordable. It's also a good choice for brushing your teeth.

Power Adapters:

Ensure you bring a couple of power adapters to charge your devices since universal plugs are not commonly found here. Depending on your home country, your plug may not fit into local outlets. Refer to the appropriate adapter type for your needs.

Clothing:

Cambodia's climate is consistently hot throughout the year, so you won't need many pairs of long pants, thick shirts, or hoodies. Opt for plenty of shorts / skirts and lightweight cotton shirts. Depending on your tolerance for heat, you might require up to two shirts per day. Many laundries are available, charging around one dollar per kilo of laundry, and returning your clothes the next day, neatly packed and ready to wear.

Credit Cards/Bank Cards:

Have you ever experienced the frustration of an ATM devouring your card? I have, and I can assure you that it's a disaster, especially in Cambodia. To avoid this predicament, bring at least two bank cards. In case one gets eaten, you can always transfer funds between them and use the spare card. Additionally, it's wise to inform your bank about your travel plans, as most banks are quite stringent with security and may reject unusual transactions.

These tips are just a starting point, and I'll continue sharing my experiences and lessons learned as I make more mistakes. If you'd like to contribute to this list to assist fellow travelers, please feel free to drop me a line in the comments section, and I'll be sure to share your suggestions. Safe travels!