When purchasing a property, it is essential for buyers to consider the importance of long-term maintenance and sustainability. Thus, having a reliable financial mechanism is crucial to meet eventual repairs or major renovations. This is where the concept of a sinking fund comes in handy. In this article, we will explain the significance of a sinking fund, exploring its purpose, relevance in real estate, calculations, and how it operates within the local contextWhat is a Sinking Fund?A sinking fund is a designated pool of money set aside by an individual, corporation, or homeowners' association to accumulate funds over time for a specific purpose, such as repaying a debt or financing future expenses. It involves making regular contributions or deposits into the sinking fund with the goal of accumulating enough funds to meet a future financial obligation or goal.Purpose of Sinking FundThe primary purpose of a sinking fund is to ensure that there are adequate funds available when needed, thereby reducing sudden financial burdens. It is commonly used in various contexts, including corporate finance, personal finance, and real estate. In corporate finance, companies may establish sinking funds to gradually set aside funds for the repayment of long-term debts, such as bonds or loans. This allows them to systematically retire the debt over time.On an individual level, sinking funds can be used to save for significant purchases or expenses, such as a down payment for a house, a vehicle, or a vacation. By regularly contributing to the sinking fund, individuals can accumulate the necessary funds and avoid the need for excessive borrowing or draining their savings all at once. How are Sinking Funds Relevant to Real Estate?Sinking funds are also relevant in the context of real estate, particularly when it comes to strata buildings or condominiums. In real estate, a sinking fund is a financial tool utilised by owners' corporations or homeowners' associations to ensure the availability of funds for future maintenance, repairs, and refurbishments of the property. For example, in a condominium, the sinking fund is set up to cover common emergency expenses and major capital works related to the building. This fund is built up over time by contributions from the individual unit owners, typically through regular payments or levies. The purpose is to accumulate sufficient funds to address significant expenses that may arise in the future, such as roof replacement, elevator repairs, or structural renovations.By establishing a sinking fund, it can proactively plan for and finance the ongoing maintenance and improvement needs of the property. This helps distribute the financial burden among the owners and ensures that adequate funds are available when necessary, preventing the need for sudden special assessments or significant increases in fees.How are Sinking Funds Calculated?Using examples from other countries, sinking fund fees are calculated based on an audit of the building known as a sinking fund forecast. This audit is undertaken by a suitably qualified surveyor engaged by the owner’s corporation. This audit looks at the condition of the building, plant and machinery, and calculates the life cycle of these items, forecasting either the plants’ replacement or refurbishment in a set number of years, for example, 7, 15 and 20 years from the date of the audit. The audit will also calculate what these works may cost in the future. These costs will be broken down into per lot fees paid either monthly or annually, to be held in trust by the owners’ group until the refurbishment is required.Sinking Funds In CambodiaAlthough the Cambodian Government introduced the 2009 Sub-decree on the Management and Use of Co-owned Buildings that requires “ the co-owners to establish a management board or an executive committee as agreed among themselves following the prescribed internal regulations” the requirement to establish a sinking fund and its associated requirements are not completely covered by this decree.If you're a newcomer to property investment in Cambodia or eager to make an informed decision, reach out to our real estate experts today for a consultation on the Cambodian property market. At Realestate.com.kh, we offer current insights and help customers find their dream properties every day. If you are interested to learn more in detail about the properties available in Cambodia, our real estate experts are ready to assist you. Contact us today. Free Consultation Here

(Being in your 20s and even your 30s affords you so much time and opportunity to earn that you might not have later on in life. It’s also the best time to start saving money for your first home investment. Image Supplied)If you’re under the age of 30, working a decent job, and don’t have a home to call your own, then it’s the perfect time to save for your first house. Cambodia’s property selection, especially in Phnom Penh, are plentiful, and in a few years’ time, you’ll practically be swimming in borey/condominium choices!At the back of your head, you might be saying “But I’m young! I want to see the world and experience new things!” or “Have you seen the prices? They’re so expensive!”. While both are popular concerns, they’re also not as serious as you might initially believe.Why you should start saving for a home while in your 20sBeing in your 20s is probably one of the best times to start saving. Unfortunately, youth is often wasted on the young. Most young working adults spend their money on travelling and expensive food/services - thinking they’ve worked for this, why shouldn’t they spend it?And that’s where the problem lies. Being in your 20s affords you so much time and opportunity to earn that you will not have (to the same degree) in your 30s and 40s. Setting some money aside, especially in your early 20s, will give you a big advantage once you eventually realise the value of owning a home. As the saying goes, “The early bird gets the worm”. The money you should set aside on a regular basis doesn’t have to be big either! By cutting down on things you spend every day or every-now-and-then, you’ll eventually accrue enough savings to consider getting a downpayment.We’re not saying you should completely stop spending on the fun things in life (though if applicable, do it!), but you can definitely compromise on their frequency for the sake of your future home security.Tips to save money every day, every week, every monthLimit the international travel(Carefully selecting and limiting your international travel is a great way to save money. Photo by Economytraveller.com)You’re young and the world is your oyster. But much like the pearl in it, it can get really expensive. If you have a knack for travelling abroad multiple times a year, you might wanna cut that down to once or twice per year, at most.International ticket fares cost no less than $200 USD (return flight included). Of course, airfare tickets aren’t the only thing you’ll be spending on. Depending on how long you’re staying and what you’re gonna be doing, you could budget anywhere from $300 USD to $1,000 USD for accommodation, food, souvenirs, and activities.You’ll be saving around $500 USD per year at least simply by holding off on that trip. We know cutting down on this expense can be a pain for the travel bug in you. But these are substantial amounts you could be saving for a real estate property you can call your own!Limit the expensive restaurants(Good burgers like this can cost upwards of $10 USD per serving in Phnom Penh. Photo by Timothy O’Toole)Cambodia, especially Phnom Penh, is home to a lot of good food! The capital city hosts a multitude of cultures offering their cuisines alongside local Khmer favourites. But as the market for good food grows, so do their accompanying price tags.The best meals are often among the expensive - easily ranging from $20 USD to $100 USD per meal. If you like to spend above $10 USD or more per meal, that means you’re spending around $20-30 USD per day on food. That amounts to around $600-900 USD on food every month, which is a lot!You can scale back on expenses by opting for cheaper (and often better value) food options, or plan your grocery shopping and cook from home more often. Since Phnom Penh is filled with superb food options, good eats can cost as little as $3-5 USD per meal.Food expense breakdownCost per meal (USD)Frequency per dayTotal cost per day (USD)Total cost per month (USD)103309005315450You could save around $450 USD (or more) per month or $5,400 USD per year simply by opting to eat meals at more modest places. Let’s not forget that you can save more money if you know how to cook! And if you don’t know how to cook, it’s a damn good life skill to have, so you better learn.Learn to say “No” to expensive activities/outings(Saying “No” can be good for your wallet and your eventual downpayment for your very own home. Photo by LostPlate.com)We love our friends and family. But constantly saying “Yes” to whatever and wherever they want to do or go can hurt your savings! It’s quite difficult to put a value on activities as these vary wildly. But for the sake of discussion, let’s assume some financial implications:Let’s say you’re spending $40 USD on outings every weekend - and that’s on top of your food expenses such as drinks, movies, transportation, or whatever is trending. If you go out every weekend (4x month) that could be an additional $160 USD of monthly expenses.Activity/Outing cost per monthTotal activity cost per weekend (USD)Frequency per monthTotal cost per month (USD)40416040280Again, activity/outing costs vary wildly. But one thing is for sure: going out every weekend is a bad idea if you’re planning to save money for a future project like owning your very own home.Skip the expensive coffee(Cutting down on your daily coffee can add up to significant savings at the end of the year. Photo by Discover Cambodia)At the risk of being chased out of Phnom Penh with pitchforks and lit torches, we have to say frequent consumption of expensive coffee can be bad for your savings! Let’s crunch some numbers.Cost breakdown of buying coffee per monthCost per branded coffee (USD)Frequency per dayTotal cost per day (USD)Frequency of days buying coffeeTotal cost per month (USD)2.525301502.512.52050You could be spending up to $150 USD per month if you’re spending $2.50 USD per serving of coffee and buying twice a day. Cutting this down to effectively half (in terms of frequency) can save you an additional $100 USD per month or $1,200 USD per year!We understand that this is going to be a tall order for a country that loves its caffeine. But constantly consuming coffee - multiple times a day - can slow down the progress of your savings.If you are looking to treat yourself to one excellent coffee, try out these cafes in Phnom Penh.Track your daily/weekly/monthly expenses(Tracking your regular expenses can you better insight into your spending habits - and know where to save. Photo by Review Geek)Listing down what you spend isn’t a bad thing, it's a smart thing to do to keep you in track! It will provide you with insights into your spending habits. Here are a few questions you can answer by tracking your regular expenses:What am I spending on?How much am I spending on it?How often do I spend on it?Answering the questions above will give you a picture of your spending habits and eventually help you decide on how best to maximise your savings with these questions:How come I’m not able to save any money?Do I really need to spend on this?Can I limit how much I’m spending on this?Knowing your spending habits goes beyond being able to save money, it can actually give you a picture of what your priorities are! Hence, why big companies today are invested in acquiring the financial data of consumers. But that’s a discussion for another day.Curious about home loan options in Cambodia?.Create a separate bank account specifically for savings(Banks like ABA offer convenient ways to create a savings account. Something you’ll need for any savings goal you may have. Photo by ABA)As my mom always says, “Save first and spend what’s left”. Banks like ABA allow you to make a separate bank account easily through your mobile device. Whenever you receive your salary or have money coming your way, we suggest saving a portion first before spending any of it, not the other way around!How much you need to save is entirely up to you as you know your needs best. A piece of good advice on knowing much to set aside is to “save money until it hurts”. This means you should set aside money right away and leave enough to meet your regular necessities. For the sake of putting a figure on it, this could range anywhere from saving 25% to 30% of whatever funds come your way.And remember, do not touch your savings unless it’s absolutely necessary!Read more in our ultimate guide to banking for foreigners in Cambodia.“Save money, it will be worth it”You may have already heard this several times from your elders, and it’s a cliché, we know. But you’ll soon realise that it’s cliché because it’s true.Cutting down on daily comforts will be difficult at first, and the temptation to indulge yourself will be alluring for sure, but trust us when we say it will pay off in the end. Owning a home is the best form of security you can give yourself, and quite frankly, you owe it to yourself to secure your future.So, the next time you’re thinking of buying your 3rd coffee at 5pm in the afternoon, ask yourself, “Do I really need this?”.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:

First of all, let's understand how locations work in Cambodia. Locations are defined by three main terms. Each term has two commonly-used and widely-accepted words. Sounds confusing. Don’t sweat, we’ve got you covered. When we say locations, we mean cities, suburbs, districts, provinces, etc. Simply put, locations in Cambodia are defined by 1. City/Province, 2. Khan/District, 3. Sangkat/Commune, and even then if you were on a website like Wikipedia you will get confused as it starts talking about municipalities and so on. In this guide, we will provide you a better explanation of the terminology used for some of the most popular and high potential locations for developments in Cambodia and identify a few of the terms, locations, and references that might confuse you as a property seeker in Cambodia.City or ProvinceThere are 25 cities and provinces in Cambodia and most Cambodians as well as expats, use the term province if they refer to any location outside of Phnom Penh, which they regard as a city. Regardless they are more or less the same thing. And the top three locations for condominium investment are Phnom Penh city, Siem Reap province and Preah Sihanoukville, known locally as Kom Pong Som province.(Silk island, locally known as Koh Dach, is a 1-hour drive famous gateway island from the bustling city of Phnom Penh / Seiha Phorn) Khan or DistrictThe next level is commonly known as Khan or District. There are 12 districts within Siem Reap province, 4 in Preah Sihanoukville and 14 currently in Phnom Penh. For the purposes of better planning, in 2019 the Cambodian government created two new districts within Phnom Penh. One known as Kamboul and the other one is Boeung Keng Kang, a more important district for condominium investors to learn about. Located right in the heart of Phnom Penh, Boeung Keng Kang is locally known as BKK by Cambodians and expats. BKK is a hotspot for some of the most promising top-tier residential development projects.(BKK is one of the hotspots for new developments in Phnom Penh / Realestate.com.kh) Sangkat or CommuneThe next level is known as Sangkat or Commune and even then it goes more granular (with Khom or Village) although those are little known, even by local Cambodians. Since 2019 Boeung Keng Kang now houses Boeung Keng Kang I (BKK1), Boeung Keng Kang II (BKK2), Boeung Keng Kang III (BKK3), Olympic, Tumnop Teuk, Tuol Svay Prey I and Tuol Svay Prey II. While another popular location for condominium investment known as Tonle Bassac which is just next door to BKK1 and is located within the Chamkarmon district. If you are searching for property on realestate.com.kh, we have not made the change in our location data set as the market (property seekers, agents and developers) generally follows the old locations and classifications for now.Phnom PenhIf you are looking for property in the capital city of Phnom Penh, the hot sub-locations for these top-grade and luxury investments include: 1. Chamkarmon, as mentioned above the classification for the sub-locations by law has changed, however, the agents, developers and property seekers have not adopted this yet, so as to not confuse the users of realestate.com.kh - neither have we. Chamkarmon can sometimes be referred to as the centre of Phnom Penh, and whilst the district does demand the highest rental returns and the highest land price per square meter especially in BKK1 and Tonle Bassac the actual Central Business District (CBD) is in sangkat Wat Phnom within Daun Penh district. Another hot location for condominium investment is Koh Pich which translates to Diamond Island in khmer, is actually not a sangkat itself. Koh Pich (Diamond Island) is a part of Tonle Bassac commune.Remember, If you are searching for properties on realestate.com.kh and you are interested in properties within Koh Pich, you can simply select this location from the landmarks drop-down list within the search bar or simply select Tonle Bassac as your prefered location. 2. Central Business District, whilst it needs some time to be adopted market-wide, the CBD in Cambodia is defined by the main collection of A to B grade office towers in Phnom Penh including Vattanac Capital Tower, Canadia Tower, Exchange Square, and Raintree which are all located within sangkat Wat Phnom in Daun Penh district. In its vicinity, you will also find key government ministries as well as the leading bank and financial headquarters.3. The South of Phnom Penh or Hun Sen Boulevard is one of the fastest-growing hot spots for investment in Cambodia. Key landmarks and hubs already in operation in the area include: The Factory (an integrated entertainment, food & beverage, arts, culture, and workspace) as well as ISPP, Cambodia's leading international school. Adding to that both landed property and condominium developers have already started construction in the area and three major malls (including AEON Mall 3) will be coming in full operation within the next 5 years. All of which points to a fantastic opportunity for investors, as the area is truly moving out of being a backwater swamp to one of the most livable areas in Phnom Penh. Most developers and agents will refer to the location as "The South", "South of Phnom Penh" or "60 Meter Road" which is actually Hun Sen Boulevard. It runs through multiple sangkats including Chak Angrae Leu which is in Meanchey district.4. Riverside, is another hot spot in Phnom Penh and another area that is not commonly referred to by its actual sangkat or district name. Locally, the location simply earns its name as it sits next to Tonle Sap river and ends where it meets the Mekong river.5. Chroy Changvar is a location often compared to the South of Phnom Penh by agents, developers, buyers, renters, and investors. Not because they are necessarily close to each other, but more because they are both experiencing similar growth in terms of infrastructure development, connectivity, housing developments and more. Chroy Changvar district is commonly known market-wide as the name of the location suggests - Chroy Changvar.(Chroy Changvar is another hotspot for development. It is one of the fastest-growing districts in Phnom Penh / Sieha Phorn)6. Close to the Airport seems to be a term used in emerging market property related marketing worldwide and to add to this the Cambodian government has recently announced the location of the new “Phnom Penh International Airport”. So expect developers to be using a phrase, around both airports from now on. The current airport (the biggest and main airport in Cambodia) is located in Por Sen Chey district, while the new airport will be in Kandal province which is yet another advantage to the Southern part of Phnom Penh. However, all is not lost for those that are looking to or have invested in Por Sen Chey district as this area is very popular with Cambodians and international expats alike, and will remain a key business and logistical hub.(The current Phnom Penh International Airport is the largest airport in Cambodia) 7. Sen Sok is a location widely known by the majority of Cambodians, and less common with international investors or even expats, but if you heard the term AEON 2 or Makro Cambodia  then you're more likely to know where we’re talking about or have at least seen it mentioned by developers. This area is also becoming more and more popular with landed and condo developments.Sihanoukville, Kom Pong Som or even Preah SihanoukOn realestate.com.kh we refer to the coastal region as Sihanoukville so do most developers, agents, and property sellers, certainly, if they are targeting international buyers. Although Sihanoukville includes sub-locations, the areas are more defined by the name of its different beaches such as Sokha Beach, Independence Beach, Ochheuteal, Serendipity and Otres rather than sangkats or khans. The main landmark that is referred to by property developers is the Golden Lions Roundabout, as most people consider this as the centre of town.Off the coast of Sihanoukville, there are also multiple islands with many investment opportunities for foreigners and these locations are all prefixed with the word "Koh" at the start of it, which translates to “island” in Khmer language. So if you see the location Koh Rong for example, this means that it is an island off the coast of Sihanoukville. Ream is another location that you will start to hear more in the coming months and years. Ream is one of the seven national parks in Cambodia and it is only 20 minutes drive from Preah Sihanouk International Airport.(A beautiful beach inside Ream national park, about 50-minute drive from the city centre / Phan Soumy) (Sihanoukville International Airport, one of the three currently running airports in Cambodia / Realestate.com.kh )(A new under-construction road along the coast of Ream leading to the city centre / Phan Soumy)  (This road is part of the nearly 300 million dollars road construction project that is being implemented in Sihanoukville / Phan Soumy) (A wide-open roundabout overlooking the ocean of one of the 34 under construction roads in the coastal province of Preah Sihanouk / Phan Soumy)  Siem ReapSiem Reap is a significant province of Cambodia and home to the famous Angkor Wat temple, the world’s largest religious site. Whilst it remains a favorite place for tourists in Cambodia, it has been less favored by condominium investors. Simply, because up until recently there were not many condominium projects being built. Most of the property developments were and still are landed property or low rise hotels.Why is this? Developers are not allowed to build above the height of Angkor Wat and therefore they have favored Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville. However, this has changed over the last few months. The main thing to know in relation to sub-locations in Siem Reap is to ask the developer if it is close to Pub Street, a famous area within the city centre, full of restants, bars, shops, hotels, guesthouses, and other businesses. Sub locations will be rarely used in marketing material and will simply be marketed with Siem Reap.How does realestate.com.kh tackle some of the above issues?Property seekers can simply use the powerful search bar and type in the first three letters of a city, khan or sangkat and choose from the suggested locations that will appear as the user is typing the location. However, property seekers can also choose from the list of popular locations and even popular landmarks in Cambodia once they have clicked the search bar. Once a property seeker is looking at a property that they are interested in, they can also populate the map that appears on all properties to check the proximity to certain landmarks by simply typing the name of the landmark in the search box on the property page - for example, "Phnom Penh Airport". The map also allows you to populate nearby schools, restaurants, transport and hotels to give the buyer an idea of what infrastructure and amenities are nearby.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 on both iOS and Android.Article by:

(The living room of a serviced apartment in The Elysee in Koh Pich, Phnom Penh. Realestate.com.kh)Whether you’re a tourist, expat, or even a local, serviced apartments offer plenty of conveniences not often included in other real estate properties. The “serviced” in serviced apartments particularly appeal to tourists and expats looking to have quality-of-life conveniences “built-in” with their residence.Included services in these apartments usually range from weekly cleaning services, regular laundry services, consistent supply of drinking water, and even a full concierge service similar to hotels. It’s important to remember, however, that service offerings will vary from apartment to apartment. For a more detailed discussion of what you should expect from serviced apartments as a whole, you can check out this brief guide to what makes for a well-serviced apartment in Cambodia.For this guide, we will be talking about where you can find serviced apartments (and what’s included in each one) for a long-term stay in Cambodia.Where can I find serviced apartments in Cambodia?Serviced apartments in Cambodia are largely concentrated in Phnom Penh. According to Knight Frank, an international property consultancy firm, most serviced apartments can be found in the following districts: Boeung Keng Kang (BKK) with 35%, Chamkarmon with 20%, Daun Penh with 13%, and Toul Kork with 12%.If you’re looking for commercialized districts that come complete with modern city staples like shopping malls, markets, banks/ATMs, restaurants, cafes, convenience stores, and offices, you should be considering living in these areas as they make up the city centre of Phnom Penh.What serviced apartments are good for long-term stays?We’ve come up with a few of the best-serviced apartments in Phnom Penh well suited for a range of the tourist/expat market looking to stay long-term in Cambodia. This list is by no means all serviced apartments in Phnom Penh, but a shortlist of what best represents the serviced apartment sector of Cambodia’s advancing real estate market.Silvertown Metropolitan(An aerial view of Silvertown Metropolitan, one of Phnom Penh's upscale serviced apartments. Photo courtesy of Booking.com)Starting Rent: USD $1,000 per monthOfferings: 1 bedroom to 3 bedroomsSilvertown Metropolitan is a high-end development that offers luxury condos, studios, and serviced apartments in BKK1. Expats, most especially, will appreciate the comforts immediately available. And given Silvertown Metropolitan’s proximity to the Mao Tse Tung Boulevard, anyone staying here can easily find their way to wherever they need to go in the city.Their tagline of “bringing L.A. to Phnom Penh” becomes apparent once you see their offerings and accompanying price tags. Starting at $1,000 per month, Silvertown Metropolitan is one of the more upscale and expensive serviced apartments in Phnom Penh. But does its services justify its price? If money isn’t an object and you don’t want any punches pulled in city pampering, then it certainly does. Their services include a 24-hour full concierge, housekeeping, and high-speed WiFi. Each unit comes fully furnished with a complete kitchen and dining area, laundering facilities, a refrigerator, hairdryer, robes, cable TV, towels, linen, and A/C. All rooms are outfitted with modern furnishings popular in posh West Coast apartments. Amenities such as the rooftop pool and fitness centre are also available for use.(An image of a bedroom in Silvertown Metropolitan serviced apartments. Photo courtesy of Silvertowncambodia.com)But if you’re more into what it offers beyond its premises, then it doesn’t differ too much from the other serviced apartments mentioned in this guide. Silvertown Metropolitan is in the mid-point between Preah Norodom and Preah Monivong Boulevard and sits close to Mao Tse Tung Boulevard. All these roads lead to the popular spots in BKK1, the Russian Market, and Riverside in Daun Penh.Silvertown Metropolitan represents one of the higher ends of the serviced apartment sector and with good reason: It tops the discussion when it comes to what condo has the best service and is well-managed in Phnom Penh.Silvertown Metropolitan Property ListingThe Elysee(The Elysee by Dara is inspired by the French monument, Arc de Triomphe)Starting Rent: USD $750 per monthOfferings: 1 bedroom to 4 bedroomsLocated in the French-inspired suburban area of Koh Pich, a.k.a. The Diamond Island, the Elysee is designed after the majestic Arc de Triomphe. And much like the actual monument, The Elysee’s vicinity takes after the iconic townhouses and boulevards of modern-day Paris. The Elysee is also one of the newest serviced apartments developed in Phnom Penh.The Elysee certainly tops this shortlist as its French-influenced design comes with luxury amenities and services without necessarily breaking the bank. Units can be rented out for as low as USD $450 a month which already comes fully-furnished and includes Cable TV, internet WiFi, and housekeeping included in the monthly rental - a good package we’re certain anyone definitely appreciates. Renting here gives you access to a fully-equipped fitness center and steam & sauna within the comforts of the apartment.(An image of an apartment for rent in The Elysee. Realestate.com.kh)Koh Pich island lies east of Phnom Penh’s mainland and is one of the fastest-developing areas in the city. Commercial amenities such as banks, cafes, restaurants, and offices can be found throughout The Elysee’s immediate vicinity. The Elysee sits right on Koh Pich road leading to Samdach Sothearos Boulevard where AEON Mall 1 stands. The same road is connected to Preah Norodom and Mao Tse Tung Boulevard, giving residents access to even more commercial establishments in BKK1, Chamkarmon, and Daun Penh.Koh Pich’s inspired urban design offers a new and unique experience of living in Phnom Penh, making it one of the hottest properties to watch out for - and at a good price. If you’re interested in living in Diamond Island, we highly recommend checking this propertyThe Elysee Property ListingUrban Loft(An image of Urban Loft's exterior in Sen Sok. Photo courtesy of Google Map contributors)Price Range: USD $600 per monthOfferings: 1 bedroom to 3 bedroomsUrban Loft is a serviced apartment located in Sen Sok. While this area is quite some distance from the center centre, Sen Sok itself has seen massive developments in residential and commercial real estate. We recommend this area more for expats rather than tourists as it’s still in the early-mid stages of development and doesn’t have much to offer if you’re not staying long-term.(An image of a bedroom in Urban Loft Sen Sok. Photo from Urbanloft.com)Regardless, Urban Loft offers plenty of space for quality long-term living. Its wide interior design allows for large open-plan condos that maximize light and airflow within each unit. It’s also fully furnished so moving in is easy and quick - something we know expats would definitely prefer. Urban Loft’s spacious units are complemented by an expansive pool and gym. Families living here can avail of the kindergarten and babysitting services. An array of excellent schools are not too far away as Sen Sok is where boreys (gated communities) are becoming increasingly popular among Khmer families.AEON Mall 2, the biggest mall in the city, is just a 5 to 7-minute drive away. And down the road is the popular wholesale grocery Makro. Choices are becoming increasingly abundant in Sen Sok that going into the city proper is starting to become an option rather than a necessity.Urban Loft Property ListingThe View Serviced Residences(An image of The View Serviced Residences in BKK1. Photo courtesy of Agoda.com)Starting Rent: USD $1,000 per monthOfferings: 1 bedroom to 2 bedroomsThe View Serviced Residences is one of the premier serviced apartments in BKK1. Inspired by Japanese interior design, The View’s units offer a simplistic charm many tourists and expatriates would find attractive.The View is at the crossroads of Phnom Penh’s many attractions and modern conveniences. Its location in BKK1 surrounds it with the city’s best places to eat and the newest and biggest shopping centres around in the form of Chip Mong Noro Mall and AEON 1, respectively. Its proximity to popular tourist and expat spots makes it a good choice for foreign travelers wanting to get a peek of the many offerings within the Kingdom.(The View Serviced Residences was designed by Japanese architect Kato Yoshio. Realestate.com.kh)But what’s a serviced apartment without talking about services? Starting at $1,000 per month, residents get fully-furnished rooms, twice-a-week housekeeping, fitness centre, and access to an infinity pool, jacuzzi, and steam room in the common areas. A cafe and restaurant are also serving residents inside the apartment building.Whether you’re by yourself or with your family, just visiting or staying for some time, the View’s units may be what you’re looking for considering its ambiance and location.The View Serviced Residence Property ListingTK Royal One(An image of the exterior of TK Royal One in Toul Kork. Realestate.com.kh)Starting Rent: USD $900 per monthOfferings: 1 bedroom to 3 bedroomsTK Royal One Serviced Condominiums is a mixed-use development featuring offices and serviced residences. Its location in Toul Kork, right along the Russian Federation Boulevard, has made it a landmark of sorts in the area, making it hard for passers-by to miss.The Toul Kork district has developed over the past few years as an extension of the many conveniences available in the Phnom Penh city centre. TK Royal One is one of the district’s more iconic developments as its offerings of office spaces and residential units is a sort of testament to how much Toul Kork has improved in a short amount of time. As such, TK Royal One’s location along the Russian Federation Boulevard gives residents access to a lot of markets, shopping centers, restaurants, cafes, schools, sports facilities, and other entertainment centers now established in Toul Kork.(An image of TK Royal One's spacious living rooms and balcony. Realestate.com.kh)TK Royal One’s residential units come fully furnished and designed to accommodate renters living by themselves or expat families looking to live long-term in Phnom Penh. Each unit is spacious and comes with a private balcony providing an astounding view of the city’s rising skyline. Amenities in TK Royal One include internet Wi-Fi, a fitness centre, swimming pools, a parking area, and a rooftop garden.TK Royal One Property ListingAre serviced apartments worth it?The choice entirely depends on you as you are the best judge of your personal needs and budget. Most serviced apartments in Phnom Penh are proportionally more expensive than standalone apartments without 24/7 concierge services, regular housekeeping, fitness centre, and a swimming pool. If these services are important to you, then serviced apartments could be well worth the extra hundred or so dollars a month.On the other hand, if you’re the type of person who can live without these services, you can save a few hundred dollars which you can allot more to necessities like food or other luxuries like traveling across Cambodia and its neighbouring countries. You can check out several listings of apartments for rent in Phnom Penh here.Looking for other properties? Click hereArticle by:

A beautiful Cambodian house with a western-influenced interior design. Supplied.So, you are Retired or Retiring?While Thailand has historically been a popular destination for retirees, Cambodia is rapidly gaining interest for retirees based in Thailand, or those looking for an alternative to retirement in their country of origin. In fact, InternationalLiving.com's Annual Global Retirement Index for 2019 has named Cambodia the number 12 best place in the world to retire. For more information on the requirement for retiring in Cambodia, please read our ultimate guide to retirement in Cambodia.Access to inexpensive quality healthcare, ease of visa processing, and an ever-increasing expat community makes Cambodia an attractive retirement destination. Foreigners are 100% eligible to own a freehold condominium in Cambodia under certain conditions.The Cambodian Foreign Ownership Property Laws (legislation passed in 2010), allow foreigners to buy and own properties in Cambodia on the 1st floor or higher of a condominium. The property must possess a strata title and cannot exceed 70% of foreign ownership. For more information, please read our ultimate guide on the strata title. If you don’t want to live in a condominium, there are a number of options with regard to the purchase of your retirement dream home.Option 1: Purchase a long-term rentalThere are Cambodian properties, both in the city and the countryside, that would be more than willing to rent out their properties to retired expatriates. This is arguably the simplest option for most foreign retirees - a straightforward process with little hassle.Option 2: Registering real property with a Cambodian citizenThis method requires the retiree to have a trusted Cambodian citizen to be the legal owner of their property. This is more popularly known as buying property through the Nominee Structure. This certainly has its downsides such as not having the property in the buyer's name but if the buyer has someone they can trust, this can prove to be more secure than a long-term rental.Option 3: Marriage to a Cambodian nationalForeign buyers who are married to a Cambodian national can register their property using the name of their spouse on the Title Deed.Option 4: Acquisition of honorary Cambodian citizenshipA foreigner may be granted honorary Cambodian citizenship if he or she satisfies a set criteria for citizenship along with a significant donation to the Royal Government of Cambodia for the purposes of benefiting the people of Cambodia.What Do Retirement Homes in Cambodia Look Like?This beautiful villa is located in Arey Ksat area, which is only a short trip away on a ferry from the centre of Phnom Penh city. This property is an ideal option for a perfect retirement home. Looking for a retirement home in Cambodia? Let us help!Article by:

A rendered image of the luxurious Agile Sky Residence in the heart of Phnom Penh.Can foreigners own land in Cambodia? The short answer is No. But the Royal Government of Cambodia has eased on this restriction by allowing foreign nationals to own property via Strata Titles.Strata title in Cambodia is a relatively new type of property ownership and the only one granted to a foreign national. This type of property title is presently restricted to condominiums, and more recently, office buildings since foreign nationals are not allowed to own landed properties in the country.The question now is, how do you, as a foreigner, get a Strata Title?DISCLAIMER: Foreign buyers, local buyers, foreign buyers with Cambodian citizenship, and companies have to satisfy slightly different requirements to purchase a Strata Title. We strongly recommend consulting a real estate agent to walk you through the specifics of your case. For this guide, we will be walking you through the general steps for an individual foreign buyer.How to obtain a Strata TitleObtaining a Strata Title starts with the owner of the property. But before heading to the sales office of a condo, we advise buyers to first check with the local cadastral office and local commune council if the developer/owner does indeed have legal ownership of the original title. In the case of property developers, this step is meant to verify their ownership of the Hard Title and its eligibility to be partitioned into Strata Titles.Upon completing the above mentioned due diligence, buyers may proceed in dealing with the company itself. While condo developers will likely have representatives to handle sales, we advise buyers to obtain a copy of their company/national ID as another layer of due diligence. This goes double for individual condo owners offering their unit(s) for resale.Once that’s clear, the buyer and the owner of the hard title (or an authorised representative) must physically be present at the same time in the cadastral office to initiate the title transfer. Foreign buyers are required to be in Cambodia for the title transfer as their thumbprint is required to be affixed in the Vente Definitive and the Application for Ownership Transfer, both being standard documents provided by the land department.It’s important to note that the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning, and Construction (MLMUPC) requires fully certified documentation of the identity and marital status of the buyer to be supplied and translated into Khmer - this includes the name of the buyer as English names are not permitted on property titles.The requisite fees for title transfers are paid at the General Department of Taxation (GDT). Transfer taxes are paid after the land office reviews and certifies the submitted documents. These same documents will be submitted to the GDT who will then assess the value of the property based on a proprietary set of criteria and calculation methods. An officer from the GDT will then be responsible to perform the evaluation and may take anywhere from 1-2 weeks. After the assessment, an invoice will be issued containing the transfer tax required to be paid.NOTE: It is common practice for sellers to pay the transfer tax, but this can go either way. Be sure to clarify this part of the transfer with the owner.A receipt will be issued by the GDI as proof of payment to the party who made it. This receipt, along with the certified documents will be brought back to the Cadastral Authority at the MLMUPC. A new original title, with the name of the new owner, will be issued by the Cadastral Authority.A sample of a Strata Title issued by the MLMUPC.Other ownership methodsIf you’ve assessed that Strata Titles do not meet your needs, there are other methods such as obtaining Cambodian citizenship, or a company lease, to own landed properties in Cambodia. But those involve completely different steps which are relatively more complicated. We highly recommend seeking the assistance of a Cambodian lawyer to properly guide you through the whole process of these alternative methods.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:

Investing in property is probably one of the surest ways to build lasting wealth. And with a globally booming travelling and hospitality industry, there's never been a better time to invest in holiday accommodation rentals specifically. But how does one enter this market, and how do you make the right investment?With all the exciting options available, it might be tempting to buy a property right off the bat, no questions asked. However, as any property expert will tell you, making a decision to invest in rental property takes some thought and research. You need to ask yourself important questions that when answered, will give you a better perspective on what you should be focusing on. Step one: Pace yourselfAsk yourself, how much work are you willing to take on with this investment? It might seem like a good idea to invest in high-income property as it yields more returns. But keep in mind that it also requires a lot more work, dedication and time when compared to a smaller property. As a beginner, it's advisable to start small with a less demanding property and then take it from there. Starting with one small property will allow you to learn from less costly mistakes, giving you the experience needed to successfully invest in a bigger rental property later.Step two: Choose your localityTake into account the type of neighbourhood that you'll be investing in. Is it safe? Close to amenities? Is it a cultural hub that's attractive to visitors? Choosing a place that's attractive to tenants and with a high demand for property, will most likely yield more returns and increase your investment over time.Step three: Decide on the rentFind out how much do tenants in that neighbourhood pay for rent, on average. That way, you can choose a property that'll keep you competitive in terms of rent prices, while still remaining profitable.Step four: FinancingHow will you be financing the investment? How much mortgage can you afford to pay? Taking time to consider these and other financing details will help you find a property that perfectly suits your budget without breaking the bank. Pay a visit to your banker to hash out the details around what your budget is, taking into account factors like your startup capital and the projected returns offered by the proposed investment property.Step five: What are the returns?Speaking of returns, it's important to choose a property that can yield enough profit through rent, to cover expenses like mortgage, maintenance and tax, without costing you an arm and a leg.Step six: LearnConnect with other, more seasoned local investors to learn about their secrets to success. Nine times out of ten, you'll find that successful property investors can't wait to share their prosperity secrets and tips with others. So get yourself out there and network as much as possible.Step seven: Make your purchaseSo you've set your budget, decided on a neighbourhood and heard advice on what's hot on the market. Now it's time to make your purchase. Start by shopping around for a real estate agent that's connected and knowledgeable enough to know what properties will make the best investment.Once you've found a property that ticks all the boxes, make an offer through your real estate agent and make sure to keep within your budget. Then, when the nitty gritties have been taken care of and you've signed on the dotted line, you can officially start calling yourself a rental property mogul in the making.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: FRANK SALT REAL ESTATE

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 investmentRegardless of whether you're renting, flipping, or living in it, buying a house is a substantial long-term investment. For the average person, a home typically represents about half of their net worth. Therefore, it is crucial to carefully assess the financial implications before making a purchase. This involves diligently considering the numbers to ensure that you can not only afford the required payments but also maintain your daily essentials, such as keeping the lights on.LocationThis advice holds the truth not only for businesses but also for prospective homeowners. While bedrooms, bathrooms, and parking spaces are important criteria for evaluating a home, the often overlooked aspect is the value brought by its location.The location of a potential home should be given significant consideration based on individual needs. For instance, a single person may not prioritise proximity to a nearby school, whereas a family would place it high on their list of requirements.No matter your specific needs, it is crucial to carefully consider the location of your home, taking into account both short-term and long-term considerations.Land Appreciates, Buildings DepreciateThis is another important principle to remember for future homeowners, especially those wondering whether they should buy an apartment or a house.When it comes to long-term investment, a small house on a plot of land often holds the advantage over an apartment. The flexibility of remodelling or rebuilding a house provides the opportunity for continuous improvement. Additionally, if you choose to relocate, you can rent or sell the house, benefiting from the rising land prices and securing a profitable return on your initial investment.On the other hand, apartments offer easier acquisition since the construction and development are already handled by the developer. Higher-end apartments may also come with appealing amenities like pools, gyms, and spas, which could increase the overall value and desirability.Ultimately, the decision between a house and an apartment depends on your personal preferences and financial goals. It's crucial to keep in mind that buildings can be replaced, but the underlying land will always remain valuable.How Much Should I Spend On A Home in Cambodia?When it comes to property investment in Cambodia, the amount you should spend ultimately depends on your personal needs and financial capacity. For most buyers, banks or lending institutions typically require a downpayment of approximately 30% of the property's value unless you are a cash buyer.Some property developers even offer loans to buyers, providing an alternative financing option. However, it's essential to be aware that interest rates for housing loans in the country can reach as high as 12% per annum.Aside from loan interest, there are other upfront costs to consider. Legal and transfer fees are significant factors that demand attention. For example, acquiring a land title within the municipality of Phnom Penh requires a transfer tax of 4% 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 is not solely determined by the property's sale value. The actual cost may vary depending on the criteria set by the land office.If you happen to be a foreign national, it's essential to know that you cannot directly purchase landed property in Cambodia. However, there are mechanisms and guidelines for foreign ownership outlined in our Cambodia Investor Guide.In conclusion, before investing your hard-earned money in Cambodian property, take the time to thoroughly assess all costs involved. Crunching the numbers and understanding the financial implications will help ensure a well-informed and successful investment venture.What if I Want to Keep Renting?For many prospective homeowners, renting proves to be a valid and attractive choice. It offers several advantages, including lower upfront costs, the landlord assuming maintenance responsibilities, and the flexibility to relocate easily in response to job changes or significant life events like marriage or having children.However, it's important to note that purchasing a house doesn't necessarily tie you down. If you decide to move later on, you have the option to retain the property as an investment and rent it out while you live elsewhere. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of both homeownership and the potential returns from a rental property.Real estate is a remarkably secure long-term investment, with its value consistently on the rise. As the saying goes, "They aren't making any more land," emphasizing its potential for appreciation. If you have the financial means, purchasing real estate is typically the smarter decision. Another option is to acquire property and rent it out, treating it as an investment while you choose to reside elsewhere.Few More Tips!When it comes to loans, remember that negotiation is always on the table. If you believe there are concessions the bank can make, don't be afraid to voice your requests. You can try asking for a more favourable interest rate or even request the waiving of early termination fees. Keep in mind that loans are a significant source of revenue for banks, so they are often willing to make their offers more appealing.Why is this the case? Cambodia boasts more than a dozen major banks, and they certainly don't want to lose your business. So, don't hesitate to explore better terms and make the most of your loan agreements.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:

Do you plan to live 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 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 located in Southeast Asia. It is bordered by Thailand to the west and northwest, Laos to the north, Vietnam to the east and southeast, and the Gulf of Thailand to the southwest. The capital and largest city of Cambodia is Phnom Penh. The country has a rich history, with famous ancient temples like Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, which is a popular tourist destination.             Cambodia HistoryBetween 800 and 1300 AD, the Khmer Empire dominated the majority of Southeast Asia, leaving behind a remarkable heritage exemplified by the magnificent Angkor Wat temples in Siem Reap, which stand as one of the world's most significant religious monuments.During the period from 1867 to 1953, Cambodia was under French colonial rule as a "protectorate" in the region known as French Indochina, encompassing a considerable part of Vietnam and Laos. The profound influence of France's legacy can still be observed in Cambodia to this day.However, one of the darkest chapters in Khmer history unfolded during the notorious Khmer Rouge era. From 1975 to 1979, this ultra-Maoist regime, led by Pol Pot, governed the country with a reign of terror, resulting in one of the most horrific genocides in human history. Nearly two million people, approximately a quarter of the country's population, tragically lost their lives during this devastating period.Religion in CambodiaApproximately 97% of Cambodia's population follows Theravada Buddhism, which is also the official state religion. Nonetheless, echoes of the country's Hindu history can still be sensed, particularly at ancient sites.About 2% of the population consists of the Cham ethnic group, who practice Islam. Besides, there are small Christian communities in the country, along with various ethnic-religious groups residing in the northern regions.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.Cambodia's Official LanguageKhmer 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- KampucheaKhmer 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 lay out 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! 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 Cambodia Thankfully, 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:Rental 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 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 increases. As far as baggage and security, Cambodian 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 Living Conditions for Expats in CambodiaThere’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.Housing Types For Expats In Cambodia Choosing 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 services. 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 and 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 Area In 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 ex-pats 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 in other large cities, commuting to a suburb outside the densely developed downtown area is an excellent way to find places to rent 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 marvellous 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 on our page of real estate for rent in Siem Reap.Where to Stay in SihanoukvilleDown south in Sihanoukville, many ex-pats used to live near Victory Beach and near 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 in 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.Is Cambodia Expat Friendly?Cambodia 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.Transport in Cambodia: Tuk-Tuk, Remorque, and Ride-Hailing appsMost foreigners will catch rides around the area in tuk-tuks, autorickshaws or taxis. Tuk-tuks are 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 in 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 in both 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 businesses. 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 the 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 2023. These are the official holidays for Cambodia in 2023:January 1: New Year’s DayJanuary 7: Victory over Genocide Day March 8: International Women’s Day April 14, 15, 16: Khmer New Year May 1: International Labor Day May 14: The Royal Birthday of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni, King of Cambodia May 15: Vesak Bochea Festival May 19: Royal Plowing Ceremony June 18L Royal Birthday of Her Majesty Queen Norodom Monineath Sihanouk, the Queen Mother of Cambodia September 24: Constitution Day September: 24, 25, 26 Pchum Ben FestivaOctober 15: a Day in Honor of the Late King Norodom Sihanouk, His Majesty the King Father October 29: Royal Ceremony of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni, King of the Kingdom of CambodiaNovember 7, 8, 9: Royal Water Festival November 9: National Independence Day 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:

If you're considering an affordable retirement destination in Southeast Asia, Cambodia might just be the perfect fit. Cambodia offers a unique retirement experience with its rich history, stunning temples, welcoming locals, and low cost of living. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover all the essential information you need to know about retiring in Cambodia, including the retirement visa process, the best locations to retire, accommodation options, transportation, medical expenses, and the cost of living. Retirement Visa Retirement Visa Cambodia offers a retirement visa that allows foreign retirees aged 55 and above to live in the country. The visa can be obtained through the Cambodian Embassy or Consulate in your home country or through an agent in Cambodia. The retirement visa is typically valid for one year and can be renewed annually. It can also be renewed/extended for one, three, six, and twelve months. The ER visa extension costs approximately $285 per year at the time of writing. The requirements may include:Age 55 years old or aboveA passport with at least six months of validityBlank page in the passportPassport photoProof of retirement or pension incomeHealth certificateCriminal background check.Note: It's always a good idea to double-check the current requirements with the Cambodian Embassy or Consulate as they may be subject to change. Best Location to RetireCambodia offers a variety of options for retirees to consider when choosing a location to retire. Some popular choices include Phnom Penh, the capital city, which offers modern amenities and a vibrant expat community.Other options include Siem Reap, known for its rich history and proximity to the famous Angkor Wat temples, or towns like Kampot, Kep, and Battambang, which offer a relaxed lifestyle and beautiful rivers and beaches. Accommodation Accommodation Cambodia offers a wide range of accommodation options for retirees, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury apartments and villas.Phnom Penh and Siem Reap offer a variety of expat-friendly neighbourhoods with modern apartments and condos, while Sihanoukville and Kampot offer more laid-back beachfront accommodation options, including guesthouses and bungalows.Renting is a common choice for retirees in Cambodia, with affordable monthly rents compared to many other Western countries.Depending on the location and type of accommodation, the monthly rent for a basic one-bedroom apartment can range from $200 to $600, while a larger villa in a prime location may cost around $1,000 to $2,000 per monthIf you are seeking a place to rent click here Transportation Transportation in Cambodia is relatively affordable, with options including tuk-tuks, motorbikes, trains, and buses.Tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transportation for short distances within cities, while motorbikes are commonly used for longer trips or exploring the countryside.Buses are available for intercity travel, with both local and long-distance routes. However, it's important to note that road safety and infrastructure in Cambodia may not be up to Western standards, and caution is advised when using transportation options. Medical ExpensesCambodia has a growing healthcare system, with a range of medical facilities available in major cities. While the quality of healthcare may not be as high as in some other countries, medical expenses in Cambodia are generally affordable compared to Western countries.Many retirees choose to purchase health insurance that covers them for medical treatment both in Cambodia and abroad. It's important to research and understand the healthcare options available and consider including medical expenses in your retirement budget. Cost of LivingCambodia is known for its affordable cost of living, making it an attractive option for retirees on a budget. Expenses such as housing, utilities, transportation, food, and entertainment are generally lower compared to many Western countries. Monthly living costs can vary depending on your lifestyle and location, with Phnom Penh being relatively more expensive than other cities.Below is an approximate average of the costs of living in Phnom Penh. ExpensesAverage Costs Monthly ($)Water$5 onwardsElectricity$20 onwardsGas$15-$17 (depending on market price)Food $150-$300Transportation $50-$150 Furthermore, retirees can savour budget-friendly meals at local markets or eateries, immersing themselves in the local culture and maximizing their retirement income.Cambodia warmly welcomes retirees seeking an exciting new chapter in their lives. So why not take the leap and start planning your retirement abroad? Don't hesitate to explore the opportunities that Cambodia has to offer and make the most of your golden years in this vibrant environment. To learn more about finding the perfect accommodation that meets your needs, click here!Interested in retiring early in Cambodia but not yet 55? Discover Cambodia's golden visa option by clicking here. 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. 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 also becomes a favourite destination for property investors across the globe. Chinese, Japanese, Koreans, Singaporeans, and Thais are among the top real estate investors in Cambodia.In this article, we offer a practical overview and informative video of the legal guide for those interested in the real estate market. 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:Proper 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, there is a possibility of being sued. No Shortcuts in the Construction Permit Application 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. 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. 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 weeks to have a title issued. As a developer, you want to make sure that you can issue a title on time so your clients will not be in default on payment.  Internal regulations Before Sales 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. 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. As a bonus, we are including a video featuring Guillaume Massin, Partner, Head of Regional Real Estate Practice Group For more information on real estate in Cambodia, contact us!  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!