Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country

Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country

From a truly tragic past, evolving into vibrant cities, lush countryside, waterfalls, ancient jungle temples, surprising islands & beaches await those searching for an unforgettable, rewarding travel experience 

Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country

Welcome to our travel guide. I hope easy-to-understand for all our viewers. Currently, we have a particular interest in Phnom Penh, Kampot, & Kep. Other destinations will be added later. 

Thai Army closed border disruption with Cambodia

We will add information about this, which visitors may find helpful for planning their travel needs in this region.

Click/tap the box, right-hand column, for your choice of subject

A footnote from me: I enjoy my hobby, travelling the world to interesting places and would like to share my experiences with you. Please enjoy the content here, which I hope will enhance your travel experiences in this truly wonderful country, Cambodia.

Fuzzyken  (fuzzyken@hotmail.com)

The current header image is of celebrations outside Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace

Next public holiday: Constitution Day, 24 September

Headline News/Comment

The Thailand bypass!

25th June 2026:  When one door closes, it is inevitable that other avenues will be sought. In this case, to satisfy the needs of some 18 million Cambodians. 

China’s Belt and Road Initiative

A transit corridor has been established for perishable products such as durian and mangoes from Cambodia to China. This will cut the current transit time from about 20 days down to about 6.

The route to China is overland by truck via the Cambodia/Laos border crossing at Stung Treng/Veun Kham. Traversing Laos Route 13 via Pakse and onto Vientiane or Vang Vieng, to connect with the China-Laos railway. The last leg of the journey to Boten will be by train, although the expressway might provide an alternative.  

Following the same route, the return journey to Cambodia will include various products. Innitionally, textile materials, industrial machinery, vehicles, spare parts, medical and pharmaceutical products, and so on.

A win-win for all three countries.

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Visiting Thailand?

23rd June 2026: Once again, Thailand has decided to make changes to its entry requirements. Some visitors may have felt that the vast array of visas and multifarious rules, variously applied, was somewhat confusing. However, whether the changes will be easier for all concerned to understand, let alone comply with, remains to be seen.

Tip: Whatever happens, always make absolutely certain that you do not stay in Thailand beyond the date that immigration stamps in your passport. Tip: Before leaving the passport control officer, quickly make sure that you agree with the “Admitted Until” date stamp and that the rubber stamping itself is not smudged. Any doubts/questions, ask the officer immediately, before moving on.

Additionally, it makes good sense to have all your paperwork ready for presentation well before you reach immigration passport control. Tip: have in mind the date you think should be shown on your “Admitted Until” stamp.

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Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country:

Techo International Airport (TIA)

22nd June 26:  Although more than twenty international airlines are now established at Phnom Penh’s new airport, as yet, there are no direct flights from North America, Australia, or mainland Europe.

While Cambodia has signed agreements to facilitate direct long-haul flights into Phnom Penh’s Techo International Airport (TIA), all routings currently require at least one layover at a major Asian or Middle Eastern hub.

However, it can only be a matter of time before long-haul traffic becomes a reality, avoiding layovers in KL, Bangkok or Singapore for example. Apart from bringing tourists directly to Cambodia, it has the potential to promote domestic tourism, flights to Laos and other destinations in the region……  

For the complete article, please click the orange “Air Travel Cambodia” link in the sidebar

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Thailand Departure Tax

19 June 26: Departure tax for all those leaving Thailand by air

Starting June 20, 2026, Thailand will increase its international airport departure tax (Passenger Service Charge) to 1,120 THB per person, up from 730 THB, representing a 53% increase. This fee is automatically included in the price of air tickets at the time of booking, requiring no separate payment at the airport.

Key Details for June 2026 Departure Tax Increase:

New Rate: 1120 THB (increased from 730 THB).

Effective Date: June 20, 2026.

Affected Airports: Six major airports operated by Airports of Thailand (AOT): Suvarnabhumi (BKK), Don Mueang (DMK), Phuket (HKT), Chiang Mai (CNX), Chiang Rai (CEI), and Hat Yai (HDY).

Applicability: Applies to all international departures, regardless of airline, nationality, or cabin class.

Information from a Google search

Note: As of 19 June:  1120 Baht is about $34 USD (730 Baht = $22)

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No one is immune, not even you!

Health & travel insurance, don’t leave home without it !!

Accidents can happen anywhere, any time, to anyone!  Unexpected ill health and accidents; are you properly and adequately covered?

Please read our important article at the following link:

https://fuzzykensblog.com/insurance-be-stupid-without-it/

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18th June 2026

Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country

Cambodia celebrates the birthday of Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk.

We wish her a very happy birthday and many more to come

Most sincerely, Fuzzyken

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Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country

Do's & Don'ts Cambodia 26

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HRH Princess Bajrakitiyabha

I am very saddened to learn of the death of HRH Princess Bajrakitiyabha of Thailand following a tragic accident which left her in a coma, some three years ago. 

I’m sure that others in/from Udon Thani, will recall, as I do,  the time that she served at the office of the Attorney-General in Udon Thani. I remember seeing her in the mall and night market, and in particular when she visited the Japanese restaurant a couple of doors along from my restaurant on Prajak Road. 

My condolences to all her friends and family; may she rest in peace.

Fuzzyken

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Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country:

Phnom Penh’s new international airport (TIA)

Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country

Now fully operational, replacing the old Pochentong Airport, which opened back in 1924, and now closed.

The new airport is about 30km south of Phnom Penh City. Typical driving time would be in the region of 50 minutes, as always, weather and traffic permitting.

A taxi from/to Phnom Penh city would cost about $40.

Tip: Otherwise, wherever you are, check with your hosts and local travel agents for bus and taxi services. You may even find a shared ride.

Information about getting to and from the airport and parking facilities, etc., Details at the orange link “Air travel Cambodia” in the sidebar.

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3 June 26:  Travelling to Cambodia via Thailand: Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country

Be aware that as of today, all land border crossings between Cambodia and Thailand remain closed in both directions. Currently, air travel is operating as normal. Thai/Laos and Cambodia/Laos border crossings are open. 

However, as things can change with little or no notice, always check before travelling.

More details at our sidebar link “Travelling to Cambodia.”

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May 2026:   Thai Prime Minister Anutin has stated that all land crossings between Thailand and Cambodia are to remain closed. When this will change remains unknown.

Phnom Penh-Bangkok return airfare, including getting to/from airports, is now in the region of $200 (6500 Baht). Thailand is therefore, perhaps unlikely to attract too many daily visitors from Cambodia for shopping and/or sightseeing !!

I guess that we will have to wait and see. In the meantime, I’m sure that Cambodia will survive while others choose to make matters inconvenient.

Tip: Keep well away from Thai/Cambodia border areas and always adhere to local advice and instructions.

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Ground nuts!

30 May 2026   Nothing to do with Cambodia, but travellers to Italy may like to experience a wonderful tradition in Milan, where one might obtain good luck!

The story goes that by twisting and grinding clockwise three times, on a mosaic of a bull, specifically over the animal’s “crown jewels”, one may gain a measure of good fortune.

Unfortunately, however, the continued grinding of tourists’ shoes wears away the surface of the strategically positioned pink tiles. Every so often, therefore, remedial action is necessary to ensure that the “ground nuts” tradition continues unabated, for future generations.

Read all about it at the following link https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1m215npjp2o

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Conscription: Good or Bad?

29 May 2026:   I note from an article in the Khmer Times that conscription will be introduced in Cambodia later this year. For more details, please read the informative article at the following link:
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501907026/ … this-year/

What are your views on this, and were any of you conscripted into UK military service? If so, did you like it, hate it, or simply accept it as your duty to serve the nation? Moreover, do you feel that it should be reinstated?

Born in December 1945, I missed the UK conscription by a couple of years. I’ve often wondered how it might have changed my life, had I been called up. Would I still be Fuzzy?

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User-friendly websites!

The State Railway of Thailand have not as yet constructed a website where one can obtain up-to-date information and book train tickets without hassle or mystery.

Their website has limited information, and switching to English has almost always, at some point, taken me back to Thai. I was even asked for the train number, evidently requiring an additional search. Don’t they know the number of each train in service? On another occasion, it did not recognise Bangkok as a destination.

Because the content is usually vague or incomplete, I feel hesitant to divulge my bank card details.

Companies should understand that booking online must be straightforward and trouble-free through a site, including English, that is truly user-friendly.

In the meantime, I’ll continue to book at SRT stations and pay cash. That way, we all know exactly where we stand, and I have a printed ticket to confirm.

Incidentally, in March 1992, I was in Hua Hin and needed to get to Hua Lamphong. The station master informed me that he would need to Telex, yes Telex, Hua Lamphong for confirmation of seat availability, which would take about 30 minutes. While I waited, he was happy to show me around the station and explain in clear English how it featured in the 1984 film, The Killing Fields. I recall that there were also a number of black and white photos on display from that time. Anyhow, confirmation came through, confirming my trip for the following day. Now that’s what I call positive customer service.

Completely unrelated, attempting to connect with another Thai website, I was somewhat amused that the site needed to know that I was not a “malicious bot”. I was eventually cleared to access the site; little did they know that I’d consumed a bellyful of vindaloo the previous night 555   

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The Royal Ploughing Ceremony:

Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country

Phnom Penh Guide:  The 2026 Royal Ploughing Ceremony in Cambodia is scheduled for Tuesday, May 5, 2026, traditionally held at Veal Preah Meru (the green in front of the National Museum) near the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh. This annual event, marking the official start of the rice-growing season, is presided over by the King to predict agricultural fortune through sacred oxen.

Key Details for 2026:

Date: Tuesday, May 5, 2026 (Often lasts a few days, with the main ceremony on this day).

Location: Veal Preah Meru, Phnom Penh.

Significance: A sacred Brahman rite signalling the start of the planting season, featuring rituals where oxen predict future crop success.

Note: While the ceremony is traditionally held in Phnom Penh, some reports have occasionally suggested alternative locations in different provinces; however, Veal Preah Meru is the primary historical site, and official 2026 scheduling usually confirms this location.

The above information is attributable to Google

Please note that, due to illness, sadly, His Majesty King Sihamoni may not be in attendance this year

For your convenience, you may wish to check the location prior to any travel.

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Tomorrow, 1st May 2026, is International Labour Day, and in many countries around the world, it is a public holiday.

In Cambodia, May 1st is an official public holiday, meaning government offices, banks, and many private businesses in Phnom Penh, Kampot and elsewhere may be closed.

Locally organised events may take place on the riverfront near Kampot City Hall. I think it is very doubtful, however, that there will be any large-scale marches, etc.

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This year, coincidentally, the 1st of May is also Visak Bochea Day, considered by many Buddhists to be the most important day in the Buddhist calendar.

It is generally recognised and celebrated as the date of the Buddha’s birthday, enlightenment, and passing. Buddhists may visit local pagodas to make merit, typically wearing white, take part in candlelit processions, make offerings and listen to chanting monks, as the abbot may consider most appropriate. However, although the Khmer language is prominent, everyone is welcome to witness and enjoy this very special occasion.

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Notice to all those visiting Phnom Penh during the Khmer New Year: Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country

Phnom Penh Guide:  According to a directive from the Phnom Penh Capital Administration, authorities have imposed a complete ban on the use of fireworks, firecrackers, and all types of explosives. The import, distribution, and sale of such items are also strictly prohibited. In addition, activities such as water splashing, throwing coloured or dirty water, using water guns, and whipping or hitting others with objects are banned as they can cause traffic accidents, injuries, or property damage.

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Road safety “heads up”

As we approach the Buddhist New Year holidays, there will be the familiar requests for road users to avoid alcohol, drugs, tiredness and excessive speed.

Much has already been written, down the years, in both Thailand and Cambodia, but despite all the recommendations and safety campaigns, far too many serious injuries and deaths continue to swell road safety statistics.

Tip: Make sure, well before leaving your home country, that your travel insurance meets all your needs, especially if you intend to ride a motorcycle. Essential cover should include personal injury for you and your passenger, repairs/replacement costs for the motorcycle and any third-party claims. Should you have an accident, you may discover that other parties are not insured. With any insurance, really understand all the limitations of cover and any exclusions before committing yourself to it. (In other words, know what you are getting for your money)

As foreigners, however, we can improve our own well-being, and that of other road users, by familiarising ourselves with local road traffic laws, most likely quite different to those in our home countries.

Tip: Make sure to familiarise yourself with the vehicle’s controls, particularly if driving on the opposite side of the road from your home country.

NB Particularly important for car drivers. When overseas, after collecting my hire car, I would spend around 30 minutes driving around quiet back streets to familiarise myself with the vehicle handling before heading off into busy areas and main roads.

Short-term visitors/holiday makers are usually allowed to drive, for a limited period, with an international driving permit plus their home country license. Obviously, however, if valid only for driving cars, it will be invalid for almost all other vehicle categories, including motorcycles/scooters.   

For long-term visa holders, if you choose to ride a motorcycle or drive a car, you must obtain a local license by taking a driving test. This will introduce you to local regulations, which may help you avoid accidents and other difficulties. 

Very important: Insurance claims will most likely be rejected if you do not have the correct driving license, and/or have any trace of drugs or alcohol in your system, and, for motorcyclists, you and/or your passenger were not wearing a crash helmet.

“Be wise before the event”

Footnote:  Just been reading an article about a man from the UK who had a serious motorcycle accident, leaving him with multiple fractures, stranded in Sri Lanka. His insurance company have rejected his claim because the motorcycle was 250cc and his insurance covered only up to 125cc.

Lesson:   Always make sure that your insurance is adequate for all your needs.

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Easter 2026

Today, 2nd April, in the UK is Maundy Thursday. Commemorating the last supper of Jesus Christ with his disciples.

The tradition of handing out Maundy Money to the poor is centuries old, but from the 1820s, coins were minted specifically for Maundy rather than using those in general circulation. Furthermore, during the early 1930s, the custom of the coins being handed out by the monarch, then King George V, commenced. This year will, of course, be for King Charles 111.

Tomorrow, the 3rd of April, is Good Friday, which is a public holiday in the UK and many other Western nations. A very solemn Christian holy day recognised by some 2½ billion Christians throughout the world, to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary.

NB Some Eastern countries will celebrate Easter one week later. 

Easter Sunday, 5th April

Commemoration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, signifying victory over sin and death, guaranteeing that believers will also experience a future, physical resurrection to eternal life.

FuzzykensblogFuzzykensblog

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April Fools Day

31 March: Tomorrow is April Fool’s Day in the UK, and maybe elsewhere too, when imaginative pranks are played upon the unsuspecting to amuse and/or humiliate, usually accompanied by loud exultations of  ”April Fool”

Custom would have it, however, that this must be enacted before 12 noon to avoid the “title” being inherited by the originator.

This very old tradition, with its unproven origins, is perhaps being updated by the somewhat sinister lies, better known as fake news, which, of course, is not exclusive to the first of April.

Be wary of both, but enjoy them for what they are worth.   

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Hello British Summertime

29th March, GMT to BST. Often referred to as daylight saving, when we advance our timepieces by one hour on the last Sunday in March. Computers and smartphones usually update automatically, but it’s wise to check all your time-sensitive appliances and gadgets, including your home security alarm settings. Moreover, don’t forget your alarm clock ha ha.

Interesting to note that some 70 countries adhere to daylight saving, but not on the same date.

Some would say the downside is losing an hour in bed, while others would comment that it is less time to wait for the bacon, eggs and fried bread!

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23 March 26:  Thai goods entering Cambodia via Laos:

Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country

I understand, from an article in the Khmer Times, that Thailand is exporting goods to Cambodia via Laos. Read the Khmer Times interesting article at this link:

https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501864245/thai-goods-enter-cambodia-via-laos-amid-border-closure/

I have made the following comparison:

Bangkok to Phnom Penh by road via the now closed Aranyaprathet/Poi Pet border gate is about 640km, taking about 9 hours plus the add-on time to complete border formalities.

Compared with:

Bangkok to Phnom Penh via Ubon Ratchathani and Pakse by road is about 1330km, taking about 20 hours plus the add-on time to negotiate 2 border crossings. Moreover, I’m sure that Laos imposes duties and taxes for passing through its land.

Accounting for all additional transport costs, the active boycott of Thai goods in Cambodia, not to mention the increasing cost of oil courtesy of the Middle East war, plus many Thai products being banned, leaves me wondering what it can be that’s finding its way through, on this far less profitable route.

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Spring Equinox (UK) 

The Astronomical Equinox is when the Earth’s position relative to the Sun, on 20th March 26 at 14:46 GMT, is better known as the 1st day of spring. Furthermore, it’s when we say farewell to winter.

As the dark, dank days fade away, we think of better times to come. Warmer weather encouraging Mother Nature’s dramatic display of beautiful colours, such as daffodils, tulips, and bluebells, appearing in gardens, forests and parks to brighten our daily lives.

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18th March 2026

The war in the Middle East, understandably, is attracting considerable attention, but let us not forget those displaced by a war much closer to home. 

It is, of course, common knowledge that the land border crossings between Cambodia and Thailand remain closed, with little idea as to when this will change.

I guess that we will simply have to wait and see what transpires, but getting the border crossings open for trade and humanitarian needs would, in my opinion, be a step in the right direction. The issues concerned with ongoing demarcation disputes can be dealt with later in less fractious times.

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Middle East

16th March 26 Update: With regard to the war in the Middle East, and with so many countries involved, it remains unclear as to what the objectives actually are, and where it is heading.

However, what is clear is that the situation remains extremely volatile, and any travel anywhere near the Middle East must be very carefully considered and obviously balanced against need.

Moreover, getting into the area is one thing; getting out could be an extremely risky endeavour, to say the very least.

Take care out there, Fuzzyken

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13th March 26:  A traveller’s tale

Some time ago, in fact, around 70 years ago, I recall one of my school teachers, during a history lesson, mentioning such things as the Pyramids, the Great Wall of China, the Grand Canyon and Angkor Wat.

Some of us had a vague idea of these places, but not so Angkor Wat, which produced a classroom full of blank faces. However, like a fully prepared teacher, he showed us a book containing photographs and drawings made by French explorers back in the 1860s. I had no idea where Angkor Wat actually was, but like something from a fairytale, I needed to know more. In my wildest dreams, I had to visit this mystical masterpiece, emerging like a forgotten giant from a dense forest, in a far-off land, to reveal its secrets after being hidden for hundreds of years.

It was 2002 when my mother-in-law died, and my dream came true. No, not her death, God rest her soul, but a small sum of money she had bequeathed to my wife. After much discussion, we decided to spend it on a holiday to Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam.

I had waited well over 50 years to see Angkor Wat, and I was in no way disappointed. Moreover, a further 22 years have passed since then, during which many restoration projects have replaced the local children scrambling haphazardly over loose stonework. I am looking forward to going back later this year, but for sure, nothing will replace the magic of that first visit.

I would like to have shared some of the many photos from that truly memorable trip, but have been denied them by those who evidently considered that they are more deserving of them than I. Still, never mind, I have my cherished memories, and maybe one day, fairytales permitting, I will be reunited with them.

Tell me about your first visit…

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Registration of all foreigners in Cambodia: Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country

8th March 26:   Phnom Penh Guide:  You should ensure that your hosts, eg., hotel or guest house etc., have registered you on the government app.

Phnom Penh GuideTo avoid misunderstandings, I would recommend all foreigners in Cambodia to familiarise themselves with the details set out at the following link: https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501855681/fpcs-cambodia-explained-2026-complete-guide-for-foreigners-and-landlords/#google_vignette

 

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4th March 26:   Advice issued by the Foreign Office in London

Global travel impacts due to the escalation in the Middle East

Escalation in the Middle East has caused widespread travel disruption, including airspace closures, delayed and cancelled flights.

Your travel plans may be affected, even if your destination is not in the Middle East. British nationals should:

Check for the latest updates from your airline or tour operator before travelling

Review your travel insurance policy for coverage before you travel

Monitor local and international media for the latest information and sign up for travel advice email alerts

Specifically for those in Thailand:  If you have been impacted by travel disruption and need to review your Thai Visa, please follow the guidance published by the Thai Immigration Bureau: Immigration Bureau Facebook

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Phnom Penh Guide: Thai products boycott in Cambodia: Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country 

28th February 26: I was not surprised to learn that a poll of the general public conducted by the Khmer Times produced a result indicating in excess of 90% of Cambodians were in favour of boycotting Thai products.

Living in Cambodia for several years and doing my own cooking and catering, etc., I have noticed fewer Thai products in my local supermarket. Conversely, an obvious increase and variety of products from Malaysia, China, Indonesia, Singapore, Australia and Vietnam, to mention but a few of Thailand’s competitors. Looks like some additional Cambodian products, too.

However, an observation. When customers, be they individual shoppers, retailers or wholesalers buying in bulk, have to search for “new” suppliers, it can be extremely difficult to re-establish good faith and make up lost ground with original suppliers, if and ever the situation returns to what it once was.

For example, individual purchasers who have used the same shop for many years and now have to shop elsewhere may wonder why they took so long to consider other avenues. The fact is, establishing a meaningful customer base is a dedicated endeavour which can take years to gain respectability, but all too easy to destroy. When choices are removed, or customers are dealt with unfavourably, it will, as the saying goes, encourage people to vote with their feet, disappearing into the mist with their shopping bags, never to be seen again.

“Complacency and lessons to be learnt !”

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Helping those in need: Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country

25th February 2026:  Quite recently, the Cambodia Post Office on street 102 underwent extensive refurbishment and if I may say so, a very pleasing result.

Phnom Penh GuideHowever, with all the money spent, I am surprised that there is still no wheelchair access at the front, nor even a simple handrail for those less steady on their feet, as indeed I am.

Many of us in our twilight years, and some younger ones too, although not disabled as such, require a handrail to boost confidence when negotiating stairs, especially when wet.

On behalf of all those physically challenged, please, Mr Post Office, can you help us by installing a handrail on the front steps and a slope for wheelchair users? Thankyou

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Visiting Thailand

22nd February 26:  Although it is all but general knowledge, I wanted to confirm that the land crossings between Cambodia and Thailand remain closed, and I’m unaware of any date when this will change.

As soon as anything official comes to light, it will be posted here.

Air transport remains the only option, and all flights appear to be operating to printed schedules. However, be aware that Thailand are in the process of confirming a date for the introduction of a tourist entry fee, and there may also be an increase in the Thai departure tax. I’ll update here as soon as I know, but in the meantime, it’s important for all travellers to the ‘Land of Smiles’ to check with their transport providers for the very latest entry and exit requirements.

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Getting around Phnom Penh: Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country

Phnom Penh Guide:  19th February 26: The next time I’m in Phnom Penh, most likely mid-April, I’ll take the bus offered by Hop on Hop off tours.

Phnom Penh GuideYou can stay on the bus for the entire trip or get off at designated stops to investigate various landmarks and places of interest. It would appear that the next bus would arrive within an hour, allowing, for example, an hour or so to view your choice before boarding the next bus.

Tickets are for 24 or 48 hours, and some options include an hour trip on a Mekong river cruise, which may include a drink.

I would recommend contacting ‘Get Your Guide’ for the latest information and prices.

All told, it looks like an excellent idea made even better by some careful planning by travellers to accommodate their particular interests.

No shortage of encouraging reviews. I’m certainly looking forward to the experience and will report my findings soon after.

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Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country

Phnom Penh Guide

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Whatever next?

6 Feb. 26:  Passports and the ever-growing need to make sure that they meet immigration requirements at all the countries you intend visiting and/or transiting.

An issue that I have been aware of for a number of years is the need to have at least a couple of blank pages available for visas and stamps. However, I was unaware that such pages should be next to each other, rather than scattered throughout the passport.

…..Please go to my ‘Your Passport’ page for the full article (Link in sidebar)

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Alcohol restrictions in Thailand

6 Feb. 26:   For those in Thailand and others intending to visit, please note that due to the Thailand General Election on 8 February 2026. There will be a nationwide ban on the sale and distribution of alcohol from 6pm on the 7th to 6pm on the 8th of February.

During this time:

Public consumption of alcohol is prohibited, including at social gatherings

The restrictions apply to convenience stores, bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues, both public and private

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Buddhist celebration in Kampot

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Kampot Pepper: Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country

31st Jan. 26:  On Old Market Street 724a, there are at least two shops selling a comprehensive range of Kampot pepper products, neatly wrapped for inspection and sale.

Kampot Travel GuideKampot Travel GuideHowever, for those who would like to learn about pepper farms and production methods, shops usually offer free tours of their premises with English-speaking guides. Furthermore, when all-inclusive trips are not available, you would need to arrange transport from your accommodation. Otherwise, my preference would be to use Passapp or Grab.

Farm tours usually include their vineyards, a shop and restaurant, etc., making for an enjoyable and relaxing countryside break.

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Nipah Virus

26th January 2026:  Maybe far too early to predict where it’s leading, but without doubt, this virus is a serious matter, particularly as there is no vaccine and very limited medical treatment. Moreover, mortality rates are quite high.

Be vigilant and always exercise a high degree of personal hygiene, especially within your family. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, and wash all fruits thoroughly before eating. Pay extra attention to the elderly and very young, especially those with existing respiratory conditions.

Updates on this will be published here

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24th January 26: 

I visited Kampot’s Lotus Pond on Street 729 about 6 months ago, and decided to return in the hope of viewing the lotus blossoms in the dry season…..

This article continues on our Kampot page, including various images

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23rd January 26:

Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country 

As Kampot and Kep are large producers of salt, I decided to take a look to discover some of the basics.

Kampot saltflats workerAbout 4 km south of the town centre of Kampot, there is a vast area of salt flats. In simple terms, areas of land are partitioned off with sturdy walkways, making ready for sea flooding. During the dry season, the water is allowed to drain away, leaving the salt to be harvested. Local labourers follow age-old traditional methods, without using commercial machinery.

This article continues on our Kampot page, including various images

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19 January 26: Phnom Penh Guide…Be aware that as of today, all land border crossings between Cambodia and Thailand remain closed. Furthermore, at this time, the land borders with Laos are open, and air traffic remains unrestricted.

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14 January 26:  A reminder. Should you be travelling in this region, particularly between countries, make sure that your health and travel insurance are kept up to date, and meet all your needs. Your insurance provider should be able to advise. 

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Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country.

Do not attempt to cross the Cambodia/Thailand land border.

13th January 2026: The general situation in border areas remains somewhat fluid, including, sadly, many thousands unable to return to their homes. Furthermore, should you intend to visit Thailand or Laos, check with your nearest Thai/Lao Consular office for the latest visa/entry requirements for your particular nationality.

When land crossings between Cambodia/Thailand reopen, we will be able to resume our travels in this region. In the meantime, however, we will try to keep you updated on matters likely to impact travellers’ plans. Please view this page frequently and our Borders and Bloodshed page >>  Borders-Bloodshed-Thailand-Cambodia  

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Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country 

3rd Jan. 26 Please note that Wednesday, 7th January, is an annual public holiday in Cambodia

What is genocide? The definition contained in UN Article II of the Convention describes genocide as a crime committed with the intent to destroy a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group, in whole or in part.

Victory Over Genocide Day is in remembrance of the fall of the brutal Khmer Rouge Regime on this day in 1979

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Heads up:  Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country. 

Entry requirements for Cambodia

3rd Jan. 26:  All those entering Cambodia must register on the Digital e-arrival system within the 7 days leading up to arrival.

Go to arrival.gov.kh for registration and advice

This is a free service: Please note however, that this is apart from your visa requirements.

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2nd Jan, 26: Chaktomuk Walk Street:  Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country

Following the river, Walk Street is traffic-free from the Night Market to the Royal Palace from 6pm to around 11pm each Saturday and Sunday. It was introduced a little under a year ago and has become extremely popular. Furthermore, plenty of local street food, clothes, toys, paintings, jewellery, cosmetics, coffee, arts and crafts, plus ad hoc entertainment along the way. (a little bit different each weekend) Usually very busy. As said, traffic-free apart from cyclos.

Moreover, take note that skateboarding, roller skating, etc., cycling and smoking are not permitted when Walk Street is in operation.

Phnom Penh Guide  Phnom Penh Guide Phnom Penh Guide      Phnom Penh Guide  Phnom Penh Guide  Phnom Penh Guide                                        Here are some images from a few days ago, taken over the festive season

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Go Cambodia and enjoy this really beautiful country: Travellers visiting Vietnam

2nd Jan. 26: Travellers visiting Phnom Penh may like to know that there is a daily service by boat to Chau Doc, Vietnam.

Hang Chau Tourists’ office is located at #103 Sisowath Quay. If you exit the Night Market at its river end, cross the road, and turn left, the terminal is then but a very short walk.

The boat departs daily at 12.30 pm with an ETA Chau Doc of 6.30 pm. The return journey departs at 7.30 am with an ETA of 1 pm.  I was quoted $40 each way. Furthermore, there may be some light refreshments available on board.

However, their website quotes 1160000 Dong, about $45. Therefore, best to check for booking and latest information at the terminal or email them at:

dieuhanh.boat@hangchautourist.vn

Visas for Vietnam: Please contact your nearest Vietnamese consulate for visa requirements for your nationality, well in advance of intended travel.  

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31 December 2025:  At fuzzykensblog, we wish all our viewers around the world a very happy and safe New Year

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