Moving to Preah Vihear, Cambodia
Last updated on Jul 09, 2023
Summary: Moving to Preah Vihear, Cambodia: Expats, retirees and digital nomads talk about everything you need to know before moving to Preah Vihear.
What do I need to know before moving to Preah Vihear?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Preah Vihear, they said:
"Preah Vihear is a rural province known for its ancient temples and natural beauty, but it's also one of the country's least developed areas. Before moving, expats should be aware that the standard of living may be lower than what they're used to, with limited access to modern amenities and healthcare facilities. The official language is Khmer, and while some locals may speak English, it's not widely spoken, especially in rural areas like Preah Vihear. Therefore, learning some basic Khmer phrases would be beneficial. The local currency is the Cambodian Riel, but US dollars are also widely accepted. It's important to note that credit cards are not commonly used, especially in rural areas, so carrying cash is necessary. The climate in Preah Vihear is tropical, with a rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April. Expats should be prepared for high temperatures and humidity year-round. The cuisine in Cambodia is diverse and flavorful, with rice and fish being staples. However, Western food may be hard to find, especially in rural areas. The cost of living in Preah Vihear is relatively low compared to Western countries, but expats should be prepared for a different standard of living. Transportation can be a challenge as public transportation is limited and the roads can be in poor condition, especially during the rainy season. The healthcare system in Preah Vihear is not as advanced as in Western countries, and serious medical conditions may require evacuation to Phnom Penh or even abroad. Therefore, comprehensive health insurance is a must. The culture in Cambodia is deeply rooted in Buddhism and respect for elders. Expats should take time to understand local customs and traditions to integrate smoothly into the community. Safety can be a concern in some parts of Cambodia, including Preah Vihear, due to unexploded landmines from past conflicts. It's important to stay on marked paths and hire a local guide when exploring rural areas. Finally, obtaining the right visa and work permit is crucial for expats planning to work in Cambodia. It's recommended to seek advice from a legal professional to ensure compliance with local immigration laws," remarked one expat who made the move to Preah Vihear.
What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Preah Vihear?
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Preah Vihear?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Preah Vihear?
- Will I be able to find a job in Preah Vihear?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Preah Vihear appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Preah Vihear?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Preah Vihear accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Preah Vihear like?
- How are healthcare services in Preah Vihear?
- What are medical services in Preah Vihear like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Preah Vihear?
- What are emergency services like in Preah Vihear?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Preah Vihear?
- How are local medical facilities in Preah Vihear?
- As a foreigner living in Preah Vihear, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?