Kampong Cham, Cambodia

"Kampong Cham is a province in Cambodia that is less developed and more traditional than the capital city, Phnom Penh. The official language is Khmer, and while some locals may speak English, it is not widely spoken, so learning some basic Khmer phrases would be beneficial. The local currency is the Cambodian Riel, but US dollars are also widely accepted. The cost of living in Kampong Cham is relatively low compared to Western countries, but expats should be aware that the quality of goods and services may also be lower. Healthcare facilities are limited and not up to Western standards, so it's advisable to have comprehensive health insurance that includes medical evacuation. The climate in Kampong Cham is tropical, with a rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April. It can get very hot and humid, especially in the dry season, so expats should be prepared for this. The food in Kampong Cham is typically Cambodian, with rice and fish being staple foods. Western food is not widely available, so expats may need to adjust their diet. Tap water is not safe to drink, so bottled water should be used. Public transportation is limited and often unreliable. Most locals use motorbikes to get around, and expats may choose to do the same. However, traffic rules are not always followed, and road conditions can be poor, so caution is advised. The people of Kampong Cham are generally friendly and welcoming to foreigners. However, there are cultural differences that expats should be aware of. For example, it is considered disrespectful to touch someone's head or to point your feet at someone. Kampong Cham is a safe place to live, but like anywhere, crime does occur. Expats should take basic safety precautions, such as not walking alone at night and keeping valuables out of sight. Finally, expats should be aware that internet access may be limited and unreliable in Kampong Cham. This could be a challenge for those who rely on the internet for work or staying in touch with family and friends back home," said one expat who made the move to Kampong Cham.