Part 1: Who We Are & Why You Don’t Have to Worry
Hello there, young adventurer about to set foot in the Land of Temples — Cambodia! 🇰🇭
If this is your first time going abroad and you’re feeling nervous after hearing a bunch of confusing “rumors,” don’t worry — this guide is made especially for you, the one about to start an exciting new job journey with us in Phnom Penh!
Our Company: Legal, Transparent, and Reliable
Our office is located right in the heart of Phnom Penh.
We operate legally, with clear documents, valid visas, and proper work permits.
All employee rights and benefits are fully covered by the company — so you can truly focus on work and settling in comfortably.
1. Legal Work Visa – No Headaches
- We’ll provide you with a 6-month to 1-year work visa under the “independent worker” category.
- Clean and comfortable company dormitories are available.
- Prefer your own space? You’re free to live outside too.
- All documents and visa procedures are handled by our HR team — you just need to show up (and look good 😉).
2. Clear & Simple Recruitment Process
Don’t worry if this is your first time working overseas.
Our HR team will guide you step-by-step through everything you need to prepare:
✅ Portrait photo + full-body photo (if you’ll be picked up at the airport)
✅ Medical check-up report (you must pass before departure)
✅ Flight or bus ticket + receipt
✅ Passport + National ID (both sides)
✅ 3 signed recruitment documents
Only when these are completed will we book your ticket and finalize your travel date — easy and organized!
3. Arrival in Cambodia – Who Will Pick You Up?
Of course someone will!
If you stay in the company dorm:
- HR staff will pick you up directly at the airport
- You’ll move into your accommodation the same day
- A guide will help you settle in and explain everything
If you choose to stay outside:
- You can take a Grab Tuktuk or Wownow ride to your place
- Remember to submit your passport to HR after you’ve settled in
💡 Tip: For newcomers, staying in the company dorm is recommended — utilities (electricity, water, Wi-Fi) are already included, and HR can assist you easily.
If you already have friends or family nearby, you’re also free to stay outside.
4. Company Health Insurance – AIA
Once you officially join as a full-time employee, the company will arrange AIA health insurance for you.
This plan is valid in both Cambodia and Vietnam, so you can rest easy knowing you’re fully covered wherever you go.
Part 2: Before You Travel – What to Prepare
So, your documents are ready and your flight date is coming up — exciting, right?
Here’s everything you should prepare before entering Cambodia!
1. Choosing Your Transportation
You can choose the most convenient option depending on where you live, your budget, and your preferences:
By Plane
Fast, easy, and comfortable — but a bit more expensive.
From Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh, airfares usually start at around 3,000,000 VND.
Once you land, our lovely HR staff will be waiting at the airport to greet you right away! 🥰
So don’t worry at all — you’ll be in good hands.
By Bus
A more affordable (and surprisingly comfy) option!
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Meko Bus: ~700,000 VND, modern, with good Wi-Fi and air-conditioning
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Khai Nam Bus: ~550,000 VND, sleeper seats, a bit longer but student-budget friendly
👉 Whichever way you travel, make sure to inform HR of your schedule so they can track your arrival and prepare your border stamp (for immigration procedures).
2. Setting Up SIM Cards, Internet & Money Before Departure
Before you leave Vietnam, enable international roaming so your mobile data works during the journey — especially if you’re flying.
Each carrier has a different code for activation, so just check your provider’s website.
When you arrive, it’s best to buy a local SIM card right away (around $7–15).
That way, you can easily contact HR once you land.
Where to Buy SIM Cards
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If you fly: Buy one at the airport (~$15, usually comes with data ready).
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If you travel by bus: Buy at the Bavet border (be cautious with belongings and black-market sellers), or later in Phnom Penh at phone stores or mini-marts (~$7).
Tips When Buying a SIM:
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Ask the seller to activate a data plan for you right there.
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A monthly plan costs about $5–10 and is more than enough for daily use.
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Once your SIM is active, contact HR immediately to stay in touch.
Popular Mobile Networks in Cambodia:
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Smart: The most popular among Vietnamese users — easy to find.
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Metfone: Military-owned, reliable coverage.
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Cellcard: Great data packages and stable connection.
(SIM cards usually cost $2–5.)
Money & Currency
In Cambodia, both USD and the local currency (Riel) are accepted everywhere.
You can bring USD from Vietnam and spend freely — no problem!
💰 Exchange rate varies by time, roughly:
1 USD ≈ 3,800–4,000 KHR.
You can exchange money later in Phnom Penh for better rates.
Part 3: Food in Cambodia – Pretty Similar to Vietnam!
If you’re worried about food — don’t be!
Cambodian cuisine is surprisingly similar to Vietnamese food. You’ll find no shortage of options, from street food to fancy restaurants, and yes — even your favorite brands like KFC, Bonchon, Pizza Company, Burger King, or bubble tea shops are all here!
Local Cambodian Dishes (Similar to Vietnamese Flavors)
Don’t forget to try the local specialties — here are a few favorites to start with:
Bai Sach Chrouk (Grilled Pork Rice):
Cambodia’s “national breakfast” — soft grilled pork over rice, served with pickles and sweet fish sauce.
(It’s quite like Vietnam’s cơm tấm sườn bì chả — super easy to eat!)
Butter-Grilled Beef Baguette:
Crispy bread with buttery grilled beef — sounds simple, but trust us, it hits the spot!
Nom Banh Chok (Fish Curry Noodle Soup):
A mild curry noodle dish made with crushed fish and fresh herbs — very local, very delicious.
Kuay Teav (Phnom Penh Noodle Soup):
The original version of Vietnam’s hủ tiếu Nam Vang! Tastes just like home.
Cambodian Desserts & Fruit Bowls:
Fresh, sweet, and cheap — perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
Restaurants & Cafés – All Styles Welcome!
You’ll find Vietnamese, Korean, Japanese, and Thai restaurants everywhere — especially around BKK, Toul Kork, and Russian Market areas.
🇻🇳 Vietnamese Restaurants
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Easy to find, affordable, and tasty!
You’ll see phở, cơm tấm, bún bò, bún đậu mắm tôm, bánh mì, and even lunch box options for office workers.
🇰🇷 Korean Restaurants (mostly around BKK)
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Chicken & cheese, BBQ, kimbap, tteokbokki — delicious and fun for group meals.
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Prices range from $4–$10 per meal.
🇯🇵 Japanese Restaurants
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Sushi, udon, ramen, and curry rice — try Midori, Sakura, or Ninja BBQ.
🇹🇭 Thai Restaurants
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Spicy, flavorful, and easy to find around expat areas.
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Perfect if you love bold, tangy dishes.
💡 Bonus tip:
You can also find Vietnamese home-style food sellers on Facebook or Telegram — many offer daily delivery, so you’ll never go hungry!
Part 4: Shopping in Cambodia – You Can Find Everything at AEON Mall!
Supermarkets and markets in Cambodia are quite similar to those in Vietnam.
Once you arrive, you can easily book a Grab and go shopping for everything you need to get settled.
The best part? AEON Mall and other major stores have pretty much everything you could possibly need — from groceries to home essentials.
Here’s a quick guide to where to shop and what to buy 👇
Big Supermarkets You Should Know
🛒 AEON Mall
If you’re in Phnom Penh, there are two big ones:
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AEON Mall Sen Sok City – large, modern, and perfect for newcomers.
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AEON Mall 1 (Sothearos Blvd) – closer to the city center.
You’ll find all daily essentials: food, cleaning supplies, cosmetics, homeware, even electronics.
Super Duper, Chip Mong, Lucky
Other popular supermarket chains in the city — they’re smaller than AEON but great for quick grocery runs.
They sell snacks, drinks, toiletries, and household items at good prices.
Thai Huot
A favorite for imported goods — lots of products from Thailand and other countries.
Traditional Markets (for When You’re More Familiar with the City)
If you prefer a local experience (and cheaper prices), there are many traditional markets around Phnom Penh.
But for your first few days, it’s better to go with someone experienced or wait until you’re more comfortable.
Here are a few you can check out later:
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Russian Market (Phsar Toul Tompoung):
A classic! Lots of Vietnamese goods, clothes, and local snacks. -
Beng Keng Kong Market (BKK Market):
Small but convenient, especially if you live nearby. -
Orussey Market:
Known as “Phnom Penh’s Bến Thành Market.” Huge and full of variety — from kitchenware to cosmetics. -
Phsar Thmey (Central Market):
The city’s most iconic market — great for sightseeing and buying local goods. -
Phsar Depot & Phsar Toul Tompoung:
Affordable, busy, and full of life — great for weekend shopping.
Part 5: Daily Life in Cambodia – Weather, Utilities, and Everyday Tips
To make your life in Cambodia easier and more comfortable, here are some quick notes you should know 👇
Weather: Hot Days, Cool Nights
Cambodia’s weather is generally hot during the day but pleasant at night — especially in Phnom Penh.
Here’s how the seasons work:
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Dry Season (November to April):
Sunny and dry — temperatures can reach 35°C or higher, especially in March and April.
Perfect time for outdoor activities, but don’t forget your hat, sunscreen, and water bottle! -
Rainy Season (May to October):
Still sunny in the morning, but expect afternoon showers or heavy thunderstorms.
Daytime temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C — cooler, but more humid.
Average temperature in Phnom Penh: around 30°C, sometimes hotter at noon.
Drinking Water
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Never drink directly from tap water (seriously — don’t!).
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Buy 20-liter bottled water — it costs around $1.5–$2 per bottle, and most places deliver to your door.
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If you plan to stay long-term, consider getting a water filter — totally worth it.
Electricity
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Electricity is charged by consumption: around $0.20–$0.30 per kWh, depending on your accommodation.
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A room with air conditioning usually costs $30–$60/month in electricity.
Internet & Wi-Fi
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Recommended providers: SingMeng, Smart, or Metfone.
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Monthly fee: around $12–$25, depending on speed.
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Stable enough for work, Netflix, or gaming.
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Many apartments or dorms already include Wi-Fi — just ask your landlord or HR to confirm the details.
Hospitals & Clinics You Can Trust (Phnom Penh)
It’s always good to know where to go just in case you need medical help.
Here are some trusted options:
Royal Phnom Penh Hospital (close to the airport & company office)
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Address: Russian Blvd
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High-quality international hospital, English-speaking doctors
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Prices are higher, but service is excellent — ideal for emergencies
Sovannaphum Hospital (Toul Kork area)
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Good service and more affordable than Royal Hospital
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Some Vietnamese or overseas Vietnamese doctors available
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Many locals recommend this one
Khema Clinic (Norodom Blvd, near BKK)
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Clean, quick service, focused on general health and dentistry
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Has separate dental branches
Family Medical Practice (International Clinic)
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Well-known among expats
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English-speaking staff, reliable, but on the pricey side
Part 6: Must-Have Apps for Living Smoothly in Cambodia
Want to make your life easier and smoother in Cambodia?
Just download these apps — they’ll save you tons of time (and headaches)!
Grab – For Rides and Everyday Travel
Grab works great in Phnom Penh — it’s safe, easy, and affordable.
You can book cars, tuk-tuks, or even delivery services.
💡 Pro tip: Tuk-tuks are super fun — they shield you from the sun and rain while giving you a real local vibe!
ABA Bank – The “National” Banking App
If you plan to stay in Cambodia for a while, you’ll definitely need ABA.
It’s the most popular bank app here — everyone uses it for transfers, bills, food orders, and even paying at markets!
Đăng ký ngân hàng này nhanh và dễ. Chỉ cần mang hộ chiếu ra chi nhánh gần nhất & 15 phút sau là có app xài luôn.
Google Translate / Papago – Language Lifesavers
While some locals speak English, most daily interactions happen in Khmer.
When words fail — let your phone talk!
- Google Translate – great for general translation
- Papago – smoother for short phrases or conversations
Just type, talk, or use the camera to translate signs instantly.
Food Delivery Apps – For When You’re Hungry
Yes, Phnom Penh has food delivery — and it’s awesome!
Here are the most popular apps:
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FoodPanda – Huge restaurant selection, frequent promo codes
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Nham24 – Local app, good for smaller and home-style restaurants
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Eget – Great for Vietnamese and Thai food, often faster delivery
You can pay with ABA QR or cash on delivery — both work fine!
Part 7: Choosing Where to Live – Safe and Convenient Areas
If you’re planning to rent a place in Cambodia, here’s everything you need to know about accommodation, prices, and the best neighborhoods to live in.
Accommodation Options & Price Range
Company Dormitory
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The easiest and safest choice for newcomers.
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No paperwork hassles — HR helps you settle in.
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Usually comes fully furnished with a bed, air conditioner, Wi-Fi, and cleaning service.
Best option if you’ve just arrived and want everything taken care of.
Rented Rooms (with A/C and basic furniture)
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Price: $120–$250/month or more, depending on location.
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Typically includes a private room, bed, air conditioning, and security.
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Great for individuals or friends sharing.
Whole Apartment or House (for groups or families)
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Price: $300–$500+/month depending on size and area.
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Often includes a living room, kitchen, and balcony.
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Perfect for long-term stays or those who prefer more space.
Airbnb / Short-Term Hotels
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Ideal if you’ve just arrived and haven’t found a place yet.
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Price: $15–$40 per night — can negotiate discounts for weekly stays.
Best & Safest Areas to Live in Phnom Penh
BKK1 (Boeng Keng Kang 1)
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Central area with many expats, restaurants, and offices.
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Very safe and convenient — everything is within walking distance.
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Rent is higher, but the comfort and security are worth it.
Toul Kork
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Family-friendly neighborhood with nice houses and quiet streets.
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Great for long-term living or group rentals.
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Slightly away from the city center, but peaceful and comfortable.
Sen Sok
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Up-and-coming district near AEON Mall 2.
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More affordable rents and newer apartments.
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Convenient if your company is nearby.
Tuol Tompoung / Russian Market
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Lively area with many Vietnamese residents, cafés, and local restaurants.
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Mid-range rent, very walkable, and full of life.
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Great if you want to be close to both work and social activities.
Tips for Renting Safely – Avoid Scams!
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Don’t send deposits online before you’ve seen the room in person.
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If you’re still in Vietnam, ask a friend or colleague in Phnom Penh to check the place for you.
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Only pay a deposit after signing a clear rental agreement or through a trusted agency.
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Ask about all extra costs (electricity, water, Wi-Fi, trash fees, etc.) — some places quote low rent but charge high extras.
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Take photos of the room when you move in — to avoid being blamed for existing damages later.
Final Notes – Things to Remember Before and After You Arrive
Let’s wrap up with a few important reminders to help you stay safe, confident, and ready for your new journey in Cambodia 👇
1. Taking Tuk Tuks
If you’re new here, it’s best to book tuk-tuks using the Grab app and pay in cash.
Don’t pull out your phone while the tuk-tuk is moving — it’s easy for thieves to snatch it!
Also, always keep your bag in front of you and stay alert.
2. Addresses on Grab
Sometimes, addresses might look confusing or slightly inaccurate due to language differences.
Don’t panic if the location seems off — double-check with Google Maps or ask a nearby security guard.
3. House Addresses in Cambodia
Not every building has a clear house number.
When giving directions, use landmarks or nearby buildings — locals will recognize those faster than street names.
4. Paying with ABA is a Life Saver
Use the ABA Bank app to scan QR codes — it’s fast, easy, and safe.
No need to worry about counting cash or collecting small change.
But remember — old, torn, or written-on $100 bills are often rejected, even by banks!
5. Be Careful with Strangers
If someone you don’t know suddenly offers you a job, a free SIM card, or a “gift,”
just politely say no and walk away.
Stay cautious — scams targeting newcomers are not uncommon.
6. Always Stay in Touch with Your Company & Support Team
Never lose contact with your HR or support group — communication keeps you safe and updated.
If you’re unsure about anything, ask first before you act.
Your company is here to help you every step of the way ❤️
Welcome to Our Family!
You’ve made a brave and exciting decision — to work, grow, and explore in a new country.
We’re so happy to have you on the team!
Together, we’ll work hard, chase goals, and build our dreams — and of course, have plenty of fun along the way.
Most importantly:
Our company is safe, legal, and here to take care of you.
Just follow the guidance, stay connected with the team, and enjoy this amazing new chapter in Cambodia!
