Best Places for Digital Nomads to Live in Cambodia

Cambodia, with its rich history and vibrant culture, has become an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads. The country offers a unique blend of affordability, adventure, and opportunities for personal growth. In this article, we will explore seven cities and towns in Cambodia that are ideal for digital nomads, providing a perfect balance of work and play.

Siem Reap

Siem Reap, famous for being the gateway to the ancient Angkor temple complex, is a must-visit for digital nomads. With a lively nightlife scene and numerous cafes, this city offers ample opportunities for relaxation and socialization. The Angkor National Museum, located in the heart of Siem Reap, is a must-visit, providing valuable insight into the history and culture of the Angkor civilization.

Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $300 per month. Groceries for one person for a week range from $50 to $70. Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant with one drink costs around $10.

Nomad Tip: Don't miss the Angkor National Museum. Wander through the galleries to learn about the history of the ancient Angkor civilization and discover fascinating artifacts excavated from the temple complex.

Where to Stay & Eat: Explore the Pub Street area for a variety of furnished rental options and trendy restaurants like The Blue Pumpkin and The Hideout.

Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia, is a bustling metropolis teeming with history, culture, and modern amenities. Digital nomads will appreciate the city's numerous cafes, co-working spaces, and vibrant nightlife. The Royal Palace and the National Museum are essential cultural attractions, offering insight into the country's rich history.

Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $400 per month. Groceries for one person for a week range from $60 to $80. Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant with one drink costs around $12.

Nomad Tip: Take a stroll along the riverside promenade to enjoy the picturesque views and catch a performance at the National Museum of Phnom Penh.

Where to Stay & Eat: Consider staying in the Boeung Keng Kang 1 area for easy access to co-working spaces and trendy restaurants like The Alley and The Bamboo Hut.

Battambang

Battambang, located in western Cambodia, is a charming town known for its French colonial architecture and the Bamboo Train. Digital nomads will appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the abundance of cafes and co-working spaces. The Bamboo Train and the Phare Ponleu Selpak circus are popular tourist attractions that should not be missed.

Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $200 per month. Groceries for one person for a week range from $30 to $50. Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant with one drink costs around $8.

Nomad Tip: Don't miss the Phare Ponleu Selpak circus. This social enterprise employs local artists and provides education and training programs to disadvantaged children.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Slice of Life Guesthouse offers comfortable rooms and a rooftop cafe with excellent coffee and pastries. For dining, try the local specialty, amok curry, at Chamkar Veasna Restuarant.

Sihanoukville

Sihanoukville, located on the Gulf of Thailand, is the perfect destination for digital nomads seeking a tropical paradise. With beautiful beaches, numerous cafes, and ample opportunities for watersports, this city offers a perfect balance of work and play. The Ream National Park and the Koh Rong Island are must-visit attractions.

Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $250 per month. Groceries for one person for a week range from $35 to $55. Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant with one drink costs around $10.

Nomad Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Ream National Park and its stunning beaches. Take a boat tour to Koh Rong Island for a day of relaxation and adventure.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Ochheuteal area, also known as Serendipity Beach, offers a variety of furnished rentals and excellent dining options, including the popular Mick's Place and the Sea Shack.

Kep

Kep, a charming coastal town, is an ideal destination for digital nomads seeking a peaceful and quiet atmosphere. With its beautiful beaches, numerous cafes, and ample opportunities for relaxation, Kep offers a perfect balance of work and play. The Kep National Park and the Crab Market are popular tourist attractions.

Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $250 per month. Groceries for one person for a week range from $30 to $50. Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant with one drink costs around $10.

Nomad Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Crab Market and sample the famous Kep crab dishes, such as crab curry and crab fried rice.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Kep Lodge offers comfortable rooms and a beautiful garden setting. For dining, try the local specialty, amok fish, at Le Jardin Secret.

Battambang

Another mention for Battambang, as this charming town offers a unique blend of history, culture, and affordability that makes it an excellent destination for digital nomads. With numerous cafes, co-working spaces, and a peaceful atmosphere, Battambang offers a perfect balance of work and play. The Battambang Bat Caves and the Khmer Rouge Killing Fields are essential cultural attractions.

Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $200 per month. Groceries for one person for a week range from $30 to $50. Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant with one drink costs around $8.

Nomad Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Battambang Bat Caves, home to thousands of bats, and learn about the dark history of the Khmer Rouge Killing Fields.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Shinta Mani Resort offers comfortable rooms and a beautiful garden setting. For dining, try the local specialty, fish amok, at the popular Green Mango restaurant.

Siem Reap

A final mention for Siem Reap, as this city offers a unique combination of history, culture, and modern amenities that make it an ideal destination for digital nomads. With numerous cafes, co-working spaces, and a lively nightlife scene, Siem Reap offers a perfect balance of work and play. The Angkor Wat temple complex and the Angkor National Museum are essential cultural attractions.

Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $300 per month. Groceries for one person for a week range from $50 to $70. Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant with one drink costs around $10.

Nomad Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to explore the ancient Angkor Wat temple complex and learn about the fascinating history of the Angkor civilization at the Angkor National Museum.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Grand Hotel d'Angkor offers comfortable rooms and a beautiful garden setting. For dining, try the local specialty, nom banh chok, at the popular Chamkar Veasna Restaurant.