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Digital Nomad Exchange > Cambodia

Cambodia

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Cambodia, officially known as the Kingdom of Cambodia, is a country located in the southern portion of the Indochina Peninsula in Southeast Asia. It is bordered by Thailand to the northwest, Laos to the north, Vietnam to the east, and the Gulf of Thailand to the southwest. The country's landscape is characterized by a central plain that is surrounded by low mountains and upland areas. The mighty Mekong River, which is one of the world's major rivers, runs through the country and is a key source of fish and irrigation. Cambodia's climate is tropical with a monsoon season, leading to significant rainfall from May to November, and a dry season from December to April. The capital and largest city is Phnom Penh, which is the political, economic, and cultural center of Cambodia. The city is known for its historical architecture, vibrant markets, and the bustling riverside area. The country has a rich and complex history, with the Angkor period being the most notable era when the Khmer Empire built the famous temples of Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Cambodia. Cambodia has a population that is predominantly rural, with agriculture being a significant part of the economy, particularly rice cultivation. The country has made strides in economic development in recent years, with tourism, textiles, and agriculture driving growth. However, it still faces challenges such as poverty, corruption, and political instability. The culture of Cambodia is deeply rooted in Theravada Buddhism, which is practiced by the majority of the population. The country is known for its traditional dance, music, and arts, including silk weaving and stone carving. The Khmer language is the official language, and the Cambodian Riel is the currency, although US dollars are widely accepted. Despite its tumultuous history, including the brutal Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s, Cambodia is a country with a resilient spirit and a growing appeal to travelers seeking to experience its cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitality.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Cambodia is generally low compared to many Western countries. Essentials such as food, housing, and transportation are relatively affordable, making it a popular destination for expatriates and retirees.

Weather

Cambodia has a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. There are two main seasons: the rainy season from May to October, and the dry season from November to April. The rainy season is characterized by short, heavy downpours often in the afternoon, while the dry season is marked by higher temperatures and humidity.

Educational System Cambodia

The educational system in Cambodia has been undergoing reforms to improve its quality and accessibility. Education is compulsory for nine years, which includes six years of primary education (grade 1 to 6) and three years of lower secondary education (grade 7 to 9). Children typically start school at the age of six. After completing lower secondary school, students can choose to continue to upper secondary education (grade 10 to 12) or enroll in vocational training programs. The school year in Cambodia runs from November to August and is divided into two semesters. The curriculum includes Khmer language, mathematics, science, social science, physical education, arts, and foreign languages, with English being increasingly emphasized. Public schools in Cambodia are free, but there are challenges such as overcrowded classrooms, limited resources, and the need for additional support for students to succeed. Private and international schools are also available, offering different curricula and languages of instruction, which may be more suitable for expatriate families. These schools often provide higher quality education but come with higher tuition fees. The government has been working to improve the quality of education by training teachers, updating curricula, and building more schools, especially in rural areas

Healthcare in Cambodia

The healthcare system in Cambodia is a mix of public and private services. The public healthcare system is under-resourced and faces challenges such as a shortage of trained healthcare professionals and modern equipment. Public hospitals and clinics are available but often lack the quality of care found in private institutions. Private healthcare in Cambodia offers higher standards of care with better facilities and more English-speaking staff, but it is more expensive. The cost of healthcare varies widely; public healthcare is often very affordable but may not meet the needs of more serious medical conditions, while private healthcare can be costly. Expats and digital nomads can access public healthcare, but many opt for private healthcare or travel to neighboring countries for more complex health issues. Health insurance is highly recommended for expats and digital nomads to cover the costs of private care or medical evacuation.

Best Places to Live in Cambodia
Discover the top-ranked towns in Cambodia. Click on the town's name for a full profile of each town.
Rankings are based on a combination of many factors including schools, recreation, family-friendliness, cost of living and crime.

Universities in Cambodia

The university system in Cambodia is growing and evolving, with both public and private institutions offering higher education. The system is overseen by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport. Universities in Cambodia offer bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees across a variety of fields such as business, humanities, sciences, engineering, and medicine. A bachelor's degree typically takes four years to complete, while a master's degree usually requires an additional two years. Doctoral programs can take up to four years or more. The academic year is divided into two semesters, with a few universities offering summer sessions. The language of instruction is primarily Khmer, but there is an increasing number of programs taught in English, especially at the postgraduate level, to cater to international students. The cost of attending university in Cambodia is relatively low compared to Western standards, but it can vary depending on the institution and program of study. Scholarships and financial aid are available but may be limited. Foreign students considering attending university in Cambodia should research specific universities to understand their admission requirements, program offerings, and support services for international students. Living in Cambodia as a student can be an enriching experience due to the country's rich culture and history

Connect with Our Partners
Connect with our trusted local partners in Cambodia and around the world through our Partner Connect tool. From moving companies to expat health insurance and more, our partners are here to help.
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Living in Cambodia

Healthcare in Cambodia

The healthcare system in Cambodia is a mix of public and private services. The public healthcare system is under-resourced and faces challenges such as a shortage of trained healthcare professionals and modern equipment. Public hospitals and clinics are available but often lack the quality of care found in private institutions. Private healthcare in Cambodia offers higher standards of care with better facilities and more English-speaking staff, but it is more expensive. The cost of healthcare varies widely; public healthcare is often very affordable but may not meet the needs of more serious medical conditions, while private healthcare can be costly. Expats and digital nomads can access public healthcare, but many opt for private healthcare or travel to neighboring countries for more complex health issues. Health insurance is highly recommended for expats and digital nomads to cover the costs of private care or medical evacuation.

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