Cambodia

Getting around Cambodia is an adventure in itself, whether you are weaving through the chaotic charm of Phnom Penh or cruising the dusty roads of Siem Reap. The most iconic way to travel is by remork (the Cambodian tuk-tuk). For a short trip across town, expect to pay around 4,000 KHR to 8,000 KHR ($1–$2 USD). To avoid the stress of haggling, download the Grab app, which is widely used in major cities. This is where having a Hello eSIM becomes essential; by activating your data plan before you land, you can book a ride the moment you clear customs without hunting for local SIM cards or relying on spotty airport Wi-Fi.

For longer journeys between cities like Battambang or Sihanoukville, high-quality bus companies like Giant Ibis offer reliable service with power outlets and Wi-Fi. If you are traveling with friends, use the Hello trip planning feature to organize your departure times and keep your booking references in one place. Whether you are taking a private car or a public van, always keep small denominations of Cambodian Riel handy for roadside snacks like grilled corn or sticky rice in bamboo.

No trip to Cambodia is complete without exploring the Angkor Archaeological Park. To see the sunrise at Angkor Wat, you’ll need to arrive by 5:00 AM, so use the Hello trip planning tool to schedule your early wake-up call and coordinate with your driver. Remember that these are active religious sites; both men and women must cover their shoulders and knees. A lightweight linen shirt and zip-off trousers are your best friends in the tropical heat.

A one-day pass costs approximately 150,000 KHR ($37 USD), but many travelers find the three-day pass at 250,000 KHR ($62 USD) offers a much better pace. Between the massive stone faces of Bayon and the jungle-reclaimed ruins of Ta Prohm, you will be taking hundreds of photos. With a Hello eSIM, you can upload your shots to the cloud instantly or look up the historical significance of specific bas-reliefs while you stand in front of them. After a long day of temple-hopping, the Hello expense splitting feature makes it simple to divide the cost of the day's private guide and driver among your group, ensuring everyone pays their fair share.

Cambodia operates on a unique dual-currency system. While the Cambodian Riel (KHR) is the official currency, US Dollars are accepted almost everywhere. However, change is almost always given in Riel, which can get confusing for first-timers. A meal at a local market might cost 12,000 KHR ($3 USD), while a high-end dinner in Pub Street might be closer to 60,000 KHR ($15 USD). Use the Hello budget tracking feature to log these expenses in the local currency; it helps you see exactly how much you are spending without doing mental math at every stall.

Don’t leave without trying Fish Amok, a fragrant coconut curry steamed in banana leaves, or Nom Banh Chok (Khmer noodles) for breakfast. Street food is incredibly affordable, often costing less than 4,000 KHR ($1 USD) for a snack. When dining out with travel companions, the Hello expense splitting tool is perfect for managing the bill at communal feasts. Just remember to check your USD bills carefully—vendors are often very strict and may reject notes that have even the smallest tear or significant wear.