Vaccinations are not required, except cholera if you are arriving from an infected area. However, the following immunisations are recommended before traveling to Cambodia: typhoid, tetanus and hepatitis. Most travelers take precautions against malaria, but it is best to check with a doctor for the appropriate drugs to use against the mosquitoes prevalent in Cambodia. As prevention against malaria and dengue fever a mosquitoes repellent is essential: socks, trousers and a long-sleeved shirt, especially in the evening and early morning when mosquitoes are likely to be out, are recommended.

Drink only bottled water in Cambodia. Purified water in sealed plastic bottles is readily available in hotels, restaurants, shops, street stalls, and even from vendors around the temples at Angkor. To avoid diarrhea and more serious infections transmitted by unsanitary conditions, never eat peeled fruit or sliced vegetables sold by street vendors; and avoid all ice, either crushed or in cubes.

The tropical sun can be strong and the heat overwhelming. Avoid being in the direct sun during the middle of the day. When you are outside, wear a hat and use sun block. It is important to apply a protective cream to exposed areas including the ears, nose and lips. Remember to re-apply sun block as it may wash off (even the waterproof brands) when you perspire.

The unit of currency in Cambodia is the riel, but the US dollar is widely used throughout the country; small change, however, is usually given in riel. It is forbidden to take riels in or out of the country. Gold is also circulated in the markets. In an effort to wean people away from the use of American currency, a new range of notes and coins were introduced in March 1995. New notes in denominations of 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000 and 100,000 were added to the existing notes of nominations of 500, 200, 100 and 50.

There are no restrictions on the amount of foreign currency you can bring in to Cambodia, but any amount over US$10,000 must be declared. The most readily converted currencies are the: US dollar, Thai baht, French franc, Japanese yen, British pound, and the German mark. The value fluctuates, but as of Jan 2001, the rate was: 4000 riels = US$1.

Payment for domestic air tickets and many hotels and restaurants must be paid for in cash, however the larger hotels now accept major credit cards. Most banks will give a cash advance with a credit card. Travelers cheques are not widely accepted, but they can be exchanged in most banks for a 2% service charge.