WHEN TO TRAVEL to Cambodia

Location

Climate

High and low season: when to go to Cambodia?

Cambodia has two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. Each of these seasons has an impact on farming conditions. travelthe temperatures as well as tourist numbers.

Dry season: November to April

The best time to travel to Cambodia is between November and Aprilduring the dry season. Temperatures are pleasant, varying between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius, and rainfall is rare. This is also the period when tourist sites are most accessible and infrastructures, such as roads, accommodation and restaurants, are at their best. However, the high tourist season also means higher prices and greater crowds at the must-see sites.

Rainy season: May to October

The rainy season, from May to Octoberis characterized by higher temperatures, up to 35 degrees Celsius, and heavy rainfall. Although this period is less favorable for travel, it does offer certain advantages, including more affordable fares and fewer tourists. What's more, the landscapes are greener and the well-irrigated rice paddies offer a breathtaking spectacle.

Major cultural events in Cambodia

Cambodia has a rich culture and tradition, with numerous events and festivals throughout the year. Here are some of the major cultural events not to be missed:

• Khmer New Year (April) : Generally celebrated between April 13 and 15, this festival marks the beginning of the new year according to the Buddhist calendar. Festivities last several days and include processions, temple prayers, traditional games and concerts.
• Water Festival (November) : This spectacular celebration takes place every November, at the time of the full moon, to mark the change of course of the Tonlé Sap River. Festivities include dragon boat races, processions and fireworks.
• Pchum Ben Festival (September or October): This Buddhist festival is an opportunity for Cambodians to pay homage to their ancestors. Temples are decorated and the faithful bring offerings to the monks to pass on to the departed.

Public holidays in Cambodia: to take into account during your stay

Cambodia has a number of national holidays on which administrations, banks and some businesses are closed. It is therefore advisable to plan your trip carefully, taking these dates into account to avoid any inconvenience:

• January 1: New Year's Day
• January 7: Genocide Victory Day
• March 8: International Women's Day
• May 1: Labour Day
• Visak Bochea (May): Vesak Festival, commemorating the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha.
• King Norodom Sihamoni's Birthday (May 14)
• September 24: Constitution Day
• October 15: Remembrance Day for King Father Norodom Sihanouk
• November 9: Independence Day
• December 10: Human Rights Day

Cambodia, a country with a rich cultural and historical heritage, attracts more and more visitors every year. Let's take a look at Cambodia's immigration statistics, the most popular visa types and key figures for international tourism in this Southeast Asian country.

Statistics on immigration to Cambodia

Cambodia has seen a significant increase in the number of international visitors in recent years. According to a report by the Cambodian Ministry of Tourismthe country welcomed over 6.6 million foreign tourists in 2019, an increase of 6.6% on 2018. Among these visitors, there was a high proportion of Chinese, followed by Vietnameseand Thai and South Koreans.

Reasons for growth

Several factors explain this rise in visitor numbers, including the country's natural beauty, its fascinating temples such asAngkor Watand the ease of obtaining a visa. In addition, Cambodia benefits from a government-backed tourism development policy, which focuses on improving infrastructure and promoting the country abroad.

Most popular visas in Cambodia

Foreign visitors to Cambodia generally require a visa to enter the country. Several types of visa are available, depending on the reason for the visit and the length of stay.

Tourist visa (type T)

THE tourist visa is unsurprisingly the most popular with foreigners visiting Cambodia. It is valid for 30 days and can be extended once for a similar period. This type of visa is generally used by vacationers, but also by some expatriates and business travelers on short-term stays.

Ordinary visa (type E)

THE ordinary visaThis visa, also known as a business visa, is intended for foreigners visiting Cambodia for professional reasons, such as business meetings, conferences or training courses. This visa is also valid for 30 days on entry, but can be extended several times depending on the holder's needs.

Long-stay visa (ER type)

For foreigners wishing to settle in Cambodia for an extended period, the long-stay visa is an interesting option. Initially valid for one year, this visa is renewable indefinitely as long as the holder can prove regular and legal employment in the country.

Key figures for international tourism in Cambodia

Tourism is a major economic sector for Cambodia, contributing nearly 13% of its gross domestic product (GDP) in 2019. Here are some key figures that illustrate the importance of international tourism in this country:

• 6.6 million The total number of foreign visitors in 2019.
• 3.5 billion dollars tourism revenues generated by these visitors in the same year.
• 11% the share of Cambodian jobs linked to the tourism sector.
• 30% The proportion of Chinese tourists among foreign visitors.

Popular tourist attractions in Cambodia

While the Angkor Wat site remains Cambodia's star attraction, drawing millions of visitors every year, the country also boasts other noteworthy tourist sites:

• The city of Phnom Penhwith its royal palace and museums;
• The Battambangfamous for its temples and traditional villages;
• The beaches in the south of the country, particularly those of Sihanoukville And Kampot;
• The national park of Viracheya haven for Cambodian flora and fauna.

Tourism issues and challenges in Cambodia

While tourism represents a major economic windfall for Cambodia, it also raises major issues and challenges. These include the need to preserve historic sites such asAngkor Watto cope with the massive influx of tourists, or the fight against certain forms of crimes such as the sexual exploitation of minors. The Cambodian government and tourism stakeholders must therefore work together to ensure the sustainable and responsible development of this key sector of the national economy.