Geography of Cambodia:
The geographical framework of Cambodia is found bordered by the Gulf of Thailand to the southwest, Laos to the north and Vietnam to the east and
southeast. Its main artery is the Mekong valley, which crosses from north to south. This is joined at Phnom Penh by the Tonle Sap, spreading to the
northwest in a large plain of water that extends for some 140 kilometers by 30 and irrigates the surrounding plains.
Temperature: Every year the weather varies from 25°C to 30°C with an average temperature of 27°C The maximum temperature is 40°C in April and lowest temperature is
16°C to 18°C in January. In Cambodia the high temperature increases to 220 days per year. There are two seasons clearly : dry monsoon (from October
until April) and raining monsoon (from May until September).
Population and area: Cambodia has a population of 11,426,223 people in an area of 181,035 square kilometers
Language and communication: The official language is Khmer . English and French are widely spoken and practical in conducting businesses.
Time Zone: Cambodia is 7+GSM.
Business Hour: Government offices open from 7.00 AM to 5.00 PM on weekdays only. The lunch break is from 12.00 AM to 2.00 PM. Banks open from 8 AM to 3 PM.
Electric current: Standard voltage is 220 volts.
Currency: Riel is an official currency. Dollars and traveler's cheques in dollars are widely accepted.
Airport Tax: International departures: US$ 20. From Phnom Penh to Siem Reap US$ 15. All other domestic destinations US$ 5.
Religion: The national religion is Buddhism of the Small Vehicle, or Theravada, of the Pali language. The monastic life plays the principal role and remain the popular faith.
Police: Police are everywhere in Cambodia. But it's usually hard to find one when you need help. Remember, if you want service, the $60 monthly salary of police doesn't cover all their cost. If you need help, expect to pay for it.
Local food: Rice and fish are the staple diet and the harvest is regulated by the rhythm of the rains and floods. The fish are plentiful. During the dry season, and
entire village is built on Tonle Sap Lake. Their belongings suspended on the poles with rachs of dried fish. There are other many kinds of food made of mixed-vegetables cooked by using red meat or pork or seafood.
Transportation: There are cars and motorcycles for rent in the city. Rickshaws and taxi's are also available. Travelers can travel by air, car, boat or train to get from one province to another.
Communication: Mobile phones are widely used. Phone cards can be used on both mobile and regular telephones. Public phones with phone cards are common in Phnom Penh.
Phone cards can be purchased at most hotels, post offices and supermarkets.
