Pros and Cons of Living in Phnom Penh
Last updated on Feb 04, 2025
Summary: Pros and Cons of Living in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Expats, Retirees and Digital Nomads talk about the pros and cons of living in Phnom Penh
What are the pros and cons of living in Phnom Penh?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Phnom Penh responded:
"The people are friendly when you get to know them, but there is a general consensus that all expatriates are rich It is important to appreciate what is available around you be it local fruit and vegetables, entertainment, sightseeing, health care or any else and not allow yourself to concentrate on what is not available. For instance ice skating is not available in general, nor is ballet prevalent. In my case neither of these would be of any interest to me even if they were available. as far as fruit is concerned the local fresh fruit is generally cheap and good quality and the imported fruit is extremely expensive and is generally not as good as my home country. The answer is to enjoy what is good and change your diet to suit. You can not live your life abroad always craving the things from home.," said one expat in Phnom Penh.
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What do expats in Phnom Penh appreciate most about the local culture?
"Expats in Phnom Penh often appreciate the friendliness and hospitality of the local people. They are known for their warm smiles and willingness to help, making foreigners feel welcome and at ease. The local food is another aspect that expats appreciate. Cambodian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with a variety of dishes to try. Street food is particularly popular, offering a unique and authentic culinary experience. Expats also appreciate the rich history and culture of Cambodia. From the ancient temples to the traditional music and dance, there is always something new to learn and explore. The slower pace of life is another aspect that many expats enjoy. Compared to the hustle and bustle of Western cities, Phnom Penh offers a more relaxed and laid-back lifestyle. Lastly, the cost of living in Phnom Penh is relatively low compared to many Western countries. This allows expats to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank," remarked one in Phnom Penh.
What do expats find most challenging?
"Expats in Phnom Penh often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture, as Khmer is a difficult language to learn and English is not widely spoken outside of tourist areas. The cultural norms and etiquette can also be difficult to navigate, as Cambodian culture places a strong emphasis on respect and hierarchy. The pace of life can be slower than what many expats are used to, which can lead to frustration when trying to get things done. The local cuisine, while delicious, can be a challenge for some due to the use of unfamiliar ingredients and flavors. Lastly, the heat and humidity can be difficult to adjust to, especially for those from cooler climates," said one expat in Phnom Penh.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.