First, I hear you ask, which is the first country in Southeast Asia to remove all COVID restrictions? The answer is Cambodia, who on 17th March 2022 moved ahead of their neighbours and other Southeast Asian countries to make travel simple again.
No pre-travel COVID test. No arrival COVID test. No quarantine. No COVID specific insurance.
Quite simply, vaccinated travellers can arrive by air, sea or land, receive a visa on arrival and enjoy everything that ‘The Kingdom of Wonder’ has to offer. Other countries in the region including Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia and Indonesia have also recently relaxed their entry restrictions, but they all still require some type of test, quarantine or insurance. Let’s hope that over the next few months they also follow the lead of Cambodia and remove the remaining restrictions…
In the meantime here are just some of the reasons why now is the time to visit Cambodia, the first country in Southeast Asia to remove all COVID restrictions:
Experience Angkor Wat without the crowds, and with never before discounted entry prices
Unlike pre-COVID times when the temples of Angkor saw thousands of visitors and it was a challenge to find the peace and solitude that many wish for, there are only a handful of international visitors buying tickets each day right now. That means that you will experience the Temples of Angkor in a way that was previously unheard of, on your own and without the crowds. In addition to this unique opportunity, the entry prices have been discounted until 31st December 2022. Previously $37 was the cost for a single day pass, this now allows two days entry, also a 5 day pass is available for $62 and a 10 day pass for only $72 which represents fantastic value for money.
Visit the incredible Phare Circus in Siem Reap and support their ‘Phare Circus Rising’ programme
The breathtaking and thought provoking Phare Circus is a ‘must visit’ for anyone visiting Cambodia. A unique and entertaining evening is guaranteed as you marvel at these professional performers who will leave you amazed at their skill, passion and commitment to the arts. Arrive early to enjoy the Cambodian Street Food Festival and additional pre show performances before heading to the big top for an evening you’ll never forget. As part of their ‘Phare Circus Rising’ programme they are offering open seating for $10 and reserved seating for just $20 until September 2022 making it the perfect time to visit.
Join a Cambodia Vegan Travel adventure with the award winning Vegan Travel Asia
The award-winning Vegan Travel Asia have led vegan travel adventures for more than 18 years throughout the region and in December 2022 they are adding Cambodia to their list of destinations. This 14-day immersive tour will see you explore Cambodia, learning about the culture and Khmer communities, visiting and supporting organisations and foundations that are making a difference, whilst at the same time enjoying 39 delicious and creative vegan meals. For the vegan foodie, planet loving traveller, who enjoys story telling and adventure this is the perfect way to explore this incredible country.
Support a responsible wildlife sanctuary who are protecting more than 25,000 acres of Cambodian jungle
Just a couple of hours north of Siem Reap is Cambodia Wildlife Sanctuary, a true oasis of natural jungle habitat that has been saved from the illegal logging that threatens much of the region. Visit for the day, overnight or volunteer for a longer period to support the excellent work they are doing to protect the species, flora and fauna that call it home. Currently home to one male and two female elephants, this is a wonderful opportunity to see these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat, the Cambodian jungle.
Stay at Treeline Urban Resort, who are re-opening on April 1st, 2022!
The riverside location, beautifully curated rooms and enchanting contemporary art on display, make Treeline Urban Resort a unique and special luxury option in Siem Reap. Add to this a staff team who truly care and who’s passion is clear to see, a plastic free and eco-conscious approach to modern day tourism, and a selection of delectable plant based dishes that we just can’t wait to savour again and you won’t go wrong if you choose to stay at Treeline Urban Resort when you visit Siem Reap.
Explore Cambodia on two wheels with Grasshopper Adventures
The team behind Grasshopper Adventures are super excited to welcome you back to ‘The Kingdom of Wonder’ and have a varied selection of multi-day tours for you to choose from including the brand new ‘Cambodia Bike, Hike and Kayak Tour’ which sounds incredible! As the leading cycle tour company in the region you know that you’re in safe hands with state of the art equipment (they even have e-bikes available) and guides who will ensure that you enjoy a unique and exhilarating adventure.
Stay at Shinta Mani Angkor, who are also re-opening on April 1st, 2022!
Shinta Mani Angkor is set within with leafy French Quarter of Siem Reap, just a short distance from the newly revitalised and rejuvenated riverside. This boutique luxury property, created by acclaimed and innovative architect Bill Bensley, provides the perfect oasis and will be welcomed back with open arms to the vibrant Siem Reap hotel scene. For those of you that are looking for unrivalled privacy and the ultimate in luxury, check out the exquisite Bensley Collection Pool Villas which are so good you’ll never want to leave!
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Visit Free the Bears and support the excellent work they are doing to protect endangered species in Cambodia
Free the Bears are located within Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre, just an hour or so from central Phnom Penh. They are a sanctuary for more than 120 sun and moon bears, in fact they are the largest sanctuary in the world for sun bears. The talented and passionate team are slowly changing the attitude to how the bears are treated in Cambodia and the sanctuary provides hope for the future. If you have a passion for protecting wildlife and native species, then please consider volunteering at this excellent sanctuary, your help will be very much appreciated.
Choose Singapore Airlines for a restriction free travel experience to Cambodia
As one of the leading airlines in the world with the award winning Changi Airport as their international hub, Singapore Airlines are always a reliable and first rate option. The fact that Changi Airport now allows restriction free transit for all passengers that are flying with Singapore Airlines, and that they fly to Phnom Penh (twice daily) and Siem Reap (once daily) means that Singapore Airlines is currently the simplest and safest way to fly to Cambodia.
We hope that you consider Cambodia for your post-COVID adventure and if you do, please feel free to reach out so we can tell you a little more about why we’ve called ‘The Kingdom of Wonder’ home for more than 7 years…
Paul Eyers is Founder of Vegan Food Quest. Vegan Food Quest have become luxury vegan travel specialists as they continue to find, eat and write about the best vegan food in the world.