Sihanoukville or Kampong Som is known as the coastal city which is considered as one of the best tourism sites in Cambodia. It is popular by the very beautiful landscape, the brand new restaurants and foods, the hotel serving where you can spend your unforgettable memories with your favorite peoples. Beside, there is still something to be concerned about when you decide to make a new journey in an unknown place where you need to be very careful of yourself and your belongs.
Related: Why is Sihanoukville very popular?
A word of warning, Is Sihanoukville safe? Well, violence, rapes, theft and muggings always happens more frequently, not only in Sihanouk but also in others developed places, so you must be careful on finding the place where you can live with peace and comfortable atmosphere, the food that suit your taste. In other hand, the nightlife in Sihanouk is more interesting, Otres Market is the best place to find some live music and festival atmosphere with a variety of international food stalls, souvenir shops and different musicians and performers, but it’s dangerous for girls to go alone. Actually, since there are plenty of business has been run, the city is now a mess of construction, pollution, and casinos. It’s not very appealing except for a small strip of land by the dock. BUT the islands off the coast are still backpacker / budget traveler paradise so Sihanoukville is still good for a night as you transit to/from the islands.
Related: Is Siem Reap safe for tourists?
Futhermore, Sihanoukville is a pretty safe place to backpack and travel. Violent attacks are super rare. Petty theft is the most common type of crime here, and it’s unfortunately rather frequent on the beaches. Ochheuteal Beach is particularly a hotspot for thieves. You’ll be distracted by a child (or sometimes an adult) while another person takes your valuables from your towel. Leave your most important valuables in your safety deposit box or locker! Also hold onto your bag tightly when you’re riding on a motorbike taxi. Keep your bag in front of you so other drivers can’t snatch it. The road between Otres and Sihanoukville is especially risky. Overall, locals are really nice and helpful and you’re unlikely to get into trouble. The people who do tend to get into trouble are usually because they are inolved with drugs or sex tourism. Stay away from that stuff and you’ll be fine. The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.
Is Sihanoukville safe?