What makes Phnom Penh one of the most celebrated urban destinations in the world today? According to the Condé Nast Traveler 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards, Cambodia’s capital has earned an impressive 10th place ranking in the “Best Big Cities” category, placing it alongside global powerhouses renowned for their culture, cuisine, and visitor experience. This remarkable achievement reflects not just the city’s rapid growth, but also its unique ability to blend tradition, history, and modern energy into a captivating experience for travelers.

Now in its 38th edition, the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards is one of the most prestigious recognitions in the global travel industry. Each year, millions of readers cast their votes to celebrate their favorite travel experiences across categories such as cities, hotels, islands, and airlines. This year, an astounding 757,109 readers participated, with Phnom Penh emerging as one of the world’s most compelling and fast-evolving urban destinations.

Read more: 5 Romantic Reasons Why Angkor Wat Is the World’s New Hotspot for Marriage Proposals

So, what exactly draws travelers from around the globe to Phnom Penh? Condé Nast Traveler paints a vivid picture of the city’s irresistible charm: “Whether it’s the slurp-able noodles, regality of taking an afternoon tea at Raffles, or an evening cruise down the Mekong River, Phnom Penh is just the place to experience Cambodia’s beauty and culture.” The magazine also highlights the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, which “glimmer with embedded details crafted from emeralds and diamonds,” offering visitors a glimpse into the country’s royal artistry. Meanwhile, the bustling Russian Market remains a vibrant symbol of local life and trade, “selling everything from ornate wood carvings to local spices to traditional Khmer instruments.”

Read more: Why Pubstreet in Siem Reap popular? What can I do there ?

Beyond its cultural treasures, Phnom Penh also invites reflection on Cambodia’s profound history. Visitors are encouraged to “learn about the Cambodian genocide at the Choeung Ek Genocidal Centre and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, which confront the nation’s difficult history under the Khmer Rouge regime and serve as sobering yet worthwhile reminders of how far Cambodia has come today.” These historical landmarks serve as essential experiences for travelers seeking to understand the resilience and renewal of the Cambodian spirit.

Phnom Penh’s recognition is not only a tribute to its beauty and heritage but also to the country’s thriving tourism revival and cultural renaissance. The capital’s growing appeal reflects a broader regional trend in Southeast Asia, where cities are embracing modern innovation while preserving deep-rooted traditions.

Read more: Are Chinese Tourists the Key to Cambodia’s Tourism Boom?

Founded in 1987, Condé Nast Traveler remains one of the world’s most influential voices in luxury travel, inspiring millions of global explorers through its presence across digital, print, video, and social platforms. Phnom Penh’s inclusion in its 2025 list not only celebrates the city’s allure but also signals its growing recognition as a world-class destination where history, culture, and modern hospitality meet in perfect harmony.

Source: Condé Nast Traveler

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Marriage proposals are among the most memorable milestones in a couple’s journey together. Choosing the right place not only sets the tone but also transforms a simple question — “Will you be mine?” — into an unforgettable story that can be cherished forever. Over the years, Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, with its timeless beauty and cultural significance, has stepped into the spotlight as one of the world’s most enchanting backdrops for proposals.

From awe-inspiring sunrises to its legendary status in film and folklore, Angkor Wat is no longer just a temple complex, it has become a stage where love stories unfold. Here are the top five reasons why Angkor Wat is emerging as the ultimate spot for marriage proposals.

1. A Timeless Symbol of Love and Heritage

Standing as the crown jewel of Khmer civilization and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Angkor Wat exudes a sense of permanence, grandeur, and sacredness. For couples, proposing at Angkor Wat is not just about the physical beauty of the temple but the meaning it carries.

The temple represents endurance, strength, and serenity, qualities that mirror the essence of a lifelong commitment. To stand in front of the centuries-old temple while making a promise of eternal love is deeply symbolic. It’s as though history itself becomes a witness to one of life’s most personal and emotional moments.

2. The Magical Sunrise Backdrop

Few sights in the world rival the breathtaking spectacle of sunrise at Angkor Wat. As the first rays of light break through the spires of the temple, the reflection in the lotus-filled pond creates a surreal and dreamlike scene. It’s no surprise that social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook are filled with emotional clips of couples proposing against this majestic backdrop.

These golden-hour moments are not just visually stunning; they embody a sense of new beginnings. Just as the sun rises to mark a new day, a proposal at dawn here symbolizes the start of a new chapter in a couple’s life together.

3. Romance in Cinema and Folklore

The romance of Angkor Wat has been immortalized not only in history but also in global culture. The temple famously featured in Wong Kar-Wai’s celebrated film In the Mood for Love, where the poignant closing scene shows Chow whispering his secrets into a stone wall, inspired by a Cambodian folktale about sealing secrets away forever.

This cinematic moment has captured the imagination of millions worldwide, giving Angkor Wat a unique identity as a place where love, longing, and destiny converge. For couples, a proposal here isn’t just a private exchange, it connects them to a universal narrative of romance that transcends time.

4. A Rising Trend in Romantic Travel

Romance-driven tourism is on the rise, and Angkor Wat is quickly becoming one of Asia’s premier destinations for couples. Data from Booking.com shows that nearly 70 percent of Siem Reap’s bookings in late 2024 were made by couples, highlighting its growing appeal not just as a cultural treasure, but as a romantic escape.

Beyond proposals, Angkor Wat and its surrounding sites like Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm have also become hotspots for pre-wedding photoshoots. Couples are increasingly drawn to the symbolic beauty of these ancient structures, which embody endurance and timeless commitment, the very essence of marriage itself.

5. A Global Stage for Love Stories

Angkor Wat’s newfound popularity as a proposal destination places Cambodia alongside global romantic hotspots like Santorini, Paris, Venice, and Bali. Tourism experts see this as an exciting new dimension of Cambodia’s aspirations, with the potential to carve out a niche in the global destination wedding and romantic tourism market.

As tourism consultant Vivian Goh puts it, “If this trend gathers more momentum, Siem Reap will soon join the likes of the world’s most celebrated romantic destinations.” For many couples, choosing Angkor Wat means their love story becomes part of something far greater, an intertwining of personal memory with world heritage.

The Beginning of Forever at Angkor Wat

To the world, Angkor Wat stands as a monument of history, culture, and faith. But today, it has also become a canvas where couples paint the beginning of their forever. Whether it’s whispered under the soft glow of sunrise, framed by the ancient ruins of Ta Prohm, or sealed in a moment captured on camera, a proposal here carries a weight that few places in the world can match.

In the end, proposing at Angkor Wat is not just about asking a question. It’s about creating a story that blends the magic of Cambodia’s timeless beauty with the personal promise of a shared future. A moment here isn’t just lived, it’s etched into history.

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The ancient wonders of Cambodia continue to draw the world’s attention. From January to September 2025, Angkor Archaeological Park received 705,269 international visitors, a small but steady increase of 0.77 percent compared to last year, according to an official release on Wednesday.

This UNESCO World Heritage treasure generated $32.7 million in ticket sales over the nine-month period, reflecting a 0.57 percent rise year-on-year, figures from Angkor Enterprise revealed.

September, however, saw a quieter period, with 35,650 foreign tourists bringing in $1.64 million. Compared to the same month last year, arrivals dropped 25.7 percent while revenue decreased by 25 percent.

Nestled in the heart of Siem Reap Province, the Angkor complex boasts 91 awe-inspiring temples, built between the ninth and 13th centuries. Each year, millions of travelers come to marvel at its architectural beauty and spiritual significance.

Yet, as Thourn Sinan, chairman of the Pacific Asia Travel Association Cambodia Chapter, pointed out:
“Considering the current geopolitical climate and various crisis issues impacting global travel, I did not expect a significant increase in tourist arrivals to the Angkor complex in 2025.”

He further noted:

“Unless there are initiatives such as free visas or special incentive packages for destination management companies or travellers, arrivals might remain relatively flat.”

Despite these challenges, Angkor remains one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic destinations, a place where history, culture, and timeless beauty continue to inspire travelers from across the globe.

(Xinhua)

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The much-anticipated $1.5 billion Techo International Airport is officially open and ready to transform Cambodia’s aviation landscape! Located just outside of Phnom Penh, this landmark project isn’t just a new travel hub—it’s a powerful engine for economic growth.

Here’s why it’s a game-changer:

Aviation Powerhouse: The airport’s modern design and 4F rating put it in the top 10 globally, capable of accommodating the world’s largest aircraft like the Boeing 747 and Airbus A380.

Catalyst for Commerce: Beyond tourism, the airport will boost trade, attract international investment, and strengthen Cambodia’s position as a competitive player on the global stage. It even includes plans for a special economic zone nearby.

Future-Ready: The first phase alone can handle over 15 million passengers annually, with plans to expand to 45 million by 2050.

The opening of this airport marks a new era for Cambodia, connecting the Kingdom to the world like never before.

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Your Guide to Retiring in Cambodia in 2025.

Cambodia has always been a land of charm — from the majestic Angkor Wat to the calm waters of the Mekong River — and in 2025, the Kingdom is proving to be more than just a travel destination. With tourism rebounding strongly post-pandemic, direct flights increasing, and brand-new international airports making the country easier to reach, Cambodia is now catching the attention of a different type of visitor: retirees. Those looking for a peaceful, safe, and affordable environment to spend their golden years are finding the Kingdom to be a welcoming option. Combined with a straightforward visa process, low living costs, and a friendly community of expats, Cambodia is quickly becoming one of Southeast Asia’s top retirement spots.

The Retirement Visa: Simple and Flexible

One of the most important factors when choosing a retirement destination is the ease of staying long-term — and in Cambodia, the process is refreshingly simple. Retirees over the age of 55 can apply for the ER visa, which allows them to stay in the country for up to 12 months at a time, renewable annually. The first step is applying for an E-class visa, either through a Cambodian Embassy, consulate, or the online portal. Once in the country, the visa can be extended to an ER visa via a visa agency, which will handle all the paperwork with the General Department of Immigration.

Read more: Does Cambodia have retirement visa?

Required documents include a valid passport with at least six months remaining, a passport photo, proof of retirement or a pension scheme, a health certificate, and a criminal background check. As of 2025, the cost for an ER visa is around $290–$300 for one year. Retirees can choose extensions for 1, 3, 6, or 12 months, but only extensions of six months or longer allow multiple entries — ideal for those who plan to travel in and out of the country. The ongoing shift toward digitalisation and e-forms is making the process even more convenient for new arrivals.

Currencies and Banking: Easy Money Management

Cambodia operates on a dual currency system — the Cambodian riel (KHR) and the US dollar (USD). Everyday transactions often use both, but US dollars are preferred for larger expenses. For smaller purchases, paying in riel usually results in better change rates. Coins are not used at all, and cashless payments have grown rapidly, especially in Phnom Penh and other urban areas.

For retirees, opening a local bank account is a good idea, as it makes everyday payments easier and allows for QR code transactions in many shops and restaurants. Banks in Cambodia offer accounts in both riel and dollars, and international money transfers are straightforward with services like Western Union, MoneyGram, and local bank wire options. While tax residents technically face a 20% tax on overseas income, remittances into Cambodia are not taxed, making pension transfers more appealing.

Healthcare: Improved and Affordable

Healthcare is often the deciding factor for retirees, and Cambodia has made notable progress in this area. Phnom Penh is home to leading hospitals like Royal Phnom Penh Hospital and Calmette Hospital, as well as respected private clinics such as Intercare and the Advance European Medicare Centre. Dental care is both affordable and of good quality, with cleanings starting around $30 and dental implants costing about $1,000. Pharmacies are easy to find and well stocked, making access to medication straightforward.

Many retirees opt for private health insurance that covers treatment both locally and abroad, especially in neighboring countries like Thailand and Vietnam where specialized care is available. While Cambodia’s healthcare sector is still developing, the improvements over the past decade — combined with affordable private options — make it viable for those willing to plan ahead.

Where to Live: City, Countryside, or Coast

One of the joys of retiring in Cambodia is the variety of living environments. For those who love the energy of city life, Phnom Penh offers the most conveniences, with modern shopping malls, new transport hubs, and a growing skyline of residential and commercial high-rises. Rental prices vary widely, from as little as $200 for a simple studio to $700 or more for a modern apartment in prime areas like BKK1 or Tonle Bassac.

Read more: Why Do So Many People Retire in Cambodia?

Siem Reap offers a slower pace but is still rich in culture, being home to the Angkor Wat temple complex. With its laid-back vibe, friendly expat community, and new international airport (opened in 2023), it’s a great choice for retirees who want the blend of tourism energy and a natural environment.

Beach lovers may prefer Sihanoukville, which has undergone rapid transformation in the past decade, or the quieter coastal towns of Kampot and Kep, known for their relaxed lifestyle, seafood markets, and riverside charm. Each offers an expat community, affordable rentals, and easy access to nature.

Transportation: Affordable and Accessible

Getting around in Cambodia is easy and inexpensive. Tuk-tuks remain the most popular choice for short distances, while motorbikes are widely used for local travel. Intercity travel is served by buses and, in some cases, trains. Road safety can be a concern, so caution is recommended when traveling longer distances by motorbike.

Technology has made booking rides easier through transport apps like Grab and PassApp, which also support cashless payments — a welcome convenience for retirees who prefer not to carry too much cash.

Cost of Living: Comfort Without the High Price Tag

One of Cambodia’s biggest draws is its low cost of living, which allows retirees to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle on a modest budget. While prices have increased slightly in recent years as the country pushes toward upper-middle-income status by 2030, living expenses remain very affordable compared to many Western nations and other Asian cities.

In Phnom Penh, average monthly costs might include:

• Water: $5+
• Electricity: $50+
• Gas: Around $15 (depending on market price)
• Food: $150–$300
• Transportation: $50–$150

Retirees with more modest tastes can live well under $1,000 per month, while those seeking luxury amenities can still find attractive options at lower prices than in Europe or North America. Property ownership is possible for foreigners under certain conditions, making buying a home an option for long-term residents.

Why Retire in Cambodia in 2025?

Retiring in Cambodia is about more than just low costs — it’s about the combination of friendly locals, a welcoming visa policy, improving healthcare, and the chance to live in a culturally rich, naturally beautiful country. Whether you see yourself sipping coffee by the riverside in Phnom Penh, cycling through the temples of Siem Reap, or enjoying sea breezes in Kampot, Cambodia offers a fulfilling and affordable retirement lifestyle.

Cambodia Retirement Checklist for 2025

Visa & Legal
✔ Apply for E-class visa before entering Cambodia
✔ Convert to ER retirement visa upon arrival (valid 12 months, renewable)
✔ Prepare required documents: passport, proof of pension, health certificate, background check

Financial & Banking
✔ Open a local bank account (USD and KHR) for easier transactions
✔ Set up pension or overseas fund transfers
✔ Consider cashless payment options and QR payment apps

Healthcare
✔ Research private healthcare facilities in Phnom Penh or major cities
✔ Arrange for international health insurance coverage
✔ Familiarize yourself with local clinics and pharmacies

Housing
✔ Decide on preferred location: Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, Kampot, or Kep
✔ Compare rental vs. property purchase options
✔ Factor utilities and maintenance costs into your budget

Lifestyle & Daily Living
✔ Learn basic Khmer phrases for easier communication
✔ Explore transport options: tuk-tuks, buses, and ride-hailing apps
✔ Budget monthly expenses for food, utilities, and entertainment
✔ Join local expat communities for networking and support

For those ready to embrace a slower pace without sacrificing comfort or connection, Cambodia in 2025 is a destination worth serious consideration. With smart planning, the right visa, and an openness to new experiences, the Kingdom can be the perfect place to begin your next chapter.

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