PM Calls for Measures to Stimulate Tourism During Low Season

In a proactive response to concerns raised by the tourism sector regarding low international arrivals during the off-peak season, Prime Minister Hun Manet has proposed several measures to boost tourist numbers. Key among these proposals is reducing the cost of tickets to major attractions, including the iconic Angkor Wat, and halving parking fees at the newly opened Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI).

Addressing the Low Season Challenge

The Prime Minister’s call to action aims to mitigate the impact of the quieter months on Cambodia’s tourism industry. Despite significant strides in recovery, the sector still faces limitations during the low season. By reducing ticket prices and parking fees, the government hopes to make Cambodia a more attractive destination for international visitors during this period.

Tourism Statistics and Recovery

In the first half of 2024, Cambodia recorded 12,386 international flights, averaging 480 to 490 flights per week, facilitated by 31 airlines. The recently inaugurated SAI alone welcomed 3,214 flights, or approximately 120 to 130 flights weekly.

Siem Reap Provincial Governor Prak Sophoan highlighted the positive trends, noting, “Recently, the tourism industry has been recovering day-by-day. In 2023, Siem Reap province received over 2.5 million visitors, both local and international. In the first half of 2024, more than 1.9 million people visited Siem Reap, including over 520,000 international tourists. Daily, we now welcome 10 to 19 flights and 1,000 to 1,500 visitors at the airport.”

Sophoan also emphasized the collaborative efforts between government officials and stakeholders to create a calendar of annual events designed to attract more visitors, alongside improvements in hospitality for tourists.

National Tourism Figures

According to the Tourism Statistics Report of Cambodia, Phnom Penh International Airport received 8,960 flights in the first half of 2024, averaging 330 to 350 flights per week. Sihanoukville International Airport welcomed 212 flights, with seven flights weekly.

Tob Sopheak, Spokesperson at the Ministry of Tourism (MoT), confirmed that 3.16 million international tourists visited Cambodia during this period, a 22.7 percent increase compared to the same period in 2023, and equivalent to 94.9 percent of the figures from the first half of 2019. Additionally, domestic tourism saw 9.69 million visitors, a 6.4 percent increase, while outbound tourists rose by five percent to 900,000.

The revenue from Angkor Wat ticket sales reached $24,357,695 from 521,950 visitors, marking a 35.3 percent increase.

Prime Minister’s Commitment to Tourism

During an undercover visit to Siem Reap, Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed concern over the low tourist numbers during the off-peak season. He acknowledged Siem Reap’s vast potential to attract visitors and its critical role in driving economic development.

Manet stressed the importance of the tourism sector in creating employment and enhancing the country’s reputation. He attributed the sector’s challenges to global issues such as Covid-19 and international conflicts. The pandemic led to business closures and hardships for those in the tourism industry, and although Covid-19 has receded, ongoing global conflicts and economic crises continue to impact tourism.

To aid recovery, Manet emphasized the need for a safe and stable environment to attract tourists. He highlighted the government’s efforts, including spending $50 million to reactivate tourism activities and facilitate advancements across the country.

Seasonal Variations and Strategic Measures

Manet pointed out the stark difference in tourist arrivals between the high and low seasons. From October 2023 to March 2024, Cambodia saw 3,000 to 5,000 foreign visitors daily, compared to 1,300 to 1,900 during the low season from June onwards. He called for solutions to stabilize tourism throughout the year, including conducting studies on reducing airport parking prices and entry fees to major attractions during the low season.

“We should take problems as lessons learned and find solutions to address them. In this matter, we should also give some discounts during this low season, especially tickets for Angkor,” he stated.

Enhancing Visitor Convenience

The Prime Minister also mentioned initiatives to streamline the tourist experience, such as implementing e-arrivals and e-visa facilities, and enabling e-payment access upon arrival in Cambodia. These measures aim to save visitors time and reduce the hassle of obtaining official documents, making their stay more convenient and enjoyable.

Here’re Some of Angkor Times’ Mechanisms to Boost Tourism in Cambodia: A Strategic Approach

1. Develop Long-Term Strategic Plans: Establish strategic plans for 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, 5 years, and 10 years to guide tourism development.
2. Seek Partnerships: Collaborate with local and international partners for financing, budgeting, and educating tour operators to expand services across the country.
3. Enhance Hospitality: Train tourism service providers to improve service quality, packaging, and pricing, ensuring a hygienic and attractive experience for tourists.
4. Media Involvement: Encourage media participation in promoting Cambodian tourism.
5. Embassy Participation: Involve Cambodian embassies in global tourism promotion campaigns.
6. Educational Initiatives: Engage educational institutions in creating content and promoting tourism.
7. Youth Involvement: Mobilize youth networks to create and share tourism-related content.
8. Simplify Visa Processes: Implement policies to ease visa fees and streamline digital transportation and payment services for tourists.
9. Environmental Stewardship: Encourage environmental conservation and active participation in promoting tourist sites.
10. Influencer Partnerships: Collaborate with local and international influencers to promote Cambodia.
11. Funding Initiatives: Seek stipends from business leaders to fund tourism promotion.
12. Ensure Safety: Enhance safety and security measures for tourists.
13. Professional Development: Improve the capacity of tourism professionals and streamline operational efficiency.
14. Combat Corruption: Eliminate corruption and favoritism within the Ministry of Tourism.
15. Promote Khmer Cuisine: Widely promote famous Khmer foods.

By implementing these strategies, Cambodia can attract more tourists during the low season and strengthen its tourism industry, ensuring sustained economic growth and development.

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Cambodia Visa on Arrival: Everything You Need to Know 2024 and beyond

Traveling to Cambodia has become increasingly accessible, with its visa on arrival process offering a hassle-free entry for most visitors. Whether you’re a tourist, business traveler, or simply exploring the wonders of this Southeast Asian gem, securing a visa on arrival is straightforward and convenient. This comprehensive guide provides the latest information for 2024, including eligibility requirements, necessary documentation, associated costs, and practical advice to ensure your entry into Cambodia is as seamless as possible.

Who is Eligible for a Cambodia Visa on Arrival?

Cambodia offers a visa on arrival option to travelers from most countries. However, there are exceptions. Nationals from the following countries are not eligible for a Cambodian visa on arrival and must apply in advance through the Royal Embassy of the Kingdom of Cambodia or via a local travel agency:

• Afghanistan
• Algeria
• Bangladesh
• Iran
• Iraq
• Nigeria
• Pakistan
• Saudi Arabia
• Sri Lanka
• Sudan

If you are a citizen of one of these countries, it’s advisable to apply well in advance to avoid any travel disruptions.

Visa-Free Entry

Certain nationalities can enter Cambodia without a visa under the visa-free entry agreements. As of 2024 onward, citizens from the following ASEAN countries enjoy visa-free entry for specified durations:

Country	Duration of Stay (Days)
Indonesia	30
Laos	30
Malaysia	30
Maldives	30
Philippines	30
Singapore	30
Vietnam	30
Seychelles	15
Brunei	14
Myanmar	14
Thailand	14

Visitors from these countries can enjoy their stay without worrying about visa procedures, but it is important to check for any updates on these agreements, especially considering potential diplomatic changes.

Where Can You Get the Cambodia Visa on Arrival?

If you’re flying into Cambodia, you can obtain a visa on arrival at several international airports:

• Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH)
• Siem Reap International Airport (REP)
• Sihanoukville International Airport (KOS)

For those entering via land, visas on arrival are available at key border checkpoints, including:

• Poipet Border Gate (Thailand)
• Bavet Border Gate (Vietnam)
• Cham Yeam Border Gate (Thailand)
• Trapeang Kreal Border Gate (Laos)

It’s essential to have all required documents ready, including a passport valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry date, and be prepared to pay the visa fee in cash (US dollars only).

Required Documents for Cambodia Visa on Arrival

To obtain a Cambodia visa on arrival, ensure you have the following documents:

• A valid passport with at least six months remaining validity
• Two recent passport-sized photos (2″ x 2″)
• A completed visa application form (available on the plane or at the port of entry)
• Proof of onward travel (e.g., a plane ticket showing departure from Cambodia)
• Visa fee in US dollars (cash only)

Cambodia Visa on Arrival Fees

As of 2024, the fees for a Cambodia visa on arrival are as follows:

• Tourist Visa (30 days): US$30
• Business Visa (30 days): US$35
• Processing Fee: An additional US$7 processing fee may be applicable

These fees are valid for one month and can be extended for an additional month at a Cambodian Immigration Office.

Additional Information and Updates for 2024

Cambodia’s immigration process has seen several updates aimed at improving efficiency and security:

• Biometric Data Collection: Immigration officials now collect fingerprints upon entry using an inkless, electronic process, enhancing the security of visa issuance.
• Visa Extensions: Travelers can extend their visa for an additional 30 days at Cambodian Immigration Offices. It’s recommended to apply for extensions a few days before your current visa expires to avoid any penalties.
• Electronic Visa (e-Visa): In addition to the visa on arrival, Cambodia offers an e-Visa option that can be applied for online before your trip. This is particularly useful for travelers who want to avoid potential queues at the airport or land borders.
• Health and Safety Protocols: Due to the evolving global health situation, it’s advisable to stay updated on Cambodia’s entry requirements, which may include health declarations or COVID-19 related protocols.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Cambodia Visa on Arrival

Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the visa on arrival process:

1. Arrival and Location: After disembarking, follow signs to the “Visa on Arrival” section at your port of entry.
2. Collect and Complete Forms: Obtain the visa application and entry/exit forms, usually available on the plane or at the visa counter. Fill these forms accurately.
3. Attach Photos and Fee: Attach your passport photos and the visa fee (in US dollars) to the completed application form.
4. Submit for Approval: Hand over your passport, completed forms, and fee to the visa officer. The officer will review your documents.
5. Biometric Data Collection: Be prepared for a quick fingerprint scan as part of the biometric data collection process.
6. Visa Issuance: Once approved, your visa will be stamped into your passport, allowing you to enter Cambodia.
7. Immigration Clearance: Proceed to the immigration counter, present your passport with the visa, and completed entry/exit forms for clearance.

Final Tips and Recommendations

• Currency and Payments: Ensure you carry enough US dollars in cash, as credit cards are generally not accepted for visa fees. ATMs are available at airports, but it’s best to have cash on hand to avoid any delays.
• Health Insurance: It’s advisable to have travel health insurance that covers Cambodia to avoid unexpected medical expenses during your trip.
• Stay Informed: Keep an eye on updates regarding entry requirements, as they can change based on diplomatic relations and global health situations.

Traveling to Cambodia in 2024 and beyond is made easier with the visa on arrival system, allowing visitors to enjoy the country’s rich culture and history without the hassle of lengthy visa procedures. With proper preparation and the latest information, your entry into Cambodia can be smooth and stress-free.

Travelers from all country can also now apply evisa at: https://www.evisa.gov.kh/

Have you traveled to Cambodia recently? Share your experiences and any tips you have for fellow travelers in the comments below! If you need assistance with your Cambodia visa, contact our travel consultant today.

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In fact, Koh Rong island is not dangerous at all for people or tourists, but there are just some problems which can occur that everyone must be aware of when they plan to travel to these spectacular islands. The one thing that can be a problem in Koh Rong is theft, but as many people know, theft can be experienced everywhere. So please keep your thing in a right way you think it safety.

Another danger is just about your own safety while you go to swim or walk on the beach. Swimming doesn’t a big deal, but don’t careless sometimes it is the worth and memory for tourism who drown to the water. Because of the careless, as we know Island is not that small, don’t even thing you are fluent of swimming. On the Island is you plan to sleep on the beach, camping or make party, please make sure and see it has no insect there, otherwise it will harm and get affect your skin easily. Koh Rong is not much worries about safety, here with kindness people, friendly and helpfully. Theft is not always occurred and steal your valuable things, because some visitors get drunk, or they just put it in uncomfortable place.

Last but not least is sunburnt. Don’t forget to take your sunscreen can has the high spf and protect your skin from the sunburnt as well. As we know Koh Rong’s weather normally is around 32-34°C, keep your skin in a good condition if you want to swim in the beach.

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