Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the process for acquiring a VISA to enter Cambodia?
   To obtain a VISA for entry into Cambodia, there are different requirements depending on your nationality and circumstances:
        i. American Volunteers: All volunteers can obtain a VISA upon arrival at the airport by providing two passport-sized photos (2×2) and $30 in CASH.
       ii. Cambodian Americans: If you are a Cambodian American (with proof of birth in Cambodia on your passport), or a child of Cambodian Americans (with evidence of at least one parent being born in Cambodia, supported by a copy of the parent’s birth certificate), you are eligible for a free multiple-entry visa. This also requires submitting two passport-sized photos (2×2).
   
   
2. What is the luggage allowance for the flight?
   

   Typically, each passenger is permitted to check in two pieces of luggage, each weighing up to 50 lbs.
   However, volunteers traveling through LAX are kindly asked to assist by carrying CHPAA supplies/medicine in their second checked bag. This additional bag will serve as your second checked luggage. If you are traveling with a companion, we would greatly appreciate it if, as a couple, you could transport three boxes instead of two, as required. Your assistance is greatly appreciated. We will provide further information about luggage and necessary labeling protocols at a later date.

3. Should I anticipate any additional expenses when entering or exiting the airport, e.g. departure fees?
   

   There are no fees to be paid separately. Any extra charges have already been included in the overall price of the air ticket.

4. Will airport pickup services be provided for volunteers?
   

   In short, yes, airport pickup services are available within the specified dates of the official itinerary. We understand that some flights may arrive a day earlier or have exceptions. To streamline the planning process, we kindly request that you provide your complete flight itinerary, enabling us to include you in the pickup and drop-off schedule. In the unlikely event that you arrive without prior notice, please present the immigration officer with the CHPAA logo and the letter we will provide you with. Identify yourself as a CHPAA volunteer. If your arrival is scheduled for days before or after the official itinerary, please either contact Ms. Huiying at +855-17286333 (or via email at [email protected]) or make your own transportation arrangements. Please note that arranging transportation in this case will be your responsibility.

5. Am I responsible for any expenses, such as accommodation, before and/or after the official mission Itinerary?
   CHPAA will take care of expenses such as accommodation, meals, and transportation in accordance with the official itinerary. For any requirements outside these designated dates, please contact our travel agent, Ms. Huiying, via phone at +855-17286333 or email at [email protected]. Ms. Huiying will provide assistance tailored to your specific needs before and after the mission.
   
   
6. Where do we access clean and safe water during the trip?
   Clean water will be readily available throughout the entirety of the trip. There will be water bottles in the rooms, and you can also purchase bottled water and sodas from street vendors and markets. It is important to be mindful of water conservation as, in the past, we have observed several partially consumed water bottles being discarded. Recognizing the value of clean water, we kindly request that you label your bottles promptly, or consider bringing your own reusable bottle to refill from our clean water source.
   
   
7. What should I wear to the welcome and farewell dinner reception?
   Casual attire is perfectly suitable! Please avoid wearing ripped jeans, flip-flops, extremely short dresses or skirts. Also, remember to wear your name tag. Group photos are typically a memorable part of the event! Feel free to choose between Western-style clothing or embrace an “ethnic” style – any cultural attire is welcome!
   
   
8. What is the appropriate dress code for our visits throughout Cambodia?
   In general, we discourage wearing ultra-short shorts/skirts/dresses, low-cut tops, or cut-out jeans during our scheduled trips. We are representing the CHPAA organization and aim to leave a positive and lasting impression when interacting with the local people. However, during your free time, please exercise your common sense. Here are the dress code expectations for various activities throughout the trip:
   
   Historical Monuments & Cultural Tours (e.g., Temples, particularly the Angor Wat site)
   * Wear casual and comfortable attire, avoiding ultra-short shorts and bare shoulders
   * It is strongly recommended to wear closed-toed shoes in certain areas, like the temples
   * Always have flip-flops handy
   *Many places of worship, including temples, have dress codes that prohibit exposed shoulders, short shorts, and revealing clothing. We suggest bringing an extra T-shirt or a long scarf for such occasions.
   
   Hospital/Clinic Settings
   * Professional attire
   * CHPAA scrub tops and name tags must be worn at all times
       ♦ Scrub bottoms will not be provided for you, so please pack your own
   * Choose conservative pants, skirts or dresses, and comfortable shoes
   
   Dinner Time attire
   * Casual tourist attire, unless we are in a more formal dinner setting with hosts
   
   Pool/Free Time
   * Wear attire that makes you feel comfortable, avoiding ultra-skimpy bathing suits
   
   
9. What are my obligations concerning the itinerary?
   Despite the manageable size of our group, we will have designated team leaders. Each team leader will be tasked with keeping you informed, and it will be your responsibility to keep in touch with your team leader regarding the daily itinerary. Your team leader will inform you of scheduled times, however, it is your responsibility to be prompt. The itinerary may undergo changes daily based on circumstances. You must notify your team leader one day in advance if you plan to skip a meal.
   
   
10. What is the current exchange rate, and how much cash should I bring with me?
    The exchange rate can vary, but it’s approximately $1 USD = 4,000 Riels. US dollars are widely accepted in most places. If you plan to shop, it’s advisable to bring extra money. For those aiming to minimize expenses, we suggest bringing an additional $150-$200. It is also useful to carry several $1 bills and exchange some money into small Cambodian denominations like 25c and 50c equivalents for tipping purposes.
    
    
11. What type of currency is recommended for me to carry?
    It is advisable to have US dollars as your primary form of currency for spending. In extremely rare situations, rural areas may not accept US dollars. In such cases, it is advisable to carry Cambodian Riel, the local currency. You may receive change in Riel when making purchases in dollars. It is important to note that some individuals and businesses may not accept currency that is heavily worn, torn, or marked. ATMs are readily available in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, although they may incur additional fees. For significant purchases, most businesses accept Visa or Mastercard. Traveler’s checks are generally not accepted. We recommend bringing new, crisp dollar bills.
    
    
    
12. Are meals provided for the group during the trip?
    All meals are organized for the group throughout our trip. If you have any allergies or dietary restrictions, or cannot make it to a meal, please inform your team leader in advance. Please note that no refunds will be provided if you choose to dine elsewhere or depart early, as we have prepaid for our accommodations and meals. Water is the only beverage included with your meal.
    
    
13. What should I do if I have food allergies or specific dietary requirements?
    Please inform us in advance so that we can make necessary meal arrangements to cater to your needs. If you are a vegetarian or vegan, please let us know, as changes to these options may not be possible.
    
    
14. What precautions should I take regarding food and water safety in Cambodia?
    We recommend avoiding street vendors, tap water, or undercooked/raw foods. We are dedicated to selecting clean, healthy, and safe food establishments during our trip to ensure your well-being.
    
    
15. What immunizations are advisable for travel to Cambodia?
    According to the CDC, it is recommended that all travelers receive vaccines for Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis), influenza, and COVID-19. Additional recommendations include rabies and Japanese encephalitis vaccines, which are discretionary choices for individual volunteers. Malaria prophylaxis is not deemed necessary. If you have further questions or require specific recommendations, please consult your healthcare provider or reach out to us.
    
    
16. What medications and health safety items should I bring?
    Please bring an adequate supply of your prescribed medications for personal use. Additionally, consider bringing acetaminophen, ibuprofen, adhesive bandages, sunscreen, mosquito repellent containing DEET, COVID rapid tests, and a course of Paxlovid medication.
    
    
17. Am I responsible for obtaining my own traveler’s insurance?
    Yes.
    
    
18. What is Cambodia’s time zone?
    Cambodia operates in a time zone that is 15 hours ahead of US Pacific Standard Time.
    
    
19. What should I pack for my trip to Cambodia?
    Cambodia experiences a tropical climate with high humidity. It is advisable to pack a limited number of clothing changes. Your travel wardrobe should be simple, versatile, and durable. Synthetic clothing blends that dry quickly are preferred over cotton, wool, or silk. A mix of cotton with synthetic material is recommended. Some hotels may offer laundry services, but this can take a day or two, and there may not always be enough time for the service before departure. Many individuals find it convenient to hand wash a change of clothes each evening and allow them to air dry in the hotel the next day, ensuring a clean pair of clothes at all times. Please refrain from wearing shorts, mini-skirts, and sleeveless shirts when visiting pagodas and wats (temples and monasteries). Many specialized travel items can be found at stores like REI and other outdoor suppliers.
    
    
20. Will there be welcome and farewell dinners?
    Yes, there will be both a welcome and farewell dinner, both of which will be informal. The welcome dinner will give us a chance to meet and greet each other and some locals. At the farewell dinner, we will recognize and award certificates to students. Both events will offer group photo opportunities.
    
    
21. Is a telephone necessary in Cambodia?
    Most volunteers prefer having the option to stay connected through a cell phone or iPad. Wi-Fi is typically accessible at hotels and various locations. The primary method for making international calls is through internet-based apps like WhatsApp, Viber, and Telegram. It’s advisable to contact your service provider to inquire about international services before your departure.
    
    
22. Where are we staying?
    
    Phnom Penh Era Hotel
    #44, Street 163, Vilage 3, Sangkat Olympic, Khan Chamkar Mon,
    Phnom Penh, Cambodia
    
    Preah Vihear Hotel List:
    1. Ly Hout Guesthouse
    2. Chhieng Hour Guesthouse
    3. Vimean Sor Guesthouse
    4. An Rathanak
    5. Nita Paly Kheang
    
    Siem Reap Hotel:
    Somadevi Angkor Resort and Spa
    
    We wish you a pleasant and safe journey.
    Enjoy your travels!