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How To Help: Volunteers: Sign up to volunteer!: Must Read FAQ

Must Read Before Volunteering

Gearing up for a trip to Riverkids in Cambodia? Wondering where to stay? What foods to eat? How expensive is the capital city of Cambodia?

Where can I stay?

Short Stays: Some hotels used by previous volunteers are: Golden Gate, Mekong Princess and The Pavilion. Hotels often offer free airport pick-ups and drop-offs if you request it when you make your reservation.

Long Stays: It is convenient and economical to rent Phnom Penh apartments or small houses for US$150 to US$500 a month, depending on size and location. Local housekeepers and cooks can be arranged relatively easily as well. To find one, we’d recommend first staying at a hotel and asking around locally by word-of-mouth.

What should I pack?

  • Volunteers should wear shoes that are easy to slip on or off.
  • Wear clothes that go below the knee.
  • Spaghetti-strap tops and revealing tops are discouraged.
  • Sunscreen is a must, and hats recommended.
  • During February to May, umbrellas are recommended.
  • There are several supermarkets (Lucky and Pencil) and prices are roughly the same as Singapore, but in USD.
  • You can buy toiletries and basic clothes pretty easily in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

What can I eat?

Cambodia has a range of Asian and Western restaurants. Volunteers are encouraged to avoid street or market food stalls. Stick to boiled or fried food, and fruit that needs to be peeled.

Is the water safe to drink?

Drinking from taps is not recommended because the water, while much improved, is still not reliably safe. Bottled water is easily available in Phnom Penh, from $0.25 for a litre of the cheap local brand to $2 for a little bottle of Evian. Avoid ice in your drinks unless the restaurant specifically states the ice has been made from safe water.

How much will it cost to travel to Cambodia?

Accomodation in Cambodia

Budget $5-$15
Low-range hotel $14-$40
Mid-range hotel $40-$100

Food in Cambodia

Western Restaurant $4-$8
Khmer Restaurant $4
Bottle of water $1

Travel

Tuk-Tuk $2-$5 per ride, about $20 to $25 a day
Taxi $7 per hour and $30 per day