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Phantomtiger2
01-10-07, 18:41
[QUOTE=That AssholeLocal transport is mainly by motorcycle-taxi (moto). Minimum fare is 2000 Riel, although most drivers routinely ask foreigners $1. Negotiating is the norm.
>.......[/QUOTE]
TA,
great field reports, made me wanna just pack it up and go back for another round in Cambo.
Since no one seem to have this recommended for a ROD, I will do so now.
I agree on most but just want to let you know that the actual min. motodop fare in PP is 1000r. for a short hop (1km), 1500r -2k for (1-3km) and 2500r is the max I paid for anything up to 5km.--which is as far as you will go anyway. All during the day of course and little bit more at nite.
PT
TA,
You must have spent a good period of time in Asia to make such a successful trip as this one - and I thought my holidays were packed with experiences!
This is quite a comprehensive account of what can be found in Cambodia, possibly one of the best (and certainly most current) to date.
I get the feeling that you could be a writer of sorts and your material appears elsewhere? This is not only factual but also entertaining (and ISG members probably shouldn't take you so seriously). Some genuinely humourous sections peppered throughout if the reader identifies the tone in which you were intending (well at least that's the way in which I have interpreted it).
Liked the simplified maps too, if you were the creator, well done!
Don't know if I would encourage too much exploring of PP at night on foot, even if it was close to Sisowath Quay - I have done that a few times and it does indeed put a scary feeling into you, particularly down those blackened streets. All adds to the adventure though I suppose!
Cambodia as a retirement destination-yes and no...
One is allowed to come and live here freely,I have the business visa for one month which is renewable indefinitely-that's a huge improvement over thailand.
One is not allowed to buy land,only a 66year lease which seems to be secure.Today I visit the real estate shark in snooky to investigate more.
Through my son I can buy land in thailand but if the bastards won't let you live there there really isn't much point.
Cambodia is cheaper than thailand if one eats and lives more like a local.
Rents are absurdly cheap in cambodia as are alcohol and women-this is a very good start.
Health care is almost non existent,one should not have ongoing health problems in old age.
I am currently on a recce for several months to investigate opportunities here for permanent residence.
It is essential to speak khmer for daily living and some vietnamese for searching out the most attentive ladies,I am working on this.
I much prefer the cambodian and vietnamese people to the greedy,avaricious,duplicitious thai.The cambodians have a gentle nature and a very good sense of humour,similar to ours.
The next few months will intereresting for me and I will let you know if living in cambodia is possible or just a pipe dream.
PS-for me the freedom to smoke otherwise illicit subsatances at will makes cambodia the coolest country in the world.
The americans can stick their absurd war on drugs fair up their jaxie.
I just visited a real estate agency here in PP and discovered that Cambodia is even worse then Thailand and Philippines regarding foreign property rules: here not only you cannot own land or a house, but NOT EVEN A CONDO !
You have to resort to the company crap....hoping one day the government does not wake up and put you outlaw (like is happening now in Thailand).
Another bad news about mobile phones: if you want to buy a local SIM card you must have a Cambodian ID card !!! At this point I wonder....should I buy or rent a condo and ask for a phone line to have internet access in my home, will that be denied because I am not Cambo national ???
I thought Thailand was a country of greedy idiots, but Cambodia competes for first place fiercely....
Ynervalt Garr
01-12-07, 15:42
That asshole,
Thanks for the outstanding report. Like the way you write and agree with you on the meat-thing. They are out for your money, you like their ****/ass/mouth/hands and maybe feet? : P So you treath them like you treath everything else you buy. Like if you buy something for the long runs, like a tv, you treath it well. But if you buy a burger to eat for 5 minutes, you treath it for pleasure!
Never been to Camboadia myself. Just Thailand a few times and I must say I like it very much, but its maybe better in Cambodia? You say 5 bucks for a ****. Is that for real? I tought it was 20 dollars. Thats what someboody told me in Pattaya one time.
And is it possible to find a old **** there? I'm really a motherfucker type of guy. Like young and old. Everything that has some holes:) But is it many old woman like in their 50's for a reall assfucking time?
Phantomtiger2
01-12-07, 18:17
But is it many old woman like in their 50's for a reall assfucking time?
Not really, remember Cambo went thru Pol Pot and wiped out almost half a generation of people. Oldest WL I've came across were about mid -upper 30's.(maybe 40 as I sometimes cant tell their true age)
Thailand and Singapore have older WL if thats what you like.
PT
Ynervalt Garr
01-12-07, 21:12
Not really, remember Cambo went thru Pol Pot and wiped out almost half a generation of people. Oldest WL I've came across were about mid -upper 30's.(maybe 40 as I sometimes cant tell their true age)
Thailand and Singapore have older WL if thats what you like.
PTThanks Tiger, I will land in BKK and staythere for a few days first. So I will be hunting there for the older mamas.
Is it dangeorus to travel alone to Cambodia? It sounds like everybody tells me to be careful, etc.
......Another bad news about mobile phones: if you want to buy a local SIM card you must have a Cambodian ID card !!! ....Don't let this worry you too much. The controls are not as strict as you might think. All you need is a local friend who is willing to register the SIM as theirs and you are OK. I have two SIM cards and know that the friend who obtained one of these for me has dozens registered in his name. Just watch out for the anomaly of Cambodian SIMs that mean they expire if you do not maintain a form of good credit history on them. (See my post/plea in Travel Plans Thread where I have mentioned this before)
Another bad news about mobile phones: if you want to buy a local SIM card you must have a Cambodian ID card !!!
I haven't been to Cambo for a while, but about a year ago it wasn't a great hassle to get a SIM - more problematic than a lot of places, but not a huge problem.
Basically, I just had to get a dated letter from my hotel (which I think we only stayed in for a night or 2 - either way, I did this the day I got there) saying I 'lived' there, then popped down to one of the multitudinous mobile phone shops with passport in hand and, it was no problem at all. Cost was about $10. Did all this in PP.
Hope this is of some use to someone.
Phantomtiger2
01-12-07, 22:44
Thanks Tiger, I will land in BKK and staythere for a few days first. So I will be hunting there for the older mamas.
Is it dangeorus to travel alone to Cambodia? It sounds like everybody tells me to be careful, etc.
Only real trouble spot alone at nite would be PP, but if you walk along the major Rds and Blvds and avoid certain neighblorhoods and small dark streets, you should be ok. Since its so cheap to take a motodop anywhere, just use them until you get familiar with the city.. The rest of Cambo is relatively safe unless you are in the rural areas--then its not the people but the landmines you have to beware of.
PT
Member #2041
01-12-07, 23:30
Is it dangeorus to travel alone to Cambodia? It sounds like everybody tells me to be careful, etc.
The main risk of travelling alone in Cambodia is the ease with which you could pick up an STD. Travelling with a female companion helps to alleviate this risk somewhat.
Phantomtiger2
01-12-07, 23:34
I just visited a real estate agency here in PP and discovered that Cambodia is even worse then Thailand and Philippines regarding foreign property rules: here not only you cannot own land or a house, but NOT EVEN A CONDO !
You have to resort to the company crap....hoping one day the government does not wake up and put you outlaw (like is happening now in Thailand).
Another bad news about mobile phones: if you want to buy a local SIM card you must have a Cambodian ID card !!! At this point I wonder....should I buy or rent a condo and ask for a phone line to have internet access in my home, will that be denied because I am not Cambo national ???
I thought Thailand was a country of greedy idiots, but Cambodia competes for first place fiercely....
Although its very difficult to own your home/condo/land etc, its often so cheap to just rent or sign a long term lease that its still much cheaper to live here than LOS or Filipina.
Ownership may change in the future but give it time, remember that this country just came out of civil war recently and invasion by the Viets, bombing by the Americans, colonization by the French so they are not so eager to give up any land to foreigners at this time.
Concerning SIMs, although I didnt need it, the local guys at my hotel were always willing to buy it for me (making a small commission of course).
PT
Phantomtiger2
01-12-07, 23:45
. Travelling with a female companion helps to alleviate this risk somewhat.
But that pretty much defeats the purpose of mongering in Cambo.
My philosophy has always been: monger with other male counterparts or monger alone. Leave the women behind. A companion is a real hinder when an available cutie passes you by.
BTW: And how do we know it's not that female companion that'll give him the STD--ha ha
PT
Buying property in Cambodia is a minefield, even for Cambodians. The Khmer Rouge completely evacuated Phnom Phen and killed most property owners. When the Vietnamese invaded and threw the KR out, people began coming back to Phnom Phen, squating in whatever abandoned building they chose. Many of the Vietnamese stayed, claiming the choicest properties and bringing in their families. This also happened in the countryside and smaller cities.
The result of all this is chaos in property ownership. Over the years, family members who survived, including many from the USA, have been showing up and trying to re-claim these properties. Families who squated were given quasi-legal ownership by right of occupation when the government was trying to re-build the city in the early ninties. In many cases, there are no deeds or documentation of any kind that can be depended upon. The barely functioning Cambodian legal system has been swamped by claims and counter claims and basicaly rules on a bribe by bribe basis.
The upshot of all this is that even if you could buy property, you have almost no way of knowing if the seller actually has the legal right to sell the property. A buyer could easily find a descendant of a pre-war owner at the front door the next day, papers in hand and a lawyer at his side.
Member #2041
01-13-07, 07:08
BTW: And how do we know it's not that female companion that'll give him the STD--ha ha
PT
What we do know is that pretty much anyone has a lower likelihood of being HIV infected than a Cambodian P4P girl. Hence, doing any OTHER female companion would serve to alleviate the risk, to some degree.
Leave the women behind. A companion is a real hinder when an available cutie passes you by.
Hello PT,
What about taking a girl along to check out the ruins in Siem Reap?
Or are there plenty of women available in SR for GFE/guide service?
Please advise
its often so cheap to just rent or sign a long term lease that its still much cheaper to live here than LOS or Filipina.
Where can I find such cheap rents ?
In Thailand I live here http://visarun.com/viewtalay/project1.htm in a 32sqm unit I paid 700,000 baht in Dec 2003. Maintenance 300 baht a month, electricity 1,000baht/month, water 300baht/month.
In those 32sqm I have all I need to feel at home, a computer with internet connection and a small kitchen.
Where can I find anything similar in PP ?
Walking the streets I cannot spot any real estate agency. Surfing the net I found this one http://www.cambodiaestate.com/ ,I go to visit them and...how strange ....the small unit for rent at 120$ a month is gone already, and on the booklet they give me I can find only villas from $500/month up !
Any suggestion ? (apart from changing my AirAsia flight to a shorter date and start looking in another country)
Where can I find such cheap rents ?
......Where can I find anything similar in PP ?I'm not sure that I can suggest anywhere to find a place suitable for you but there are new apartments being built out towards the airport which are apparrently targetted at ex-pats and richer Khmers.
Like most places, there are cheap places available but lots are sold by word of mouth. I know of apartments in a good central position at $300 but there were none available when last I looked (last month).
The presence of NGOs in Phnom Penh has skewed the property market, and hotel rates, out of all recognition. This has meant that there are cheap rentals, usually taken by the local populus, and expensive rentals, paid for by foreign agencies. There is a gap in the middle as properties can bring in a much higher rental if they are upgraded to make them attractive to NGOs.
I think that there is a need to be in the right place at the right time and keep both ears to the ground. Do not expect to find somewhere quickly and be wary of the manner in which rents can be increased by exhorbitant amounts when the landlord thinks the market will support it.
You could check out http://www.bongthom.com/PlacesToStay/default.asp which has both guest apartments and rentals.
Good luck
I'm not sure that I can suggest anywhere to find a place suitable for you but there are new apartments being built out towards the airport which are apparrently targetted at ex-pats and richer Khmers.
Like most places, there are cheap places available but lots are sold by word of mouth. I know of apartments in a good central position at $300 but there were none available when last I looked (last month).
The presence of NGOs in Phnom Penh has skewed the property market, and hotel rates, out of all recognition. This has meant that there are cheap rentals, usually taken by the local populus, and expensive rentals, paid for by foreign agencies. There is a gap in the middle as properties can bring in a much higher rental if they are upgraded to make them attractive to NGOs.
I think that there is a need to be in the right place at the right time and keep both ears to the ground. Do not expect to find somewhere quickly and be wary of the manner in which rents can be increased by exhorbitant amounts when the landlord thinks the market will support it.
You could check out http://www.bongthom.com/PlacesToStay/default.asp which has both guest apartments and rentals.
Good luck
Thank you for the infos, but the sex scene here disappointed me so deeply I am heading back to Thailand for my third and last allowed 30 days VISA. After that I will go to Penang (Malaysia) to ask Thai Embassy for a tourist 60+30 days VISA, should they deny it I will consider wether stay in Penang or move to Philippines.For sure Cambodia is not an option.I mean , how can you trust people that say "OK 10$" and then inside room 1 minute later say "now you give me 15$"? Thais are greedy also, but not in such an utterly stupid way !
Phantomtiger2
01-16-07, 19:29
Where can I find such cheap rents ?
In Thailand I live here http://visarun.com/viewtalay/project1.htm in a 32sqm unit I paid 700,000 baht in Dec 2003. Maintenance 300 baht a month, electricity 1,000baht/month, water 300baht/month.
In those 32sqm I have all I need to feel at home, a computer with internet connection and a small kitchen.
Where can I find anything similar in PP ?
Walking the streets I cannot spot any real estate agency. Surfing the net I found this one http://www.cambodiaestate.com/ ,I go to visit them and...how strange ....the small unit for rent at 120$ a month is gone already, and on the booklet they give me I can find only villas from $500/month up !
Any suggestion ? (apart from changing my AirAsia flight to a shorter date and start looking in another country)
Its simple, Not sure which part of Cambo you have in mind but just as an example: alot of decent GH or hotels when renting a fair size room with a/c and hot water can be negotiated down to $7-8/nite when renting for longer periods. Great thing about these arrangements is that when you tire of location you can just pick up and leave without any hassles.
That comes out to little over $200/month.
If you like the area and wish a bigger flat/apt ,plenty of time to scout for yourself and no rush means better negotiating power on your side.
PT
Thank you for the infos, but the sex scene here disappointed me so deeply I am heading back to Thailand for my third and last allowed 30 days VISA. After that I will go to Penang (Malaysia) to ask Thai Embassy for a tourist 60+30 days VISA, should they deny it I will consider wether stay in Penang or move to Philippines.For sure Cambodia is not an option.I mean , how can you trust people that say "OK 10$" and then inside room 1 minute later say "now you give me 15$"? Thais are greedy also, but not in such an utterly stupid way !Cambodia ain't LOS, PI, or even Vietnam. Most who travel there probably never return. Definitely 3rd world, among other reasons. The new LOS visa laws will be sending a lot of expats heading elsewhere, some will try Khmai lovin' and move on. Good luck to you, let us know if Malaysia or PI work out.
MarkLatham
01-19-07, 01:29
Thank you for the infos, but the sex scene here disappointed me so deeply I am heading back to Thailand for my third and last allowed 30 days VISA. After that I will go to Penang (Malaysia) to ask Thai Embassy for a tourist 60+30 days VISA, should they deny it I will consider wether stay in Penang or move to Philippines.For sure Cambodia is not an option.I mean , how can you trust people that say "OK 10$" and then inside room 1 minute later say "now you give me 15$"? Thais are greedy also, but not in such an utterly stupid way !Mate, maaate-what the hell are you doing wrong?
I have met scores of men who absolutely love the khmer and vietnamese woman here.Not one complaint.
Are you spreading disinformation so as to keep people away?
If you are then keep it up-yahoo more for us.
Phantomtiger2
01-20-07, 00:51
Gaudente,
Cambo takes a bit of getting use to as some people here are a bit pushy to get your attention and business. But I find that its common practice in many countries in SE Asia. But also need to consider this fact. Many other countries are very unsafe (higher violent crime) compare to Cambo once you get out of PP.----IMO
PT
I visited Siem Reap last week.
Visa on arrival: When coming from Bangkok the immigration officers ask for the fee in THB. As I understood they asked for THB 1,000.00 - which is much more than US$ 20.00 (that's what you pay in US$).
To everybody the recommendation to prepare the fee in US$.
Giotto
I visited Siem Reap last week.
Visa on arrival: When coming from Bangkok the immigration officers ask for the fee in THB. As I understood they asked for THB 1,000.00 - which is much more than US$ 20.00 (that's what you pay in US$).
To everybody the recommendation to prepare the fee in US$.
Giotto
CAMBODIAN IMMIGRATION POST
Get your Cambodian visa at the border for 1000 Baht or $20 usd. Bring one photo and fill out the forms BUT there have been many complaints of Cambodian Officials extorting money from tourists. The new scam is the "Sticker Visa Scam". They want 1100 baht for it. PLEASE make a written formal complaint at the Ministry of Tourism in PP if they refuse the $20 usd. Try your best to stop this.
Scam alert
Beware of scams when entering Cambodia overland. Most common is the inflation of the visa fee from the official US$20 to 1000 baht (US$25) or more - you may want to get your visa in advance from a Cambodian embassy or consulate in order to avoid this.
Past scams have included fines for not presenting a vaccination certification (even though this is not mandatory), charging 50 baht for a (bogus) SARS health form, and enforcing an imaginary US$100 to Cambodian riel exchange requirement (at lousy rates).
I've been reading in some travelforums that they are trying to squeeze some extra out of the unexperienced. Even 20$ in cash might not be enough. There are some health form scams and others, if you don't speak Khmer, it seems difficult to get the right price.
OK, folks it's like this - EMBASSY (Bangkok, elsewhere) $20 (wait 3 days for some strange reason YOU NEED TO leave YOUR passport (YEAH, THEY PUT IN THE VISA STICKER - which is why) - BUT - also makes it a bit "difficult" if you get stopped somewhere without the passport). AIRPORT arrival $20 (they ONLY take $$, no BHAT). Poipet - $20 will "work" but for the price they make you wait maybe 20 minutes. With a tip of maybe 100B you can cut the wait to 5 minutes or so. Koh Kong - they WANT 1000B (try the $20 plus 100B and see if it works - reports say it does work) Other crossings - have no idea - (these I've done myself)
Just don't get into an argument over PRICES with the Cambo border officer - he may just REFUSE entry to your poor ass and then you are STUCK in LIMBO - remember you LEFT Thailand and they don't have to let you back in without entry/ exit from a neighbor country. Since I was going "on" I have no idea of what happened to the poor sucker who got in a hissy fit at the border - I just know (from listening) that he got "sent back to Thailand".
Check talesofasia.com and look for visa reports (it's in there but I don't remember exactly where) - they cover more of the "obscure" crossings like Paillin, or the one up north by Laos - I don't remember the name (of course, with the new Thai "no border run" philosophy the turn around traffic is decreasing so the prices may adjust accordingly and some of those crossings hardly ever SEE barang (farang in Thai) anyway)
Phantomtiger2
02-15-07, 00:00
OK, folks it's like this - EMBASSY (Bangkok, elsewhere) $20 (wait 3 days for some strange reason YOU NEED TO leave YOUR passport (YEAH, THEY PUT IN THE VISA STICKER - which is why) - BUT - also makes it a bit "difficult" if you get stopped somewhere without the passport). AIRPORT arrival $20 (they ONLY take $$, no BHAT). Poipet - $20 will "work" but for the price they make you wait maybe 20 minutes. With a tip of maybe 100B you can cut the wait to 5 minutes or so. Koh Kong - they WANT 1000B (try the $20 plus 100B and see if it works - reports say it does work) Other crossings - have no idea - (these I've done myself)
Just don't get into an argument over PRICES with the Cambo border officer - he may just REFUSE entry to your poor ass and then you are STUCK in LIMBO - remember you LEFT Thailand and they don't have to let you back in without entry/ exit from a neighbor country. Since I was going "on" I have no idea of what happened to the poor sucker who got in a hissy fit at the border - I just know (from listening) that he got "sent back to Thailand".
Check talesofasia.com and look for visa reports (it's in there but I don't remember exactly where) - they cover more of the "obscure" crossings like Paillin, or the one up north by Laos - I don't remember the name (of course, with the new Thai "no border run" philosophy the turn around traffic is decreasing so the prices may adjust accordingly and some of those crossings hardly ever SEE barang (farang in Thai) anyway)
This pretty much sez it all --, these are also from my experiences.
If you dont want to get scammed, either have the visa done before you get to Cambo. Or you should enter the country by air--to either SR or PP airports as no scams exist yet for the airport entry (yet)--, as this is Cambo-that could easily change tomorrow).
PT
Traffic777
03-16-07, 15:59
I managed to get away with paying the right price of $20 last week coming overland from Trat/Hadlek - Koh Kong.
Officer asked for 1300B.
I said "Ok, at the embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cambodia they told me it was $20, so I'm going to need a receipt". He says "It's $25" then goes on to check my photo and passport # against his book, Osama Bin Laden's picture is there. Then he goes on with questions like why I overstayed in Thailand, why no exit stamp from Guatemala last year, why is this seal oval instead of square. He does that for over half an hour, writes smth. in his book, then leaves to get a magnifying glass. I'm all nervous actually, because the border will close in 30mins and what if he refuses to stick a visa into my "suspicious" passport?
Nevertheless I act cool and relaxed, get my camera and start looking through my pictures, as if I don't even care whether I'm about to get stuck between Thailand and Cambodia. He comes over and looks at my Pattaya pictures too. Then goes on asking whether I like photography and why and when did I start and can I show him Guatemala on the map. 10 minutes till the border closes, I've been there for almost an hour now. He says "$25", nevertheless takes $20 bill and sticks the visa in.
Phantomtiger2
03-16-07, 22:50
I managed to get away with paying the right price of $20 last week coming overland from Trat/Hadlek - Koh Kong.
Officer asked for 1300B.
, I've been there for almost an hour now. .
Pretty much the normal hassle of saving $5. Happens all the time at the border crossing but not the airports. Normal time for getting the visa if a few extra $ are paid will be under 10-15min. If not then the limit is up to the bastard making you wait in your case-1 hr.
Lucky they didnt pull the old scam of showing them all your recent and "required" vaccinations before you are allowed in.
PT
I managed to get away with paying the right price of $20 last week coming overland from Trat/Hadlek - Koh Kong.
.Hi there Traffic,
it's good to hear how you beat them at their own game but I can't help thinking that if they asked me for even $30 I would pay it. The extra $5, to $25, equates to only £2.50 and I always hope to make the most benefit of my time so better to pay a small amount of 'oiling the wheels' money. We are all different, with different priorities, and it is good to hear how other people approach the situation.
Hawk
Phantomtiger2
03-17-07, 18:49
Hi there Traffic,
it's good to hear how you beat them at their own game but I can't help thinking that if they asked me for even $30 I would pay it. The extra $5, to $25, equates to only £2.50 and I always hope to make the most benefit of my time so better to pay a small amount of 'oiling the wheels' money. We are all different, with different priorities, and it is good to hear how other people approach the situation.
Hawk
Although I have to agree that I would've paid the extra bucks to get out faster, I must applaude Traffic's effort to hold his ground and principle. Just think, if everyone held their grounds like he did and all the border guards knew they can't profit from it then the scams would be over.
PT
If, like me, you don’t want to put a premium on the visa scam, you can just get your visa on line for $25: http://evisa.mfaic.gov.kh/index.php?version=eng.
It isn’t cheaper, but at least you aren’t left with the feeling that you’ve been had.
If, like me, you don’t want to put a premium on the visa scam, you can just get your visa on line for $25: http://evisa.mfaic.gov.kh/index.php?version=eng.
It isn’t cheaper, but at least you aren’t left with the feeling that you’ve been had.Dunn know if I feel that wayz.
Its still same same overprice money given to guards. Instead of in their pockets the extra 5 go into another pocket . Things online should be even money or cheaper not more money so extra 5 go into people unseen online site pocket. Anythin wez pay more than normal is bad news. Online still really a scam but not feel like it ,thatz all.
Pirate1
Managed to pick up a Tourist visa to Thailand at the Embassy in Phnom Penh without any problems. Cost $25USD, and took 3 days. This means that if you apply on the Monday morning, 8.30-11.00am, then you pick up the visa on the Wednesday afternoon (3-4.30pm). I didn’t need to show any onward ticket from Thailand. You need one passport photo for the application. Get to the embassy at 196 Norodom Boulevard by motodup $1 from central Phnom Penh. Applications Mon-Fri only.
Money change
I used the money changer across from the Lucky Burger just southwest of the central market on the corner of Monivong and Charles de Gaulle. South east side of this intersection. Name is Ly Heng Exchange. There is another one right next to this one. The guy will change a $100US travellers cheque for $98 cash (need passport). Also changes most other currencies. Seems to be reliable. Attached pic.
DVD’s
Cost $2USD and the best selection is in the Russian Market. A lot of BBC documentaries are available (David Attenborough) as are old TV series like Fawlty Towers and Are you being Served etc. Also upstairs in the Sorya Shopping mall is good.
Lonely Planet Guidebooks
Fake guidebooks are available at the Russian Market (found on the west side entry only). Most Asian countries are available, plus Australia, USA, Europe. $7USD for Southeast Asia on a shoestring for example. Check the map pages first before buying as some of the shading does not come through and this makes it hard to use the maps.
Also some books are available in the Central market.
Prescription sunglasses
Buy a fake pair of any brand you want in the markets (I got $7USD Ray Ban’s, but the price is more like $5USD), then take them to an Optic store and get them to put in a prescription pair of lenses. I got mine done at Phnom Penh Optics (No.399 Preah Monivong Blvd), near Capitol Guesthouse, for $5USD, Plastic, and UV protected. Look great! Took 2 hours to make the lenses. They will also test your eyes here, but when they did mine they kind of stuffed it up, so know your prescription before you go. See attached pic, and note the guys fixing the electric wires!
Bangkok airport
Finally for those doing the Thai visa run on Air Asia and returning from Phnom Penh. There is an airport Shuttle Bus which you catch from the departures area (top floor). There are several blue coloured posts along the road here outside the airport terminal, where you take the Shuttle bus to the airport bus depot. Shuttle bus is free and takes 5 mins. Catch a bus to Pattaya from the airport bus depot rather than have to deal with all of the ripoff taxi drivers who want more than 1000Baht to go to Pattaya . Bus is 106B. There is one at 11am for those getting off the 8.40am Phnom Penh to Bangkok flight.
EDITOR'S NOTE: I certainly hope that the author or somebody else will post a link to this report in the Reports of Distinction thread. Please Click Here (http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/announcement-reportsofdistinction.php?) for more information.
Managed to pick up a Tourist visa to Thailand at the Embassy in Phnom Penh without any problems. Cost $25USD, and took 3 days. This means that if you apply on the Monday morning, 8.30-11.00am, then you pick up the visa on the Wednesday afternoon (3-4.30pm). I didn’t need to show any onward ticket from Thailand. You need one passport photo for the application. Get to the embassy at 196 Norodom Boulevard by motodup $1 from central Phnom Penh. Applications Mon-Fri only.Did the Thai Embassy stamp your visa and passport with "DO NOT APPLY VISA PHNOM PENH AGAIN' ?
They were stamping that on 60 day tourist visas' when I got one there several months ago.
Did the Thai Embassy stamp your visa and passport with "DO NOT APPLY VISA PHNOM PENH AGAIN' ?
They were stamping that on 60 day tourist visas' when I got one there several months ago.No they didn’t stamp anything on my visa.
Spokaneman35
06-26-07, 02:19
I have to Pattaya and Bangkok serval times and I am thinking og going to PP I keep reading how dangerous it is. Is this true compared to Bangkok and Pattaya and I was also wondering Since I am a US citizen do I need a visa or will my passport work. Thanks for the help and more info you can give like maps nightlife and anything else would be great.
No it is not dangerous. I walked around dodgy places like Toul Kork at night and nothing ever happened. Of course all of the usual safety precautions apply at all times.
Visas are available on arrival at P.Penh airport for $20usd (bring one passport photo with you). Takes about 15mins and there are usually a heap of other travellers getting them at the same time.
Try to bring a lot of low denomination USD bills with you ($20 and less) for your expenditures in Cambodia.
Best places for ladies are Martinis and Sharkeys night clubs. Quite a lot of other options available around town if you research this forum, but that is the basics.
Frankfurter
07-04-07, 06:59
Besides ISG another excellent source of Cambodia releated info can be downloaded from the local English newspaper, check here:
http://www.bayonpearnik.com/
Frankfurter
07-04-07, 07:08
I like to add to Franga's report in regards to having glasses made in PP.
They are really ridiculously cheap, I even had a pair of progressive lenses made last week. They do an on-site check with the latest equipment in case you don't have your prescription with you.
In case of the progressive lenses you need to watch out for the thickness of the lens. Mine came back and were not as thin and elegant as, say, a Thailand made HOYA 1.7 lens from Japan. For antireflex coatings they also need to have a week to order them.
more on the subject. appears the girls who work in the parks and brothels are the biggest victims.
http://www.alternatevisions.org/publications/cambodiarapereport.pdf
thanks for this link taloha,
i read most of it but will need to read again to take on the full implications of the surveys and draw my own conclusions.
it does seem as if the tourist sex scene is not something that anyone should worry about, yet. the ngos etc would do far more good by addressing the rights of 'local sex' workers.
though it is not stated in this report it is hard to believe that the police, gangsters and children of rich cambodians would have any more respect for **** girls than the older workers; it is hard for me to imagine this level of depravity and it serves as yet another reminder of how bad some of the conditions are in cambodia.
hawk
I was robbed in Pattaya within one day (by ladyboys)
Both in Pattaya and Bangkok it is so crowded that you cannot view everyboddy in the eye.
In Cambodia it is much more relax (everythings also trafic moved slower). Never so crowded. Most of the time you can "observe" the people walking towards you. Locals are much more friendly in general (nowhere ""pushy" for eg ladiesdrinks).
Indeed people are more poor then in Bangkok. So you have to pay a little more attention to your belongings. Dont flash with large amounts of money and 3 digital cameras and always have a hand at your bags. Thats for Phnom Penh. In Sihanoukville maybe your felow tourists can grab something out of your room because they are aout of their money.The cheapest guesthouses draw the poorest tourist and have the worst in safety (bad doorlock - no guard).
I will never go to south Amerika because I do "stupid things" (get drunk, take freelancers in my room) but nothing happend to me in Cambodia.
In the Philippines (and as mentioned in Thailand) I was however robbed within a few days.
Only in Sihanoukville I had once an unsafe situation; at Fishermens Den an English "Hormone injected" guy get angry to me because I was speaking with "his hooker". Only a few hookers work there so if you speak to one hooker there is a big chance that she has worked for another customer in that bar which gets jalous. The same counts for another bar near the Busstation in Sihanoukville (on an corner beside a internet place).
So better take a girl from a Mamasan where are more girls and almost never a other tourist at the same time - to avoid Jalous felow tourist.
Conclusion; Be friendly and stay between the Cambodians then you are safe.
I'll be travelling to Cambodia soon for a couple days of business then a month of pleasure. The business leg will be in PP, the rest of the trip can be anywhere. The only requirement that I have *broadband* internet (wired or wireless, doesn't matter) actually in my room.
Does anyone have a recommendation as to a hotel or GH? I've seen some excellent monthly rates on villa rentals. If I went with one of those, would it be possible to get access turned in quickly in one of these, or would that be too much of a hassle?
Thanks to any fellow mongers who can help me out.
Prince Harry
07-28-07, 19:24
I'll be travelling to Cambodia soon for a couple days of business then a month of pleasure. The business leg will be in PP, the rest of the trip can be anywhere. The only requirement that I have *broadband* internet (wired or wireless, doesn't matter) actually in my room.
Does anyone have a recommendation as to a hotel or GH? I've seen some excellent monthly rates on villa rentals. If I went with one of those, would it be possible to get access turned in quickly in one of these, or would that be too much of a hassle?
Thanks to any fellow mongers who can help me out.
Flamingo has wireless,can be pretty slow but that goes for all of PP.I think that you would have to sign a contract for access at rented premises.
That Asshole
07-30-07, 08:05
Sihanouk sexy-story.....
I live with my mother. One day, on my 66th birthday, my 90 year mother told me: "Why you sit at home all day? Wy you not go out and find some wo-man for yourself and copulate with it. All boys your age have copulated with women except for you. Are you strange or something?"
I said: "Look mum, you know that basically I am a wanker. I like to play with my own cock. Besides I m fat, bald, smelly and I hate to wash. All my front teeth have rotted out. On top of that, I have no moni. No woman in her right mind would copulate with me."
"That's right." -said she. "You sure are an asshole, just like your father used to be. But look here, what I found on the internet. The World Sexguide Forum (she was a keen surfer). It is just for guys like you. They say that there is a magic land where even wankers like you can copulate with young, beautiful women, without any problems at all. All it costs is 5 bucks a pop. I will put you on the next plane and you are off to Cambodia."
"But mum" - I tried to protest. "I can't talk with women. I have nothing to say to them!"
"That's no excuse!" - replied the old witch. "Neither do those other wankers, yet they copulate every day. Look here son! Look and read! Http.www.wsg.blablablablabla......"
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
So, I ended up coming to Cambodia, against my will, with $500 pocket moni from my 99 year old mother. And as it turned out, the old fart was right. Despite of being basically a wanker as well as smelly and hating to wash and having nothing to say to women, I was able to copulate with 12 on the first trip alone. That was while the brothel-complex K11 was still open. Since then K11 has closed down but the possibilities to copulate with young fresh women are still here. Look no further than Sihanoukville.....If you are a wanker like me, read on!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The moving movie
I crossed the Thai/Khmer border at Koh Kong. That town is pretty wasted, even more than I, so pressed on the next day. Caught the morning boat to Sihanouke.
During the trip they screened for us again (for 10th time) the very moving true story of poor little Khmer girl called Sophie and her sad story. Her papa misbehaved once in the city and was infected with the deadly aids-virus by a bad girl. In turn he infected his wife (Sophie's mama) with the deadly aids-wirus who in in turn infected their new-born baby daughter with the deadly aids-virus. They all groaned and moaned quite authentically, while rolling in great pain because of their deadly infections.
Poor Sophie was sent away to work in a brothel to pay for life-saving medications for the infected family. There she got infected with the deadly aids-wirus by a stranger ugly man who also beat her over the head very badly. Then she returned home to bury her dead family members and lived the rest of her infected years in a lovely charitable camp run by charitable missionaries who strongly educated all the children about the dangers of the deadly aids wirus infection. We all of course became very emotional and couldn't keep up with tissues wiping our flowing tears produced by the sad story.
Fortunately, kind missionaries provided us with free tissues while strongly urging all on-board about the dangers of deadly aids-wirus. We all felt happy and united, to have experienced such loving care from truly selfless missionary people. We were sad to have ended the journey and requested a replay of the whole story again, in case we might have missed some important detail that might save our lives from sure death one day. They happily obliged.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
At the brothel
The next evening I went to the harbourside brothels (Victory Hill). My moto driver was a young, tattoed man and the night a rainy one. He kept trying to stear away from the main road, going into the dark side streets. I had to remind him every time that I knew the way and he should just drive straight.
Finally we arrived and I picked a young Vietnamese chick for $8 to take back to the hotel for 2 hours. She was very thin, petite and quite lovely. Also, she was the best looking of them all (none were really tops). We got in the room and immediately upon hearing the door click shut, she reached into my pants started to suck my cock. I couldn't even say as much as "wash" or "soap".
It was even the more funny because I hadn't washed for quite a long time, and some material not unlike cottage cheese was starting to build up around the head of my tool. Then we deep-kissed for a while, her clothes still on, I feeling up her fresh young body under the thin shirt. She surprised me again because she kicked off her jeans and turned out that she was wearing no knickers.
How smelly the pants become after a couple of days? But no matter what, in terms of smelliness she was no match for me. This made me glad. Really, not many could come even near. You should see me sweat under the Cambodian sun.
6 positions
We fucked in 6 different positions and ended the session with some more deep kissing. I felt something strange between my teeth. Got the bit unlodged by my tongue and upon examining the piece of material I had to conclude that it looked not unlike cottage cheese.
Sent her back with $1 tip and had a good sleep. Another day well spent in Sihanoukville.
My dream was about the unjustness of this whole world. Me, being an idiot and a common asshole rooting this young pretty 19 yo maiden silly in 6 different positions while many handsome, well mannered, muscular men inserting their viagra-hardened penis into old mamas saggy, dried-out holes, desperately trying to fight of nausea. All at the same time just in some other countries. It's unfair. This world is fucked, I tell you.
i'll be travelling to cambodia soon for a couple days of business then a month of pleasure. the business leg will be in pp, the rest of the trip can be anywhere. the only requirement that i have *broadband* internet (wired or wireless, doesn't matter) actually in my room.
does anyone have a recommendation as to a hotel or gh? i've seen some excellent monthly rates on villa rentals. if i went with one of those, would it be possible to get access turned in quickly in one of these, or would that be too much of a hassle?
thanks to any fellow mongers who can help me out.as stated, the internet speed in the rooms at the flamingo is useless; it is very very slow.
looked into the new york hotel. they said that you have to sign up for internet access in the room (i. e. join some service and pay expensive prices). not sure about the speed.
internet at the asia palace hotel was decent. faster than dial-up. my guess that it's about 500 kbps. i had free internet access in the one bedroom suite ($55. 65. depending on the discount you can get). not sure if the other 4 classes of rooms have internet access inside. you can contact them:
http://www.asiapalacehotel.com.kh/en/index.htm
Sihanouk sexy-story.....
I live with my mother. .... This world is fucked, I tell you.
Great story, T.A.!
I laughed my ass off! Keep them coming.
EC
Would just like to share a rotten experience I had last night.
Was having a nice beer and a bite in Shanghai's when all the bar girl were starting to make something stir in the undies.
Decided it was time to satisfy the urge so took a walk and hopped on a bike to look for some action. The driver was young guy and asked what I wanted. Told him young, dark, slim and no Viet chicks.
Took me by bike for about 10 mins to a street (no idea where) but stopped and there were about 30 girls hanging around with their pimps. Negotiated $30 all night for one who looked good and then went to a hotel ($20). Pimp came with us too, and insisted on payment upfront. Told him $20 now, then $10 to the girl after the business. He wasnt having it, so I reluctantly parted with the $30. Anway, got to the room and she was totally the opposite of the smiles when first saw her. Got on the bed with towel, no kissing, no touching pussy, lights off. Mr Maaars was getting a bit pissed off by this time, but thought I would go with the flow as the $30 had already gone. Went down for some DATY and she reluctantly moved her hand after some coaxing. She seemed to enjoy it so decided it was time for a BJ. Now get this. "no yam yam in Cambodia, Vietnam ok, Thailand ok, no Cambodia girl". Mmm, thinks me, this is getting bad to worse. She then just sits there watching TV while stroking my dick in what can only be described as robotic fashion. Now I'm normally a pretty tolerant guy, but that was it for me, totally non-horny by this time. She got up, got dressed and went to walk out the room as if that was it. No way, lets go see your pimp! I go to get dressed, she rushes out the door, and she's gone, nowhere to be seen by the time I have all my gear on. So. $30 down the gurgler and no fuck. Thought about trying to find the place again but after seeing Mr DB's experience, thought better of it.
Summary, if you get taken to the end of a street with lots of 18-22 yo WG's, tell him to drive on and forget it!
Le Cyrcee might not be the cleanest or have the best looking girl, but at least I'll get laid tonight for $18 all up!
EDITOR'S NOTE: I certainly hope that the author or somebody else will post a link to this report in the Reports of Distinction thread. Please Click Here (http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/announcement-reportsofdistinction.php?) for more information.
Dirty Benny
08-23-07, 00:00
i sympathize with you on your ordeal. and i know you got really screwed when it comes to your legal fees, judging by the amount of time your ordeal was.
my questions for you are this. i know you never showed the footage to anyone. do you think maybe someone like hotel staff could have seen tapes or anything lying around in the room? was there a dispute with the girl or did she leave on good terms? did she leave during the day or night? how long after her departure did they come for you?
my fear is that the police are shaking down these girls immediately after they spend time with us. i also wonder was this some sort of planned approach with some 'investigation' or did they come guns ablazing right after speaking with her, right after she left.
no telling what the girls may say to spare themselves and what other details are being divulged. all the more reason to be mindful what these girls see.to answer your questions..
1. hotel staff could have seen wrappers of videotapes in the trash. never left tapes out. only in locked luggage. i think this is unlikely but not impossible.
2. the girl was in my hotel room when the raid occurred in the afternoon. we were on great terms. this was the third time i saw her on this trip. the only people who knew i was there with the girl in the afternoon were the front desk and my cab driver. thats why i suspect them. the girl was taken into custody with me. we were transported together in an unmarked suv to a downtown pp police station. as soon as i got there, the video cameras were rolling and i was handcuffed as they went through my luggage. i personally don't think the cops are shaking the girls down but rather the establishments where the girls work.
3. the legal fees pale in comparison to the horror of those prisons and the worthlessness of your life to all involved.
4. i met a western guy at prey saar who had a long convoluted story of ngos paying girls to lie about his [CodeWord125] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord125) them. they supposedly have recanted their stories. i don't know if he is telling the truth or not.
5. i spoke with someone about a firsthand experience with a western physician who was arrested for being with a girl of youngish age. at the police station, he was shown 3 different birth certificates of the same girl. one was of her being 20y.o costing 20k, the second was her being 15yo and that cost 10k, while a third had her at 14 which was free. the guy paid and has not been back to cambo.
Dirty Benny
08-23-07, 00:23
Would just like to share a rotten experience I had last night.
Was having a nice beer and a bite in Shanghai's when all the bar girl were starting to make something stir in the undies.
Decided it was time to satisfy the urge so took a walk and hopped on a bike to look for some action. The driver was young guy and asked what I wanted. Told him young, dark, slim and no Viet chicks.
Took me by bike for about 10 mins to a street (no idea where) but stopped and there were about 30 girls hanging around with their pimps. Negotiated $30 all night for one who looked good and then went to a hotel ($20). Pimp came with us too, and insisted on payment upfront. Told him $20 now, then $10 to the girl after the business. He wasnt having it, so I reluctantly parted with the $30. Anway, got to the room and she was totally the opposite of the smiles when first saw her. Got on the bed with towel, no kissing, no touching pussy, lights off. Mr Maaars was getting a bit pissed off by this time, but thought I would go with the flow as the $30 had already gone. Went down for some DATY and she reluctantly moved her hand after some coaxing. She seemed to enjoy it so decided it was time for a BJ. Now get this. "no yam yam in Cambodia, Vietnam ok, Thailand ok, no Cambodia girl". Mmm, thinks me, this is getting bad to worse. She then just sits there watching TV while stroking my dick in what can only be described as robotic fashion. Now I'm normally a pretty tolerant guy, but that was it for me, totally non-horny by this time. She got up, got dressed and went to walk out the room as if that was it. No way, lets go see your pimp! I go to get dressed, she rushes out the door, and she's gone, nowhere to be seen by the time I have all my gear on. So. $30 down the gurgler and no fuck. Thought about trying to find the place again but after seeing Mr DB's experience, thought better of it.
Summary, if you get taken to the end of a street with lots of 18-22 yo WG's, tell him to drive on and forget it!
Le Cyrcee might not be the cleanest or have the best looking girl, but at least I'll get laid tonight for $18 all up!The place you speak of sounds like Chouk Tep. This has happened to me several times there. Although the girls look great, they turn to starfish in the room and pout to leave. It is a destination to be avoided.
I hate to tell you this maars but Cyrcee was $12 a couple of months ago (of course, if you want to tip $6, that's up to you)
Bardamu 92
08-23-07, 16:04
USAID cuts anti-[CodeWord908] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord908) funding in Cambodia
The USAID is reducing funding for anti-[CodeWord908] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord908) NGOs in Cambodia over the next 20 months from 4.5 million U.S. dollars to 2 million U.S. dollars, the Cambodia Daily said on Tuesday.
The USAID will now focus less directly on combating [CodeWord908] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord908) and more on government issues, anti-corruption, and strengthening the rule of law, the paper quoted U.S. Embassy spokesman Jeff Daigle as saying.
The decision was made in Washington, and was related to "budget constraints", Daigle said, adding that the funding cut does not indicate the USAID is unhappy with the way its funds have been used.
"The root causes of ([CodeWord908] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord908)) are poverty and poverty is linked directly to poor governance," he wrote in a recent e- mail.
"The USAID programs focusing on anti-corruption and more engagement with the judiciary will address these governance problems, and thus, to some extent, trafficking issues," he said.
The USAID has no plans to directly fund the Cambodian government to combat trafficking, he added.
The NGOs who had been set to receive the USAID funding between Jan. 2007 and Oct. 2008 include World Vision Cambodia, Catholic Relief Services, International Justice Mission, Hagar and World Hope.
Muzungufotsy
08-23-07, 16:27
Took me by bike for about 10 mins to a street (no idea where) but stopped and there were about 30 girls hanging around with their pimps. Negotiated $30 all night for one who looked good and then went to a hotel ($20). Pimp came with us too, and insisted on payment upfront. Told him $20 now, then $10 to the girl after the business. He wasnt having it, so I reluctantly parted with the $30. Anway, got to the room and she was totally the opposite of the smiles when first saw her. Got on the bed with towel, no kissing, no touching pussy, lights off. Mr Maaars was getting a bit pissed off by this time, but thought I would go with the flow as the $30 had already gone. Went down for some DATY and she reluctantly moved her hand after some coaxing. She seemed to enjoy it so decided it was time for a BJ. Now get this. "no yam yam in Cambodia, Vietnam ok, Thailand ok, no Cambodia girl". Mmm, thinks me, this is getting bad to worse. She then just sits there watching TV while stroking my dick in what can only be described as robotic fashion. Now I'm normally a pretty tolerant guy, but that was it for me, totally non-horny by this time. She got up, got dressed and went to walk out the room as if that was it. No way, lets go see your pimp! I go to get dressed, she rushes out the door, and she's gone, nowhere to be seen by the time I have all my gear on. So. $30 down the gurgler and no fuck. Thought about trying to find the place again but after seeing Mr DB's experience, thought better of it.Rule number one for every monger almost anywhere in the world
Never pay upfront.
This is cambodia this is not Philippines
You made a mistake you paid for it
Hope next time you will remember.
hate to tell you this maars but cyrcee was $12 a couple of months ago (of course,if you want to tip $6, that's up to you)$12 for the business, $3 for the room, and $3 for drinks while I check out which one is worth spending $12 on ! I believe in a full job cost analysis ;)
To answer your questions..
1. Hotel staff could have seen wrappers of videotapes in the trash. Never left tapes out. only in locked luggage. I think this is unlikely but not impossible.
2. The girl was in my hotel room when the raid occurred in the afternoon. We were on great terms. This was the third time i saw her on this trip. The only people who knew I was there with the girl in the afternoon were the front desk and my cab driver. Thats why i suspect them. The girl was taken into custody with me. We were transported together in an unmarked SUV to a downtown PP police station. As soon as i got there, the video cameras were rolling and i was handcuffed as they went through my luggage. I personally don't think the cops are shaking the girls down but rather the establishments where the girls work.Have been there. Had lots of fun. Was nice. Banged lots of girls. BUT. Reading this, I will never go back as even if you are always carefull and stay on the safe side of girls ages, this really frightens me so much that I can only think that I have been lucky. Although it is cheap I think rural Thailand is much safer!
to answer your questions..
1. hotel staff could have seen wrappers of videotapes in the trash. never left tapes out. only in locked luggage. i think this is unlikely but not impossible.
2. the girl was in my hotel room when the raid occurred in the afternoon. we were on great terms. this was the third time i saw her on this trip. the only people who knew i was there with the girl in the afternoon were the front desk and my cab driver. thats why i suspect them. the girl was taken into custody with me. we were transported together in an unmarked suv to a downtown pp police station. as soon as i got there, the video cameras were rolling and i was handcuffed as they went through my luggage. i personally don't think the cops are shaking the girls down but rather the establishments where the girls work.this is the story i heard from my driver who hangs out at the paris hotel:
a barang was arrested at the paris for making porno videos. he said that a neighbor saw the filming thru the window and called the police.
making pornos in cambodia is illegal. my advice is to close the drapes.
Rule number one for every monger almost anywhere in the world
Never pay upfront.
This is cambodia this is not Philippines
You made a mistake you paid for it
Hope next time you will remember.For Le Crycee, Sophie's, Mikado, Sharkeys, Martinis, you pay afterwards.
My understanding (but never tried) is that for the streetwalkers with the pimps, you pay the pimps before the deed.
Everyone has recommended against those types. Can't trust them, bad service, etc.
Found out that The Cambodiana wasn't girl friendly and I was feeling too lazy to go out and do any mongering, so decided that a nice massage would be a good end to the day. Gave the hotel massage a call and got sent a rather tasty 25yo masseuse. To be honest, I wasnt really looking for anything other than a good massage and the most u can usually expect is a happy ending at best from hotel services. She's doing a pretty good job of massaging my back when the hand slips down between my legs for one of those "glancing, accidental touches" that get the juices stirring. mmmm, thinks me, getting interesting. After some good massaging continues, she turns me over and takes the towel away to have me just lying there in my birthday suit and an ever-widening smile :D Instantly she goes straight for the nether regions, and my previously flacid tool takes on a somewhat larger disposition. Her back is towards me and shirt is pulling up higher at the same time as her tight pants are revealing a rather cute ass crack. This is getting too much for me so I decided to go for a stroke of her ass at which there is no complaint. By this time, she's got a firm hold of my dick and is stroking it enthusiastically with liberal quantities of kaffir lime scented oil. What the hell thinks me, lets get a look at those pert brown titties, so after a deft two-fingered unclipping of her bra, off comes her shirt to reveal them in all their glory. Up I sit, give them a long suck and she's soon lying on her back still gripping my dick. All's going well so far, without any complaints or movements towards prevention of my actions so I thought it was time to go for 3rd base. Up I get, tuck my hards under her ass and swiftly relieve her of those overly tight pants. Down for some DATY, get her nicely juiced up and the rest, as they say, is history !
After the business, offered her $20; she said she wanted $50. I just smiled and gave her another $10 at which she was happy. Overall, a perfect end to a long day at the office......... certainly made up for my previously shitty experience at what apparently is a place called Chouk Tep.
Lesson 1: life is always full of nice little surprises
Lesson 2: even if u get shafted one day, there is always something left to shaft the next :D
Dirty Benny
08-25-07, 00:06
this is the story i heard from my driver who hangs out at the paris hotel:
a barang was arrested at the paris for making porno videos. he said that a neighbor saw the filming thru the window and called the police.
making pornos in cambodia is illegal. my advice is to close the drapes.i was on the 4th floor with the drapes barely a crack open. although this is another rumour i have heard, i don't believe it. i think i was set up via the hotel or taxidriver. for everyone's info, they use the term debauchery, any sexy photo that is taken is supposedly illegal including video. this while having guards furnish hardcore lesbian, anal porno magazines to prisoners at prey saar. i still rage at this. i was supposedly imprisoned for taking nude photos in private while prison guards were distributing porn. its all about the money. there is no way to try and rationalize this into a reasonable justice system.
For Le Crycee, Sophie's, Mikado, Sharkeys, Martinis, you pay afterwards.
My understanding (but never tried) is that for the streetwalkers with the pimps, you pay the pimps before the deed.
Everyone has recommended against those types. Can't trust them, bad service, etc.
At Mikado, I've always paid up-front before going upstairs. One of the things I like about Mikado is that the girls do not get commissions on drinks so they do not push for LD's.
In five years I've never had to deal with a pimp in Phnom Penh unless you count some of the Mama-Sans at Martinis; they have never asked for money for the session, just a "tip" for the introduction.
Hi,
Anybody knows if Shark's in Phnom Penh is still working?
Traveler1234
08-30-07, 22:43
I coincidentally happen to know a 'minor shareholder' of Sharkey's and we had lunch yesterday....he says its doing great. He also mentioned Sophie's was shut down a week or so ago (??)....failure to make their regular payoff to the police captain(s).
Some years ago Sharkey's was one of the best places there. A lot of cute and young girls, I guess all over 18y old of course, and good food and good music, but I'm talking about more or less 6 years ago. So long time, maybe all things should be different now. However I would like to came there for chek directly. Maybe in a couple of months. I hope. Who can say. Every news about it's a good news, thanks a lot in advance.
Traveler1234
09-01-07, 02:58
The 'minor shareholder' is a close friend who splits his time btw stateside and KL.
I've personally never been to Cambodia so can't give you any insights on sharkey's or any other hot spot. Enjoy
This is in reference to the earlier reports on this thread about people being busted in their rooms with girls.
I have a question and would seriously like to hear peoples feedback. Every time that I have ever read about anyone getting busted with girls in Cambodia or Vietnam or Thailand it is ALWAYS when they are in their hotel room or apartment, I have NEVER read about anyone getting busted in a brothel.
Has anyone ever heard of or experienced actually being busted in a brothel or in a room provided by the brothel. I would be very interested to hear.
Member #3443
09-02-07, 09:19
Still good food, cold beer, and lots of good looking Cambodian and Vietnamese Girls. Worth going to.
AnonSailor
09-05-07, 01:47
Would just like to share a rotten experience I had last night.
Was having a nice beer and a bite in Shanghai's when all the bar girl were starting to make something stir in the undies.
Decided it was time to satisfy the urge so took a walk and hopped on a bike to look for some action. The driver was young guy and asked what I wanted. Told him young, dark, slim and no Viet chicks.
Took me by bike for about 10 mins to a street (no idea where) but stopped and there were about 30 girls hanging around with their pimps. Negotiated $30 all night for one who looked good and then went to a hotel ($20). Pimp came with us too, and insisted on payment upfront. Told him $20 now, then $10 to the girl after the business. He wasnt having it, so I reluctantly parted with the $30. Anway, got to the room and she was totally the opposite of the smiles when first saw her. Got on the bed with towel, no kissing, no touching pussy, lights off. Mr Maaars was getting a bit pissed off by this time, but thought I would go with the flow as the $30 had already gone. Went down for some DATY and she reluctantly moved her hand after some coaxing. She seemed to enjoy it so decided it was time for a BJ. Now get this. "no yam yam in Cambodia, Vietnam ok, Thailand ok, no Cambodia girl". Mmm, thinks me, this is getting bad to worse. She then just sits there watching TV while stroking my dick in what can only be described as robotic fashion. Now I'm normally a pretty tolerant guy, but that was it for me, totally non-horny by this time. She got up, got dressed and went to walk out the room as if that was it. No way, lets go see your pimp! I go to get dressed, she rushes out the door, and she's gone, nowhere to be seen by the time I have all my gear on. So. $30 down the gurgler and no fuck. Thought about trying to find the place again but after seeing Mr DB's experience, thought better of it.
Summary, if you get taken to the end of a street with lots of 18-22 yo WG's, tell him to drive on and forget it!
Le Cyrcee might not be the cleanest or have the best looking girl, but at least I'll get laid tonight for $18 all up!I think these things are going to continue to happen as more and more mongers leave Thailand in search of cheaper pussy, I also see NGOs and the Cambodian govt' going after the sex trade in order to prevent the Thai model from occurring. Something that has already been stated as an objective by both. NGOs are entrenched in Cambodia and will not be swayed to act in any reasonable fashion for some. I might add that there is a growing trend to regulate NGOs worldwide. Needed in far too many areas.
Phantomtiger2
09-08-07, 00:11
This is in reference to the earlier reports on this thread about people being busted in their rooms with girls.
I have a question and would seriously like to hear peoples feedback. Every time that I have ever read about anyone getting busted with girls in Cambodia or Vietnam or Thailand it is ALWAYS when they are in their hotel room or apartment, I have NEVER read about anyone getting busted in a brothel.
Has anyone ever heard of or experienced actually being busted in a brothel or in a room provided by the brothel. I would be very interested to hear.
In PP and most of LOS (never been to Vietnam yet), most brothels( not all) pay off cops to avoid the hassle with their customers. Once out of the brothels, you are no longer under the "protection" of the owners and all is fair game. Downside to PP brothels are the growing number of places stealing from the mongers, so if the cops dont get your money, the owners will. So up to you to be careful.
PT
Bold Focker
09-20-07, 12:13
to hear this, it is horrifying! i have been to cambodia three time and i was intending to go back in november/december. not sure now
did you upset anyone?
not wishing to upset anyone here, but some american tourist are renounded for being, loud, arrogant and have the attitude that they are better than everyone else, and they own the world! if this was the case it could have upset a rich local with contacts in the right places.
how long were you held in detention?
were you talking naked video or stills and showing them to other fellow mongers in bars?
how much did it cost you in bribes to get out?
all in all very scary stuff!
i was on the 4th floor with the drapes barely a crack open. although this is another rumour i have heard, i don't believe it. i think i was set up via the hotel or taxidriver. for everyone's info, they use the term debauchery, any sexy photo that is taken is supposedly illegal including video. this while having guards furnish hardcore lesbian, anal porno magazines to prisoners at prey saar. i still rage at this. i was supposedly imprisoned for taking nude photos in private while prison guards were distributing porn. its all about the money. there is no way to try and rationalize this into a reasonable justice system.
One should be VERY careful what is said on an open forum. There are alot of eyes out there and they are NOT all our friends. Putting out to much info can only [CodeWord140] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140) them off again and make trouble for you next time you are in town. Small world, Davi says "hello". PM me.
Posted in the wrong section the first time - sorry. I am headed to Phnom Penh in October and would like to find some attractive action - where do I go? Also, I have heard rumors that there are Russian gals there? Is this true? If so, where do I go for that? Thanks for the help.
BG
Bold Focker
09-26-07, 12:45
In PP the streets have numbers, so it does make it easy to tell a diver where you want to go.
From memory head for 104 street several bars in this area.
Sharkies is on 130 street
108 has some more, these street are not very long so just walk up nd down.
walkabout on 51 street i think it crosses street 172 not sure. this is open 24hr and has several freelancers. plus lots of free pool tables.
shangai bar is also close by 51/172 street.
one of my faverites is martini bar, a little out the way, but full of pro and semi pro freelancers at weekend especially.
Pm me if i can help again.
would recommend staying at flamingo hotel( http://www.flamingos.com.kh/index.php ) again 51/172 street $20 per night with wi-fi, air con, GF and safe .
I will be back in PP on 22nd november if anyone is in town. PM me and we can grab a beer and exchange notes!
Posted in the wrong section the first time - sorry. I am headed to Phnom Penh in October and would like to find some attractive action - where do I go? Also, I have heard rumors that there are Russian gals there? Is this true? If so, where do I go for that? Thanks for the help.
BG
walkabout is corner of 174 and 51 (Pasteur)
Flamingo is roughly corner of 172 and Pasteur (on 172)
Dirty Benny
09-28-07, 03:17
One should be VERY careful what is said on an open forum. There are alot of eyes out there and they are NOT all our friends. Putting out to much info can only [CodeWord140] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140) them off again and make trouble for you next time you are in town. Small world, Davi says "hello". PM me.Thanks for your caring comments. I agree with you and only out of concern to fellow mongers have I outed myself. I will never go back to Cambodia. Now I worry if it is too dangerous for me to go back to Thailand or Vietnam. Any input is appreciated. Now, paranoia reigns. My best to Davi. And you.
Dirty Benny
09-28-07, 03:25
To hear this, it is horrifying! I have been to Cambodia three time and I was intending to go back in November/December. Not sure now
Did you upset anyone?
Not wishing to upset anyone here, but some American tourist are renounded for being, loud, arrogant and have the attitude that they are better than everyone else, and they own the world! If this was the case it could have upset a rich local with contacts in the right places.
How long were you held in detention?
Were you talking naked video or stills and showing them to other fellow mongers in bars?
how much did it cost you in bribes to get out?
All in all very scary stuff!You can see the previous posts for details. I was held in a downtown jail in PP near paris hotel living on a dirty marble floor for 3 days with other vietnamese and cambodian prisoners. This is where they said the previous american committed suicide by shooting himself twice in the mouth. Let me tell you, it is IMPOSSIBLE to potentially get a gun from a guard in a place like this. They have a 8 inch grated screen that they pass food, water, etc through. You are never able to get to a guard.
I am sure this guy was killed by the police. As I said, they put out rumours that I committed suicide. They kept me for nearly 5 weeks after that at Prey Saar. They were going to keep me there for 10 years. I had vids and stills and showed them to no one. The cost was nearly 6 figures, and escalating daily. The charge was the nebulous term debauchery. Believe me, you are totally helpless.
You can see the previous posts for details. I was held in a downtown jail in PP near paris hotel living on a dirty marble floor for 3 days with other vietnamese and cambodian prisoners. This is where they said the previous american committed suicide by shooting himself twice in the mouth. Let me tell you, it is IMPOSSIBLE to potentially get a gun from a guard in a place like this. They have a 8 inch grated screen that they pass food, water, etc through. You are never able to get to a guard.
I am sure this guy was killed by the police. As I said, they put out rumours that I committed suicide. They kept me for nearly 5 weeks after that at Prey Saar. They were going to keep me there for 10 years. I had vids and stills and showed them to no one. The cost was nearly 6 figures, and escalating daily. The charge was the nebulous term debauchery. Believe me, you are totally helpless.Every time I read your posts, they give me goose bumps. Been thinking of going to Cambodia for some fun, but I think I will just stick to Vietnam. It's a lot safer there, or at least the cops don't bother the "Johns" as long as you don't mess around with the under-age.
Will the sims card I purchase in Bangkok work in Phnom Penh, or will I have to buy another one for Cambodia?
Thanks, SB
Prince Harry
09-29-07, 01:27
Did the bar crawl last night,all the old haunts.Soho 2 is closed,mikado had no barang but some nice little girls and good music.
Le cyrcee had many nice girls as usual and no barang.These places are good value at $15 all up or $7 take out.
Why men persist with martini and the shark where the girls all wear panties beats me.
Michael 1973
09-30-07, 14:41
Hi all,
Are there websites of girls in appartments, like they have in HK?
Try for help,
M.
Phantomtiger2
10-04-07, 00:00
Hi all,
Are there websites of girls in appartments, like they have in HK?
Try for help,
M.
If you are referring to Cambodia then there is none that I know of. The HK websites are usually the out-service/in-service call girls type.
PT
Michael 1973
10-06-07, 19:29
If you are referring to Cambodia then there is none that I know of. The HK websites are usually the out-service/in-service call girls type.
PTOk ty,
So whee is it to get a good girl for fun nite, or where you get a girl who maybe stays with you for a week and also islike travel companion and gfe? What does it cost in Cambodia?
Ty for help.
M.
Phantomtiger2
10-11-07, 00:43
Ok ty,
So whee is it to get a good girl for fun nite, or where you get a girl who maybe stays with you for a week and also islike travel companion and gfe? What does it cost in Cambodia?
Ty for help.
M.
Sorry Mm,
can't help you with this one as I've only dealt with the usual 1 nite stand gals and nothing longer than that. Perhaps some of the mongers who have stayed/lived in Cambo for longer periods can answer this for you.
PT
Member #3443
10-12-07, 06:17
For the girl I kept for 3 weeks, I gave her $100 per week and she was happy about it. Of course if we went out to eat and other things, I covered that also. But most of the time she brought me dinner to the room every night.
Are there websites of girls in appartments, like they have in HK?M.Nothing like sex 161 in Cambodia.
GFE? Stay with you for a week? You can find that most anywhere in the world including Cambodia, it mostly depends on you. But your chances increase exponentially if you can speak a few dozen khmer words and phrases. Then you can do your 'shopping' in department stores, markets, cafes etc etc instead of having to stick to the bar scene all the time. Not to mention the bargaining leverage it gives you, that is if you have to pay at all. Check out this website for some simple khmer phrases and greetings.
http://www.cambodia.cc/learnkhmer/
Do some homework, it really pays off.
Have a good time
QH
Prince Harry
10-14-07, 04:00
The GFE is always available but the bottom line will always be the money offered.
At this time of year the girls will usually take security over playing the limited field,but I have noticed barang numbers picking up again so hurry,hurry,hurry.
It's not what you pay,it's what you save!
I am here now and having a great time. Walkabout is okay, but Golden Vine is a good one as well. Shanghai has lots of great looking gals that are pretty open if you aren't hideously ugly. If you have any other recommends, let me know. I am planning to leave on the 22nd, so we will cross paths in the air. Thanks for the assistance. I will check back if you have further options. I am looking for an amazingly beautiful gal, so if you know where to look, let me know. Lots of pretty and cute, but nothing has totally knocked me off my feet.
How long is the visa you get on arrival at PP national airport? I'm need 16 days. I'm american if that matters.
From what I remember, a visa is good for 30 days. At least I hope so, I'm going there for three weeks in November.
Seriously dude, 10 seconds of Google could have sorted this out for you - ie, quicker than typing the question!!
They'll give you 30 days for $20. Nationality is afaik irrelevant - certainly those numbers are correct for Americans (I've come through the airport with Americans before).
Bring a recent passport photo and US cash to pay the fee. Make sure your cash is in very good condition (not even tiny little tears or marks).
You can download the application form here so you are all ready to go when you get off the plane: http://www.mot.gov.kh/download/visa_app_form.zip
How long is the visa you get on arrival at PP national airport? I'm need 16 days. I'm american if that matters.
seriously dude, 10 seconds of google could have sorted this out for you - ie, quicker than typing the question!!
seriously i'm the laziest person in the world. the whole reseon i'm going to cambodia is because i'm to lazy to lift my own dick to go [CodeWord134] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord134). i hope some girl there will do it for me for a fee.
i thought i remembered there was a 15 day and a 30 day but maybe that was lao.
thanks for your help.
lol
nope - only $20 and 30 days - but I think you can buy another 30 day extension "once"- anybody know for sure??
Tourist Visas: Only one extension possible for 30 Day.
Business Visa: (By now) Many extensions up to one year per application.
Sure
This subject should be in here, not in the photo section.
I've been going to Martini since 2000. Never seen 12 year olds.
If a girl looks like if she's 15, she's probably 14, 15 or 16. I think it's bogus (or may I say that they are deluding themselves) for people to say that Asians look younger than they are. OK, I'm Asian, but I think I can judge all nationalities.
I've seen numerous 15 year olds several years ago. But a few years ago, I heard that the guard was told not to let the really young girls in. Last couple of years, I've only seen a few that "looked" 16 or 17.
Cheap Meat
10-21-07, 00:04
Just finished my trip to Cambodia. But I have one big question for everyone who's been there. How do you deal with the g*d-damned moto-taxi guys? They were like a pack of wild hyennas. At every opportunity they would try to rip me off. If you don't negotiate beforehand, at the end of the trip they will ask for absurd amounts. I had a bunch of them profess to me that they were my 'friend' and then proceeded to con me out of all the money that they could. It was unbelievable. One guy even threatened to sue me if I didn't give him $25 for his 'services'. I should have punched the fucker. One guy demanded $7 for a trip to the airport. He refused the $2 I offered. I finally just threw the damn money on the ground and walked away.
I went to a brothel in Phnom Penh and they wanted $35 LT for Vietnamese girls. Is this a ripoff or something? I know that Khmer girls are cheap ($10 LT, $5 ST), but how much do you pay for Vietnamese girls?
Phantomtiger2
10-22-07, 00:46
Just finished my trip to Cambodia. But I have one big question for everyone who's been there. How do you deal with the g*d-damned moto-taxi guys? They were like a pack of wild hyennas. At every opportunity they would try to rip me off. If you don't negotiate beforehand, at the end of the trip they will ask for absurd amounts. I had a bunch of them profess to me that they were my 'friend' and then proceeded to con me out of all the money that they could. It was unbelievable. One guy even threatened to sue me if I didn't give him $25 for his 'services'. I should have punched the fucker. One guy demanded $7 for a trip to the airport. He refused the $2 I offered. I finally just threw the damn money on the ground and walked away.
I went to a brothel in Phnom Penh and they wanted $35 LT for Vietnamese girls. Is this a ripoff or something? I know that Khmer girls are cheap ($10 LT, $5 ST), but how much do you pay for Vietnamese girls?
In general, all the above indicated they knew you as a newbie and wanted as much from you as possible. No matter how much you felt being ripped off, you are in their country and surrounded by their people so NEVER get angry or fight with them( trust me as you will lose ). Also giving in and throwing $7 on the ground is also the wrong approach. A simple negotiation,giving say about half of what you want and he wants and then walk away also works as he knows he is already ahead of the game. Reading back just several months of post before arriving will save you lots of grief in the future.
Anyway, bottom line is stay safe and relax to have fun.
PT
Jaimito Cartero
10-22-07, 14:56
About 60% of all my problems when traveling happen with Taxi's. If you know there will be a problem, then set a price before you get in. $7 is the "standard" price at the airport, but you shouldn't pay it going there. You should, however, negotiate before you get in. Getting mad only makes you look foolish.
When I came out of Sharky's last night, the tuk-tuk wanted $5 to take me and my chica. I laughed, and told him $1. He stayed firm on his price. I told him we'd walk to the main street and get one there. I made a final offer of $2, and then started walking. They caved, and off we went.
You'll never get the local price, but you can, at a minimum not be a fool.
Cheap Meat
10-23-07, 01:39
About 60% of all my problems when traveling happen with Taxi's. If you know there will be a problem, then set a price before you get in. $7 is the "standard" price at the airport, but you shouldn't pay it going there. You should, however, negotiate before you get in. Getting mad only makes you look foolish.
When I came out of Sharky's last night, the tuk-tuk wanted $5 to take me and my chica. I laughed, and told him $1. He stayed firm on his price. I told him we'd walk to the main street and get one there. I made a final offer of $2, and then started walking. They caved, and off we went.
You'll never get the local price, but you can, at a minimum not be a fool. I was using a moto-taxi, not a car taxi to the airport. $7 is absolutely absurd. 2, 000 riel is the correct price. I pay 20 baht (2, 000 riel) in Thailand for the same thing. Why can't I get the same service for the same price as in Thailand? I found that I was spending about $100 a day in Cambodia. A big part of the reason why I was spending so much was because of the taxi assholes. I also got ripped off for the Vietnamese girls. $40-$50 LT.
Fast Eddie 48
10-23-07, 05:32
Just finished my trip to Cambodia. But I have one big question for everyone who's been there. How do you deal with the g*d-damned moto-taxi guys? They were like a pack of wild hyennas. At every opportunity they would try to rip me off. If you don't negotiate beforehand, at the end of the trip they will ask for absurd amounts. I had a bunch of them profess to me that they were my 'friend' and then proceeded to con me out of all the money that they could. It was unbelievable. One guy even threatened to sue me if I didn't give him $25 for his 'services'. I should have punched the fucker. One guy demanded $7 for a trip to the airport. He refused the $2 I offered. I finally just threw the damn money on the ground and walked away.
I went to a brothel in Phnom Penh and they wanted $35 LT for Vietnamese girls. Is this a ripoff or something? I know that Khmer girls are cheap ($10 LT, $5 ST), but how much do you pay for Vietnamese girls?To Cheap Meat,
If you hire a moto driver for the whole day cost is $ 5.00 2 yr ago some will ask for as much as 8 a day , if other know that you already have a driver they will leave you alone .
I think cost for the girl depend on quality of the girl and the place not the race , I prefer viet more than Khmer I like white meat if you pay $ 35 usd she better be very hot , I have paid $5 for a nice viet girl st but no bj lowest I ever got for all nighter is $ 15 but that is 2 yr ago I think price is up .
Fast eddie 48
seriously i'm the laziest person in the world. the whole reseon i'm going to cambodia is because i'm to lazy to lift my own dick to go [CodeWord134] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord134). i hope some girl there will do it for me for a fee.
hey - having done more than my own share of research before every trip i've ever taken, i'm a big fan of telling people to rtff. but this one really made me laugh!
$ 10 for all night is still possible if you take action just once or twice or let her sleep after all action.
You take her on a (more or less) regular basis.
You do other things with her than just p4p.
She likes you (DOES happen. Rarely.).
Prince Harry
10-23-07, 11:29
Hey cheap meat,settle down.
You are in their country and should show some respect even to motos and tuk tuks,most of them have a family to feed.
The set taxi fare from the airport is $7,you certainly won't get a tuk tuk to the airport for two bucks.And if they see you overpaying the girls of course they want you to pay them more-makes sense to me.
Why don't you spend some time learning a few words of the language like how much and a few numbers-it saves a lot of hassle.
Walk a mile in someone elses shoes bro.
The motorbike to and from the airport is 2$, the tuk tuk is three. The taxi seven. You tell the guy how much you want to pay and if he doesn't like it take another. The same with the pussy. Vietnamese girls are aplenty at sharky's and martini's for 20 or 30 a night. Make your choice, offer the right amount, hold your ground get laid instead of fucked. Cannot see how you can get ripped off if you do this. Getting angry can be very dangerous. And no I gave her 50$ tip she was well worth it bs!
Romeo Blue
10-24-07, 15:32
If you pay the amount of money they want, then dont complain afterwards.
Taxiprices and Girls price is negotiating everwhere.
You also pay in Thailand a price which is negotiate.
So where is actually your problem man?
As long as they dont rob your money it is ok
Cheap Meat
10-26-07, 03:12
So do you think most brothel Viet girls would be satisfied with $15 LT?
Kenny Rogers
10-28-07, 22:24
I was using a moto-taxi, not a car taxi to the airport. $7 is absolutely absurd. 2, 000 riel is the correct price. I pay 20 baht (2, 000 riel) in Thailand for the same thing. Why can't I get the same service for the same price as in Thailand? I found that I was spending about $100 a day in Cambodia. A big part of the reason why I was spending so much was because of the taxi assholes. I also got ripped off for the Vietnamese girls. $40-$50 LT.The problem with Thai Taxi drivers is just that there are too many stupid farang to encourage them. You get out from some action b/j bar (or anxious to bang the chick you took out) and they'll charge "only 2000 Baht" to your hotel around the corner. Just take another one.
Other than that, BKK's traffic is chaotic - at times you'll have to try half a dozen taxis if you want to go during the rush hour from Sukhumvit to a place accross the river.
In Cambodia the people are really poor and insofar it is understandable that there's a bit of envy twoards the tourists who are unbelievable wealthy according to their standards. Get a good Tuk-Tuk driver for the whole night. 10$ will be OK, and you don't have any further problems. Avoid showing off wallet, credit cards, expensive watches etc. $25 in the pocket (and a fifty inside my inside-zippered belt) always worked good for me.
Avoid running around with an expensive mobile, especilaly in Cambodia they're stolen often. If you REALLY need to have one with you, take an old one.
Fast Eddie 48
10-29-07, 06:58
The motorbike to and from the airport is 2$, the tuk tuk is three. The taxi seven. You tell the guy how much you want to pay and if he doesn't like it take another. The same with the pussy. Vietnamese girls are aplenty at sharky's and martini's for 20 or 30 a night. Make your choice, offer the right amount, hold your ground get laid instead of fucked. Cannot see how you can get ripped off if you do this. Getting angry can be very dangerous. And no I gave her 50$ tip she was well worth it bs!Islandboy 54,
I think taxi need to pay a fee to the airport on my last trip I share a cab with a single guy from AUS is a good way to make friend and we meet for drink and share mongering info later that night on return trip to airport you should get a car for $ 4 usd motobike is not good if you have baggage.
Fast eddie 48
speaking of Thai taxi drivers - I was picked up at a place in Thailand and driven to the bus terminal. The "normal" fare is 30B (and I know it) he wanted 80 - we sort of got into an argument about it (I gave him 50 (which I didn't have to do - should have given the robbing bastard the 30) and he STILL was cursing the "farang key nieuw' (cheap ass farang) - the argument was in Thai. I can't DO that in Cambodia
Just finished my trip to Cambodia. But I have one big question for everyone who's been there. How do you deal with the g*d-damned moto-taxi guys? They were like a pack of wild hyennas. At every opportunity they would try to rip me off. If you don't negotiate beforehand, at the end of the trip they will ask for absurd amounts. I had a bunch of them profess to me that they were my 'friend' and then proceeded to con me out of all the money that they could. It was unbelievable. One guy even threatened to sue me if I didn't give him $25 for his 'services'. I should have punched the fucker. One guy demanded $7 for a trip to the airport. He refused the $2 I offered. I finally just threw the damn money on the ground and walked away.
I went to a brothel in Phnom Penh and they wanted $35 LT for Vietnamese girls. Is this a ripoff or something? I know that Khmer girls are cheap ($10 LT, $5 ST), but how much do you pay for Vietnamese girls?
I never have a problem with the motos because I always name my price before I get on, for short or medium trips during the day, 2000 rial; at night $1. To the airport during the day or Martini's at night from downtown: $2.
The best looking Viet girls in brothels are good earners for their keepers, often servicing 5 or 6 customers a night. If you want to take a good earner out of service for a night, you have to compensate accordingly.
Hello fellow punters.
Will be relaxing and chilling in Thailand for about 3 weeks (been to Thailand a number of times.). As I have seen and done just about everything I wanted to do in LOS, I'm thinking about taking some time out and head over to Cambodia for maybe 4-5 days. Given the short time I have to spend in Cambo, I figure just check out Koh Kong for 2 days and Snooky for 3day (just enuf to get a taste of Cambodia, and maybe head to SR and PP next time around).
I just need some up-to-date info.
1. What's the Hat Lek/Koh Kong border like these days. I've read that the Cambo immigration guys demand 1200 baht for a tourist visa. I've also read that some people don't go for the corrupt bullcrap and stand firm on the $20US, but receive major hassle from the officials, not to mention, denying access altogether. While there are others who slip a $20 US note plus a $5 note or a 100-baht note (tea money) inside the passport, which does the trick. I'm leaning towards the last option.
Can anyone tell me what is his most recent Koh Kong border-crossing ordeal like? And any recommended "places" in KK?
2. As I'm coming from Thailand, I will be carrying US $$ and Thai baht. I won't have a lot of small USD notes, but I will have a bit of everything in Thai. Can I use Thai baht for most things (if not everything) in both KK and Snooky (restaurants, hotels, transportation, and of course farm houses)?
3. Just read a report on this site that a fellow had a security problem with his stuff in the Flamago Hotel in PP. Can anyone recommend any guesthouse in KK and Snooky that have own safes or trustworthy safekeeping in the frontdesk/reception?
Thanks in advance for any advice.
Tonedog
I gave them a 20 plus 5 ones. Easier than fighting it
KK crossing - the "bad" part is getting into town - most seem to think that $5 is what you should spend. I walked to the casino and got one for $2
Use Baht in KK but $$ in snooky - they didn't take Baht in snooky Use $$ all over Cambodia (get small change in riel, though - which is worthless anywhere other than Cambodia)
Go see "Talesofasia.com" for a few trip reports on transport from KK-Snooky or PP (and tell me if the bridges are open yet if you go overland)
Personally, I use a motion sensitive alarm for my bag and put it in the closet. Unless I'm "drugged out" the 115db alarm will wake up almost ANYONE and it wont stop until either the battery runs down or it get shut off. Most computer stores have them
Phantomtiger2
12-01-07, 00:15
Hello fellow punters.
Will be relaxing and chilling in Thailand for about 3 weeks (been to Thailand a number of times.). As I have seen and done just about everything I wanted to do in LOS, I'm thinking about taking some time out and head over to Cambodia for maybe 4-5 days. Given the short time I have to spend in Cambo, I figure just check out Koh Kong for 2 days and Snooky for 3day (just enuf to get a taste of Cambodia, and maybe head to SR and PP next time around).
I just need some up-to-date info.
1. What's the Hat Lek/Koh Kong border like these days. I've read that the Cambo immigration guys demand 1200 baht for a tourist visa. I've also read that some people don't go for the corrupt bullcrap and stand firm on the $20US, but receive major hassle from the officials, not to mention, denying access altogether. While there are others who slip a $20 US note plus a $5 note or a 100-baht note (tea money) inside the passport, which does the trick. I'm leaning towards the last option.
Can anyone tell me what is his most recent Koh Kong border-crossing ordeal like? And any recommended "places" in KK?
2. As I'm coming from Thailand, I will be carrying US $$ and Thai baht. I won't have a lot of small USD notes, but I will have a bit of everything in Thai. Can I use Thai baht for most things (if not everything) in both KK and Snooky (restaurants, hotels, transportation, and of course farm houses)?
.
Tonedog
Since you are already in LOS for several weeks before heading to Cambo, its best to get the Cambo visa in LOS BEFORE you arrive at any Cambo border. This is the only way for a smooth entry without any hassle and overcharge (other than arriving by air at any Cambo airport).
No real recommendations in KK for gals as the main action is at the chicken farm just outside of town (but read back on some of my reports and other reports by Pirate on the rip off houses in KK).
As reported below by Dinghy, best to use $US or exchange to Cambo riels. Bahts are only accepted in KK, but bahts are easily exchanged almost anywhere you are likely to visit.
enjoy your trip.
PT
Dinghy and Phantom.
Thanks for the info.
I wanted to get the Cambo visa in BKK, but the day I arrive in Bangkok, I'll be heading straight to Pattaya, where I will be for about 10 days before I head to KK and Snooky. I will be going to Bangkok on my way back from Cambo, as my flight departs out of BKK. So, not convenient for me to head into Bangkok for a day or 2 from Pattaya just to get a visa. The cost of transportation alone is more than the "tea" money I have to fork out at the KK border.
As to what currency to use. Because I will be in Thailand first, where withdrawing and exchanging money is easy, convenient, and has minimal service charge, the bulk of my cash will already be exchanged into baht. And the little US$$ I have left will consist mainly of larger bills (very little $1-notes, which are great for motos and tipping the sweeties), so if baht is accepted in Snooky as well, then I won't have any worries. That's all.
I wish I had more time to explore Cambo, but I originally did not plan to go there. Just a last minute thing. So I figured I'll just get my ahmmm. "feet" wet by going to KK and Snooky. Next time, I'll have more time and do a more thorough recon. LOL
Will give report (s) upon returning home.
Happy hunting
In Thailand it seems the vast majority of P4P ladies carry an ID card showing their age. The card has their photo and DOB so one can tell how old she is. I am told in LOS the year is now 2550 on their calendar, so a girl born in 2525 would be about 25. Recently I took two ladies who looked about 15 and 18, but were actually 22 and 26.
How does Penom Penh compare for IDing the meat? I understand they are generally smaller and younger there. Do they follow the same calendar as Thais?
So, not convenient for me to head into Bangkok for a day or 2 from Pattaya just to get a visa. The cost of transportation alone is more than the "tea" money I have to fork out at the KK border.
Just do it while you are in Pattaya. Last time I was there I counted three hundred and sixty two thousand eight hundred and nine travel agents that offer just such a service. Takes 2 or 3 days as far as I remember.
As to what currency to use <snip> if baht is accepted in Snooky as well, then I won't have any worries. That's all.
I think someone already said, Snooky isn't somewhere you can spend baht. That is true. You'll need/want dollars. The way I usually handle it is to order $100 in 1s and up to $200 in 5s and that is my playing around money. The rest I take in 100's.
Do remember to make sure all your notes are in perfect condition - ie, almost mint. Ideally not even crushed, and certainly not marked or, carrying even the smallest tear.
Roughstuff
12-01-07, 14:57
I think someone already said, Snooky isn't somewhere you can spend baht. That is true. You'll need/want dollars. The way I usually handle it is to order $100 in 1s and up to $200 in 5s and that is my playing around money. The rest I take in 100's.With an eye towards theft, is it practical/advisable to withdraw cash from an ATM on a daily basis, rather than carrying all of your cash for the trip?
With an eye towards theft, is it practical/advisable to withdraw cash from an ATM on a daily basis, rather than carrying all of your cash for the trip?Absolutely better to use ATM,s , they are everywhere now , plus you get a better exchange rate than using money changers .
Is this hotel girl friendly, I am planning on staying their on my next trip to PP I would appreciate my fellow mongers views
As a tourist, can you buy Prepaid SIMs in Cambodia for cash, i.e. without a local bank account or local address?
What are the denominations?
How much is a local call to a mobile?
Where are the SIM sold?
Reason for asking is, that in some countries in Europe, one needs a bank account and an address, in order to purchase the first one, i.e. the phone number. (Before someone flames me, I do know that there are workarounds, but they are bothersome)
CoolDudecoco
01-06-08, 01:56
Does anybody know if they rent motor bikes in Sihanouk ville, when I was there last they did not?
Member #3443
01-06-08, 05:14
You will need a local to buy the SIM Chip for you as the SIM Chip will be put in their name using their national ID. If you are a perm resident, then you can get one also. I had my driver buy mine for me. They cost the typical $20. Some Thai SIM Chips work in PP.
You will need a local to buy the SIM Chip for you as the SIM Chip will be put in their name using their national ID. If you are a perm resident, then you can get one also. I had my driver buy mine for me. They cost the typical $20. Some Thai SIM Chips work in PP.
A while back I used the following procedure with no difficulty at all:
1) Check into hotel
2) Get hotel to write you a letter on hotel letterhead signed by the manager:
To whom it may concern,
Mr A Monger with <country adjective> passport number <number> has been resident in <hotel name> since <today's date>.
Yours sincerely,
xxx
Manager
3) Take photocopy of front/back page of passport (depending on where you are from - the page with your ugly mug staring back at you) to a mobile vendor along with the letter.
Voila - SIM. I seem to recall it was $10, but I couldn't swear to it.
If the above fails at a smaller vendor, go to the main network offices in town. I did mine there, nice and air con, and, all done in about 5 mins.
Djfromsweden
01-15-08, 10:27
I was in Phnom Penh, and I let a motorcycletaxi buy the sim card for me. He drove me to Camshin office (that is the name of one of the biggest phonecompanies in Cambodia)
He bought the simcard for me in his name. It costed 7 Dollars. I loaded it for 5 dollars, and I gave him a tip of 2 Dollars, and 1 Dollar for the ride.
All in all 15 Dollars.
The next day he went to the office, and closed the simcard. Since he is the official owner, he has the right to do so. He transfered my balance to his other account.
So I lost 15 Dollars.
Many places nowadays sell simcards also to tourist, but you need to bring your passport,and need to know the address to your hotel. (bring a businesscard)
So be careful dudes!
Phantomtiger2
01-16-08, 00:40
I was in Phnom Penh, and I let a motorcycletaxi buy the sim card for me. He drove me to Camshin office (that is the name of one of the biggest phonecompanies in Cambodia)
He bought the simcard for me in his name. It costed 7 Dollars. I loaded it for 5 dollars, and I gave him a tip of 2 Dollars, and 1 Dollar for the ride.
All in all 15 Dollars.
The next day he went to the office, and closed the simcard. Since he is the official owner, he has the right to do so. He transfered my balance to his other account.
So I lost 15 Dollars.
Many places nowadays sell simcards also to tourist, but you need to bring your passport,and need to know the address to your hotel. (bring a businesscard)
So be careful dudes!
Very good advice for any novice not only in Cambo but for any country. I've only done something like this once (only because I was too tired and lazy as I was with some gal at the time) and let a hotel receptionist buy for me. 1) I got to know the guy (a bit) as I stayed there awhile and 2) harder to cheat me as I know where he works and who his boss is. So bottom line is never to fully trust anyone you don't really know with your money. And even if you think you can trust them, never in large sums f money you will cry over.
PT
If this was just some random motodup guy that you managed to flag down, then clearly we can see the exposure. I have always used someone at a guesthouse or a bar that I frequented, just so if something stupid happens, I have some recourse.
Thank goodness it was an inexpensive lesson.
For those of you who are thinking of picking up a Thai tourist visa here at the embassy in PP, they now require a copy of a hotel reservation in Thailand, and a copy of your flights in and out of the country. You won't be able to apply for the visa if you don't have these documents. Also the visa fee is $35usd. Typical useless Thai beaurocracy IMHO!
Prince Harry
01-19-08, 23:07
In Thailand it seems the vast majority of P4P ladies carry an ID card showing their age. The card has their photo and DOB so one can tell how old she is. I am told in LOS the year is now 2550 on their calendar, so a girl born in 2525 would be about 25. Recently I took two ladies who looked about 15 and 18, but were actually 22 and 26.
How does Penom Penh compare for IDing the meat? I understand they are generally smaller and younger there. Do they follow the same calendar as Thais?I don't like your phrase "ID ing the meat", I would rather people like you stayed away from Cambodia and the advice that I will give you may keep you away, hopefully.
Cambodians rarely carry ID because Cambodians don't give a shit about any laws. Vietnamese often have no ID as seem to freely cross the border without any. Therefore some care is required as the Cambodians always look young.
i don't like your phrase "id ing the meat", i would rather people like you stayed away from cambodia and the advice that i will give you may keep you away, hopefully.
cambodians rarely carry id because cambodians don't give a shit about any laws. vietnamese often have no id as seem to freely cross the border without any. therefore some care is required as the cambodians always look young.that is one of a number of reasons keeping me away from cambodia now.
i like pretty young women, but want to be sure i am not taking an ****
girl or breaking any laws.
Crazygman99
01-23-08, 05:54
So I have a few extra days left in my trip coming up in March and was thinking of making a trip from Bangkok to Phnom Penh then down to Sihanoukville. I only have 3 nights before I need to be back in Bangkok, there is a flight that will get me into PP at 4:25PM, will I be able to hire a taxi to take me straight to Sihanoukville or will I need to stay the night in PP? How much do you think a taxi will cost for just 1 person?
Where is the best place to stay once in Sihanoukville? I want something half decent with A/C and Free in room internet but I also want to be clsoe to the nightlife.
Thanks for any advice!
Punk Boulala
01-23-08, 10:55
With only three days, you should just stay in PP. If you do make it down to Sihanoukville, stay at the Golden Sands. It's near the beach and costs about $22. It has nice rooms, Internet, and a great swimming pool. It should only cost $1 (.50 if you're cheap) to get to the action.
Member #3443
01-23-08, 16:16
And if they had IDs, you can't be sure of the actual age. My girl's ID says she is 4 years older than she really is. She got it as a teenager when she was 14 or 15 in order to work at at the Central Market.
Should I book my flight and hotel together? Or book my hotel when I get there? How should I carry my money when in Cambo? Is 2 thousand USD too little or too much to bring, for fun and food, apart from housing? I'm only staying about 8 days.
What size bills should I take, ones, fives, tens, etc? Do many blacks visit there or will I standout like a thumb?
Yeadon,
Have you ever travelled in SE Asia before? US $2000 for eight days? Do you want to buy the country? Why don't you take the time to read the forum to work out how much cash you need.
Personally, $100 is plenty for lodgings (Clean, a/c, central etc), food, booze, sight seeing, and girls (unless you want to take 3 girls LT every night).
Read the posts and then rethink your budget.
Have fun
Member #2041
01-25-08, 19:31
Should I book my flight and hotel together? Or book my hotel when I get there? How should I carry my money when in Cambo? Is 2 thousand USD too little or too much to bring, for fun and food, apart from housing? I'm only staying about 8 days.
What size bills should I take, ones, fives, tens, etc? Do many blacks visit there or will I standout like a thumb?
You will be very hard pressed to spend more than $100/day beyond your hotel. I couldn't even spend that much in Siem Reap, and that included $20/day for Angkor Wat entrance. Bring small U.S. bills. I found that a $100 was almost impossible to change except at a bank. Nothing larger than 20s will be easy to spend. I can't help with regard to how you'll feel as a lone black man, there will not be too many others there.
Crazygman99
01-26-08, 07:18
Thanks Punk Boulala,
I really want to check out the beach town and see what it is like, but only have 3 days. Do you think I will be able to hire a taxi to take me from PP at 5:00PM and if so how much and how long? Is flying into PP the fasyest way to go from Bangkok?
Thanks,
Gman
Yeadon,
Have you ever travelled in SE Asia before? US $2000 for eight days? Do you want to buy the country? Why don't you take the time to read the forum to work out how much cash you need.
Personally, $100 is plenty for lodgings (Clean, a/c, central etc), food, booze, sight seeing, and girls (unless you want to take 3 girls LT every night).
Read the posts and then rethink your budget.
Have funThanks for the replies! No I've never been to SE Asia before. I have read the forum, and continue to read the fourm. Just have not seen any post on the day to day costs of a visit to Cambo. Hundred dollars a day sounds good!
How are the safes in PP? Can I really trust my money and maybe laptop, mp3 player to them?
On the hotel rooms I thought instead of being locked into a place, I might not like. It would be better to rent a room for a couple of days to see if I like the place.
Thanks for the replies! No I've never been to SE Asia before. I have read the forum, and continue to read the fourm. Just have not seen any post on the day to day costs of a visit to Cambo. Hundred dollars a day sounds good!
How are the safes in PP? Can I really trust my money and maybe laptop, mp3 player to them?
On the hotel rooms I thought instead of being locked into a place, I might not like. It would be better to rent a room for a couple of days to see if I like the place.
It is vVERY hard to find hotels in cambodia with safes, either in room or in lobby. Unless you stay in expensive hotel.
TallTales007
01-27-08, 10:05
I would not worry too much about safes. I stayed in a good guest house in PP and there was no need for a safe. At night after I returned from a session down near the Walkabout, there were armed guards at the GH with the doors locked!
I got my visa flying in to PP from BK. No problems. I would recommend flying rather than overland. Accomodation and food is cheap. Don't over budget.
Both New York and Flaimigos have in room safes now. It used to be a problem but not so anymore. Both NY and Flamingos have half decent wifi.
Redfield10
01-28-08, 06:45
Does a anyone know if California II hotel has safes?
Thanks
Does a anyone know if California II hotel has safes?
Thanks
They do not have in room safes but they do have a large safe in the office and will store valuables in it for you. The only problem with this is that you can only get access during business hours, roughly 7:30am to about 10:30pm.
Redfield10
01-29-08, 04:57
I'll be flying Bangkok Airways from BKK to Siem Reap...does anyone know if I still need to get a Cambodian visa? I read back in some Dec. posts that a Thai visa suffices..(I'm from the USA).
I've also ready I can get one at Bangkok Airways secdtion...if I can get one at Bangkok Airways...do I get it in BKK at Bangkok Airways before I fly to SReap or after I arrive in Cambo ?
Thanks.
Member #3443
01-29-08, 10:29
As a US Citizen you can get "Visa on Arrival" at either Siem Reap or PP Airport. Thai visa for a US citizen does not work in Cambodia.
There has been discussion about a common visa between Thailand and Cambodia but I don't think it is fact yet. I also understand it has been on and off the agenda for years without action.
I usually use Visa on arrival but last time I used the e-visa for the first time - way to go! It is so much easier. Especially if you are entering via Poipet or the other land crossings where the visa scams are a pain in the arse.
We have always used Bangkok airways to fly b/k to p/p but we have just booked for March on Asia Airways half the price of Bangkok Airways and better times for us anyway.
Has anybody used them are they ok.
Jazzy Daddy
02-08-08, 18:56
We have always used Bangkok airways to fly b/k to p/p but we have just booked for March on Asia Airways half the price of Bangkok Airways and better times for us anyway.
Has anybody used them are they ok.
Asia Air is a great airlines I used them last year between AC BKK and PP. Good service and friendly staff. I'm using them again at the beg. of March for the same route. Have fun...
Asia Air is a great airlines I used them last year between AC BKK and PP. Good service and friendly staff. I'm using them again at the beg. of March for the same route. Have fun...
Am I missing something guys or you are talking about Air Asia?
http://www.airasia.com/
Couldn't locate any Asia Air.
Thanks
Jazzy Daddy
02-09-08, 00:14
sorry it's airasia.com
Am I missing something guys or you are talking about Air Asia?
http://www.airasia.com/
Couldn't locate any Asia Air.
Thanks
Phantomtiger2
02-09-08, 02:10
sorry it's airasia.com
airasia was ok but not great when I used them the last 2 times. Ok if you are avg. asian height or a midget, anyone over 6 ft will be sitting with their knees crunch up tight against the seat.--IMO
PT
I have used Airasia several times and find the seat distance no worse than with British Airways. A trick with AirAsia is to get Express Boarding which virtually guarentee you an emergency exit or front seat. Just a word of causion when using Express Boarding in BKK and they are off the airbridges you should go to the front of the bus and stand next to the driver with Express Boarding otherwise it will mean jack shit to you. With Airasia it is every man for himself, get there first any you will be ok.
Jazzy Daddy
02-09-08, 06:08
Well I'm 6ft 179 lbs and for short flights it's fine.
airasia was ok but not great when I used them the last 2 times. Ok if you are avg. asian height or a midget, anyone over 6 ft will be sitting with their knees crunch up tight against the seat.--IMO
PT
Phantomtiger2
02-16-08, 05:03
Well I'm 6ft 179 lbs and for short flights it's fine.
Yeah, I'm about your height but my legs are slightly longer in proportion to my body so even short flights aboard this airline is a bit of a pain. My knees tend to push up very tight against the seat in front and if the guy in front decides to recline--forget it. Lucky, most flights i've taken not fully book so I can still change seats, otherwise, get the parachute--
PT
Jaimito Cartero
02-16-08, 06:39
I took an Air Asia flight soon after they opened this route. I think at the time the flights were $4-$10 each way, plus taxes. I think $60 RT all in. I've never really had a bad flight on Air Asia. I haven't flown since they've done the Express Pass thing, but always felt they did a pretty good job. Obviously if you can fly on a 1/2 full plane like I usually got, an empty seat next to you was guaranteed.
Yeah, I'm about your height but my legs are slightly longer in proportion to my body so even short flights aboard this airline is a bit of a pain. My knees tend to push up very tight against the seat in front and if the guy in front decides to recline--forget it. Lucky, most flights i've taken not fully book so I can still change seats, otherwise, get the parachute--
PT
No problem on AirAsia; the seats only recline one notch.
Thanks for the feedback, fortunately I have booked express boarding so will try and get exit seat, thanks for the tip about standing at front of bus by the driver, this site is great for tips like that from fellow mongers which make your travels so much better
Thanks again guys,
We will be in pp most of March so if anybody wants to meet up for a drink let us know.
In the last part of june I have a couple of weeks to go on a holyday. I need som advice. I want to:
1. Find nice girls not too expensive (I prefer them slim).
2. Find a place where you can spend som days and experience/see new things every day (it doesen't matter what).
3. A climate not too hot and humide.
4. In general not to spend too much money.
Please help me!
To all the veterans out there, i will have one and a half week to spends in Cambodia at first week of August. I will start from VN, (a) should i take a bus from VN to PP then bus or boat to Siem Reap? then fly back to HCM City? Any issued about one way ticket from Cambo to VN? What about Cambo Visa at the border? (b) should i fly to PP then take bus or boat to SR? and same way back to PP? and fly back to HCM City? I'm Viet guy, lives in State and never been in Cambodia before, but always dreams of Angkor Temples, please help me out. Thanks a lots, and play safe.
I haven't done the VN-Cambo trip so I can't tell you much about the bus service. PP-SR is about 5 hours by bus. One friend said that the PP-VN trip was something they would never do again - they say to fly is the only way. make sure you have the visa if you go overland. I dunno about the crossing VN-Cambo but Thai-Cambo crossing is reported to be a bunch of crooks
You are picking the wettest season to go.
Southbound69
06-21-08, 02:28
To all the veterans out there, i will have one and a half week to spends in Cambodia at first week of August. I will start from VN, (a) should i take a bus from VN to PP then bus or boat to Siem Reap? then fly back to HCM City? Any issued about one way ticket from Cambo to VN? What about Cambo Visa at the border? (b) should i fly to PP then take bus or boat to SR? and same way back to PP? and fly back to HCM City? I'm Viet guy, lives in State and never been in Cambodia before, but always dreams of Angkor Temples, please help me out. Thanks a lots, and play safe.Hey there, I just did PNH to Saigon and the return trip by bus in March. I also did the PNH to Siem Reap last November. I used Mekong Express for PNH to Siem Reap. It took about 6 hours with about a 20-30 minute lunch stop. I also used Mekong express to go to Saigon but used a different bus to come back, also about 6 hours including to 1/2 hour boder crossing and lunch break. I think it was $8 to SR and about $13 to Saigon if I remember correctly. The rides were comfortable enough on decent coach buses. If you ever get the chance to use a sleeper bus DO IT! Awesome. I rode one in Vietnam and it was so nice I didn't want to get out. It is better to be on the top beds, much cooler.
Just a note here, when I took my Cambodian g/f to Siem Reap I bought her bus ticket as she waited outside. I found out later that her ticket would have been $3 less because she is a Cambodian citizen. So if you guys take a Cambodian girl for a bus ride tell them that when you buy her ticket. Also, if you go to Angkor what with said girl you DON'T need a ticket for her, she is FREE. I also found that out after it was too late. Now that really pissed me off!
Air Asia has no direct flights to Saigon from PNH. You would have to go to BKK or KUL first. I believe other airlines are fairly expensive. I recommend taking a bus unless time is of the essence.
I did not take the fast boat to Siem Reap or back. I talked to others that have and they were not very impressed. Not much to look at as you would be in mostly open water I hear.
Get your Cambo visa at the border, no problem. You have to wait with everone else on the bus to get the visa anyway.
No issues with one way bus ticket. No problem.
Southbound69
Mosquito2002
07-02-08, 13:54
Quick question:
Will I require a follow-on/departure airline ticket to enter Cambodia?
Planning on doing a one-way ticket and leaving my departure open.
Mosquito2002
Quick question:
Will I require a follow-on/departure airline ticket to enter Cambodia?
Planning on doing a one-way ticket and leaving my departure open.
Mosquito2002Last time I flew in with Air Aisa and nobody asked for any onward ticket.
Neither the Airline nor Immigration.
Quick question:
Will I require a follow-on/departure airline ticket to enter Cambodia?
Planning on doing a one-way ticket and leaving my departure open.
Mosquito2002No need for that.
I did not take the fast boat to Siem Reap or back. I talked to others that have and they were not very impressed. Not much to look at as you would be in mostly open water I hear.
What are they charging for the boat these days? Last I looked it was $22 in the cheapest places. The bus is cheaper and a lot more comfortable ride. The boat is a loud, uncomfortable trip. The engine noise is loud inside the boat, and they also (they did last time I went anyway, which was about 4 yrs ago) play videos inside there and blast the volume way high so it can be heard over the engine noise. Its all in Khmer, despite that more than 50% of passengers are foreigners. And it's stuff no foreigner would have any interest in. The dubbed voices are amazingly irritating, as if they chose the winners of irritation contests to do all the dubbing. But who knows, maybe its improved since then. It would need a lot of improving though. Even the seats are the worse for wear. And you can't really see out the windows.
There are some who'll say "Oh but it's fine up on the roof" -- well, if you like sitting out in the sun for 5 hrs on a hot white metal surface and don't mind what that will do to your skin, and also don't mind being in fast blowing wind for that long, then it may be comfortable for you.
If you are interested in the boat experience, and don't mind paying extra for it, go ahead. Just know that the route back will be much more comfortable on the bus.
By the way, I wonder what they charge Cambodians for this boat trip.
Mosquito2002
07-03-08, 21:10
Thanks All.
Did the R/T ticket via Asia Air for 4000 baht, not a bad deal.
Will be in Cambodia the 12-28 of this month, anyone in town willing to do a seek and destroy mission?
Mosquito2002
Thanks All.
Did the R/T ticket via Asia Air for 4000 baht, not a bad deal.
Will be in Cambodia the 12-28 of this month, anyone in town willing to do a seek and destroy mission?
Mosquito2002Have a great trip, just watch out how heavy your luggage is, Air Asia charge extra for anything over 12kg for memory, they slugged me there and back from Bangkok 2 months ago.
Thanks All.
Did the R/T ticket via Asia Air for 4000 baht, not a bad deal.
Will be in Cambodia the 12-28 of this month, anyone in town willing to do a seek and destroy mission?
Mosquito2002Free to take up to 15 kg. I had an overweight of 6kg and had to pay 980 bath. Im in Phnom Penh now and will leave to Snooky on July 7 for 3 months. Probably I will back in PP for the elections on July 27.
Mosquito2002
07-05-08, 20:36
Broko,
Any recommendations of must visit bars/clubs with lady selections and pricing?
Mosquito2002
Quick question:
Will I require a follow-on/departure airline ticket to enter Cambodia?
Planning on doing a one-way ticket and leaving my departure open.
Mosquito2002No, you don't need. you can even buy your visa online:
http://evisa.mfaic.gov.kh/e-visa/vsindex.aspx
Broko,
Any recommendations of must visit bars/clubs with lady selections and pricing?
Mosquito2002I have a Cambodian girlfriend and as you probably know they are extremely jealous. But as she was I'll and sleeping at her mothers place I had the oppertunity to do some bar hopping on independence day in Phnom Penh.
Started in the afternoon in Walkabout (str 51) a famous freelancers bar. Reviews on Walkabout are mixed, some people say the girls are cheap, old and not healthy. Some say the opposite. When I was there there were a lot of young cuties present. Standard answer on the question "how much" seems to be "up to you". My standard answer is $8 ST. Their response $15. Could have probably negotiated down to $10 but was not really interested in taking some one.
Next stop was Sharkys because they announced a big independence party with BBQ and free drinks for $7.50. When I got there at 7:30 the place was loaded and the BBQ sold out. A lot of vietnamese girls asking around $20 for ST and $25 to 30 for LT. You can just sit there and they approached you.
Left at 9 pm and went to street 136. First stop there the updown bar. Go to the upper floor and you will find nice teasing girls and before you know they are touching you in all places. Be aware of ladyboys. Stayed 30 minutes there and went to bar 69. More girls than at updown but quality definitely far worse. Ended up in bar 136. Again a lot of girls, quality better than bar 69 but worse than updown. In all bars non of the girls were asking for lady drinks. Did not asked the ST and LT price but it seems depending on your look you can take them for between $20 and $30 LT. Remember it is low season now so you can negotiaite a lot.
Final drinks at my favorite bar Shanghai and went to bed alone.
Next day I just went to one bar on street 136 called Flora bar. Quality about the same as bar 136. Coaches in the back not to be used by shy people. Talked with a 27 yo cutie who just worked 2 days in the bar scene and didnot like her job. Got her telno and next day she showed me parts of PP I didnot see yet. By the way: she stopped working now.
EDITOR'S NOTE: I would suggest that the author or another Forum Member consider posting a link to this report in the Reports of Distinction thread. Please Click Here (http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/announcement-reportsofdistinction.php?) for more information.
Mosquito2002
07-07-08, 21:25
Broko,
Thanks for the info (w/ selection and price information).
Keep the field reports coming, only 5 more days and I'll post my own mission report.
Mosquito2002
Just wanted to post some latest info on (business) visa.
No need to do the e-visa process. Just get your visa on arrival at the airport. Tourist visa valid for one month cost $20. Business visa one month $25. Just fill in the forms in the plane.
Getting the visa on the airport takes in between 5 and 20 minutes depending on how fast you get out of the plane. Be sure you have the $ and the a photograph with you. No questions are asked on what kind of business for applying a business visa. If you forget the dollars there is a ATM present.
Taxi from the airport to the city now about $9. My hotel Flamingos has a free airport pick up.
Costs extending business visa:
6 months multiple entry $160
12 months multiple entry $310
The hotel handled it for me and I got my pasport back in 3 days.
Just wanted to post some latest info on (business) visa.
No need to do the e-visa process. Just get your visa on arrival at the airport. Tourist visa valid for one month cost $20. Business visa one month $25. Just fill in the forms in the plane.
Getting the visa on the airport takes in between 5 and 20 minutes depending on how fast you get out of the plane. Be sure you have the $ and the a photograph with you. No questions are asked on what kind of business for applying a business visa. If you forget the dollars there is a ATM present.
Taxi from the airport to the city now about $9. My hotel Flamingos has a free airport pick up.
Costs extending business visa:
6 months multiple entry $160
12 months multiple entry $310
The hotel handled it for me and I got my pasport back in 3 days.Thank you for that information much appreciated, i was thinking of getting a business visa on my next trip.
Yes, but it's only $20 for "tourist" - IF YOU ARRIVE AT THE AIRPORT. For OVERLAND arrivals, GET THE ELECTRONIC VISA - it's a WHOLE lot LESS hassle since they just have to STAPLE THE DAMN THING IN AND NOT TAKE UP A WHOLE PASSPORT PAGE!!! besides, the "tea money" they try to scam you out of is LEGENDARY! - I saw a pair of Americans pay 1200B EACH (that's almost DOUBLE!! the "official rate of $20)
IF you are cheap, walk out to the main road and flag down a moto - it will be about $5. if you are on an expense account what do YOU care :)
Mosquito2002
07-08-08, 23:22
Tried getting a e-visa, but the site is down.
It'll be visa upon arrival for me, hotel sending a driver (not free, 9.00 charge).
Have been collecting 1.00 and 5.00 dollar bills over the past few days, will 100.00 in 1's and 5's be enough for a 16 day stay (for loose change)??
Have been collecting 1.00 and 5.00 dollar bills over the past few days, will 100.00 in 1's and 5's be enough for a 16 day stay (for loose change)??I guess that'll do but be aware that old notes and notes with rips in it won't be accepted.
rips and cuts, corners missing - no they won't take those. But "old", yes they took those (even some that looked about like Khmer Riel as dirty as it can get - sort of a "rust red hue). The "best" is a bunch of brand new $1 bills but they seem to stick together. It does make for a thick stack, though
Does anyone know about the facilities of the Gun Club in Phnom Penh and if it is still in existence?
I'm not talking about the average rifle range. This is a place described in a 2001 book of explorer travels. You pay only for ammo. You can try your hand with anything from an AK47, a James Bond gun, an M16, an ancient M50 to grenades and a B-40 rocket.
Don't get me wrong. I deplore the amount of loose firepower finding its way into dodgy hands and I have no macho-man fantasies. But I would like to experience what it is like to physically fire such things (on inanimate targets of course).
I've no idea if the place is semi-legit so if the info is delicate maybe just PM me.
Thanks.
It was there a couple of years ago - can't say as to now.
Having USED (as not just in "played with") most of the equipment they have, there really isn't that much "thrill" in it all.
I mean what value is there to shooting a tethered cow with a grenade launcher?
oh, and it wasn't "cheap" either. A clip of 2.23 cost about $25 and lasted maybe 10 seconds on semi-auto. Blasting the cow cost $50 I seem to remember and I don't think they had any bloop guns (M-79)
Member #3443
07-21-08, 18:58
The gun range is legit. Run by the Royal Cambodian Armd Forces as a way to raise some funds. Just like in Mongolia.
Tried getting a e-visa, but the site is down.
It'll be visa upon arrival for me, hotel sending a driver (not free, 9.00 charge).
Have been collecting 1.00 and 5.00 dollar bills over the past few days, will 100.00 in 1's and 5's be enough for a 16 day stay (for loose change)??
They are sticking the visa on the passport taking the whole page if not two of them. It's not the usual stamp.
Does anyone know if it is possible to avoid it? Other than not going there I mean.
Thanks
Fast Eddie 48
07-22-08, 05:57
They are sticking the visa on the passport taking the whole page if not two of them. It's not the usual stamp.
Does anyone know if it is possible to avoid it? Other than not going there I mean.
ThanksEl Greco,
The whole visa take up the whole page no way to avoid also don't tamper with the sticker after your trip ,I have a friend remove the sticker after the trip to PP he was question by US immgration return to the US agent saw passport has been tamper with he was hold for 2 hr at the airport ,just renew or ammended to add page to your visa if you are out of page I do it all the time my US passport are full of China and Cambodia visa .
Fast eddie 48
The gun range is legit. Run by the Royal Cambodian Armd Forces as a way to raise some funds. Just like in Mongolia.
Thank you for the information.
I like to have stuff in mind to look forward to when planning to visit a country other than just pussy. (Or pussy-n-pagodas).
To the gentleman who has worked with such implements, I assume your question was rhetorical, but bear in mind that for someone who, unlike yourself, has never handled such things they remain the stuff of stylised and often very uninformed depictions in movies and so on. That in itself seems good enough reason to want to touch one, but I hope you won't argue the point if you disagree - I was only seeking general info.
As to blowing up a cow (also mentioned in the earlier source I read), that strikes me as something of an unfair challenge - especially as I happen to like cows.
El Greco,
The whole visa take up the whole page no way to avoid also don't tamper with the sticker after your trip ,I have a friend remove the sticker after the trip to PP he was question by US immgration return to the US agent saw passport has been tamper with he was hold for 2 hr at the airport ,just renew or ammended to add page to your visa if you are out of page I do it all the time my US passport are full of China and Cambodia visa .
Fast eddie 48
Thanks Eddie. I am planing a visit to the US late September and I wouldn't like them to go all over me because of the Cambodian visa. I already have one in my passport. I was thinking of removing it my self but I have second thoughts now.
Thanks again.
I wouldn't worry about it. I live in Tijuana, but work in San Diego. I have been to Cambodia a few times, so the visas are in my passport. I cross the border five times a week, and have to show my passport each time. I've never asked about my trips to Cambodia.
couple of other quick questions -
Anyone know if I can buy a domestic flight (Phnom Penh to Siem Reap - Siem Reap Airways) same day at the airport? I understand there's a min 24hr wait buying them from a travel agent or online. If I can get a 9:05 or 10:20 international arrival in the morning at PP then a 12:25 departure to SR would make sense - but not if I have to book in advance and plane delayed.
Also ATMs - do these work fine with European cards? I take it they dispense USD rather than Riels?
Cheers
Thanks Eddie. I am planing a visit to the US late September and I wouldn't like them to go all over me because of the Cambodian visa. I already have one in my passport. I was thinking of removing it my self but I have second thoughts now.
Thanks again.
I also have a whole page taken by the Cambodia visa. I wnet in and out of the US many times now and they never asked about it. Most of the time they just take a quick browse through the pages and let me through. It's seems like Thailand pays more attention to what's in your passport. I think they see how many times I've been to Thailand and just let me through. So there isn't really any place that will give you a hard time about the Cambodia Visa.
The only places that I heard about is going to Israel. I have to go to Bahrain soon, and I am told that if I have a Visa from Israel, they will not let me in the country. I believe there are other countries with that same rule.
Thank you for the information.
I like to have stuff in mind to look forward to when planning to visit a country other than just pussy. (Or pussy-n-pagodas).
To the gentleman who has worked with such implements, I assume your question was rhetorical, but bear in mind that for someone who, unlike yourself, has never handled such things they remain the stuff of stylised and often very uninformed depictions in movies and so on. That in itself seems good enough reason to want to touch one, but I hope you won't argue the point if you disagree - I was only seeking general info.
As to blowing up a cow (also mentioned in the earlier source I read), that strikes me as something of an unfair challenge - especially as I happen to like cows.
Are there free steaks invloved? Indians wouldn't like the idea of blowing up cows either.
couple of other quick questions -
Anyone know if I can buy a domestic flight (Phnom Penh to Siem Reap - Siem Reap Airways) same day at the airport? I understand there's a min 24hr wait buying them from a travel agent or online. If I can get a 9:05 or 10:20 international arrival in the morning at PP then a 12:25 departure to SR would make sense - but not if I have to book in advance and plane delayed.
Also ATMs - do these work fine with European cards? I take it they dispense USD rather than Riels?
Cheers
I have to pass on question one, but ATMs work fine with all kinds of cards up to 400 USD per day. Some banks take a commission on top of what your bank charges, for example ANZ takes 2 USD per withdrawal on all foreign cards. Riels can be had from some machines but dollars is the default.
Watch out: ATMs at PNH airport do not always work. At least it happened to me on two occasions that all were down, and there is about half a dozen of them.
Member #3443
07-24-08, 03:49
If you get your visa on-line, it is only stapled in the passport just like Thailand and you get the entry/departure stamps as normal. When leave, just take out the staple.
I don't know if anyone else will find this useful, and if they do I can't take credit for it . . . .
You know when you are about to monger a new country and are pushed for time? You try to rake together lots of stuff from the various threads on the Board.
So this is what I've done for Cambodia but, bearing in mind some people honestly don't have time to do even that, thought I'd share it - and also it's easy for me to access here rather than carrying around.
So here is a fairly arbitrary collection of info on Cambodia. As with the posts generally, I can't vouch for the information contained. I've just collected together what seemed reasonable to me (and in a rush). Hopefully someone will do a proper piece of work on this type of thing at some point :-)
JayCar2014
07-24-08, 15:16
Thanks for this. I wish there were more of these summaries for other locations.
Some people might think it takes the fun out of the chase but it gives you a good introduction.
Yo - Chris
There is ONE bus/day also going to Koh Kong - leaves at 7:30AM (more or less) from the corner of Sisowath and 106 - takes about 6 hours or so depending on the fucking traffic to get OUT of PP. $11 as of May 08. Usually the shared taxis will cut 1/2 to 1 hour off the bus times to Snooky - they don't make the 1/2 hour stop 1/2 way out.
I didn't find PP to be too dangerous (as lo0ng as one has one's WITS about themselves - don't get SHITFACED DRUNK or take a moto/taxi. The DIRT (either that or just "bad") streets in PP bear a resemblance to a small town with no road repair budget...hmm - maybe they ARE the same - they NEVER seem to fix streets in PP
Flamingo also was wireless access (great if you have your own laptop.)
Down by the National Museum and near a couple of the Wats off Sisowath there are also STONE carvers (yes, a "bit difficult" to transport but very nice for the price) wood IS a lot lighter
Heart of Darkness frisks EVERYBODY - even fat barangs in shorts, sandals and a T shirt. They came across my neck wallet but they weren't concerned because it was "flat" - they are looking for guns and knives so it's pretty safe inside
Supposedly the supply of apsalis dried up - the factory was shut or whatever - didn't find any in May
For food if they don't have a menu in your choice of language (usually either French or English) - pointy talky works well - see something you like on another close table?- just point at it - they understand. One thing about Khmer - LEARN TO COUNT FIRST - makes for less "surprises" (and it's actually easy to remember)
Bus service (big bus) now goes from Snooky to the border, too so less necessity of using the "small bus" - but the smaller bus will be faster generally. Expect a stop at the first bridge crossing heading toward KK from Snooky - about 1/2 hour for food and [CodeWord140] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140) break (bus to/from PP stops there, too - in BOTH directions - same stop). Sanitation is a bit "dicey" there, though so the Khmer equivalent of Montezuma's Revenge might catch up to you the next day
all in all not a bad report but the "specifics" are a bit off in a couple of areas (I tried to help)
I also have a whole page taken by the Cambodia visa. I wnet in and out of the US many times now and they never asked about it. Most of the time they just take a quick browse through the pages and let me through. It's seems like Thailand pays more attention to what's in your passport. I think they see how many times I've been to Thailand and just let me through. So there isn't really any place that will give you a hard time about the Cambodia Visa.
The only places that I heard about is going to Israel. I have to go to Bahrain soon, and I am told that if I have a Visa from Israel, they will not let me in the country. I believe there are other countries with that same rule.
Thanks Gagoo.
That Israel visa thing was true many years ago. I don't know if it is the same situation now. I was asking them not to stamp my passport in Tel Aviv airport because I was also flying to Cairo and they would stamp a special form for that case instead of my passport.
Yo - Chris
all in all not a bad report but the "specifics" are a bit off in a couple of areas (I tried to help)
Hi Dinghy
Thanks for the additional info. I've put it in my personal copy tho it seems more to be additional info as far as I can see rather than material errors. Either way, I'll maybe update when I get back if I have time, or someone else may care to do it and put it in a distinction group or something for ease of reference for newcomers.
Thanks again.
For those that enjoy a good read about the place they're visiting, either en route or while getting a foot rub <g> on the beach, here's a few I thought I'd share. (Comments are personal ones of course.)
The King's Last Song by Geoff Ryman. This is pretty awesome. It covers three different epochs and gives you an insight both into the underlying history/culture and the modern 'perspective' even of moto drivers. Good enough to re-read several times.
A Cook's Tour by Anthony Bourdain. Not confined to Cambodia but has a brilliantly dramatised section on that country, Battambang, Phnom Penh, the road to Pailin (as it was in 2001 when the book was written), lots of other places, meeting with remaining Khmer Rouge and a few daring exploits.
River of Time by Jon Swain. Just started this one. Seems well written. It's a loving ode to Cambodia written by a journalist, eye-witness and analyst.
Tears of My Soul by Sokreasa Himm. I bought this one blind. It's the tale of a young man who lived through the Khmer Rouge period. Good to get it from a Khmer viewpoint but it is very heavy on Western Christianity, a religion that is in a tiny minority in Cambodia, and possibly offputting unless you subscribe to that view and feel happy with exhortation to pray for the misionaries etc.
Movies - there's some stuff that has got critical acclaim by a Cambodia director, but the only definitive film that is easily available is The Killing Fields (pretty good).
I know none of that is about mongering but hope you will excuse the short post onbackground topics - I do find that everything, including pussy, is more enjoyable with enough knowledge to engage a bit from the other person's point of view. This is pretty revelatory for nearly all drastically different cultures (who mostly adapt by projecting an image that the tourist wants and will pay for.)
Movies - there's some stuff that has got critical acclaim by a Cambodia director, but the only definitive film that is easily available is The Killing Fields (pretty good).
There's actually a decent film called "City of Ghosts", directed by and starring Matt Dillon, with James Caan in a supporting part (he sings at a karaoke in Khmer in one scene, very strange). Gerard Depardieu also in a small part as a French expat bar owner in Phnom Penh, seems perfect for that part. ;-) The movie does a pretty good job of capturing the Phnom Penh atmosphere, the same one talked about in this forum.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0164003/
There's actually a decent film called "City of Ghosts", directed by and starring Matt Dillon, with James Caan in a supporting part (he sings at a karaoke in Khmer in one scene, very strange). Gerard Depardieu also in a small part as a French expat bar owner in Phnom Penh, seems perfect for that part. ;-) The movie does a pretty good job of capturing the Phnom Penh atmosphere, the same one talked about in this forum.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0164003/
Well spotted - I missed that one. Depardieu is excellent. And the pet python is a nice touch. Somewhat uninviting picture of Cambodia though!
For those that enjoy a good read about the place they're visiting, either en route or while getting a foot rub
There's also "Off the Rails in Phnom Penh: Into the Dark Heart of Guns, Girls, and Ganja" which is an entertaining read. I do believe the author is less than truthful when he claims never to have attained full carnal knowledge for a fee though.
http://www.amazon.com/Off-Rails-Phnom-Penh-Heart/dp/9748303349
thanks for the tips Christoperd...
Of course, maybe the best-known personal account of surviving the Khmer Rouge period is Loung Ung's First They Killed My Father - a very good read.
What were the movies by Cambodian director you referred to? - would like to look into that.
For those that enjoy a good read about the place they're visiting, either en route or while getting a foot rub <g> on the beach, here's a few I thought I'd share. (Comments are personal ones of course.)
The King's Last Song by Geoff Ryman. This is pretty awesome. It covers three different epochs and gives you an insight both into the underlying history/culture and the modern 'perspective' even of moto drivers. Good enough to re-read several times.
A Cook's Tour by Anthony Bourdain. Not confined to Cambodia but has a brilliantly dramatised section on that country, Battambang, Phnom Penh, the road to Pailin (as it was in 2001 when the book was written), lots of other places, meeting with remaining Khmer Rouge and a few daring exploits.
River of Time by Jon Swain. Just started this one. Seems well written. It's a loving ode to Cambodia written by a journalist, eye-witness and analyst.
Tears of My Soul by Sokreasa Himm. I bought this one blind. It's the tale of a young man who lived through the Khmer Rouge period. Good to get it from a Khmer viewpoint but it is very heavy on Western Christianity, a religion that is in a tiny minority in Cambodia, and possibly offputting unless you subscribe to that view and feel happy with exhortation to pray for the misionaries etc.
Movies - there's some stuff that has got critical acclaim by a Cambodia director, but the only definitive film that is easily available is The Killing Fields (pretty good).
I know none of that is about mongering but hope you will excuse the short post onbackground topics - I do find that everything, including pussy, is more enjoyable with enough knowledge to engage a bit from the other person's point of view. This is pretty revelatory for nearly all drastically different cultures (who mostly adapt by projecting an image that the tourist wants and will pay for.)
thanks for the tips Christoperd...
Of course, maybe the best-known personal account of surviving the Khmer Rouge period is Loung Ung's First They Killed My Father - a very good read.
What were the movies by Cambodian director you referred to? - would like to look into that.
His name's Rithy Panh. He's made many films about Cambodia and had quite a bit of recognition, including a Golden Palm at Cannes (for Rice People or Neak Sre). But his films aren't as very readily available as more mainstream offerings by Western directors.
You mention The River of Time. While it is very good, another book that covers the same period but tells much more because the author was for a time a prisoner of the Khymer Rouge is The Gate by Francois Bizot.
A few other questions - anyone who can assist, many thanks.
Words & phrases
I found a couple of sites with phrases and sound clips:
http://www.cambodiaadoptionconnection.com/Khmer%20word%20list.htm and
http://www.bongthom.com/AKOnline/PhrasesPageEK.asp?Chapter=6
Also, http://www.cambodiaadoptionconnection.com/additional%20vocabulary.htm has some words but without sound clips.
I bought a Khmer dictioonary from Amazon but it had no phonetics and I don't do their hieroglyphics yet.
I do like to have a few phrases when mongering a new country. Generally I learn one or two each day and practice them when I go out. From what I gather on the board, girls have enough English phrases for basic negotiations but there's other stuff I'd like. Can anyone help with these phrases?: (only a couple I think I've got from the above lists, but if anyone can pitch in with what they know first hand we can maybe repost it as a generally useful list rather than guesses that could confuse fellow browsers.)
Receipt please
Slow down please / slow!
Stop!
Too expensive!
Excuse me
Thank you
Thank you
No thank you
My change please
Tonight
Tomorrow
Here
At the hotel
Go away please
I want to be alone
In the phrases list, "yes" is given differently for men and women. Does this follow the person speaking or the person one is addressing?
other questions
Internet - it seems is generally available - what's commonest, datastick or floppy (for bringing one's own list of URLs etc) ie do they have floppy drives or USB ports?
Clothing - I've got monsoon-proof clothing bit gather the wet is not that bad in the afternoons this time of year. I only go cabin baggage so any tips appreciated (ponchos sound ok but not brilliant unless I'm going to look a dick not wearing one). My preference for hot and wet is waterproof sandals - good?
Hotels - Mandalay Inn sounds good for SR as it's monger-friendly-action-close, cheap and (important for me) has a gym. Anyone know of a cheap place in PP that has a gym? Or anyone experience of booking a gym near the action areas for a short time (eg weeks)?
Thanks again :-)
as a contribution rather than just asking questions, here's what i've got so far that looks practical from the sites mentioned with sound clips. i've missed out answers that are too complex. short, easy-to-learn words and phrases are the most useful.
hello - suesday (soo-ess-day)
hello chumree-uhp soo-uh
goodbye - lieh haoy (lee-uh howie)
goodbye chumree-uhp lee-uh
thank you - ah-kun
yes (females) - chah
yes (males) - baht
cambodian currency - riel (like the english word "real")
i understand. kh*nyom yu-uhl
how much is it? th*la-ee ponmân
i [polite] kh*'nyom
you [polite, to a younger unmarried woman] nee-uhng
she or he ko-at
buddha pray-uhh put
tomorrow s'a-ek
one moo-uhy
two [CodeWord134] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord134)
three buh-ee
four boo-uhn
five pram
ten dawp
twenty m'ph*ay-ee
thirty sâm suhp
forty sa-e suhp
fifty hâ suhp
sixty hok suhp
seventy chuht suhp
eighty pa-et suhp
ninety ka-oo suhp
one hundred moo-uhy roay
but i'd still like help with my list below if anyone can. simple things, like 'not tonight' or 'slow down' are a lot easier to learn and say than, "i'm busy this evening", or "i'll meet you in front of the museum," and other such stuff that phrasebook writers seem to think we'll want.
In case anyone else likes to use a gym while travelling, I found this out on the DV8 website
"When travelling many people need to maintain their fitness plan and finding a gym to attend can be difficult. Paddy's gym located 50 metres north of the Japanese bridge is an ideal low cost gym for those people that don't want to spend $10/day or more on a hotel gym.
Paddy's cost $1/day for foreigners and $0.25 for locals."
Paddy's gym located 50 metres north of the Japanese bridge . . . Be warned if you're used to stylish aircon gyms, Paddy's is very basic and very, very hot. But perfectly useable and you're guaranteed to work up a good sweat. Cambodian kickboxers train here, so you can learn that too if you want. Price is now $3 for non-Khmers.
Be warned if you're used to stylish aircon gyms, Paddy's is very basic and very, very hot. But perfectly useable and you're guaranteed to work up a good sweat. Cambodian kickboxers train here, so you can learn that too if you want. Price is now $3 for non-Khmers.
Sounds fine to me - thanks for the update. I'd rather hang out with locals anytime.
Am waiting for an email back from Flamingos too - a bit pricey but several guides say they have a gym there although it's not mentioned on their website.
Am waiting for an email back from Flamingos too - a bit pricey but several guides say they have a gym there although it's not mentioned on their website.I suspect most of the gymnastics at Flamingos go on in the guest rooms. If they actually have a gym it's small and well hidden -- I've never seen it.
I suspect most of the gymnastics at Flamingos go on in the guest rooms. If they actually have a gym it's small and well hidden -- I've never seen it.BETONG's observation is apt; I have stayed a Flamingos many times: there is no gym.
There is a brand new hotel called "HOTEL CASTLE", 1/2 block down St. 148 from the river, they have a pool and spa. I haven't stayed there but did inspect a room just after they opened: nice, well appointed and clean. Rates start at $50.
www.hotelcastle.com.kh email: reservations@hotelcastle.com.kh
BETONG's observation is apt; I have stayed a Flamingos many times: there is no gym.Thanks for the info. More than one 'guide book' said there's a rooftop gym. I don't think they actually update these guide books very well! (Flamingos haven't replied to my email yet - they're at the top of end of what I want to pay so may have a look round before deciding.)
I think you guys accidentally came to the wrong forum. You want the International Gym Guide.
I think you guys accidentally came to the wrong forum. You want the International Gym Guide.Point taken, and thanking you all for such indulgence. Those who know me or have read my posts on other places know that I will make it up to you with post-trip pdp reports. :-)
I think you guys accidentally came to the wrong forum.Well it is the "General Info" forum, right?
Personally I'm happy to see (or give out) good concise info on things like gyms, restaurants, and hotels. Unlike, say politics, these are integral parts of the whole mongering experience for many of us. Now if someone starts sharing their weight-training routines with us, I'll be the first to back you up.
Well it is the "General Info" forum, right?Sorry, yeah, just teasing. I should have stuck the winkie smiley face in there.
Sorry, yeah, just teasing. ;-) I should have stuck the winkie smiley face in there.Don't worry - we'll add it to your weight-training routines (once you've finished them.
Munich1976
08-17-08, 17:25
I have some questions regarding my first trip to PP:
1. How can I verify the age of the ladies, is it a complicated system like in Thailand?
2. Is the Walkabout Hotel good enough for a long time stay or is it only a short time hotel? Do they have a (front-desk) safe?
3. Here are several posts that you've been bothered by the police and take into prison even if you follow the rules and do nothing against the law. That scares me a lot.
4. Can I pay the ladies with Euro's or do I have to draw riel (Dollar's? ) from the ATM?
5. In some posts is mentioned that LT is more than $30, so PP is more expensive than Pattaya?
Thank you much in advance.
Fast Eddie 48
08-18-08, 00:52
I have some questions regarding my first trip to PP:
1. How can I verify the age of the ladies, is it a complicated system like in Thailand?
2. Is the Walkabout Hotel good enough for a long time stay or is it only a short time hotel? Do they have a (front-desk) safe?
3. Here are several posts that you've been bothered by the police and take into prison even if you follow the rules and do nothing against the law. That scares me a lot.
4. Can I pay the ladies with Euro's or do I have to draw riel (Dollar's? ) from the ATM?
5. In some posts is mentioned that LT is more than $30, so PP is more expensive than Pattaya?
Thank you much in advance.Munich 1976
Answer
IF the girl good too young for you stay away most don't have ID like Thailand
Walkabout is a 2 star shit hole I will not stay there but the bar is a good pick up place .
Convert you euro to USD at the airport bring small bill 1 and 5 usd .
I never have any problem with local police and there are tourist police .
LT price for a hot girl is 30 usd most will go for 20 usd just don't agree on the first offer ,I think PP is cheaper than Pattaya and quality of the girl is better but there are nothing to do during the day .
Fast eddie 48
Walkabout has lockers at the front desk. use their lock or bring your own (combo is better lock)
Cambodia doesn't use euros - dollar is the defacto currency besides the riel - euro exchange rate sucks,too
Some people substantially overpay - $20 usually gets "long time" YMMV though
thanks for the info about lockers - i may stay there sometime. regarding age, just from reading more posts on the forum than munich has maybe had time - probably the best advice is to err on the safe side. if they look in the slightest way ****, avoid them! who can read khmeri.d. hieroglyphics or trust the interpretation of a moto? asian ladies can look younger than they are, but if in doubt go for someone older looking.
i once had a sexy minx giving me flirty glances but she looked **** and i ignored her and then told her when she got angry that she was too young. she showed me her i.d. - which looked genuine enough and 'proved' she was 18. but i just told her, sorry you don't *look* 18. imagine it is your parish priest or some do-gooder giving them the once over - what age would *they* guess?? or remember it is probably someone's daughter - at least till they maybe sold them. none of us want to be part of that food chain!
before anyone reckons i'm on a moral crusade, remember that for women who are of an age of consent and have made a decision to do it, that work, the only sort they can get, may be all that's keeping them from starvation. the ngos aren't running around to help them. compare the information online from the sex workers' union, the the women's network for unity, the cambodian prostitutes union. then look at the heartbreaking stories of rescued youngsters. the two are not the same. pressure from the usa has forced the cambodia government to pass laws that lump the two together, resulting in massive human rights abuses and hardship.
as you may know, the us govt is trying to pass a law to criminalise us citizens that have legal paid-for sex abroad, with consenting adults, and even in countries where it is legal and the sex workers pay tax. if only one could force the 'prime directive' on the usa until it got up to moral warp speed - or at least caught up with europe and new zealand etc . . . <g>
and no, i'm *not* having a go at americans - you are not responsible the actions of your government!
Munich 1976
Answer
IF the girl good too young for you stay away most don't have ID like Thailand
Walkabout is a 2 star shit hole I will not stay there but the bar is a good pick up place .
Convert you euro to USD at the airport bring small bill 1 and 5 usd .
I never have any problem with local police and there are tourist police .
LT price for a hot girl is 30 usd most will go for 20 usd just don't agree on the first offer ,I think PP is cheaper than Pattaya and quality of the girl is better but there are nothing to do during the day .
Fast eddie 48Very good Answer Fast Eddie.
I will add exchange your euros in the gold shop, they are numerous and offered good rates around central market. Don t worry they are honest. ; and the rate is clearly printed.
Avoid travellers cheques in euro (until 3 dollars commission).
For the rest follow Fast Eddie advices.
Have a nice trip.
Fast Eddie 48
08-19-08, 04:26
Very good Answer Fast Eddie.
I will add exchange your euros in the gold shop, they are numerous and offered good rates around central market. Don t worry they are honest. ; and the rate is clearly printed.
Avoid travellers cheques in euro (until 3 dollars commission).
For the rest follow Fast Eddie advices.
Have a nice trip.Channy /Munich
I think you should exhange Euro to USD in europe before going to PP, I have post this info many time at this form, Munich is a lazy ass that don't RTFF all his answer been post many time over.
Fast eddie 48
there was a munich question that's not really a question about the police being scary. but (as dorothy might say in the wizard of oz), this is not kansas. those who rtff will see a report from someone who was detained by police for days or weeks on a vague charge without having done anything wrong. all of his photos were of women over 20yrs etc. if you check media reports of just the last couple of months, you will also see many stories of police arresting prostitutes then beating them up and gang-[CodeWord125] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord125) them. on a scary level, there might be some african states that have scarier police, but if someone wants a far east experience that is safer there are many places eg hong kong and bali. even in thailand, police extortion is fairly amenable (unless you break serious laws, especially drug laws, or get drugs planted on you). it would be easy to list lots of scary things from diseases to poisonous snakes and dangerous drivers, but if you are an experienced traveller through developing countries you take such things in your stride hopefully. if not, as i said, there are a range of other countries to practice and monger in.
blend as much as possible with local ways (including body language and dress), don't draw attention, work out who you can trust (if you are playing safe, the doorman of your upmarket hotel might be a good bet - but staying there also marks you out as having money - ie worth pulling a number on), read situtations and read people. then take your life in your hands ;-)
getting streetwise is never a complete guarantee, but once you've got your 'sea-legs' it can help. it also saves you a vast amount of day-to-day expense.
Thanks for the info about lockers - I may stay there sometime.
There's other options of course -- Flamingo near there is a clear step up, and not too expensive. Find their website online for current prices and booking. Walkabout seems pretty skanky to me, honestly. Billabong in the same neighborhood is better yet, with a nice pool.
There's other options of course -- Flamingo near there is a clear step up, and not too expensive. Find their website online for current prices and booking. Walkabout seems pretty skanky to me, honestly. Billabong in the same neighborhood is better yet, with a nice pool.
Thanks. I might just have a look round when I get there. Reasonable security and a fan is pretty well all I need. If there's a place close to Paddy's gym where the rooms look all right that has an advantage.
If there's a place close to Paddy's gym where the rooms look all right that has an advantage.
It's kind of a nowhere part of town. Better to stay somewhere more central and just take a moto there. Or even walk -- less than 30 minutes straight up along the river from the Sisowath area.
I'm posting a few general reports just now, and will follow with some field reports when I get a chance . . .
disclaimer
this quick mini-guide is based on personal experiences and is current as of august-september 2008. as things change very rapidly in cambodia, please don’t place too much reliance on any reports (inc this one) as details go if more than a couple of months old! it’s nowhere near comprehensive but is written to be as helpful as possible.
money
think us dollars (notes in good condition, preferably not larger than a $20). then think of cambodian riel as small change. that’s how it works. instead of 100 cents to the dollar you have about 4000 riel. prices are sometimes quoted in dollars and cents so ‘$1.25’ is ‘one dollar and 1000 riel’.
orientation
bootleg copies of lonely planet (for cambodia and elsewhere) and just about any other popular book are available from about $3. quality varies (eg some have colour pages). you can fly into siem reap or phnom penh or mix and match. for adventurous types, the boat trip from siem reap to battambang can be quite an experience. remember to save $20 for exit tax at the airport (phnom penh currently accepting visa payment even though the sign says cash only). cheap flights available to neighbouring countries from phnom penh.
pdp overview
brothels are now technically illegal in cambodia. you can get pdp anywhere, but phnom penh is the best bet unless you want to do serious ‘tourist’ stuff. there are some drawbacks to cambodia as a mongering destination imo though, and i don’t personally recommend it without reservation.
most moto drivers will show you some brothels. these vary a lot in quality and many motos will be working a kick-back. many ‘legit’ girlie bars operate some kind of cover, often with a barfine if you want to take the girl out, or sometimes have onsite illicit rooms. others just provide facilities for freelancers. girls in the street will sometimes offer massage, but as most massage is legit you have to refine that by asking if she means, ‘just massage?’. a lot of hotel or guest house staff will happily provide an overnight girl for you (and feel free to send her away if she is not to you liking). costs are anything from $5 to $35.
there are some disadvantages. girls can be woefully inexperienced. this doesn’t necessarily make them good learners. the country as a whole has had its spirit broken by horrific wars and many people, a few yards beyond the main tourist streets, live in abject poverty and misery, which could be why some girls find it harder to do those pretences that make paid-for sex a pleasant experience. many have lost both parents (there is almost a generation gap with few people over 30). and even as asian women go, cambodians can be very small of stature making it hard to discern their age (and not all carry i.d., even if you have someone who will reliably read it). so a) there is the genuine worry of screwing up the head of a minor; b) there is the threat of horrific legal penalties if you do; c) even if she is 25 but looks 17 you can get looks of opprobrium. check for age lines under the eyes, the hands. if the bar has a visible age policy (as many thankfully do), ask any proprietor or manager that you trust if she is the age she claims. some hotels (eg walkabout in pp) have an added policy of not letting anyone thought to be under-age to be on the premises. another disadvantage in some people’s books will be asian passivity. one can’t generalise on a whole country, but i have found a high proportion of cambodians irredeemably passive - so as to take most of the pleasure out of it for me, but this is personal taste. the best results i got (both in pp and in the other areas) was to establish some emotional connection before sex.
in phnom penh, the advantages of easily available pdp may be enough to tip the balance against the hassle and other factors. it would not be top of my countries to return to but i’d happily include a few days in pp en route. for siem reap and battambang, imo you would be crazy to make a lot of effort to get there just for the pdp, but those towns have unimaginably rich learning curves for other activities.
language
as with any country, it’s a big help if you have even a few words and phrases of the local lingo. khmer (cambodian) is not so easy to pronounce, having both a clipped and a nasal sound, both of which seem unnatural to most westerners. you can pick up a khmer phrase book for about $3 which is useful reference, but an easy way i found was to ask guest house staff how to say a new word or phrase and practice one a day in the market and with pdps and everyone i met. some words are much easier than others, but nearly all phrase books use a phonetic system which is a learning curve in itself. here are a few words and phrases which sound similar to english words, which is how i’ve written them.
khmer (cambodian):
suseday! = hi! (sounds a bit like ‘tuesday’)
sook – see – bye? = how are you doing?
somta = excuse me / please
boom-boom = sex
yum-yum, boom-boom = bj then sex
massage, yum-yum, boom-boom . . .
ah-kun = thanks
(and a few easy ones for bargaining to show you didn’t arrive in a western banana boat . . . )
pram = five
dawp = ten
sam – suhp = thirty (for when you’re feeling generous haha!)
jermoi = cheers!
as a lot of pdps will be vietnamese and maybe speak little more khmer than you, it’s also handy to be able to swap around. so in vietnamese:
sin – jou! (as in ‘ouch’) = hi!
gam – un = thanks
traffic and crossing the street
cambodian drivers pay only nominal respect to rules like driving on one side of the road, so crossing the street is an art in itself. for busy streets (especially in phnom penh) try it a few times with a cambodian pedestrian. if you walk calmly, purposefully and predictably into the traffic, it will, believe it or not, try not to hit you. the same as if you were a moto navigating across a busy street. throw away assumptions about where traffic should be coming from, keep looking in all directions, and make adjustments to speed and direction in an obvious manner (if you jump out of the way to avoid a moto, he may hit you cos he has swerved to avoid you). i found this works for me. if it doesn’t work for you, well one pp moto driver reeled off a figure of four people a day killed on the roads and 40 injured . . .
tuktuk drivers and motos
some of the scams include taking you to a brothel or hotel that will give a kickback. another is, if you hire a moto or tuktuk for the ‘day’ or ‘half-day’, the driver becomes tired, less helpful, more ignorant and so on, half way into the shift (but bear in mind you should give him a lunch break if you hire him for the day). a ‘day’ is nominally sunrise to sunset and outside of these times cost more. the correct fare is mostly down to knowing what it should be (ie what cambodians would pay) and then adding a small amount as tourist tax. if you can work out the correct fare (especially for short to medium journeys across town) and state it with authority, they’ll usually just accept. short distances, even in pp (which is more expensive) start at 2000 reil (half a dollar).
here are a few that i found outstanding, speak good english and seem honest and reliable.
in siem reap: siv. tel 855-122-17330. email sivpisey@yahoo.com (moto/tuktuk/taxi). siv is one of the most genuine cambodians i’ve dealt with. he even refused money for a courtesy lift in the rain.
in phnom penh: marra tel 012-36-77-69. email marrachay@yahoo.com (10 years experience)
in phnom penh: smiley tel (855) 012-608-247. email engsmilly012608247@yahoo.com
if it’s just for a trip to a knock shop, i just look for someone with a not-too-less-than-average-roadworthy bike and braincells and maybe a bit of english. but if you want a half-day tour it makes a vast difference if the driver has good english and knows his stuff.
it’s always a good idea to collect calling cards for the places you go to. remember not all drivers will be able to read maps or understand your accent. many will bluff about knowing where they are going. never, ever, ever, raise your voice. get them to ask a friend or another driver. agree prices in advance. if they seem unsure, add that they won’t get paid if they can’t find the place.
happy hunting!
other quick cambodia overviews: http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showpost.php?p=791957&postcount=33
Are anti-malarial medications easily available in Phnom Penh, or should I be buying some at home before I go there? I thought they might by cheaper in PP.
Are anti-malarial medications easily available in Phnom Penh, or should I be buying some at home before I go there? I thought they might by cheaper in PP.
They're easily available, but for the one thing that is life and death, do you want to take a chance in a country where fake meds are boom business? There are many reported deaths from fake anti-malarials used to treat malaria.
btw, Malarone (a sensible one for Cambodia) is quite expensive. I don't see any point in taking it as a preventative. If you buy a box it contains enough for your emergency treatment if you get malaria.
But where are you planning to go? Look at the Cambodia malaria maps. The NW has a high-ish incidence and the North moderately so. Most other places have a very low incidence. I did some jungle stuff so wanted at least something to self-medicate with if I got stuck, but PP and SR have decent hospitals where it wouldn't cost the earth to be treated in the unlikely event you go down with it. If you are only going to the towns and cities you have only a very small chance of getting malaria - hardly worth paying $80 or more.
If you are flying via Singapore or Bangkok, you can buy reliable medicines there at slightly lower prices than at home and without the fuss.
Deepfreeze
10-05-08, 11:11
A brief note on 4 & 5 * Hotels in Cambodia, booked as part of a package holiday.
Victoria Angkor, Siem Reap, guest fee $45, ST might have been OK with no charge. Though I did manage to get a guest past security one night, before I knew there was a $45 charge.
Phnom Penh Hotel, Phnom Penh, guest fee $10 (appears as miscellaneous on your bill, the night floor manager did offer to find me a choice of massage girls late one night for $50, a service I didn't try.
Sokha Beach Hotel, Sihanoukville, no guest fee but an extra breakfast was $16. 50! I believe that the special room massage was $100 and the girls were 10's but I didn't try to find out.
To all the visitors or future visitors of Phnom Penh:
A couple of months the excellent free magazine Bayon Pearnik reported serious problems with valuables stoled by the airport bagage staff at Pochentong Airport.
So like they ecommend, lock all your baggage and take all your valuables with you on board.
Until now, nothing has been decided for solutioned this recurent problem.
You have been warned.
I recently flew to Phnom Penh from BKK for a VISA run, and forgot to bring a passport photo. But it was no problem, as all I had to do was pay a dollar and it was taken care of. No posing for a photo was necessary. Maybe they photocopied the one in my passport?
I recently flew to Phnom Penh from BKK for a VISA run, and forgot to bring a passport photo. But it was no problem, as all I had to do was pay a dollar and it was taken care of. No posing for a photo was necessary. Maybe they photocopied the one in my passport?No they simply like the picture of the dead american president more than your photo.
So like they ecommend, lock all your baggage and take all your valuables with you on board.
Similar incidents in Bangkok and a few other main airports around SEA. The best advice is not to put anything of real value in your checked bags.
Hello and thank you to all who post valuable information. Christopherd did a wonderful job with his informative reports on just about everything in PP..thank you so much. You have answered alot of my questions.
I am usually a south america guy but I would like to have a taste of asia before I get too jaded or too lazy to travel long distances.
I am seriously considering PP and the surrounding area for about a 14/18 day visit. I would settle in PP for a few days then venture to siem reap for one or two nights then do day trips from pp by private taxi. I will not have the stamina to visit other SE countries while I am there. The trip to cambodia alone will drain me of any desire to fly again until I return...minus the interactive day trips taking photos.
I am an avid photographer so half of my trip would be dedicated to snapping some (hopefully) amazing photos and the other half mongering.
St 104 136 and 51 seem to be a good place to start. My question is regarding the legal aspect. Since prostitution is illegal does that mean things are done on the down low versus the "buy a ticket and step right up" atmosphere of south america ? Do foreigners get busted for soliciting or is it one of those places that it's illegal but everybody does it in plain sight regardless ?
I went on the cathay pacific website and noticed they ask for a canadian transit visa on certain flights...why and what does that mean to an american from new york city?
I've never done a 20+ hr flight. How many meals can I expect to get and what about beverages ? I would need a hell of alot of water to get through. Sometimes I feel like the flight attendant is doing me a favor by giving me water. Most times the little glass isn't even full! What is the protocol for trips to asia ?
I have xanax or ambien I could take to ease the pressure. Any advice would be appreciated.
I am thinking of doing this the middle of jan. I assume this is high season so I will book a hotel for a few days before I arrive. Then I will wander around on foot and check out the riverfront area walkabout etc. for my other nights. I just need to acclimate.
So thats it. Basically I would get to pp hang out and monger for a few days..then start taking photos..venture out to siem reap and the areas close to PP. On paper it looks like a great trip and alot to gain besides mongering..photos shopping history cheap prices.
I anticipate a rocky start to mongering since I have zero experience in asia but live and learn.
I was also looking into jakarta the phillipines and thailand but the way I see it cambodia would have way better photo opportunities right ? Thailand is a "NO" due to on site drug testing. I smoke when I am at home ...wouldn't think about it in thailand although it would show up in a [CodeWord140] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140) test if I took one. I don't like the thought of it even happening to someone else.
I do travel with alot of meds(just in case) regardless and one diabetic medicine I need to keep on ice. I would be arriving at customs with a bag of ice and medicine on top. Should I expect any trouble ?
I am 39 yrs old. I look italian or spanish and I have a few tattoos showing on my arms. Does this matter and will I have issues with being searched for bribes etc? My vision of asia has always been that they really dig blond hair and blue eyes or anything else in that realm. I have no idea what they think of ethnic whites. Again all of this is judged on what I have experienced growing up in NYC. I am sure things are very different in asia. Please excuse my ignorance.
Thank you so much for reading. I really know nothing about asia so any help would be appreciated. I will do more research and update the forum on my progress. I put alot of heart and effort into my reports so expect the same from me on this first time asia experience...although I haven't booked yet.
I just got back from my 2nd trip to medellin colombia. Check the thread if you wish to know more about me.
Thanks Again
Traveler1234
12-03-08, 21:22
I was also looking into jakarta. I smoke when I am at home ...wouldn't think about it in thailand although it would show up in a [CodeWord140] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140) test if I took one. I don't like the thought of it even happening to someone else.
I do travel with alot of meds(just in case) regardless and one diabetic medicine I need to keep on ice. I would be arriving at customs with a bag of ice and medicine on top. Should I expect any trouble ?
I am 39 yrs old. I look italian or spanish and I have a few tattoos showing on my arms. Does this matter and will I have issues with being searched for bribes etc? much for reading. I really know nothing about asia so any help would be appreciated. I will do more research and update the forum on my progress. I put alot of heart and effort into my reports so expect the same from me on this first time asia experience...although I haven't booked yet.
Thanks Again
Jkt is good monger site, go visit the thread. Be safe with drugs
GoodEnough
12-04-08, 02:05
Artisttyp - I'm not sure what other guys think, but in my opinion, for your first trip to SE Asia, there may be better and easier destinations than Cambodia. True, you will not run into many photo ops in Jakarta, but the rest of the country offers innumerable opportunities for interesting photos, plus it's a great mongering destination. I have no idea what you're referring to when you mention "on site" drug testing in Thailand. Having worked there, and having been there dozens of times, I've never heard of this happening to anyone, and Thailand has great photo ops all over the country including Bangkok.
Having returned recently from an 8 or 9 day trip to PP, I can't say that there's much about that city that's particularly interesting from the standpoint of photography, though the opportunities to chase women are abundant.
The Philippines, it's true, doesn't have anything to offer an avid photographer in Manila, but among the other 7,000 plus islands, the scenery is gorgeous and photo ops abound. Of course, there's also the advantage of most people speaking enough English to be understood and arguably the best mongering on the planet.
Regarding the flights, I'm not sure what to tell you except grin and bear it. Getting water and staying hydrated has never been a problem for me. I've done the ambien thing and it works quite well in making the flights seem shorter.
GE
The Philippines, it's true, doesn't have anything to offer an avid photographer in ManilaHuh? One of the greatest places in the world for street photography, once one gets over the initial intimidation factor. You could spend weeks wandering neighborhoods like Binondo and Quiapo and never run out of photographic possibilities.
I am usually a south america guy but I would like to have a taste of asia before I get too jaded or too lazy to travel long distances.
Nice contrast :)
I am seriously considering PP and the surrounding area for about a 14/18 day visit. I would settle in PP for a few days then venture to siem reap for one or two nights then do day trips from pp by private taxi. I will not have the stamina to visit other SE countries while I am there. The trip to cambodia alone will drain me of any desire to fly again until I return...minus the interactive day trips taking photos.
You might be able to fly into one and fly out of the other depending which European hub you transit through.
I am an avid photographer so half of my trip would be dedicated to snapping some (hopefully) amazing photos and the other half mongering.
Likewise. Siem Reap, Angkor Wat and the villages north and west of there (and esp the boat trip to Battambang) I found were photo heaven (though the poverty and hopelessness is depressing). You can do some mongering up SR way but that's mostly for pics I found. WHereas PP is good for hardcore mongering.
St 104 136 and 51 seem to be a good place to start. My question is regarding the legal aspect. Since prostitution is illegal does that mean things are done on the down low versus the "buy a ticket and step right up" atmosphere of south america ? Do foreigners get busted for soliciting or is it one of those places that it's illegal but everybody does it in plain sight regardless ?
Well it definitely isn't like South America. I found the legal thing more worrying in terms of determining age (many of them are physiologically stunted). But in some areas - Battambang - locals were terrified of police. And the situation will no doubt probably change a bit more by the time you get there - it's a country in flux. Less infrastructure than S.A. - even rural S.A.
I have xanax or ambien I could take to ease the pressure. Any advice would be appreciated.
Ambien is a great addition to the eye-shades/neck-pillow/earplugs bag for a busy flight. You pile onto a crowded plane with everyone looking terrified in case the fat woman with infants sits next to them. You smile benignly, don your sleeping gear, and knock back 2 or 3 ambien till you're out cold. If you wake up, take some more. (I'm not saying you should, but they are not very dangerous, and it works.)
venture out to siem reap and the areas close to PP. SR is a good few hours from PP. Not the most interesting of rides. Plane is an option.
I have zero experience in asia but live and learn. Cambodia IMO is a steep learning curve if you are looking for that. I've not encountered any equivalent country that has been so f*cked over by everyone - Thais, Viets, and of course the US dropped more bombs on it than the whole of the WWII Japan tonnage. These are people (for the large percentage of the population) that have been annihilated so many times they have learnt to live without hope. Usually without basic sanitation, hygeine, or the basic education plus the sort of knowledge we get from our parents - did I mention a third have lost their parents via the last civil war. They also have little awareness of how to look after each other and the government is barely rearing its head above the most basic levels of corruption (check it on the Transparency index, a few countries above Zimbabwe).
It is a great learning experience. On the other hand, the mongering is a fairly basic but just different learning experience if you've done S.A.
I was also looking into jakarta the phillipines and thailand but the way I see it cambodia would have way better photo opportunities right ?
Bangkok is a a drag with the amount of air pollution but the combination of awesome climate, liberal use of gold on exquisite temples, and more colourful photo opportunities than you can shake a lens at, make it one of the photographers' world dream locations. The colours are much brighter than in Cambodia. Cambodia you photograph the history or the human condition.
(A lot of mongering photo-ops are all a bit too similar in SE Asia for my taste, except as a memento.)
I smoke when I am at home ...wouldn't think about it in thailand
Good thinking. Don't even go near anyone who does. To smoke, go to Amsterdam ;)
I do travel with alot of meds(just in case) regardless and one diabetic medicine I need to keep on ice. I would be arriving at customs with a bag of ice and medicine on top. Should I expect any trouble ?
You need to take valid prescriptions for any medicines you carry. Apart from that, it's just a case of keeping them at a sane temperature in Cambodia. Prob best not to think of buying any important meds there as too many fakes about.
My vision of asia has always been that they really dig blond hair and blue eyes or anything else in that realm. I have no idea what they think of ethnic whites. Again all of this is judged on what I have experienced growing up in NYC. I am sure things are very different in asia. Please excuse my ignorance.
No worries. But how did you get on in S.A.? Racism in the US is based mostly on skin colour. Abroad it tends to be based on whether they perceive you to be a jerk (or some race they particularly dislike - eg Arabs in Thailand). There's not much love lost between Cambodians and Thais. Anyone else is just a foreigner and they mostly have a lot more to worry about than whether you think they are racially-prejudiced. Like surviving.
Nice hearing from you. I'll maybe check your Colombia reports and enjoy. And look forward to hearing of your Asian travels if you make it.
nice contrast :)
well it definitely isn't like south america. i found the legal thing more worrying in terms of determining age (many of them are physiologically stunted). but in some areas - battambang - locals were terrified of police. and the situation will no doubt probably change a bit more by the time you get there - it's a country in flux. less infrastructure than s.a. - even rural s.a.
great response thank you. i feel very fortunate to get your reply. i understand the **** issue and i always look out for that. my question is regarding the scene in general.
sa for instance has bars and avenues with hookers all over the place. it is obvious what is taking place. would it be similar in pp or would i have to sort out the working girls from the non working girls ?
i don't see a list for pp so i assume i show up in one of those bar areas and the scene will be obvious to me ?
i agree with thailand but the on the spot drug testing is a no no for me. i smoke at home and it would still be in my blood stream or [CodeWord109] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord109). i wouldn't even consider a drag in asia.
i will look into jakarta some more as well. again thank you for an amazing job with your initial post. i believe you were a big part in putting together the villa mimosa information on the rio forum.
I went on the cathay pacific website and noticed they ask for a canadian transit visa on certain flights...why and what does that mean to an american from new york city?
I've never done a 20+ hr flight. How many meals can I expect to get and what about beverages ? I would need a hell of alot of water to get through. Sometimes I feel like the flight attendant is doing me a favor by giving me water. Most times the little glass isn't even full! What is the protocol for trips to asia ?
Hello,
Never been to Cambodia and mostly hang in Philippines and HK but I can answer your flight questions.
If you are flying from NYC to HKG or SIN, the flying time should be around 18 hours. Cathay has good in flight service and you can expect a full dinner, a mid flight snack followed by breakfast. Water is not a problem because they usually come around a few times to rehydrate you. You can disregard any transit visa since Americans can get a visa on arrival.
Thank you to everyone that has responded via pm or via the thread. It will take me awhile to decide where to go.
Thanks Again,
Artisttyp
I am usually a south america guy but I would like to have a taste of asia before I get too jaded or too lazy to travel long distances.
In your place I would land at Honk Kong and stay there a couple of days. IMHO worth seeing it.
Then move on to Thailand for a very good mongering experience in soapies, oilys etc. together with very nice scenery out of BKK. Unless you want to visit south China, Shenzhen, Dongguan, Chiangping, Macau before moving on to BKK.
From there on is very easy to spend a week in Cambodia even go to Vietnam from there before you return to Hong Kong for your flight back to NYC.
FYI Thai international flyies directly to JFK from BKK.
Here is a few links for cheap flights in the area if you decide to visit Jakarta or Philippines too.
www.airasia.com
www.cebupacificair.com
http://www.jetstar.com
There are some more. Finalise your itinerary and I will be glad to help you more if you wish. Overall I prefer Thailand to Cambodia.
Thanks for your SA posts. Were very helpfull to me visiting Lima.
To all the visitors or future visitors of Phnom Penh:
A couple of months the excellent free magazine Bayon Pearnik reported serious problems with valuables stoled by the airport bagage staff at Pochentong Airport.
So like they ecommend, lock all your baggage and take all your valuables with you on board.
Until now, nothing has been decided for solutioned this recurent problem.
You have been warned.
Good advice. The last time I was in Camb., two years ago, I had a little TSA lock on my suitcase.
I checked it at the airport in PP for the Bankgok Airways flight to SR. When I picked up my suitcase, no lock. Gone. Nothing was missing, but, then again, I had nothing of real value in it, aside from condoms. :)
disclaimer
this quick mini-guide is based on personal experiences and is current as of august-september 2008. as things change very rapidly in cambodia, please don’t place too much reliance on any reports (inc this one) as details go if more than a couple of months old! it’s nowhere near comprehensive but is written to be as helpful as possible.
money
think us dollars (notes in good condition, preferably not larger than a $20). then think of cambodian riel as small change. that’s how it works. instead of 100 cents to the dollar you have about 4000 riel. prices are sometimes quoted in dollars and cents so ‘$1.25’ is ‘one dollar and 1000 riel’.
orientation
bootleg copies of lonely planet (for cambodia and elsewhere) and just about any other popular book are available from about $3. quality varies (eg some have colour pages). you can fly into siem reap or phnom penh or mix and match. for adventurous types, the boat trip from siem reap to battambang can be quite an experience. remember to save $20 for exit tax at the airport (phnom penh currently accepting visa payment even though the sign says cash only). cheap flights available to neighbouring countries from phnom penh.
pdp overview
brothels are now technically illegal in cambodia. you can get pdp anywhere, but phnom penh is the best bet unless you want to do serious ‘tourist’ stuff. there are some drawbacks to cambodia as a mongering destination imo though, and i don’t personally recommend it without reservation.
most moto drivers will show you some brothels. these vary a lot in quality and many motos will be working a kick-back. many ‘legit’ girlie bars operate some kind of cover, often with a barfine if you want to take the girl out, or sometimes have onsite illicit rooms. others just provide facilities for freelancers. girls in the street will sometimes offer massage, but as most massage is legit you have to refine that by asking if she means, ‘just massage?’. a lot of hotel or guest house staff will happily provide an overnight girl for you (and feel free to send her away if she is not to you liking). costs are anything from $5 to $35.
there are some disadvantages. girls can be woefully inexperienced. this doesn’t necessarily make them good learners. the country as a whole has had its spirit broken by horrific wars and many people, a few yards beyond the main tourist streets, live in abject poverty and misery, which could be why some girls find it harder to do those pretences that make paid-for sex a pleasant experience. many have lost both parents (there is almost a generation gap with few people over 30). and even as asian women go, cambodians can be very small of stature making it hard to discern their age (and not all carry i.d., even if you have someone who will reliably read it). so a) there is the genuine worry of screwing up the head of a minor; b) there is the threat of horrific legal penalties if you do; c) even if she is 25 but looks 17 you can get looks of opprobrium. check for age lines under the eyes, the hands. if the bar has a visible age policy (as many thankfully do), ask any proprietor or manager that you trust if she is the age she claims. some hotels (eg walkabout in pp) have an added policy of not letting anyone thought to be under-age to be on the premises. another disadvantage in some people’s books will be asian passivity. one can’t generalise on a whole country, but i have found a high proportion of cambodians irredeemably passive - so as to take most of the pleasure out of it for me, but this is personal taste. the best results i got (both in pp and in the other areas) was to establish some emotional connection before sex.
in phnom penh, the advantages of easily available pdp may be enough to tip the balance against the hassle and other factors. it would not be top of my countries to return to but i’d happily include a few days in pp en route. for siem reap and battambang, imo you would be crazy to make a lot of effort to get there just for the pdp, but those towns have unimaginably rich learning curves for other activities.
language
as with any country, it’s a big help if you have even a few words and phrases of the local lingo. khmer (cambodian) is not so easy to pronounce, having both a clipped and a nasal sound, both of which seem unnatural to most westerners. you can pick up a khmer phrase book for about $3 which is useful reference, but an easy way i found was to ask guest house staff how to say a new word or phrase and practice one a day in the market and with pdps and everyone i met. some words are much easier than others, but nearly all phrase books use a phonetic system which is a learning curve in itself. here are a few words and phrases which sound similar to english words, which is how i’ve written them.
khmer (cambodian):
suseday! = hi! (sounds a bit like ‘tuesday’)
sook – see – bye? = how are you doing?
somta = excuse me / please
boom-boom = sex
yum-yum, boom-boom = bj then sex
massage, yum-yum, boom-boom . . .
ah-kun = thanks
(and a few easy ones for bargaining to show you didn’t arrive in a western banana boat . . . )
pram = five
dawp = ten
sam – suhp = thirty (for when you’re feeling generous haha!)
jermoi = cheers!
as a lot of pdps will be vietnamese and maybe speak little more khmer than you, it’s also handy to be able to swap around. so in vietnamese:
sin – jou! (as in ‘ouch’) = hi!
gam – un = thanks
traffic and crossing the street
cambodian drivers pay only nominal respect to rules like driving on one side of the road, so crossing the street is an art in itself. for busy streets (especially in phnom penh) try it a few times with a cambodian pedestrian. if you walk calmly, purposefully and predictably into the traffic, it will, believe it or not, try not to hit you. the same as if you were a moto navigating across a busy street. throw away assumptions about where traffic should be coming from, keep looking in all directions, and make adjustments to speed and direction in an obvious manner (if you jump out of the way to avoid a moto, he may hit you cos he has swerved to avoid you). i found this works for me. if it doesn’t work for you, well one pp moto driver reeled off a figure of four people a day killed on the roads and 40 injured . . .
tuktuk drivers and motos
some of the scams include taking you to a brothel or hotel that will give a kickback. another is, if you hire a moto or tuktuk for the ‘day’ or ‘half-day’, the driver becomes tired, less helpful, more ignorant and so on, half way into the shift (but bear in mind you should give him a lunch break if you hire him for the day). a ‘day’ is nominally sunrise to sunset and outside of these times cost more. the correct fare is mostly down to knowing what it should be (ie what cambodians would pay) and then adding a small amount as tourist tax. if you can work out the correct fare (especially for short to medium journeys across town) and state it with authority, they’ll usually just accept. short distances, even in pp (which is more expensive) start at 2000 reil (half a dollar).
here are a few that i found outstanding, speak good english and seem honest and reliable.
in siem reap: siv. tel 855-122-17330. email sivpisey@yahoo.com (moto/tuktuk/taxi). siv is one of the most genuine cambodians i’ve dealt with. he even refused money for a courtesy lift in the rain.
in phnom penh: marra tel 012-36-77-69. email marrachay@yahoo.com (10 years experience)
in phnom penh: smiley tel (855) 012-608-247. email engsmilly012608247@yahoo.com
if it’s just for a trip to a knock shop, i just look for someone with a not-too-less-than-average-roadworthy bike and braincells and maybe a bit of english. but if you want a half-day tour it makes a vast difference if the driver has good english and knows his stuff.
it’s always a good idea to collect calling cards for the places you go to. remember not all drivers will be able to read maps or understand your accent. many will bluff about knowing where they are going. never, ever, ever, raise your voice. get them to ask a friend or another driver. agree prices in advance. if they seem unsure, add that they won’t get paid if they can’t find the place.
happy hunting!
other quick cambodia overviews: http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showpost.php?p=791957&postcount=33
i will be in cambodia next month. excellent work on your report as it has helped me a lot.
regards
blastoff
I just got back from my second trip to Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville.
All the information I found on this and other boards, where in general correct. My thanks to all. Only one thing I must add, and in my opinion a very important thing: Cambodia IS NOT SAFE.
Every one who says it’s all right if you keep low profile, don’t walk drunk or show no one you carry big dollar bills, are wrong or do not know.
There are no statistics on barrangs who get robbed or killed. Police reports speak only about:
Traffic accident (when the victim clothes are robbed too; they say he came from the beach)
Suicide (when the victim was shot twice in the head; you should try this out! )
Even in day time, you better be careful after visiting an ATM, and go straight to your hotel. Some barrangs are killed shortly after a pick up from an ATM. As they don’t care about a man’s life, you’ll never safe; even a few dollars is worth killing for them.
Many of the Cambodians are friendly and helpfully, but don’t forget what some of them did during the Khmer Rouge regime, only 30 years ago.
You can visit Cambodia and stay in bars for barrangs, eat in restaurants and sleep in hotels where other barrangs are. Or better, go with 4 or 5 friends, and stick together, all the time.
Remember the minute you walk alone or with your girlfriend, even in daytime, you can be surprised by a bunch of guys waving manchettes or axes. They beat you up until you don’t move anymore, and then check your belongings to see if it was worth killing you.
If you want to visit Cambodia for the fun and the ladies, don’t go. Stay or go to Thailand. More choice and better, more beautiful ladies. And stay alive!
For example: maybe I missed a few bars in Sihanoukvlle, but I guess there are no more than 150 ladies available. 90 % of them are not good looking. Half of the beautiful part, are kept by barrangs for long time services. 150 ladies for 250, 500 Barrangs?
I planned to make a stop in Koh Kong, but for what I saw and heard, I decided to stay on the bus, did not get of in Koh Kong!
One more thing: if you stay in a low budget hotel, means 2 to 20 USD, don’t be stupid to leave your key at the reception. If you go out, keep your room key with you.
For me, I love my life, I’ll never go back there anymore; I’ve seen it.
This is not a one man opinion. I spoke with a lot of guys about this in Cambodia, after I saw it. All agreed about the danger. They all spoke about something they knew or heard.
EDITOR'S NOTE: I would suggest that the author or another Forum Member consider posting a link to this report in the Reports of Distinction thread. Please Click Here (http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/announcement-reportsofdistinction.php?) for more information.
Fast Eddie 48
03-02-09, 02:19
Good advice. The last time I was in Camb., two years ago, I had a little TSA lock on my suitcase.
I checked it at the airport in PP for the Bankgok Airways flight to SR. When I picked up my suitcase, no lock. Gone. Nothing was missing, but, then again, I had nothing of real value in it, aside from condoms. :)Phordphan,
US custom do a random search on check in Luggage ,you should not lock or have vauleable item inside check in luggage ,I have my luggage check the twice the last 2 yr to bangkok and Hong kong ,they do attach a stick to let you know it been search ,once they did break the lock but Cathay pacific airline paid for the damage .
Fast eddie 48
Nokbkk: I live in Phnom Penh, and I've never had problems. I'm the only barang living in my neighborhood.
I have been to Cambodia many times. I never had any problems. Do not forget it is a communist government and it makes money from tourists. The last thing they want is tourists in trouble.
There maybe some petty things which happen in any country.
I find the Cambo girls are pretty and real GFE. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. We are there for the service for the most part not for eye candy.
In any poor country there are scams to part with your money. If you follow general precautions you will be safe.
great response thank you. i feel very fortunate to get your reply. i understand the **** issue and i always look out for that. my question is regarding the scene in general.if you've never been here before, you don't really understand the **** issue. just come and see for yourself.
sa for instance has bars and avenues with hookers all over the place. it is obvious what is taking place. would it be similar in pp or would i have to sort out the working girls from the non working girls ?
i don't see a list for pp so i assume i show up in one of those bar areas and the scene will be obvious to me ?some girls in the hostess bars do not go with customers and it is part of their job to let you hope they will so that you buy drinks for them and yourself. you should ask them before investing too much time/money.
in general i believe the scene is quite obvious though outside of the hostess bars. you can tell a bar is a hostess bar when there is a barfine.
i agree with thailand but the on the spot drug testing is a no no for me. i smoke at home and it would still be in my blood stream or [CodeWord109] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord109). i wouldn't even consider a drag in asia.on the spot drug testing for cannabis??? you must be kidding. never heard of that. they do make blind tests occasionally for meth but only for meth and very rarely aimed at tourists.
cambodia is an interesting destination but thailand has just got way more to offer. do yourself a favor and head for thailand!
Phantomtiger2
03-07-09, 00:45
Nokbkk
I've been to Cambo several times already and never had much trouble there except for a few rip-off petty thefts at the local brothels in PP (some of the stories are still posted about a year back) and some asses stealing my gas from my motobike while parked in Snooky, don't really have serious things to report.
Just wondering as it sounds like these are mostly situations you "heard" about but not experienced yourself?
Although I would not rate cambo as the safest place to be, can't say its all that dangerous either, except as you mentioned, perhaps during the Pol Pot days.
Also, it won't matter much if you kept the room keys with you or not as the GH or hotels ALWAYS have duplicate keys, how else will maid get in to clean your rooms? (and also in case you lose your keys?.). if hotel wanted to rip you off, don't need your set of keys to do it?
Don't always beleive the rumours about how bad it is there and simply enjoy the place. Yes some of the points you made are valid: ex; use caution at ATMs, don't flash money, don't walk down dangerous dark alleys at nite by yourself etc.
Relax a bit and you will find nothing will happen to you and the only one to jump you will be some hooker jumping at you to take her out.
_IMO
PS: missing Koh Kong is no big deal as it's gone downhill since my 1st visit there years ago.
PT
i have no idea what you're referring to when you mention "on site" drug testing in thailand. having worked there, and having been there dozens of times, i've never heard of this happening to anyone.i guess he is referring to the bar raids by police wherein a [CodeWord140] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140) test for drugs was required "on site", that is, at the bar. for example:
"...bangkok’s turbulent (to put it lightly) and ever changing nightlife landscape? from ridiculously early closing hours, to random police raids and drug tests, to political coups, to that crazy no dancing law..."
http://www.bangkokrecorder.com/items/view/165/q-bar-9th-anniversary-party-171208
"in one raid described by the ap, the chic q club was besieged by 50 police officers for three hours as customers, many cursing the police, crammed into restrooms to produce [CodeWord109] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord109) samples. each customer had to provide a sample, but no procedures were in place to ensure the sample provided came from that customer, and the ap reported several clients saying they'd provided clean samples for friends. only two of 373 people tested positive for drugs, but they were later cleared because the tests could not differentiate between illicit drugs and legal medications, police said."
http://stopthedrugwar.org/chronicle-old/362/thailand.shtml
"lively nights out in bangkok can degenerate into farce if you're unlucky enough to be detained and [CodeWord140] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140)-tested by the thai police."
http://www.mangosauce.com/nightlife/thai_police_piss_test_bangkok_nightclub.php
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