Both Vietnam and Cambodia are generally safe for tourists, but Vietnam often edges out Cambodia due to lower levels of petty crime and better overall stability, though Cambodia's major tourist spots like Siem Reap remain safe despite localized border issues. Travelers should be cautious of scams, traffic, and pickpocketing in both countries, with Vietnam offering a slightly more secure experience, especially for solo female travelers.
The country suffers from high corruption and political risks and low financial transparency. Cambodia also faces risks related to human trafficking and environmental crimes.
Although there's no recent history of terrorism in Cambodia, attacks cannot be ruled out. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by expatriates and foreign travellers. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media and follow the advice of local authorities.
For budget travellers, Cambodian accommodation is marginally cheaper. However, it's harder to find fantastic budget accommodation in Cambodia, so Vietnam wins this round for budget travellers.
Both Vietnam and Thailand are safe for tourists, but it's always important to be careful. Vietnam has a lower crime rate, and the people are friendly and helpful. Even though it's safe, you should always watch out for pickpockets, especially in busy places. Thailand is also safe, and most tourists don't have problems.
All 3 are safe for travellers, but keep an eye on Cambodia with the on-going border dispute with Thailand. All safe, but pick one country! Hi Moses, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia are generally very safe for travelers, with friendly locals and well-established tourism infrastructure.
🇹🇭 Thailand – 6.7 years 2. 🇻🇳 Vietnam – 6.3 years 3.
Other FAQ About Visiting Vietnam and Cambodia
Cambodia is a more relaxed destination, and is also much smaller: You can see enough to feel satisfied in a long weekend, or in as long as several weeks.
Yes, $1000 USD is generally enough for two weeks in Vietnam for a budget to mid-range traveler, covering basic expenses like hostels, street food, local transport, and some tours, but it will be tight or insufficient if you plan on many expensive tours (like Ha Long Bay cruises), shopping sprees, or fine dining, so budget carefully for activities and souvenirs.
Yes, $100 USD (around 2.5 million VND) is a significant amount for a short trip in Vietnam, enough for budget-to-mid-range travel for several days, covering delicious street food, comfortable guesthouses, and local transport, though it can be spent quickly on high-end dining or luxury hotels, with average monthly incomes being much lower.
Yes, women can wear shorts in Cambodia, especially in cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap where it's common and comfortable for tourists, but it's crucial to dress more conservatively (covering knees and shoulders) when visiting temples (like Angkor Wat) or rural areas to show respect for local customs. Shorts above the knee are generally not allowed inside sacred sites, so bringing a sarong to cover up is a great idea, note Reddit users.
Yes, Australian citizens need a visa to enter Cambodia for tourism, which can be obtained as an e-visa online before travel or a visa on arrival at ports of entry, both typically valid for 30 days. In addition to the visa, you must also complete Cambodia's e-Arrival Card within seven days of arrival, which is a separate electronic form and not a visa replacement, though it's required for air travel.
Avoid non-essential travel to the area between 50 to 80 km from the Cambodia-Thailand border, from Preah Vihear to Battambang province including Battambang City.
1 in 5 Cambodian adults are at risk of stroke as noncommunicable disease risks increase. Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of death in Cambodia, responsible for approximately 60 000 deaths annually.
What vaccinations do I need for Cambodia? Cambodia vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid and tetanus. Our doctors can provide more specific vaccinations, depending on your trip and length of stay. Are there any health risks I should be aware of in Cambodia?
Cambodia's 2025 events feature major cultural celebrations like the Khmer New Year (April 14-16) and Pchum Ben (Sept 21-23), along with national holidays such as Independence Day (Nov 9) and the Water Festival (Nov 4-6), plus various marathons and international trade fairs in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Key dates include the Royal Ploughing Ceremony (May 15) and King's Birthday (May 14), alongside ongoing events like the Angkor Wat International Half Marathon, offering a mix of traditional festivities and modern expos.
The cheapest countries to visit from Australia are Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Malaysia, thanks to low flight prices, strong AUD exchange rates and very affordable daily costs.
For a more comfortable backpacker experience in Vietnam, it's best to budget around $50 per day. This way, you'll have more money to spend on things like food, drinks, activities and hotel rooms. For a comfortable mid-range experience in Vietnam, it's best to budget $60 to $100 per day for your entire costs.
In addition to the magnificence of Angkor and the horror of the Khmer Rouge period, Cambodia has a complex cultural tapestry and a fascinating and long history. Cambodia is also famous for beautiful and sunny beaches, lush natural attractions, delicious food and the charming capital city of Phnom Penh.
Is it cheaper to go to Vietnam or Cambodia? However, Cambodia is much cheaper than Vietnam, in terms of cost. Also, you'll find that Vietnam's neighboring countries such as Laos provide affordable accommodations and food options that can be added to your multi-country trip in Southeast Asia.
Taking a strong influence from neighbors Vietnam, Thailand and Laos, Cambodian dishes are often milder in terms of heat. Rice and fish are the staple ingredients, flavored with spices and herbs including kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, turmeric and galangal.
One of the biggest mistakes in Vietnam is underestimating the traffic, especially the chaotic motorbike-filled streets, making inexperienced riders feel overwhelmed and leading to dangerous situations, so avoid riding motorbikes unless you're confident and prepared for the chaos, and instead use ride-hailing apps like Grab for safer transport. Other major mistakes include drinking tap water, ignoring cultural etiquette (like "saving face"), skipping the incredible street food, and failing to manage the confusing currency or scams, which can ruin your trip before it starts.
If you are a U.S. citizen, you may receive your Social Security payments outside the U.S. as long as you are eligible for them.