Like many other countries in the area and the world, touriss may catch up with street crime occasionally happening in Cambodia.The Cambodians are friendly, warm, open and appreciative of tourists – and the economic benefits. You’ve just got to be aware of the risk and take precautions to keep yourself safe from those elements who will take advantage of the less-aware traveller. Indochina tours Cambodia
Here are a few tips that will help you to avoid becoming a target for the local criminals. While these might seem fairly obvious, they should get you thinking a little sharper.
How to Avoid Crime in Cambodia
So, you’re out in the crowded streets of Phnom Penh, trying to enjoy the sights of the captivating city, but you’re locals are constantly approaching you, trying to sell you stuff you don’t want. Although selling over-priced merchandise (or pestering relatively wealthy tourists) isn’t a crime, some find it really annoying.
The crowded street in Phnom Penh, cambodia- source: internet
They can tell you’re a tourist, but what gave it away? Was it the backpack you bring at back, the crumpled map in your hand or the shiny brushed metal camera dangling from your wrist?
The truth is, of course, that even without these things the locals will take one look at you, as you examine the local sights with more interest than your average Cambodian, and know straight away that you’re not from around here but that doesn’t mean you can’t take steps to make yourself a little more invisible.
You’ll take the street vendor trouble level down a bit, and have the advantage of being less attractive to the criminal element looking for an easy target. Tours in Cambodia
Stash the Cash & Valuables
- Hide the camera in a deep pocket where it’s within easy reach for those vital picture opportunities.
- Memorise the map for a few streets in advance so you don’t have to keep glancing at it.
- If you’re staying in a local hotel, leave your backpack behind, and just carry your valuables secreted about your person.
- If you look like you aren’t carrying any money, you’ll be of considerably less interest to scam artists than the other tourists will be.
Hiding your money in safe places- source: internet
Watch Your Back
The clubs and pubs in big cities of Cambodia, including in the aptly named Pub Street in Siem Reap or the tourist hotspots of Street 51 in Phnom Penh, tend to be open buildings with square holes for windows, and in some cases, not even any walls.
This open design is adopted by most public buildings purposely – the tropical and humid Cambodian night air doesn’t lend itself well to enclosed spaces – but is also favoured by crooks in Cambodia, the Pickpocket.
Always watch your back- source: internet
These people are masters of weaving in and out of the lounge seats and sprawling bar stools that spill out of the pubs and onto the walkways, relieving unsuspecting, and inebriated tourists, of their wallets as they go. And if you happen to notice their delicate touch, don’t hope to catch them – these cities are littered with more un-navigable backstreets than a Minotaur’s maze.
Here are a few secrets to avoid becoming a target:
- Select a seat with a high, solid back that’s set against a wall.
- Never pick a seat with an opening next to your back pockets, especially if that’s where you keep your valuables.
- Make sure that you’re sitting on anything you’d rather remain in possession of, such as your passport or wallet.
- Be mindful to check they’re still there whenever you have to get up to move.
See more:
Staying Safe After Dark in Cambodia
Amazing Experiences For Your Cambodia Trip
Asia Travel Lover
