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Cambodia Clothing
Most Cambodians dress up casually except
when they are attending formal events. It is common to see men and women
using Krama, a Long, Narrow checked
cotton cloth round their neck. The
Krama is just
like a piece of clothe.
The Kramas
also are used to shield children from the cold or dreaded mosquitoes.
Adults too make use of the Kramas in many ways, using them to clean
their bodies or wear while taking a bath. As Cambodians, head to work in
the rice fields, they can be seen wearing a Kramas folded around their
head as a sun protector.
The Kramas has even kept the lustful star
of young boys off the faces of blushing girls. While the Khmer Kramas is
thought to be a useful article of clothing, it also is considered a
symbol of respect and good manners. When people head out to visit
friend, they often wear a Krama around their neck to complete their
dress, much like the way male westerners wear neckties to important
events.
Although it's not nearly as popular as the
western necktie, the traditional Khmer Krama appears to have
international appeal. "When foreigners come to visit Cambodia, they
sometimes pick up the Khmer style. They take the Krama to fold around
their head like Khmer people in the countryside. Much to the delight of
its guests, the Angkor Hotel in Siem Reap distributes the Kramas as
tourist check in. The guests are thrilled to receive them and often put
them on immediately.
Lightweight, loose-fitting, cotton
clothing is recommended and long-sleeved items should be included for
protection from mosquitoes and the sun. During the rainy season an
umbrella is more convenient than a rain coast. A jacket may be needed in
hotels and restaurants using excessive air-conditioning.
General Advice and Health
Drink lots of water. Never drink tap water purified, bottled
water is available everywhere.
Use an insect repellent against mosquitoes. It is the only way to be
sure of protection against mosquito borne diseases.
Since Cambodia has a hot and humid tropical climate, casual and
light-weight clothing is best. Clothing made from natural fibers is the
best option. A jacket might be needed on cool winter evenings or in
hotels and restaurants using excessive air-conditioning.
A
hat and high-factor sun block is advisable as protection against the hot
sun when sightseeing.
When visiting temples or pagodas, including those of Angkor Wat,
shorts and T-shirts are acceptable. Shoes are generally removed at the
entrance to pagodas. For visits to the Silver Pagoda, which is within
the Royal Palace grounds. visitors are asked to dress more formally.
Gentlemen are required to wear long trousers and ladies should
wear long trousers or long skirts.
Standard film, (such as Kodak, FUJI or Konica 100, ) and slide Non are
widely available. Photos are inexpensive to process in the country. Any
specialized photo equipment should be brought with you.
Photography in airports, railway stations and near any military
installations is forbidden and discretion should be used when
photographing people, particularly monks. The cheapest & best quality
photo service in Phnom Penh is
SPK Photo Studio FUJI Shop.
HEALTH
REQUIREMENTS
Although no vaccinations are officially required for entry to Cambodia,
they are highly encouraged. Visitors are advised to check with their
doctor or a travel immunization clinic regarding protection against
malaria, typhoid, tetanus, hepatitis A and B. Any essential medications
should be brought with you as there is no guarantee they will be
available in Cambodia.
FOOD
Khmer cuisine is closely related to those in neighboring Thailand and
Laos, although it is not as spicy. Curries, stir tried vegetable, rice,
noodles and soups are staples of the Khmer diet. Cambodia is well known
in the region for its Prahok, a strong, fermented fish paste used in a
variety of traditional dishes. Fresh serve bottled drinking water and
tap water should never be drunk. Similarly, salad and fruit served at
these establishments are safe.
All Tours are based on full board arrangements. For full-day excursions,
picnic lunch can be provided if no adequate restaurants are available. |
Accommodations