Travel to Cambodia to backpack, study, intern, volunteer, work, or live as a digital nomad, expat or emigrant?

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Intro

Backpacking or traveling in Cambodia?

  • Cambodia is not only popular for backpacking trips through Southeast Asia, but is definitely worth planning a separate trip to. 
  • Spotting cities and temples: Angkor, Siem Reap, Phnom Penh.
  • Activity spotting: go on a street food tour and discover Cambodia's delicious cuisine; trek through the Cardamom Mountains; witness an Apsara dance show; cruise on the Mekong River; visit Angkor Archeological Park, Siem Reap and Phnom-Penh; relax in Sihanoukville; enjoy the sunset in Koh Rong Sanloem; go to a show by the Phare Cambodian Circus; hike through Kirirom's forest; visit the national museum; experience the coolness of Popokvil waterfall.
  • Animal spotting: Irrawaddy dolphin, giant ibis, clouded leopard, Asian wild dog, various deer species, Asian elephant, Sunda pangolin, banteng, gibbon etc.

Studying in Cambodia?

  • Cambodia has a few universities, including the Royal University of Phnom Penh and the University of Cambodia. The education system in Cambodia is evolving, with efforts to improve quality. Although resources are sometimes limited, several institutions offer reasonably good education, especially in the capital Phnom Penh.
  • The country offers programs in areas such as development studies, international relations, and Asian studies.
  • Study cities: Phnom Penh. 
  • Language: Khmer, although there are also limited options in English. 

Internship in Cambodia?

  • Internships are available in various sectors, such as NGOs, international organizations, tourism, education, and health care. Phnom Penh and Siem Reap are the main cities where interns will find opportunities.
  • Competencies: intercultural communication, adaptability and flexibility, problem-solving skills, planning skills, community-oriented approach, understanding of hierarchical structures. 

Volunteer in Cambodia?

  • There are numerous volunteer opportunities in education, health care, stray animal/wildlife shelter and community development. Teaching English, working with children, and contributing to environmental projects are popular options.
  • Mind you, this actually applies to everywhere, but as a volunteer it is good to be aware of the ethical implications of your work and ensure that you contribute in a way that is sustainable and in line with local needs. Knowledge of the Khmer language is a plus, although English is often sufficient.

Working in Cambodia?

  • The most popular job among expats is teaching English. There is still a growing demand for English teachers. In addition, other important fields of work are tourism, NGOs, and the export industry (such as textiles). There are also opportunities for expats in business development and consulting.
  • Work culture: the work culture in Cambodia is generally informal and relaxed. There is respect for hierarchy, but the work environment is often flexible and friendly. English is the language of communication in many professional environments, especially in the tourism sector and NGOs.

Working as a digital nomad in Cambodia?

  • Close to popular Thailand, you'll find Cambodia as an emerging destination for digital nomads. The country is a lot more affordable and has facilities for digital nomads, although they are a lot fewer than in Thailand. Internet is available, but speed and reliability can vary, especially outside the cities. 
  • Favorite locations: Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville. 

Living in Cambodia?

  • Living in Cambodia means simple, but relaxed, living. Expats usually live in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, or on the coast. The cost of living is low, the country is quite safe, and there is a growing expat community.
  • There are many social activities and communities in the big cities, including for expats. But also get to know the many local groups like the Khmer, it will expand your world. In addition, there is beautiful nature to explore, as well as rich traditions of art and dance. 
  • But... due to the recent history of war and political instability, the country has not been able to develop a good health system or education system, and the government spends little on health care. So health care leaves a lot to be desired and on top of that, there are many diseases going around in Cambodia. So make sure you have your vaccinations and your own well-covered health insurance.
Cambodia Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

Cambodia Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

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Content about Cambodia on WorldSupporter

Cambodia: Updates & Travel

Cambodia: Updates & Travel

Travel in Cambodia

  • The temples of Angkor Wat are among the most beautiful in the world. In addition, Cambodia has beautiful, quiet beaches, remote wildlife parks and a tasty cuisine. Fall for the charms of Siem Reap or immerse yourself in the city life of Phnom Penh. The people are friendly and hospitable and will welcome you with open arms to this beautiful country in Southeast Asia.
  • Travel by boat from Battambang to Siem Reap is the most beautiful water route in the country.
  • Take the bamboo train at Battambang. This 'train' is a bamboo platform on a train track that is powered by a go-kart engine. Ask the driver to stop at tourist spots or beautiful views.
  • Take a cooking class: Fan of Cambodian cuisine? Many restaurants in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Battambang and Sihanoukville offer cooking classes.
  • Take a trip through the jungle! Visit Angkor Wat, the largest Hindu (and later Buddhist) temple complex in the world. The Tomb Raider movies starring Angelina Jolie were also filmed here.
  • Sihanoukville is Cambodia's beach capital. You can also snorkel, dive and surf here.
  • Phnom Penh is the capital of Cambodia. There is a lot to see and do. For example, visit the silver pagoda, the national museum and the central market. Also visit Choeung Ek. This is one of the many "killing fields". In this area, 17 km north of Phnom Penh, approximately 17,000 people were murdered under the Khmer Rouge from 1975 to 1979. The remains of the deceased have now been exhumed and collected in a mausoleum that serves as a memorial.
  • There is plenty to do in and around the city of Siem Reap. Visit the Prek Toal bird sanctuary or the flooded forest of Kompong Pluk (an incredible village of bamboo apartment buildings). Siem Reap is best known for the temples of Angkor. This enormous temple complex is one of the 7 wonders of the world. From the 9th to the 14th century, this was the center of the Cambodian empire. In the second half of the 19th century, the overgrown city was discovered in the jungle by French scientists. You can visit the complex with a guide.
  • Visit Kratie as a stopover between Phnom Penh and Laos. You can get here via the river. This is the place to see Irrawaddy dolphins. These freshwater dolphins are almost extinct, but here on the river you can still visit them.
  • The Tonlé Sap lake: the fastest way to get from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap is via this lake. When you travel across the lake, you end up in a water world with floating villages and many fishing boats. You can also spot many water birds and admire the houses on stilts. The trip takes about 4 to 6 hours.
  • Be aware that any possession of drugs (including cannabis) is prohibited and carries very severe penalties. In many places, cannabis is still smoked and sometimes used in cooking as a seasoning. In Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, you will find “Happy herb pizzerias” that are illegal.
  • Be aware of an alcoholic drink that is drunk in the north. This is called the alcohol that does not burn. It is a drink based on opiates.
  • Many areas in Cambodia have now been demined, but keep in mind that there are still landmines in some areas. Never ignore a landmine warning sign.
  • Don't get ripped off on the way to the Killing Fields. There are many taxi companies that charge far too high prices from unsuspecting tourists. Keep in mind that for 15 euros you can get a tuk tuk for a whole day and a ride to the Killing Fields by taxi should not cost more than that.
  • And don't go out alone at night.

Updates Cambodia

  • More about Cambodia, updates and contributions, see the link below.

 

How does healthcare work in Cambodia, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does healthcare work in Cambodia, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the healthcare system work in Cambodja?

What is the quality of healthcare in Cambodia?

  • Unfortunately, Cambodia’s healthcare system still has many problems. For example, a universal social security system was created in 2008, but it still only covers 10% of the working population.
  • Cambodia’s healthcare system consists of both public and private institutions. Private institutions are preferred by foreigners because of their quality.
  • For more serious problems, you are advised to seek help abroad, such as in Thailand, Vietnam or Singapore.
  • The local emergency number is 119, but the system does not always work well (sometimes the answer is not given) and ambulances may not meet the expectations of most foreigners. It is wise to keep an emergency number of a private hospital in your pocket.
  • There are many pharmacies, not all of which are of the same good quality. Cambodia has strict regulations, but despite this, many medicines can be bought without a prescription. There are also many counterfeit medicines on the market. It is wisest to buy medicines from the larger pharmacy chains in Phnom Penh.

How does the public healthcare system work in Cambodia?

  • The Ministry of Health oversees the public healthcare system. The National Social Security Fund (NSSF) provides very limited healthcare coverage for people working in the private sector.
  • The public healthcare system has made great strides in the past twenty years. However, many problems remain. For example, the public sector struggles with limited resources and infrastructure. The quality of care in public hospitals is often substandard, especially outside the major cities.
  • Clinics generally provide standard/basic care, while hospitals provide more specialized care.
  • Unfortunately, there is often a shortage of staff and the condition of the facilities is very poor.
  • English is not always spoken in public healthcare institutions.

How does the private healthcare system work in Cambodia?

  • There are a limited number of institutions that provide care at a reasonable level. These are mainly found in Phnom Penh, such as the Royal Phnom Penh Hospital and some in Siem Reap and other cities.
  • Private clinics are a lot more expensive than public healthcare and in serious cases they cannot provide the right care due to the lack of equipment and specialists. In that case, medical evacuation to Singapore or Bangkok, for example, is necessary.
  • In rural areas, there are generally no good private institutions.

How is the general practitioner arranged in Cambodia?

  • Cambodia does not work with a general practitioner system. There are general practitioners/family doctors available at private clinics.
  • It can be useful to ask others for recommendations for a good private clinic. Most options can be found in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

How is the dentist arranged in Cambodia?

  • There are both public and private dental clinics. Despite the state of the rest of the healthcare system, the dental care is of good quality and very cheap. This makes the country a popular medical attraction for oral care.
  • Dentists generally speak good English in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

How is pregnancy care arranged in Cambodia?

  • There is good private pregnancy care in Cambodia. For local women, outside the cities in remote areas, this is different. There is often no pregnancy care available and women go through pregnancy without professional help. 89% of births take place outside health centers and only 32% of births are attended by professional care workers.
  • Many women choose to give birth abroad, but nowadays a limited number of private clinics and hospitals (especially Thai) offer relatively good pregnancy care, both prenatal and postnatal. It is useful to talk to other foreigners about their experiences.
  • Pain medication for labor may not be available everywhere.
  • Abortion is legal in Cambodia up to 12 weeks. After 12 weeks, specific rules apply for an abortion to be legal.

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Cambodia?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Cambodia?

  • Cambodia is fairly safe. Violent crimes against foreigners are rare and the locals are known for their friendliness and helpfulness.
  • In tourist areas, pickpocketing and bag snatching do occur. It is also wise to watch out for phone snatching from scooters.
  • “Drink spiking” occasionally occurs in Cambodia. Keep a close eye on your drinks.
  • There are still landmines in remote areas. Stay on the main roads when traveling outside of the cities.
  • Flooding occurs during the rainy season and high air pollution can occur during the dry season.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Cambodia?

  • There are several health risks in Cambodia. For example, mosquito-borne diseases occur, especially in the rainy season. Protect yourself well against mosquitoes by wearing covering clothing and using spray.
  • Food poisoning and stomach problems are also common.
  • Heat-related problems can occur due to the heat in combination with extreme humidity.
  • Discuss the vaccination advice with a good vaccination doctor well before departure.

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Cambodia?

  • In Cambodia you will come to the country of many motorbikes and few traffic rules. Foreigners usually drive a scooter or take taxis.
  • Do not expect people to adhere to the traffic rules or that you will be given priority as a pedestrian. People drive quite aggressively and it can take quite some getting used to if you want to participate in traffic as a newcomer.
  • In Phnom Penh and Siem Reap the roads are reasonable, in the countryside the roads are bad and can flood.
  • Buses between major cities are cheap and popular among travelers.
  • Apps such as Grab and PassApp are popular and reasonably safe to use.

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Cambodia?

  • Is the trip to Cambodia and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Cambodia if you are going to live there for a while?

  • It is strongly recommended for expats and emigrants to take out comprehensive international health insurance that covers medical evacuation, as complex medical treatments often have to be carried out in neighbouring countries such as Thailand or Singapore. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.

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Why get specific insurance when going abroad: per activity abroad
What is travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

What is travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

What is travel insurance to insure your trip or vacation?

  • Travel insurance is insurance that provides coverage for risks during a trip or vacation abroad. This mainly concerns loss of or damage to your luggage, medical assistance in the event of accidents, for example, or repatriation costs if you need to be transported back to your home country urgently. In some cases, travel insurance coverage also applies in your home country.
  • With continuous travel insurance, you are insured for all your trips throughout the year.
  • With temporary travel insurance, you take out insurance for each trip for the duration of the trip.
  • Cancellation insurance reimburses (all or part of) the travel sum, cancellation or accommodation costs if you have to cancel or interrupt your vacation.

Why should you take out travel insurance for a short trip, vacation, or long-distance trip?

  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of an accident or emergency while you are away.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage for damage and accidents during the adventurous or sporting activities you are going to do.
  • Travel insurance can continue to provide coverage if your Dutch basic health insurance no longer provides coverage, or if the damage is only reimbursed at Dutch cost price.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of damage, loss, or theft of your luggage.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you are held liable for damage you cause to other people or their property.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you have to return home early because something has happened to you or your immediate family.

What is important to insure when you are going to travel?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the countries where you are going to travel and possible work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your full period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work or voluntary work during your world trip.

What insurance do you need for a trip or vacation?

 

What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go abroad?

What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go abroad?

What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance?

  • Round the world travel insurance means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during all your activities abroad, and which is specifically intended for those who travel for long periods of time, such as world travelers, globetrotters, and nomads.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

  • Round the world travel insurance provides coverage for a much longer trip than regular travel insurance.
  • World travel insurance is specifically intended for longer trips, whereas regular travel insurance may offer coverage on paper, but in practice handles it differently.
  • World travel insurance is suitable for many types of activities, ranging from high-altitude trekking to more risky sports.
  • World travel insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you did not take out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance that provides coverage while abroad.
  • Long-term travel insurance continues to provide coverage when your home country's health insurance no longer does.
  • Worldwide travel insurance also covers your medical expenses up to the actual cost, and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • Worldwide travel insurance can also continue to provide coverage if negative travel advice is issued.

What is important to insure when you are going to travel around the world?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the countries where you are going to travel and possibly work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your full period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work or voluntary work during your world trip.

What insurance do you need when backpacking abroad?

What is backpack insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go backpacking abroad?

What is backpack insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go backpacking abroad?

What is backpacking insurance and travel insurance for backpackers?

  • Backpacking insurance for backpackers means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during all your activities abroad and is specifically intended for those who are traveling for a long time, traveling independently, or making frequent use of local transportation.

Why should you take out travel insurance specifically for backpacking?

  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage in the event of an accident or emergency while backpacking.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage for damage and accidents during your adventurous or sporting activities.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can continue to provide coverage if your Dutch basic health insurance no longer provides coverage, or if the damage is only reimbursed at Dutch cost price.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage in the event of damage, loss, or theft of your luggage while backpacking.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage if you are held liable for damage you cause to other people or their property.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage if you have to return home early because something has happened to you or your immediate family while backpacking.

What aspects are important to insure when backpacking abroad?

  • The duration of your trip: so that you are also covered during a very long backpacking trip, or can extend your coverage if you want to stay longer
  • The activities during your trip: so that you can also participate in all kinds of sports and adventure activities that are excluded from travel insurance
  • Coverage of your medical expenses during your trip: so that you are always covered, even if you go to work or if the costs in the event of an accident are higher than the Dutch rate
  • Coverage for natural disasters and war during your trip: so that you don't have to return home immediately with your tail between your legs every time the Dutch government issues negative travel advice
  • Your insurer's specialization: so that your insurer specializes in backpacking trips or long stays abroad, and doesn't treat you like an “all-inclusive sunglasses claimant.”

What insurance do you need when backpacking abroad?

What is insurance for working abroad, and why do you need specific insurance if you are going to do paid work?

What is insurance for working abroad, and why do you need specific insurance if you are going to do paid work?

What is insurance for working abroad?

  • Insuring yourself for working abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your paid work abroad.

Why take out insurance, and when is normal travel insurance no longer sufficient?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance for paid work abroad.
  • During your work, local employers generally offer no or limited insurance that does not provide sufficient coverage.
  • The risk of accidents is sometimes greater during your work, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During specific work abroad, additional requirements may apply as soon as you start performing work that involves additional risks. Only special insurance policies offer coverage during this type of work.
  • During work, internships, or volunteer work abroad where you receive a salary or compensation (for example, food or housing), your local health insurance coverage will normally lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Standard travel insurance policies generally do not provide sufficient coverage to apply for a work visa or working holiday visa.
  • Standard travel insurance policies generally only cover stays abroad for a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that there will be no coverage for the entire travel period.
  • Standard travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational travel without study, internship, or work. If you engage in activities other than recreational activities, this generally means that you will no longer be covered for the entire travel period.

What should you pay attention to in your insurance policy if you are going to work abroad?

  • Make sure you have insurance that is valid in the area where you will be traveling and working.
  • Make sure you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you will be participating in.
  • that you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • that your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost (what it actually costs), and not just for the standard costs. In most countries, healthcare costs are higher than in the Netherlands.
  • that you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • that you are well insured against personal liability.
  • that you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • that you insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless the coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  •  that you take care to choose the right coverage when working in healthcare, with wild animals, and with dangerous machinery.

What insurance do you need to work abroad?

What is volunteer insurance, and why should you take out specific insurance if you are going to do volunteer work

What is volunteer insurance, and why should you take out specific insurance if you are going to do volunteer work

What is insurance for volunteering abroad?

  • Insuring volunteer work abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage while you are working as a volunteer abroad

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for voluntary work abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance when volunteering abroad.
  • During specific activities abroad, additional requirements may apply if your work involves extra risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • The risk of accidents is sometimes higher during your work, for example because you are doing work you have little experience with or because of the nature of the work.
  • Local projects or employers generally offer no or limited insurance that provides insufficient coverage during your work.
  • When volunteering abroad and receiving minor financial compensation (or, for example, food or housing), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational travel without voluntary work activities. If you engage in activities other than recreational activities (such as volunteer work), this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.

What is important to insure when you are going to work as a volunteer abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and volunteer.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That when performing work in healthcare, with wild animals, and with dangerous (agricultural) machinery, you take care to choose the right coverage.

What insurance do you need when volunteering abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

What is insurance for an internship abroad?

  • Insuring an internship abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your internship abroad
  • Insurance for internships abroad are also referred to as internship insurance. This internship insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to work as an intern, take courses, or conduct research abroad.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance for an internship abroad.
  • During internship activities abroad, additional requirements may apply as soon as you start performing work that involves additional risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • During your internship, the risk of accidents is sometimes greater, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During your internship, local employers generally do not offer insurance, or offer limited insurance that does not provide sufficient coverage.
  • During an internship abroad where you receive financial compensation (or, for example, food or accommodation), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational trips without work activities.

What is important to insure when you are going to be an intern abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the area where you will be traveling and doing your internship.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you will be participating in.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return in case something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost (what it actually costs), and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability and, preferably, also for liability during your internship.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless the coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • Make sure you choose the right coverage for internship work in healthcare, with wild animals, or with dangerous machinery!

Check out more about international insurances

What is insurance for studying abroad, and why should you take out specialized travel insurance for your education abroad?

What is insurance for studying abroad, and why should you take out specialized travel insurance for your education abroad?

What is insurance for studying abroad?

  • Insurance for studying abroad means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your studies, your education, and your related activities abroad.
  • Insurance for studying abroad is also referred to as study insurance. This study insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to take courses, study, or conduct research abroad.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a study abroad?

  • Study insurance is specifically designed for studying abroad, whereas regular travel insurance policies may offer coverage on paper but handle this situation differently in practice.
  • Study insurance offers coverage for longer stays than regular (vacation) travel insurance.
  • Study insurance is also suitable for many types of activities, ranging from various sports to hiking at high altitudes.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you have not taken out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance abroad that provides coverage.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if your own country's health insurance no longer provides coverage.
  • Student insurance also covers your healthcare costs above the rates in your own country; with regular insurance, you have to pay the extra costs yourself.
  • Student insurance can also continue to provide coverage if (study) visa issuers impose additional requirements on how you insure yourself, for example if you are going to the US and applying for a J-1 visa.
  • Student insurance continues to provide coverage if you are staying abroad for a longer period of time and want to visit your own country in between.

What is important to insure when you are going to study abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work alongside your studies.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized insurance for moving abroad as an emigrant or an expat?

Why should you take out specialized insurance for moving abroad as an emigrant or an expat?

What is an emigration insurance and what is an expat insurance?

  • Emigration insurance is an insurance that continues to provide coverage if you move abroad permanently or for an indefinite period of time.
  • Emigration insurance is not only intended for emigrants, but for anyone who leaves their home country for an extended period of time and does not intend to return in the foreseeable future.
  • Expat insurance is insurance that continues to provide coverage if you go to work abroad for a local or international employer for an extended period of time.
  • Expat insurance is not only intended for expats, but for anyone who has a more permanent job abroad.

Why should you take out specialized insurance for emigration or working as an expat abroad?

  • Emigration or expat insurance not only provides coverage for acute assistance in the event of illness or accident abroad, such as travel insurance, but can also provide coverage for existing conditions and ailments or non-urgent care.
  • Emigration or expat insurance does not require you to maintain valid health insurance in your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance provides coverage for preventive care or costs related to pregnancy and childbirth.
  • Emigration or expat insurance also provides coverage for long-term treatments and chronic conditions without you having to return to your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance often has no restrictions on the duration of the insurance, unlike travel insurance.
  • Emigration or expat insurance usually maintains coverage in cases such as negative travel advice or acts of war.
  • Emigration or expat insurance offers various solutions in the areas of disability, home and household insurance, goods transport, and liability.

What is important to insure when you are going to move abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to live and/or work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work with additional health risks

Check out more about international insurances

International insurances through JoHo Insurances and JoHo WorldSupporter

International insurances through JoHo Insurances and JoHo WorldSupporter

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Table of content

  • Why should you take out insurance through the JoHo Foundation when you go abroad?
  • Insuring activities abroad:
    • internships, studying, volunteer work or paid work
    • backpacking, holiday, travel or round the world
    • emigration, living abroad, working as expat
  • Insurances for abroad: per insurance 
  • Insurances for abroad: per organization
  • How healthcare works
......Read more on this page

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Safety and insurances in Cambodia

How does healthcare work in Cambodia, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does healthcare work in Cambodia, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the healthcare system work in Cambodja?

What is the quality of healthcare in Cambodia?

  • Unfortunately, Cambodia’s healthcare system still has many problems. For example, a universal social security system was created in 2008, but it still only covers 10% of the working population.
  • Cambodia’s healthcare system consists of both public and private institutions. Private institutions are preferred by foreigners because of their quality.
  • For more serious problems, you are advised to seek help abroad, such as in Thailand, Vietnam or Singapore.
  • The local emergency number is 119, but the system does not always work well (sometimes the answer is not given) and ambulances may not meet the expectations of most foreigners. It is wise to keep an emergency number of a private hospital in your pocket.
  • There are many pharmacies, not all of which are of the same good quality. Cambodia has strict regulations, but despite this, many medicines can be bought without a prescription. There are also many counterfeit medicines on the market. It is wisest to buy medicines from the larger pharmacy chains in Phnom Penh.

How does the public healthcare system work in Cambodia?

  • The Ministry of Health oversees the public healthcare system. The National Social Security Fund (NSSF) provides very limited healthcare coverage for people working in the private sector.
  • The public healthcare system has made great strides in the past twenty years. However, many problems remain. For example, the public sector struggles with limited resources and infrastructure. The quality of care in public hospitals is often substandard, especially outside the major cities.
  • Clinics generally provide standard/basic care, while hospitals provide more specialized care.
  • Unfortunately, there is often a shortage of staff and the condition of the facilities is very poor.
  • English is not always spoken in public healthcare institutions.

How does the private healthcare system work in Cambodia?

  • There are a limited number of institutions that provide care at a reasonable level. These are mainly found in Phnom Penh, such as the Royal Phnom Penh Hospital and some in Siem Reap and other cities.
  • Private clinics are a lot more expensive than public healthcare and in serious cases they cannot provide the right care due to the lack of equipment and specialists. In that case, medical evacuation to Singapore or Bangkok, for example, is necessary.
  • In rural areas, there are generally no good private institutions.

How is the general practitioner arranged in Cambodia?

  • Cambodia does not work with a general practitioner system. There are general practitioners/family doctors available at private clinics.
  • It can be useful to ask others for recommendations for a good private clinic. Most options can be found in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

How is the dentist arranged in Cambodia?

  • There are both public and private dental clinics. Despite the state of the rest of the healthcare system, the dental care is of good quality and very cheap. This makes the country a popular medical attraction for oral care.
  • Dentists generally speak good English in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

How is pregnancy care arranged in Cambodia?

  • There is good private pregnancy care in Cambodia. For local women, outside the cities in remote areas, this is different. There is often no pregnancy care available and women go through pregnancy without professional help. 89% of births take place outside health centers and only 32% of births are attended by professional care workers.
  • Many women choose to give birth abroad, but nowadays a limited number of private clinics and hospitals (especially Thai) offer relatively good pregnancy care, both prenatal and postnatal. It is useful to talk to other foreigners about their experiences.
  • Pain medication for labor may not be available everywhere.
  • Abortion is legal in Cambodia up to 12 weeks. After 12 weeks, specific rules apply for an abortion to be legal.

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Cambodia?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Cambodia?

  • Cambodia is fairly safe. Violent crimes against foreigners are rare and the locals are known for their friendliness and helpfulness.
  • In tourist areas, pickpocketing and bag snatching do occur. It is also wise to watch out for phone snatching from scooters.
  • “Drink spiking” occasionally occurs in Cambodia. Keep a close eye on your drinks.
  • There are still landmines in remote areas. Stay on the main roads when traveling outside of the cities.
  • Flooding occurs during the rainy season and high air pollution can occur during the dry season.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Cambodia?

  • There are several health risks in Cambodia. For example, mosquito-borne diseases occur, especially in the rainy season. Protect yourself well against mosquitoes by wearing covering clothing and using spray.
  • Food poisoning and stomach problems are also common.
  • Heat-related problems can occur due to the heat in combination with extreme humidity.
  • Discuss the vaccination advice with a good vaccination doctor well before departure.

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Cambodia?

  • In Cambodia you will come to the country of many motorbikes and few traffic rules. Foreigners usually drive a scooter or take taxis.
  • Do not expect people to adhere to the traffic rules or that you will be given priority as a pedestrian. People drive quite aggressively and it can take quite some getting used to if you want to participate in traffic as a newcomer.
  • In Phnom Penh and Siem Reap the roads are reasonable, in the countryside the roads are bad and can flood.
  • Buses between major cities are cheap and popular among travelers.
  • Apps such as Grab and PassApp are popular and reasonably safe to use.

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Cambodia?

  • Is the trip to Cambodia and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Cambodia if you are going to live there for a while?

  • It is strongly recommended for expats and emigrants to take out comprehensive international health insurance that covers medical evacuation, as complex medical treatments often have to be carried out in neighbouring countries such as Thailand or Singapore. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.

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Activities abroad: home bundle

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Activities abroad: home page

Activities abroad: home page

From language courses to gap year abroad, from work experience to volunteering abroad, from paid work to internship abroad, from mountaineering to diving and from backpacking to travel around the world

    What social activities can you do abroad?

    • Opportunities are found in the areas of helping, learning or studying. You can get involved to volunteer in a social project at a school in Africa, Asia or Latin America. You can get involved in nature, in a project with animals or cleaning the sea or beaches. Those who want to learn more can choose for example a language course in Latin America, Spain or South Africa.

    What work related activities can you do abroad?

    • If you want to gain work experience, and/or also earn money, go and work abroad. You can combine backpacking in Australia with temporary work. You can work on campsites in Europe or bush camps in Africa. You can pretty much go all over the world to work in the hospitality industry, hotels and hostels, in the healthcare sector or for example at a diving school.

    What sports activities to do abroad?

    • Have you ever thought of mountain biking, rafting (going down a wild river on a raft or rubber dinghy, climbing or canoeing), survival (which involves building rafts, climbing or canoeing), abseiling (descending a rock face while secured to ropes), zip-lining (whizzing down a cable), canyoning (starting at the top of a river and then climbing, swimming, diving down the bed) or caving (scrambling, wriggling and crawling through caves and crevices)?
    • Maybe you feel more comfortable on a bodyboard (on a half-wave surfboard, you surf the high waves lying down-with flippers), on a hang glider or while paragliding (with a parachute you float down a mountain or dune), hydrospeeding (on a bodyboard with flippers and a wetsuit on you go down a wild river via rapids) or Tiefschneeskiing (racing down through powder snow)?

    Check the pages below for more activities and inspiration and where to go and how to arrange it

      Activities abroad: for gap year, sports, travel and outdoor abroad

      Activities abroad: for gap year, sports, travel and outdoor abroad

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      Image How does healthcare work in Cambodia, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?
      How does the healthcare system work in Cambodja? What is the quality of healthcare in Cambodia? How does the public healthcare system work in Cambodia? How does the...
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      26 mei 2014 - 15:04 Inmiddels ben ik ruim een week in Kampot: tijd voor een bericht! Nog steeds is de hitte overweldigend. Langzaam maar zeker begint het een klein beetje te wennen. Ik zit hier nu op het toppunt van de hitte: van maart tot mei is het droge en hete seizoen, waarin de temperatuur opl...

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      Toeristenvisum Het is verplicht om een toeristenvisum aan te vragen voor Cambodja. Deze is geldig voor 30 dagen. Een visum kan aangevraagd worden op de ambassade in Brussel of bij aankomst bij een van de checkpoints, en in ieder geval op het vliegveld van Phnom Penh. Je kunt ook een e-visum aanvrage...

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      Cambodia: Updates & Travel
      • Travel in Cambodia
      • Updates Cambodia
      • Travel in Cambodia

        • The temples of Angkor Wat are among the most beautiful in the world. In addition, Cambodia has beautiful, quiet beaches, remote wildlife parks and a tasty cuisine. Fall for the charms of Siem Reap or immer...

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