Cambodia is a Southeast Asian nation increasingly gaining recognition as a retirement haven. Here’s a glimpse into what Cambodia offers retirees:

Retiring in Cambodia can be a great option for those looking for a low-cost, friendly, and culturally rich place to spend their golden years. Foreigners can retire in Cambodia. Cambodia has become an increasingly popular retirement destination for expatriates due to its low cost of living, warm climate, and rich culture. Retiring in Cambodia can be relatively easy, but there are certain requirements and considerations to keep in mind.

Cambodia is a popular retirement destination for expats from many countries including the USA. It leads the way as an Asian country that makes it easy for expats to relocate and retire with the least amount of red tape, bureaucracy, and financial obligations. One of the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Cambodia is the opportunity to experience a unique culture and way of life. The country is full of friendly people, delicious food, and stunning natural beauty. The cost of living is also very low, making it an ideal place to retire on a budget.

However, it’s important to note that Cambodia has its own set of challenges. For example, the healthcare system is not as advanced as in other countries. Also, while crime rates are relatively low in Cambodia compared to other countries in Southeast Asia, petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can be common.

To retire in Cambodia, you will need to obtain a retirement visa, also known as the “ER” (Economic) visa. The requirements for this visa may vary over time, so it’s important to check with the Cambodian embassy or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information. Generally, you will need to provide proof of your retirement status, such as a pension statement or evidence of sufficient savings to support yourself in Cambodia.

[Books about Cambodia](https://cambopedia.com/best-books-about-cambodia/)
[Cambodia travel guides books](https://cambopedia.com/cambodia-travel-guide-books/)

Some of the pros and cons of retiring in Cambodia as a foreigner

Pros:

Low cost of living: Cambodia is one of the most affordable countries in the world, making it a great option for retirees on a budget.
Friendly people: Cambodians are known for their hospitality and friendly nature, making it easy to make friends and feel at home in the country.
Rich culture: Cambodia has a rich and fascinating history and culture, which can be explored through its temples, museums, and festivals.
Beautiful scenery: Cambodia is home to some stunning scenery, including the Angkor Wat temple complex, the Cardamom Mountains, and the Sihanoukville beaches.

Cons:

Lack of infrastructure: Cambodia’s infrastructure is not as developed as some other countries, which can make it difficult to get around and access certain amenities.
Healthcare: The healthcare system in Cambodia is not as developed as some other countries, so it is important to have adequate health insurance before retiring there.
Corruption: Corruption is a problem in Cambodia, so it is important to be aware of the risks and take precautions.

Things to consider when thinking about retiring in Cambodia:

Visa requirements: You will need to obtain a retirement visa in order to live in Cambodia permanently. The requirements for a retirement visa include being at least 55 years old and having a valid passport.
Cost of living: The cost of living in Cambodia varies depending on your lifestyle and location. However, you can expect to live comfortably on a budget of around $1,000 per month.
Healthcare: The healthcare system in Cambodia is not as developed as some other countries. However, there are a number of private hospitals in Cambodia that offer high-quality care.
Safety: Cambodia is generally a safe country, but it is important to be aware of the risks of petty crime.

How much money do you need to retire in cambodia

In terms of cost, retiring in Cambodia can be quite affordable compared to many other countries. The cost of living in Cambodia is relatively low, especially outside of major cities like Phnom Penh. Rent, food, transportation, and healthcare are generally less expensive compared to Western countries. However, it’s important to note that costs can vary depending on your lifestyle choices and location within the country.

As a rough estimate, a comfortable retirement in Cambodia can cost around $1,000 to $1,500 per month, excluding accommodation. This amount should cover basic living expenses, dining out occasionally, local transportation, and some entertainment. The cost can increase if you choose a more luxurious lifestyle or if you require specific medical treatments.

It’s worth noting that while Cambodia offers an affordable retirement option, it is still a developing country with some infrastructure challenges. Healthcare standards and accessibility can vary, and there may be limited English-speaking services in certain areas. It’s advisable to research and visit Cambodia beforehand to assess whether it aligns with your retirement goals and expectations. Consulting with a lawyer or retirement specialist who is familiar with the requirements and procedures for retiring in Cambodia is also recommended.

3 best places to retire in Cambodia

Cambodia offers several attractive destinations for retirees due to its affordable cost of living, warm climate, and rich cultural heritage. Remember to conduct thorough research, visit the places personally, and consider your personal preferences and priorities before making a decision about where to retire. Here are three popular places to consider for retirement in Cambodia:

Phnom Penh:
As the capital city of Cambodia, Phnom Penh offers a blend of modern amenities and historical charm. It has a vibrant expatriate community and provides retirees with a wide range of services, including quality healthcare, international restaurants, and shopping malls. Phnom Penh also features numerous cultural attractions, such as the Royal Palace, National Museum, and riverside promenade, where you can enjoy leisurely walks. The city’s cost of living is relatively affordable compared to many Western countries.

Siem Reap:
Siem Reap is best known as the gateway to the Angkor Wat temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s most significant archaeological wonders. Retiring in Siem Reap allows you to immerse yourself in Cambodia’s rich history and explore ancient temples regularly. The city has a laid-back atmosphere with a range of restaurants, cafes, and markets. It’s a popular choice for retirees who value a slower pace of life, a low cost of living, and proximity to breathtaking cultural sites.

Sihanoukville:
If you are attracted to coastal living, Sihanoukville offers beautiful beaches and a relaxed lifestyle. It’s a coastal town located on the Gulf of Thailand and provides retirees with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water activities. Sihanoukville has seen significant development in recent years, with various hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues catering to both locals and expatriates. Although it has become more popular among tourists, it still retains a certain charm and is a favorite retirement destination for those who appreciate beachside living.

If you are considering retiring in Cambodia, I recommend doing some research and talking to other retirees who have lived there. This will help you to get a better understanding of the pros and cons of retiring in Cambodia and make an informed decision.

Overall, retiring in Cambodia can be a great option for those who are looking for a low-cost, friendly, and culturally rich place to spend their golden years. However, it is important to be aware of the potential challenges before making the decision to retire there.

Also good to read:

(1) Cambodia: 5 Best Places To Retire In Cambodia. https://wheretoretirecheaply.com/cambodia-5-best-places-to-retire-in-cambodia/.

(2) Retiring in Cambodia | Expat Exchange. https://www.expatexchange.com/gd/7/211/Cambodia/Retire-Cambodia.

(3) The Ultimate Guide to Retiring in Cambodia – Realestate.com.kh. https://www.realestate.com.kh/guides/guide-to-retirement-in-Cambodia/.

(4) How to Retire in Cambodia: Costs, Visas and More – SmartAsset. https://smartasset.com/financial-advisor/retire-in-cambodia.

(5) Retire To Cambodia: The Real Pros And Cons. https://wheretoretirecheaply.com/retire-to-cambodia-the-real-pros-and-cons/.

Phnom Penh offers a wealth of educational options, but with over 50 private English schools, selecting the perfect fit for your child can feel overwhelming. This guide simplifies the process by highlighting some of the top international English schools in the city.

Each school website offers detailed information about their curriculum, admissions process, and facilities. Consider scheduling visits to explore your top choices and get a feel for the school environment.

By understanding your priorities and exploring these well-regarded institutions, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the perfect international English school for your child’s thriving future in Phnom Penh!

Choosing the right international English school in Phnom Penh: a guide for parents

Factors to Consider:

Before diving in, consider your child’s age, learning style, and your educational priorities. Do you prioritize a curriculum aligned with a specific country (e.g., US, UK), a focus on play-based learning, or a well-rounded program with extracurricular activities?

The American School of Phnom Penh (ASPP)

This school is known for its strong academic program and its American-style curriculum. It has a pre-school, elementary and secondary school.

International School of Phnom Penh (ISPP)

ISPP is an accredited international school that offers an English language-based education for students from pre-school to grade 12. It follows an American curriculum and is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

Paragon International School

is a private school which offers an American-style education with an emphasis on the Khmer language and culture. It offers classes from pre-school to high school.

Phnom Penh International School (PPIS)

PPIS is a private school which offers an American-style education for students from pre-school to high school.

Aii Language Center

Aii Language Center is a private institution that focuses on teaching English as a second language. It offers classes for students of all ages and levels of proficiency.

The British International School Phnom Penh

The British International School Phnom Penh (BISPP) provides an education based on the National Curriculum of England, with additional elements that are designed to reflect the local culture.

The landscape of Phnom Penh is changing dramatically, and international schools offering English language education are now more prevalent than ever before. In fact, there are more than 50 private English schools in the Cambodian capital city. I am writing this review of international English schools in Phnom Penh because I live and raise two kids in the city.

Before enrolling them, I had to do some research and talk with friends who have sent their kids to school. As you can see, I’ve written more details about some schools than others because my kids have studied there.

If you’re looking for the best English school for your children, this mini guide is written for you. When searching for an international English school for my children, I spent days on my research and compiled this list of the top international English schools in Phnom Penh. So, you don’t have to.

In Phnom Penh, Cambodia, there are many international English schools. Parents now have more choices for kindergarten or pre-school education than ever before. Most of these schools are well-established, reputable, and internationally recognized. I have also included links to the schools’ websites for more details and the latest updates.

The Giving Tree School, an English school in the heart of Phnom Penh

Nursery: $2,380 A play-based English school in Phnom Penh, The Giving Tree School has opened since 2008. The international preschool is open to little and growing learners, from the age of 1 year to 10 years old. Although it’s not affiliated with the Montessori education, the Giving Tree’s approach to nurturing young children is play.

This Giving Tree school offers children a playground to grow and learn about the world through their discovery. It is a preschool where children have the space to imagine and express themselves. So that they can gain confidence and understanding. When the morning starts, children can enjoy arts, music, gym, yoga, swimming, and cooking. We all know how important it is to give our kids time and space to explore and experience the world around them.

In addition to play-based learning approach to nurture young kids to learn, it’s the space, the setup, and the environment for the kids to become more self-independent. From changing their clothes for water-play to eating, the boys and girls learn to be on their own. Most of the time, children tend to rely on their the adults to side with them and support them. But the teachers and the assistants know their way very well.

You’d also have a chance to meet with your child’s teacher and the parents of your child’s classmates. It’s called Monday Night, when you can get a better understanding of your child in the classroom. This is when you’d feel excited about asking the teacher about your young learner. You’ll have a chance to get to know other parents as well. While this is a chance to have a chat with the teacher in person, it’s not the end.

The teacher communicates with the parents regularly, which gives you daily mini report about your child. It’s like a debrief of the activity and behavior of your son or daughter day in day out. The teacher also shares with us parents weekly updates through a blog with notes, photos, and announcements. Every week, you also receive email newsletter from the school principal.

The Giving Tree School engages with parents through community events. This would allow everyone to take part, share, and enjoy the school space. The community here also means diversity. You’d be surprised to learn that the teachers and the pupils come from many many parts of the world. They share one thing in common: educating and learning with joy and fun.

The Giving Tree School teachers also take the pupils out for field trips.

Strong Spirit of Community

The Giving Tree School tends to engage with the parents and form a community. The school has worked to organize the After School Activities. The school space is more open and accessible to everyone in the community and the public.

The Giving Tree School open to us parents during non-school hours. There are times when you want to spend quality time with your children during the weekend. So you may have to take your kids to the swimming pool or to mega mall AEON or Kids City Edutainment Center. But the school is an ideal outdoor place to take your kids to. Unlike other schools, The Giving Tree School had dedicated space for outdoor activities. In short, the school is the open space playground.

What’s the IPC?

The school’s primary program follows the International Primary Curriculum (IPC). It’s a curriculum with a clear process of learning and with learning goals for every subject. It’s an educational system for 3-12 year olds. Until now, the IPC is being used by schools in more than 90 countries around the world.

School fee

The nursery class’s annual fee is about $2,380. The kindergarten has classes such as Monkeys (3-4 years), Owls (4-5 years), and Elephants (5-6 years): the fee starts from $2792 to $4040.

Locations

One of the most important things about choosing a school for children is the school location. For those living in the Cambodian capital, in BKK 1, you may notice a few of The Giving Tree School branches in the area. The main branch is close to Chea Sim Boeung Keng Kang High School or a few walk from City Villa Hotel Phnom Penh. Its two other branches (pre-school and nursery) are also in this area. Also to the location in BKK 1, The Giving Tree also has a more spacious school branch in Toul Kork.

The Giving Tree School Toul Kork branch: sand, swing, and swimming pool among other kid friendly stuff in a spacious playground-like environment.

Footprints International Schools (FIS) in Phnom Penh: Review

Footprints International School offers both English and Khmer to the pupils. The primary 4 disciplines are mathematics, language arts, science, and social studies. FIS also includes basic technology, health, arts, music, swimming, and physical education. The school believes that “children learn better when new skills and ideas are taught to them using a theme or a topic to help them learn.”

The school was first started out in 2007. It is an example of how a small school has grown to become internationally-recognized. In 2016, FIS has 4 branches in major parts of Cambodia’s Phnom Penh: Tumnub Teuk I & II, Toul Tom Poung, Beoung Keng Kang, and Tuol Kork district.

Licensed by the Cambodian Ministry, FIS was accredited with the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. For its primary and secondary programs, the school is registered with Cambridge International Examinations.

FIS has more than 200 personnel. Foreign teachers come from The United States of America, England, Australia, and Indonesia. While the majority of the students is Cambodian, the rest comes from Japan, Canada, and France. This is very remarkable for a locally-run school that has grown over the past years.

The Footprints International School’s Toul Kork campus is very spacious. It has a swimming pool, an outdoor playground, a technology lab, and a library. The Tuol Kork branch serves from nursery to grade 5.

One important thing to note, though, is that the FIS increases its tuition fee by 10% annually. Which frustrates most parents.

Footprints International School’s official website: [http://www.footprintsschool.edu.kh/](http://www.footprintsschool.edu.kh/)

How to find the right private English school or kindergarten in Phnom Penh for your kids

– All schools have their website. You can learn more about the school, its location, tuition fees, and more. This saves much of your busy time before making direct contact with the school for details.
– Compare locations and travel time from school to your home.
– Visit each of the choices for kindergarten schools during an open house.
– Find a kindergarten with a low child-to-teacher ratio.
– Ask the teachers what the children learn every day.
– Talk to parents whose children either attended the school in the past or attend the school now.
– The annual tuition fee is very important. Find out before hand how the school increases its annual fee.

A List of the best international English schools & kindergartens in Phnom Penh

[Acacia](https://www.centre-acacia.com/)

$2700

[Bluebird British International School in Phnom Penh](https://www.bluebirdcambodia.com/school-fees/)

$3600

[Canadian International School of Phnom Penh (CIS)](http://cisp.edu.kh/) $4,000

Cambridge Child Development Center or Cambridge CDC (Cambodia) $2850

[CIA First International School](http://ciaschool.edu.kh/) $2,230

[DK Schoolhouse](http://dkschoolhouse.com/) $3,640

[Footprints International School (FIS)](http://www.footprintsschool.edu.kh/) Nursery: $1,660

[Golden Gate American School](http://ggas.edu.kh/) $1,950

[Gecko Garden Pre-School](http://www.geckogarden-preschool.org/) $2320

[Home of English](http://www.homeofenglish.edu.kh/) Not available

[HOPE International School](https://www.hope.edu.kh/)

Preschool: starting from $5,040; Kindergarten – Year 5: $10,020

Phone: +855 12 550 522

[iCAN British International School](https://www.ican.edu.kh/home) $7,800

[Kinderland International Preschool](http://kinderlandcambodia.com/)

[Logos International School](https://logoscambodia.org/) $4,100

[International School of Phnom Penh (ISPP)](http://www.ispp.edu.kh/) KG-G5 14,600

[Liberty International School](http://www.libertycambodia.com/) $1800

[Northbridge International School of Cambodia (NISC)](http://www.nisc.edu.kh/) Kindergarten & Grade 1: $12495

Ocarina School: French language Nursery: 2610

[Sambo’s Tots Playhouse & Playschool](http://www.sambostots.com/)

Tchou Tchou Daycare and Kindergarten $1,800

[Paragon International School Cambodia (formerly Zaman International School)](https://www.paragonisc.edu.kh/) Grade I: $4,400

Southbridge International School Cambodia

Shrewsbury International School (signed agreements with Tutor Impact to establish a state-of-the-art premium international school in Phnom Penh, working closely with Meridian International.)

[Zion International School](http://zispp.org/) Prek-Prep: $2550

The air quality in Phnom Penh can vary depending on the time of year and the specific location within the city. In general, the air quality in Phnom Penh is considered to be poor. The city experiences high levels of air pollution, particularly during the dry season, when dust and sand from nearby construction projects and agriculture can contribute to poor air quality. In addition, there is a lot of vehicle traffic in Phnom Penh, which can also contribute to air pollution.

It isn’t possible to say definitively what the air quality in Phnom Penh will be like throughout this year. Air quality can fluctuate due to various factors like weather, seasonal changes, and human activities.

Factors that can affect air quality in Phnom Penh include emissions from industrial activities, traffic, and open burning. The city’s population and economic growth, as well as its location in a low-lying area, can exacerbate the air pollution problem.

You check the air quality index before planning outdoor activities in Phnom Penh, and to take necessary precautions such as wearing a mask if the air quality is poor.

How polluted is Phnom Penh?

Recent research by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) shows that the largest sources of pollution in Cambodia today are transport, electricity generation, industry, and residential development.

Phnom Penh has grown rapidly in recent years in terms of economic development, among other things. However, this growth has also led to increased air pollution in the city. The burning of fuels such as petroleum, diesel, and coal in the transport, household, industrial, and energy sectors all contribute to the air pollution problem in Southeast Asian cities. In 2018, Cambodia ranked 164th out of 180 countries in the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) for air quality.

How bad is air pollution in Phnom Penh? According to Leakhena Hang and Lorn Soklis of the Institute of Technology of Cambodia (ITC), in their “Assessment of People Perception on Air Quality in Phnom Penh, Capital City of Cambodia,” published in November 2020, “Fine particulate matter PM2.5 is a big concern parameter among other air pollutants which can cause effects to human health in the short and long-term.”

Should air pollution in Phnom Penh be a concern? Given the potential health risks associated with exposure to PM2.5 and other pollutants, it is important for both residents of Phnom Penh and visitors to the city to be aware of the air quality and take steps to reduce their own contributions to the problem, if possible.

How bad is air pollution in Phnom Penh?

According to IQAir, which publishes latest air quality index (AQI), Phnom Penh came in with an average yearly reading of 21.1 μg/m³. This reading put Phnom Penh into the ‘moderate’ pollution bracket, one which requires a PM2.5 reading of anywhere between 12.1 to 35.4 μg/m³ to be classified as such. “This shows that whilst Phnom Penh does not have an overtly bad level of air pollution, it could still stand to improve its air quality, coming in at 818th place out of all cities ranked worldwide.”

What is the air quality in Phnom Penh? Phnom Penh’s districts like Chamkar Mon, Chroy Changvar, and Toul Kork are among the highest concentration and AQI of PM2.5.

How to know more about the air you breath in your home?_ Actually, you can check the air quality based on particles (PM2.5) with this simple, easy-to-use air sensor VINDRIKTNING. And you can also use it with FÖRNUFTIG air purifier.

This VINDRIKTNING sensor checks the air quality by detecting particles (PM2.5) in your home. A light indicates 3 levels of air quality – green (good), yellow (ok), and red (not good).

How to improve indoor air quality and reduce air pollution in your home? It’s a fact, not a fiction that air pollution in your home can be just as bad – or even worse – than it is outdoors.

1. Invest in an air purifier.
2. Change your AC filter.
3. Use cooking vents.
4. Keep your rugs and carpets clean.
5. Control humidity in your home.
6. Keep it clean. A clean house is a healthier house.
7. Keep the greenery outdoors.
8. Get indoor plants to freshen the air. Essentially, plants are nature’s natural air filters.

When living in a city like Phnom Penh of Cambodia, improving your home air quality means that you take a small yet significant step to protect yourself from the damage of chronic inflammation.

Also good to read:

– Cambodia paving the way for cleaner air
– Easy ways you can improve indoor air quality: Reduce indoor allergens that can trigger respiratory problems and other issues (Harvard Health Publishing)