Disadvantages of Living in Cambodia
1. Relatively Underdeveloped Infrastructure
2. Urban Appearance Needs Improvement
3. Chaotic Traffic with Fast Speeds
4. Road Congestion Issues
5. Hard to Resist Temptations
1. Relatively Underdeveloped Infrastructure
Despite rapid urban development in Cambodia, some basic infrastructure such as roads, electricity, and sanitation facilities are still being improved.
Currently, there is only one highway in the country, the Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville expressway; the second highway, Phnom Penh-Bavet, is under construction and expected to be completed by 2027; the government also plans to build a third highway from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap-Poipet.
Other major infrastructure projects like the new Phnom Penh International Airport Phase I project will be completed by the end of 2024 and will start operations in the first quarter of 2025. This will meet the demand of welcoming international tourists from 10 million to 20 million next year, and even up to 50 million in the future.
The $1.7 billion Techo Santepheap Canal project is expected to start soon, connecting Phnom Penh Port to the White Horse Province seaport over a total length of 180 kilometers. This ambitious project is expected to have a significant impact on Cambodia's national economic development, improving the efficiency of goods transportation and accelerating the flow of goods and services, thereby promoting trade and commercial development.
2. Urban Appearance Needs Improvement
Cambodia often gives an impression of being backward. In the capital, Phnom Penh, the sight of old row houses and tangled bundles of wires is common, with sidewalks occupied by tuk-tuks and street vendors, and a lack of green beautification. The overall urban appearance needs improvement.
If you have high standards for your living environment, it is advisable to avoid residing in densely populated old town areas. Most expatriates prefer areas like the Bassac River area, BKK1, Tuol Kouk, and Chroy Changvar, which offer relatively better living environments. If you prefer a quiet life close to nature, then the suburbs of Phnom Penh or smaller towns like Kampot and Siem Reap are more suitable.
3. Chaotic Traffic with Fast Speeds
This is one of the most concerning aspects of life in Cambodia. There is no clear distinction between lanes for motor vehicles and non-motor vehicles. Cars, tuk-tuks, and motorcycles weave through traffic chaotically, and many drivers do not strictly adhere to traffic rules, such as running red lights, driving against traffic, and speeding. This unregulated driving behavior exacerbates traffic chaos and increases the risk of traffic accidents.
Additionally, the condition of roads in Phnom Penh varies. Some main roads and newly constructed roads are relatively wide and flat, but many secondary roads and alleys remain narrow and poorly maintained. Potholes and damage not only affect driving safety but also lead to vehicle congestion and disordered traffic.
As an ordinary resident here, we must not only obey the rules but also remain vigilant and prioritize safety.
4. Road Congestion Issues
Phnom Penh, as the capital and largest city of Cambodia, faces traffic congestion issues. This is due to the accelerated urbanization process over the past decades, which has attracted a large rural population to the city in search of work and better living conditions. This rapid increase in population has put a strain on urban traffic, and the traffic infrastructure has struggled to keep up with the growing demand.
Although the roads and traffic facilities in Phnom Penh have been improving in recent years, they are still insufficient to handle the increasing traffic flow. The design and expansion of the city's road network are relatively outdated, and many roads are narrow and poorly maintained, further exacerbating traffic congestion.
During peak hours in the morning and evening, some sections and intersections often experience congestion, with vehicles moving slowly. Traffic issues are particularly prominent around business centers and schools.
Only by familiarizing yourself with the local area can you possibly avoid congested routes.
5. You Must Learn to Resist Temptations
Cambodia's unique culture and vast opportunities attract many foreigners. However, like many developing countries, Cambodia also faces some social issues, and things that were once far from you are easily accessible here, such as prostitution, gambling, and drugs.
Nightclubs and casinos are everywhere, and sometimes you just want to experience something new, then perhaps a momentary lapse could push you into the abyss.
