Recently, many professionals have expressed that the pressure in the Philippines is too great, and wonder if moving to another Southeast Asian country for work and life would be more relaxing.
Today, let's talk about whether life in Cambodia can be better than in the Philippines.
Firstly, Cambodia, as a highly inclusive country, is extremely friendly to people from all nations. Whether you are here for tourism, investment, or work, you will receive a warm welcome.
Secondly, Cambodia's visa policy is relatively lenient, providing convenience for foreigners who want to reside long-term. For example, in the coastal city of Sihanoukville, purchasing or renting property worth over $100,000 can grant you a 3-year special visa. These two points already lay the foundation for those who want to achieve a better life.
Although medical services in Cambodia are relatively expensive, the cost of daily life essentials such as food, clothing, and transportation can be adjusted according to one's financial ability and choices. Local food prices are relatively cheap. Here, you can easily enjoy tropical fruits and local seafood. If you're willing to try, a meal of grilled pork rice, chicken porridge, or Khmer noodles costs 4000 Cambodian riel (equivalent to 6.5 RMB, with the exchange rate: 4000 Cambodian riel = 1 USD = 6.5 RMB).
In terms of accommodation, it's easy to rent or buy a house in Cambodia. There are plenty of options in the rental market, and the prices in the new housing market are relatively reasonable. For example, in the capital Phnom Penh, you can buy a fully furnished apartment of about 50 square meters in the city center for less than $100,000, ready to move in with a scenic balcony.
Although Cambodian law does not allow foreigners to directly purchase land, it does allow foreigners to buy apartments from the second floor upwards in high-rise buildings, with permanent property rights.
In terms of lifestyle, although Cambodia is a small country, it is not lacking in flavor. It's easy to find leisure and entertainment options that suit you. Most apartment buildings offer facilities like swimming pools, gyms, and saunas. After work, you can swim, exercise, or take a steam bath to relieve stress.
The nightlife in Phnom Penh is rich, with sky bars, small bars, and buffet hotpot barbecues available. On weekends or short holidays, a two to three-hour drive can take you to the beach for a vacation, or you can easily visit neighboring countries like Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia.
More importantly, the pace of life in Cambodia is relatively relaxed. There is no severe internal competition or culture of excessive overtime here. People prefer a relaxed and comfortable lifestyle.
Cambodia also has many public holidays, with over 20 days of statutory paid holidays per year, allowing people more time to spend with family and friends or pursue their hobbies. Generally, companies also provide annual leave to their employees.
In terms of cultural spirit, Cambodians believe in "living in the moment and enjoying life." They are easily satisfied and happy, whether it's local traditional festivals, Chinese New Year, or Western Christmas, they celebrate joyfully with singing and dancing. This attitude towards life also influences those around them, so you will quickly integrate into this relaxed and joyful atmosphere.
After living in Cambodia for a while, another clear feeling is that the service industry here is quite good. Whether in hotels, restaurants, or other places, the staff give enough respect and courtesy to guests. This warm attitude also makes people feel comfortable and relaxed here.
Additionally, in Cambodia, daily attire is very casual. The hot climate here means a simple T-shirt and shorts are enough to solve a year's clothing needs.
Even wealthy people may choose to dress very casually because comfort and ease are more valued here. This casual lifestyle is perhaps what those who want to escape intense competition and pursue freedom and comfort long for.
Many people say that Cambodia has poor security, but in fact, any country, any society, has security incidents.
Security incidents caused by locals, such as motorcycle gang robberies, have decreased significantly compared to a few years ago. So, when on the street, don't play with your phone, secure your bag, and stay alert to prevent giving motorcycle gangs any opportunity.
Other things to note, if you want to truly integrate into this country, you need to deeply understand the local customs and culture, respect them, and learn to get along with the locals. Even foreigners can be easily accepted here.
Overall, Cambodia is not a perfect place, nor is it suitable for everyone, but it indeed offers a different choice of living.
Some people think it is poor and backward, yet others love its pristine tranquility; some think its living conditions are not as convenient as some developed countries, yet others appreciate its simplicity and freedom. In fact, everyone's definition and pursuit of life vary, but many choose to stay here simply because they find a more comfortable and free way of life.
