Dear Claire, I love ur video's and news updates. Perhaps a good tip is the Siem Reap rental rooms Ban Sokluy (see Airbnb reviews). The area is a bit off the beaten tourist track and quite nice with 2 local markets, a 'golden' temple, wetlands and mini-golf. Have fun exploring!
honestly, I really like the all inclusive homestay the best. It's how I have been living here in the states for some years now, and it has been very convenient for me. I think that would be a great way to get started as I will be moving there on a budget at the end of this year. I have done so much researching and your videos are amazingly helpful as always. Thanks again. Michael.
Hi Jeremy and Claire , hope all is going well , watching this enjoyable video gave me pause for reflection , and what I remember most about moving to Cambodia , aside from the level of excitement I was experiencing , was the overwhelming feeling of being free , no longer a part of the familiar western world I was raised in , but instead being blessed with the unknown before me , embracing all the strange noises , smells , and unfamiliar nuances of life within the Kingdom , how can someone put into words what a fun filled adventure Cambodia truly presents , all I can say to anyone thinking about traveling there , please come with a gentle , open heart , arms wide open , ready to experience , and truly accept all that is presented , enjoy the ride , and hopefully as your journey unfolds , you will find yourself smiling often , and yes , sometimes laughing , at all the surprises that life in Cambodia provides , there will be bumps in the road , there will be challenges , but whatever takes place , always remember to carry these two simple words with you in your mind , and especially your heart ❤ , " No Worries " , because to put it simply , if you can embrace that wonderful philosophy , that is at the very core of daily life in Cambodia , the Khmer people will embrace you , and I can tell you from my own personal experiences , what a special gift you will have been given , a lifetime of memories indeed , Jeremy and Claire , great information provided , so much fun seeing you together , take good care of yourselves , catch you on your next adventure , Peace 😊
Oh yes, the freedom is the thing that has us yearning to be back there every single day. Life is so full of possibility and excitement in the Kingdom and you just never know what you are going to encounter next. It's definitely a full body experience, but one that we came to love. We made a few mistakes with our apartment choices but we were always able to sort things out with a smile and a positive attitude - no need for angry faces in the Kingdom! Take care and see you soon! 🙏 ✈️🍺🌴🙂
Great tips as always from For Riel. We always have extra earplugs, eye blinders, and bug spray no matter where we go. Always bargain for the long stays. We already got our round trip tickets for this coming winter. Can't wait. Happy travels from Minnesota!
Yes, earplugs and an eye mask are essential for me, too! So excited about your upcoming trip - I bet you are counting the days till you fly out. 🙏 ✈️🍺🌴🙂
Thank you Claire and Jeremy. I hope you're both doing well. You can get apartments even cheaper if you are on a tight budget and willing to live simply. Like $100 U.S. per month in Siem Reap. even including 24 hour security downstairs. And Wifi. (not the fastest wifi... but okay, and no pool) Dave in Cambodia, who I think you know, has been living in one for $50 dollars a month. Like me, he never uses air conditioning. Fans only. We get acclimated to the heat, so every time we go outside it doesn't hit us like a hot oven.
Thanks so much Robert! Yes, you can definitely find apartments for less than these, and we know Dave is really good at stretching his dollar a long way. He lives very simply and is to be commended for that. We just chose these apartments to show as ones that we would pick for ourselves (we're a bit soft and need some extra comforts). 🙂🙏
Great points to bring up guys. I only failed on one, I had to sign a 12 month lease. Fortunatly, a very quiet school near by, a Wat across the alley with no loud speaker but quite a loud drum, doesn't bother me. No garbage burners and no angle grinders. Seems to be a well established neighbourhood. Great video, thx for sharing. :)
Thanks Edward! I think the drum is quite a nice sound. You've done well to find a place with no burning or angle grinders - very rare in Cambodia! We made plenty of mistakes, but it's all part of the fun and part of the experience! Thanks for watching. 🙏 ✈️🍺🌴🙂
@JohnsLife1950 Wear some flip flops in the showers. I carried some all around India. Mostly due to the floors being so dirty I didn't want my bare feet on them. I will do the same in Cambodia too now.
Apt 1 but all are absolutely fantastic value! Your list was actually an excellent must ref for much of SE Asia. Would only add perhaps use suncalculator online to gauge trajectory year round. Also heads up for roosters (even in urban settings;) Lastly, if possible perhaps AirBnB the desired place for a few days to 'test sleep' it before signing (try to nego deducting the fee from 1st months rent if signing). Btw, how much is leccy for say medium/high daily a/c use in Cambo? Cheers! STL
Yeah, we would definitely go back to live in Apartment 1 just because the landlords are so lovely. Direct sun is the enemy in SE Asia for sure - never thought to use a suncalculator - what a great idea! In Vietnam we lived beside a block of land where five fighting roosters were kept. They were so noisy and anyone who thinks they only do their thing at dawn is so very wrong. 🤣 Live and learn, hey? We were always pretty liberal with the AC use in Cambo and the bill would range from $90 to about $120 per month. We just factored it in as a cost and tried not to think any more about it. Thanks so much for watching - looking forward to the upcoming Side Trip!
Thank you very much, Jeremy and Claire, for another thoughtful, detailed video. Jeremy's comment about the air being "thick" with mosquitoes at specific times of the day bit me:)) How big a problem is it? Isn't the issue simple to solve with wearing an effective insect repellent all day long and using Permethrin on all surfaces? Dengue is no joke.
We don't have screens in our house but we live very close to a hotel and restaurant, both of which fog regularly. If you close up around dusk, you should be fine.
I’d love to see a video like this but on buying in Cambodia guys. Similar to the Kampot one you did. I’ll be back in Cambodia next month for the first time since bringing my Khmer wife to Melbourne 4 yrs ago. Can’t wait. Thanks and keep up the good work.
@@ForRiel Not sure where we will end up maybe kampot PP OR SR. Somewhere close to a good secondary education. Melbourne is just getting too damn expensive. No I haven’t seen that channel but I will check it out thank you.
We're still in Australia but checking out these apartments had us wishing we were there. It's a struggle every day. When we get back, we will definitely visit! 🙂🙏
G'day Big J and Claire , Top video for aspiring expats ! , burn offs in P/P are not much of a prob but does happen further out, Noise OMG that is the top one ! always look out for new construction as they will work from 6am till midnite 24/7, car work shops and the more industrious areas , found that one out the hard way! water pressure and drainage had a few dodgy drains that sorta stunk , and WI FI is a must but be aware that wifi boosters may be illegal (sucks) use at your discretion , power points is a must but check how thick the wires are and how many points are connected to that single line of wire if you can (fire hazard) as for the rest of the info top stuff , and yes give yourself at least a week to check out your new area if your not sure , OMG those stays are amazing for the prices , keep up the top stuff till next time Catchya...
Thanks mate, our drains in PP would blow horrible smells back up when it rained. Would have to put plastic bags and wash clothes over them to stop the stink.
Cheers Maddo! Yea, we didn't see much burning at all in PP, but I guess it goes on the further out of tow you go. There is more illegal dumping of rubbish instead. New construction is such a big source of noise, and because the build crew usually live on site, they get to work very early. I can't blame them in that heat, though. Yep, dodgy wiring is something to look out for - some of the DIY that you see either make you laugh or shake your head, depending on how close the nearest water source is. 🙏 ✈️🍺🌴🙂
burning trashes on neighbour backyard can be a problem sometimes....you never know where it happens....once i remember in Thailand, thick smoke disturbed me so much that i had to move away.
Thanks, guys! Excellent video with very helpful information. What about utilities? Sometimes in Thailand, electricity can be an extra charge, based on usage, of course. Some Thai landlords are honest, some less so (in my experience).
We had read stories of landlords charging extra or not being honest about usage. We rented five apartments in three different cities and never had an issue. I think it's less common than the stories make it seem. Thanks so much for watching! 🙂🙏
2 thumbs up on places/things to look out for in SR...on the apartments, my choice would be number 1, don't take that as an absolute, they were all great, to include the 1 bedroom, love the wooden floors..🎉
Hi Mike, my advice is to take your time when you first arrive - don't be in a rush to take the first apartment you see. Get set up with your SIM card, maybe rent a moto, then spend lots of time exploring. You'll soon discover the places you like to go, and that will give you a good idea of where to live. Thanks so much for watching. 🙏 ✈️🍺🌴🙂
That advise could save a 6 or 12 month head ache. Really thankful. I sort of feel guilty asking this because I had such use info on your channel, but you two have any experience of coworking spaces and advice? Could possibly be a good blog in the future. Given the electricity sounds expensive I would say renting a desk in a aircon space could be a better option.
There aren't too many actual coworking spaces in Cambodia (there are some), but there are loads of big cafes and people just use those - Brown Coffee, Amazon, Temple Coffee, etc. They are generally very well set up with tables, power points and good wifi. The only problem is if you have online meetings, it wouldn't be very practical for that. You're right that going to such a place would bring the cost of your electricity down because you'd be using the air con in the cafe. Some of the hotels that have a cafe or restaurant/bar attached will let you sit at their tables and even use the pool while you are there, so that's another option. Thanks so much for watching and commenting! 🙏 ✈️🍺🌴🙂
@@ForRiel Thanks Clair, I'm I Mechanical Designer and need 3 large monitors, if it wasn't a problem to lug them to a cafe, It would be worth it just for the looks:). Anyway Once I'm in PP, If you ever desire a free Bruch I would love to treat you two, I'm sure your husband will do his best to keep crumbs of those whiskers. Anyway I know there is lots of odd people on the internet but have no fear, my probation officer can give an outstanding reference... I'm kidding, I don't have one, I took care of him years ago... God Bless.
I'd advise being super careful about the utility rates, especially in Siem Reap where scheming is a way of life. I glossed over the utility rates thinking it would be cheap no matter what. Sadly, this being Cambodia, everything is more expensive than it should be, and on top of that many landlords charge 30% above the actual electric rate, so 720riel/kwh actually costs 1000. Then in typical Khmer fashion, they do everything in their power to relentlessly compound this advantage against you, installing the cheapest and least efficient appliances, etc, thus the more you use, the more money they make. My first electric bill was $150 a month, using AC only 10 hours at night in the bedroom! Unriel.
Most apartments charge 1000 Riel, to cover the cost of wifi, trash pick up and outside lighting. Yes, when you get a apartment get them to clean and re-gas the aircons. Plus make use you get a apartment not in full sun.
Hi Claire,Love the Apartments. I was not aware power outages were so much of an issue there.They Def are in the Philippines ,but not here in Thailand. That could be a pain,regarding a move there.
Hi Claire - In a previous video, you guys talked about international insurance. Could you please let me know where I can start researching these or give me some recommendations? thanks so much!
Sure Paulin! Here is some info: We used SafetyNet. Thankfully we never had to claim from them, but they were recommended to us by someone who had a bad leg injury from a moto crash - four breaks, I think. He was very happy with the service they provided and the care he received under the insurance. You can have a look at their policies and prices on this page: www.safetynet-health.com/for-individuals/. I'm not sure if you can purchase this insurance prior to arriving in Cambodia as we bought ours while we were there.
So helpful! Thank you! I have a question if you have time: if none of the windows or doors have screens, then what do we about mosquitoes? Is it a problem?
Ask if you can actually see the electric bill. Sometimes, a landlord will want to make a profit and will ask for 1,000 riels per kilowatt hour when the real price is only 600 riels, so you're paying nearly double. For me, having a place with a balcony was important so that I could dry my clothes. If you're not a fan (no pun intended) of aircon, get an apartment on the second or third level on a corner so that you will get a cross-breeze. I lived there for nine years and never had aircon.
Yes! 100% with you on the cross breezes. The place we are moving into tomorrow has most excellent cross breezes and a very good location. I don't think any of our landlords have overcharged us on the electricity. We have used the aircon and own the big, fat bill it created. 🙏 🛵🙂🌴
Bird houses are very noisy with amplified Bird tweets. I had a metal fabricator (hidden) next door in Siem Reap, was a real problem. Are you back? Keep well
Yes! I forgot to mention those bird houses. The recorded and amplified bird tweeting is awful. These seem to be a lot more common down south in Kampot than they are in Siem Reap. We're still in Brisbane at the moment but hope to visit soon. Thanks so much for watching, hope you are going well. 🙏 ✈️🍺🌴🙂
Hello Claire and Jeremy thanks for the fabulous information. I will be coming to Siem Reap the end of April or either in May, I will be coming to look for an apartment for long stay for retirement- Could I possible email you for help in apartments or that one hotel to stay until I find apartment? Happy I found your channel💜
Noice. Very Noice indeed. Being a Reaper looks really appealing. I can only imagine what a more modest studio would be like. Just need a part time job (and stuff like a motorbike and such)
Yeah the more modest ones can be had for $50 or probably even less. It just depends on the level of comfort you're happy with, I guess. A few thousand $$ in start up costs and a bit of income is all you need! 🙏 🛵🙂
Claire, what was the main pro & con of living in Phnom Penh vs Siem Reap? Definitely less people but do you miss any other aspects of the bigger city? How long did it take you to get used to driving a motto in the city? 🙏 🇰🇭
It comes down to a choice between a big city or a town. You can be from one side of Siem Reap to the other in 15 minutes whereas it can take you that long to travel 1.5km in Phnom Penh if the traffic is bad. I have been riding motos a long time including a lot of years in Australia before moving to Cambodia, and I think that really helped with my confidence here. If you're new to riding, you have to learn how to ride as well as how to ride in the traffic here, at the same time. I don't really miss anything about Phnom Penh but still enjoy a visit there now and then.
Enjoyed the video. I'm opening a business in SR soon and need a 1 bedroom apt somewhat near Pub Street. I've been running a similar business in Saigon but don't know SR nearly as well. Can I contact you when I get there in about a week?
Another comment, if I may: the websites you kindly recommend on your channel are sometimes no longer available beyond even just a few weeks after your videos are posted. Website maintenance/hosting may be an issue for companies in Cambodia, which is a shame because they are losing all the referrals you are making to help them!
The owner pays the agent if they find a tenant. It's usually the first month's rent, I think. That's why it costs a bit more to rent through an agent because the owner sets the rent a little higher to cover the agent's fees.
I was thinking about leaving Sydney to come live there but I don’t think I could cope tbh. I’m just wondering how safe it is and what the crime rates are like etc
GREAT VIDEOS! DO YOU NEED A REAL ESTATE AGENT TO FIND A FLAT ? WHO PAYS REAL ESTATE COMMISSION ? HOW MUCH IS REAL ESTATE COMMISSION ? HOW MANY MONTHS DEPOSIT IS NORM ?
very helpful video,coming to cambodia in February, initial plan was going to phnom phen but your video convinced me to come Seam reap, can i find an apartment within 7 days or shall i stay 2 weeks in hotel or airbnb, any help would be very much appreciated
Wonderful! I would book a hotel for a week only as you can always extend if you like. There is no shortage of accommodation here, so don't worry about not finding a place. Indeed you may find that a week is too long!
Hello Claire, could I count on you as a source for a rental in Siem Reap In the month of December? Just checking. For a month to start. Thank you. Ethic
pretty well the same goes for renting in Vietnam . Roosters crowing !! Doves in cages cooing nonstop , dogs tied up barking non stop . plastic burning !! can't leave windows open because of robberies / they climb up and get in !! some places have security bars on the out side . and if you are on the ground floor you need a good security door [steel mesh etc]in front of your main door and you need to be able to keep your scooter inside other wise it gets stolen !! internet direct to your apartment was very slow , + all the other points that were mentioned . just got to remember your not back in your Home town !! so i great times in Cambodia and Vietnam . i liked Cambodia better 😍
It does! We had a bad rooster problem at our first place in Vietnam - right next door to a fighting cock breeder. Plastic burning is the worst, though. Despite all of these things, living in Vietnam and Cambodia is so much fun, you're right about that! We prefer Cambodia too. 🛵🙏🌴🏠🙂🙏
@@ForRiel no way ! It's late in California right now but the biggest issue is the visa, and price of said visa. I also need the ocean ( hence California) . I'll come check out sihanoukville ( wrongly spelled lol). Peace
Have you been? These are just things to look out for when renting. These are just minor things compared to the amazing time you can have there. Saying that most of the things to lookout for are getting less common, every year.
Do you agree with our tips? Do you have some of your own to share? Which of the four apartments do you like the best? Tell us!
Dear Claire, I love ur video's and news updates. Perhaps a good tip is the Siem Reap rental rooms Ban Sokluy (see Airbnb reviews). The area is a bit off the beaten tourist track and quite nice with 2 local markets, a 'golden' temple, wetlands and mini-golf. Have fun exploring!
They all look amazing and the tips were all useful.
Beautiful apartments .. so cheap .. is there much work there for newbie English teacher??
honestly, I really like the all inclusive homestay the best. It's how I have been living here in the states for some years now, and it has been very convenient for me. I think that would be a great way to get started as I will be moving there on a budget at the end of this year. I have done so much researching and your videos are amazingly helpful as always. Thanks again. Michael.
The air quality is pretty bad for four months ...That's a huge problem!!!
Hi Jeremy and Claire , hope all is going well , watching this enjoyable video gave me pause for reflection , and what I remember most about moving to Cambodia , aside from the level of excitement I was experiencing , was the overwhelming feeling of being free , no longer a part of the familiar western world I was raised in , but instead being blessed with the unknown before me , embracing all the strange noises , smells , and unfamiliar nuances of life within the Kingdom , how can someone put into words what a fun filled adventure Cambodia truly presents , all I can say to anyone thinking about traveling there , please come with a gentle , open heart , arms wide open , ready to experience , and truly accept all that is presented , enjoy the ride , and hopefully as your journey unfolds , you will find yourself smiling often , and yes , sometimes laughing , at all the surprises that life in Cambodia provides , there will be bumps in the road , there will be challenges , but whatever takes place , always remember to carry these two simple words with you in your mind , and especially your heart ❤ , " No Worries " , because to put it simply , if you can embrace that wonderful philosophy , that is at the very core of daily life in Cambodia , the Khmer people will embrace you , and I can tell you from my own personal experiences , what a special gift you will have been given , a lifetime of memories indeed , Jeremy and Claire , great information provided , so much fun seeing you together , take good care of yourselves , catch you on your next adventure , Peace 😊
Oh yes, the freedom is the thing that has us yearning to be back there every single day. Life is so full of possibility and excitement in the Kingdom and you just never know what you are going to encounter next. It's definitely a full body experience, but one that we came to love. We made a few mistakes with our apartment choices but we were always able to sort things out with a smile and a positive attitude - no need for angry faces in the Kingdom! Take care and see you soon! 🙏 ✈️🍺🌴🙂
Top tips … we can’t wait to visit … 🙌🏽🤍
Great tips as always from For Riel. We always have extra earplugs, eye blinders, and bug spray no matter where we go. Always bargain for the long stays. We already got our round trip tickets for this coming winter. Can't wait. Happy travels from Minnesota!
Yes, earplugs and an eye mask are essential for me, too! So excited about your upcoming trip - I bet you are counting the days till you fly out. 🙏 ✈️🍺🌴🙂
Absolute legends with regard all information Cambodia. The best channel out there
Aww you are too kind! Thank you for watching. 🏠🏩🛵 🙏🛵🏩🏠
Hey guys. Nice episode! Can never have too much travel advice. Looks like I have alot to catch up on. Cheers.
Prices are looking very good in Siem Reap right now! Hope you are well. 🍺🍍😁
Thank you Claire and Jeremy. I hope you're both doing well. You can get apartments even cheaper if you are on a tight budget and willing to live simply. Like $100 U.S. per month in Siem Reap. even including 24 hour security downstairs. And Wifi. (not the fastest wifi... but okay, and no pool) Dave in Cambodia, who I think you know, has been living in one for $50 dollars a month. Like me, he never uses air conditioning. Fans only. We get acclimated to the heat, so every time we go outside it doesn't hit us like a hot oven.
Thanks so much Robert! Yes, you can definitely find apartments for less than these, and we know Dave is really good at stretching his dollar a long way. He lives very simply and is to be commended for that. We just chose these apartments to show as ones that we would pick for ourselves (we're a bit soft and need some extra comforts). 🙂🙏
Not t sure I understand why you would live in poverty when expats should be adding far more value in supporting the community!
Great points to bring up guys. I only failed on one, I had to sign a 12 month lease. Fortunatly, a very quiet school near by, a Wat across the alley with no loud speaker but quite a loud drum, doesn't bother me. No garbage burners and no angle grinders. Seems to be a well established neighbourhood. Great video, thx for sharing. :)
That's great you seem to loving Kampot. We did as well, but PP is our happy place. Are you in for good?
@@BIGJED75 Yes I am, got my one year stamp 👍. 😁
Thanks Edward! I think the drum is quite a nice sound. You've done well to find a place with no burning or angle grinders - very rare in Cambodia! We made plenty of mistakes, but it's all part of the fun and part of the experience! Thanks for watching. 🙏 ✈️🍺🌴🙂
@@fasteddy60 What visa did you get that is good for one year?
@@MyLifeThai371 Its called the , "ER" I guess they call it the "extended stay " or "retirement " visa.
Absolute amazing job you guys doing out there, thanks for your service your videos are super helpful 👍
Glad you like them! Thanks so much for watching.
Well done, very concise and clear.
Thank you kindly!
Excellent information! My pet peeve … perpetually wet bathroom room floor! I’ll keep all of this in mind when I go apartment shopping! Thanks, John
You get used to them eventually.
@JohnsLife1950 Wear some flip flops in the showers. I carried some all around India. Mostly due to the floors being so dirty I didn't want my bare feet on them. I will do the same in Cambodia too now.
Excellent video guys! Thank you very much! 🌊⚡️🏄♂️
Cheers, Frederick! Glad you enjoyed it! 🙂🙏
Great rent prices
You can live so inexpensively here, it's amazing!
Thank you for an excellent video. Always pertinent info.
Thanks for watching, Richard! 🙂🙏
Great stuff!
I missed this previously... it scratches my itch... thanks.
That's great, thanks for watching Carl!
Oh great! NOW you tell me.
LoL.
When I come back after a trip home, I will probably be downsizing a bit. Great info.
Cheers, Kelly! I hope your apartment is going well. 🏠🏩🛵 🙏🛵🏩🏠
Apt 1 but all are absolutely fantastic value! Your list was actually an excellent must ref for much of SE Asia. Would only add perhaps use suncalculator online to gauge trajectory year round. Also heads up for roosters (even in urban settings;) Lastly, if possible perhaps AirBnB the desired place for a few days to 'test sleep' it before signing (try to nego deducting the fee from 1st months rent if signing). Btw, how much is leccy for say medium/high daily a/c use in Cambo? Cheers! STL
Yeah, we would definitely go back to live in Apartment 1 just because the landlords are so lovely. Direct sun is the enemy in SE Asia for sure - never thought to use a suncalculator - what a great idea! In Vietnam we lived beside a block of land where five fighting roosters were kept. They were so noisy and anyone who thinks they only do their thing at dawn is so very wrong. 🤣 Live and learn, hey? We were always pretty liberal with the AC use in Cambo and the bill would range from $90 to about $120 per month. We just factored it in as a cost and tried not to think any more about it. Thanks so much for watching - looking forward to the upcoming Side Trip!
The airbnb tip ,great idea
👍👍 great info, thank you. Would love to see similar suggestions for PP accom, especially areas / complexes you know first hand.
Ohh that's a great idea! PP is so much more expensive, but there are still good deals to be had. Thanks so much for watching. 🙏 ✈️🍺🌴🙂
Thank you for the very practical look at the realities!
Really glad you found it helpful!😁
thank you very much Claire and Jeremy for these great tips - i stayed at Angkor Hub for a month in 2016 , now i will be returning in January to live
That's wonderful, Simon! I hope your preparations are going well. :)
You did an outstanding job showing what the "deal" is in Siem Reap. Great!
Thank you so much. Glad you found value in it. 🙏🍺🍍
Appreciate this, we are so excited to move to Siem in Jan, and been watching for Riel for a while now.
Wonderful! You will love it there, life is so easy and fun. 🏠🏩🛵 🙏🛵🏩🏠
Thank you very much, Jeremy and Claire, for another thoughtful, detailed video. Jeremy's comment about the air being "thick" with mosquitoes at specific times of the day bit me:)) How big a problem is it? Isn't the issue simple to solve with wearing an effective insect repellent all day long and using Permethrin on all surfaces? Dengue is no joke.
We don't have screens in our house but we live very close to a hotel and restaurant, both of which fog regularly. If you close up around dusk, you should be fine.
I’d love to see a video like this but on buying in Cambodia guys. Similar to the Kampot one you did. I’ll be back in Cambodia next month for the first time since bringing my Khmer wife to Melbourne 4 yrs ago. Can’t wait. Thanks and keep up the good work.
That's a great idea! We'll look into it - will you be living in Siem Reap or elsewhere? Do you watch Marc's Mildly Interesting?
@@ForRiel Not sure where we will end up maybe kampot PP OR SR. Somewhere close to a good secondary education. Melbourne is just getting too damn expensive. No I haven’t seen that channel but I will check it out thank you.
Great useful content, thanks!👍💕
Thanks so much, Mark! 🙂🙏
Hi. Thanks for very good information. Im planning to go there this winter so i look them up. Take care.
Wonderful! I am sure you will find a fantastic place to live. 🏠🏩🛵 🙏🛵🏩🏠
Thanks. Great video. Very helpful
Glad it was helpful! 🏠🏩🛵 🙏🛵🏩🏠
Thank you for this video, Claire and Jaremy! You are doing a fantastic job!
Our pleasure!
Thanks for watching and commenting 🙂
Great to see you're back. Come for Sangria Saturday at my our hotel when you get some free time! We're called Three Little Birds 😁
We're still in Australia but checking out these apartments had us wishing we were there. It's a struggle every day. When we get back, we will definitely visit! 🙂🙏
Smart advice from people who know. Thanks for your effort.
Glad it was helpful. Thanks so much for watching. :)
G'day Big J and Claire , Top video for aspiring expats ! , burn offs in P/P are not much of a prob but does happen further out, Noise OMG that is the top one ! always look out for new construction as they will work from 6am till midnite 24/7, car work shops and the more industrious areas , found that one out the hard way! water pressure and drainage had a few dodgy drains that sorta stunk , and WI FI is a must but be aware that wifi boosters may be illegal (sucks) use at your discretion , power points is a must but check how thick the wires are and how many points are connected to that single line of wire if you can (fire hazard) as for the rest of the info top stuff , and yes give yourself at least a week to check out your new area if your not sure , OMG those stays are amazing for the prices , keep up the top stuff till next time Catchya...
Thanks mate, our drains in PP would blow horrible smells back up when it rained. Would have to put plastic bags and wash clothes over them to stop the stink.
Cheers Maddo! Yea, we didn't see much burning at all in PP, but I guess it goes on the further out of tow you go. There is more illegal dumping of rubbish instead. New construction is such a big source of noise, and because the build crew usually live on site, they get to work very early. I can't blame them in that heat, though. Yep, dodgy wiring is something to look out for - some of the DIY that you see either make you laugh or shake your head, depending on how close the nearest water source is. 🙏 ✈️🍺🌴🙂
burning trashes on neighbour backyard can be a problem sometimes....you never know where it happens....once i remember in Thailand, thick smoke disturbed me so much that i had to move away.
Yes the smoke can be awful, and if you have washing outside when the burning is happening it can get smelly. 🙂🙏
Thanks, guys! Excellent video with very helpful information. What about utilities? Sometimes in Thailand, electricity can be an extra charge,
based on usage, of course. Some Thai landlords are honest, some less so (in my experience).
We had read stories of landlords charging extra or not being honest about usage. We rented five apartments in three different cities and never had an issue. I think it's less common than the stories make it seem. Thanks so much for watching! 🙂🙏
Great advice, I wouldn’t doubt you guys for a second lol. 👍
Haha smart person you are! Thanks for watching. 🏠🏩🛵 🙏🛵🏩🏠
Thanks for the information. 👍💯
Thanks so much for watching!
Thank you Guys for a Wonderful presentation....
Kind regards
Mark
Dublin Irl...
Thanks so much 🙏 💓
2 thumbs up on places/things to look out for in SR...on the apartments, my choice would be number 1, don't take that as an absolute, they were all great, to include the 1 bedroom, love the wooden floors..🎉
Thanks for watching! There are some good deals out there.
A lot of helpfull information thank you
Thank you for watching! 🙏🛵🚶♀️🐒🦋🌳
Another excellent value blog, I just happen to be in Seam Reap , right now, Peter QLD Mackay
You lucky devil! Please go to Try Me and eat the chicken pad thai. 😔🙏
Excellent info. What are your tips for a newbie to Cambodia 🇰🇭 like myself. Thanks in advance ☺️
Hi Mike, my advice is to take your time when you first arrive - don't be in a rush to take the first apartment you see. Get set up with your SIM card, maybe rent a moto, then spend lots of time exploring. You'll soon discover the places you like to go, and that will give you a good idea of where to live. Thanks so much for watching. 🙏 ✈️🍺🌴🙂
That advise could save a 6 or 12 month head ache. Really thankful. I sort of feel guilty asking this because I had such use info on your channel, but you two have any experience of coworking spaces and advice? Could possibly be a good blog in the future. Given the electricity sounds expensive I would say renting a desk in a aircon space could be a better option.
There aren't too many actual coworking spaces in Cambodia (there are some), but there are loads of big cafes and people just use those - Brown Coffee, Amazon, Temple Coffee, etc. They are generally very well set up with tables, power points and good wifi. The only problem is if you have online meetings, it wouldn't be very practical for that. You're right that going to such a place would bring the cost of your electricity down because you'd be using the air con in the cafe. Some of the hotels that have a cafe or restaurant/bar attached will let you sit at their tables and even use the pool while you are there, so that's another option. Thanks so much for watching and commenting! 🙏 ✈️🍺🌴🙂
@@ForRiel Thanks Clair, I'm I Mechanical Designer and need 3 large monitors, if it wasn't a problem to lug them to a cafe, It would be worth it just for the looks:). Anyway Once I'm in PP, If you ever desire a free Bruch I would love to treat you two, I'm sure your husband will do his best to keep crumbs of those whiskers. Anyway I know there is lots of odd people on the internet but have no fear, my probation officer can give an outstanding reference... I'm kidding, I don't have one, I took care of him years ago... God Bless.
I'd advise being super careful about the utility rates, especially in Siem Reap where scheming is a way of life. I glossed over the utility rates thinking it would be cheap no matter what. Sadly, this being Cambodia, everything is more expensive than it should be, and on top of that many landlords charge 30% above the actual electric rate, so 720riel/kwh actually costs 1000. Then in typical Khmer fashion, they do everything in their power to relentlessly compound this advantage against you, installing the cheapest and least efficient appliances, etc, thus the more you use, the more money they make. My first electric bill was $150 a month, using AC only 10 hours at night in the bedroom! Unriel.
Most apartments charge 1000 Riel, to cover the cost of wifi, trash pick up and outside lighting.
Yes, when you get a apartment get them to clean and re-gas the aircons. Plus make use you get a apartment not in full sun.
Hi Claire,Love the Apartments. I was not aware power outages were so much of an issue there.They Def are in the Philippines ,but not here in Thailand. That could be a pain,regarding a move there.
could you do a few more of these like maybe quarterly ?? I love your Videos and pretty much watch them all!
Thanks so much, Keith! Yes we will definitely make more, plus we will do a tour of the apartment where we are currently living.
@@ForRiel Thank you ! I am thinking about moving there at the end of next year and this is a very big help!
Thanks for the crucial info. Will be moving to kampot. Wish I had the amazing apt. Info for there. Keep up the good work you are the best.
Glad it was helpful! Kampot is slightly harder to find a apartment but there are some very nice houses around the area.
Hi Claire - In a previous video, you guys talked about international insurance. Could you please let me know where I can start researching these or give me some recommendations? thanks so much!
Sure Paulin! Here is some info: We used SafetyNet. Thankfully we never had to claim from them, but they were recommended to us by someone who had a bad leg injury from a moto crash - four breaks, I think. He was very happy with the service they provided and the care he received under the insurance. You can have a look at their policies and prices on this page: www.safetynet-health.com/for-individuals/. I'm not sure if you can purchase this insurance prior to arriving in Cambodia as we bought ours while we were there.
So helpful! Thank you! I have a question if you have time: if none of the windows or doors have screens, then what do we about mosquitoes? Is it a problem?
If you close them just before dusk you should be fine.
Ask if you can actually see the electric bill. Sometimes, a landlord will want to make a profit and will ask for 1,000 riels per kilowatt hour when the real price is only 600 riels, so you're paying nearly double. For me, having a place with a balcony was important so that I could dry my clothes. If you're not a fan (no pun intended) of aircon, get an apartment on the second or third level on a corner so that you will get a cross-breeze. I lived there for nine years and never had aircon.
Yes! 100% with you on the cross breezes. The place we are moving into tomorrow has most excellent cross breezes and a very good location. I don't think any of our landlords have overcharged us on the electricity. We have used the aircon and own the big, fat bill it created. 🙏 🛵🙂🌴
Wow really nice apartments at a very cheap price 👍
There is great value to be had in Siem Reap for sure.
Bird houses are very noisy with amplified Bird tweets. I had a metal fabricator (hidden) next door in Siem Reap, was a real problem. Are you back? Keep well
Yes! I forgot to mention those bird houses. The recorded and amplified bird tweeting is awful. These seem to be a lot more common down south in Kampot than they are in Siem Reap. We're still in Brisbane at the moment but hope to visit soon. Thanks so much for watching, hope you are going well. 🙏 ✈️🍺🌴🙂
Great informative video. Would you have updated average pricing? A pool would be a must. Thanks for your time.😊
Prices are still the same. Places are advertised a little higher to allow for negotiation, so ends up the same.
@@ForRiel thank you! Really well done videos.
Great info thank you. Maria and col
Thanks so much! 🙏😊
Are you guys considered to go back to visit Cambodia soon?
Thank you ❤️❤️
Yes we hope so! 🙂🙏
The only thing I look (or hear) is if have excessive noise dogs.
:3
I dislike the dogs very much. They are just awful and you never know when one is going to turn on you and try to bite you. 🙏 ✈️🍺🌴🙂
I can't stand dogs either.
I used to have many dogs and train them in Australia. But not a lover of the local street dogs..totally unpredictable
Those looks so nice.
Yeah some good bargains out there right now.
MEGA helpufull.....🙂
Thanks so much! 🙏 ✈️🍺🌴🙂
Hello Claire and Jeremy thanks for the fabulous information. I will be coming to Siem Reap the end of April or either in May, I will be coming to look for an apartment for long stay for retirement- Could I possible email you for help in apartments or that one hotel to stay until I find apartment? Happy I found your channel💜
That's awesome, Dianne! Please feel free to email - the address is in the 'about' tab. All the best for your planning.
Any insight into a 2 or 3 bedroom for families? All I ever seem to see are 1 bedrooms or studios. Thx!
Usually you'd be looking at a house if you want more than one bedroom. There are plenty of houses on the rental market for great prices.
Noice. Very Noice indeed.
Being a Reaper looks really appealing. I can only imagine what a more modest studio would be like.
Just need a part time job (and stuff like a motorbike and such)
Yeah the more modest ones can be had for $50 or probably even less. It just depends on the level of comfort you're happy with, I guess. A few thousand $$ in start up costs and a bit of income is all you need! 🙏 🛵🙂
@@ForRiel I've got $450, teaching qualifications, a kettle, and a backpack :)
Great video
Glad you enjoyed it, Ben! 🙏 🍺🌴🙂
Good info , thanks !
Thanks so much for watching!
Claire, what was the main pro & con of living in Phnom Penh vs Siem Reap? Definitely less people but do you miss any other aspects of the bigger city? How long did it take you to get used to driving a motto in the city?
🙏 🇰🇭
It comes down to a choice between a big city or a town. You can be from one side of Siem Reap to the other in 15 minutes whereas it can take you that long to travel 1.5km in Phnom Penh if the traffic is bad. I have been riding motos a long time including a lot of years in Australia before moving to Cambodia, and I think that really helped with my confidence here. If you're new to riding, you have to learn how to ride as well as how to ride in the traffic here, at the same time. I don't really miss anything about Phnom Penh but still enjoy a visit there now and then.
Thank you 😊
Enjoyed the video. I'm opening a business in SR soon and need a 1 bedroom apt somewhat near Pub Street. I've been running a similar business in Saigon but don't know SR nearly as well. Can I contact you when I get there in about a week?
Hi Dan, sure - you can contact us via Messenger if you like!
Great vid
Thanks so much 🙏😊
Another comment, if I may: the websites you kindly recommend on your channel are sometimes no longer available beyond even just a few weeks after your videos are posted. Website maintenance/hosting may be an issue for companies in Cambodia, which is a shame because they are losing all the referrals you are making to help them!
Yes Facebook is everything here. You can usually find them there as it's much easier to maintain.
could you tell us about rental agents and how they do business in cambodia? tia
The owner pays the agent if they find a tenant. It's usually the first month's rent, I think. That's why it costs a bit more to rent through an agent because the owner sets the rent a little higher to cover the agent's fees.
I was thinking about leaving Sydney to come live there but I don’t think I could cope tbh. I’m just wondering how safe it is and what the crime rates are like etc
It's incredibly safe. Our front door is open pretty much all the time. Don't let safety concerns deter you.
GREAT VIDEOS!
DO YOU NEED A REAL ESTATE AGENT TO FIND A FLAT ?
WHO PAYS REAL ESTATE COMMISSION ?
HOW MUCH IS REAL ESTATE COMMISSION ?
HOW MANY MONTHS DEPOSIT IS NORM ?
🥰
Lots of good, cheap apaaahhhments
Yep, they are there for the taking! Lovin it! 🏠🙂🙏
very helpful video,coming to cambodia in February, initial plan was going to phnom phen but your video convinced me to come Seam reap, can i find an apartment within 7 days or shall i stay 2 weeks in hotel or airbnb, any help would be very much appreciated
Wonderful! I would book a hotel for a week only as you can always extend if you like. There is no shortage of accommodation here, so don't worry about not finding a place. Indeed you may find that a week is too long!
thank you for quick reply, do you i need medication for malaria also any dengue?@@ForRiel
If you are staying in major towns malaria meds aren't needed. Dengue vax is only recommended if you have had dengue before.
How often are powercuts in Siem Reap? How long do they last?
They are generally very short, like a few minutes. I'd say maybe once a month on average, so no big deal.
Glad to hear that
Are u guys going back to Cambodia?
They planning to come back but I'm not sure when. I asked the same question recently.
Back for a visit in November, then early next year we have big plans. Can't say too much until it's all sorted out.
Not at the moment, but hoping to visit soon. 🙏 ✈️🍺🌴🙂
Hello Claire, could I count on you as a source for a rental in Siem Reap In the month of December? Just checking. For a month to start. Thank you. Ethic
Sounds great! Jeremy is actually talking to a Hotel Manager about long term stays tomorrow.
pretty well the same goes for renting in Vietnam . Roosters crowing !! Doves in cages cooing nonstop , dogs tied up barking non stop . plastic burning !! can't leave windows open because of robberies / they climb up and get in !! some places have security bars on the out side . and if you are on the ground floor you need a good security door [steel mesh etc]in front of your main door and you need to be able to keep your scooter inside other wise it gets stolen !! internet direct to your apartment was very slow , + all the other points that were mentioned . just got to remember your not back in your Home town !! so i great times in Cambodia and Vietnam . i liked Cambodia better 😍
It does! We had a bad rooster problem at our first place in Vietnam - right next door to a fighting cock breeder. Plastic burning is the worst, though. Despite all of these things, living in Vietnam and Cambodia is so much fun, you're right about that! We prefer Cambodia too. 🛵🙏🌴🏠🙂🙏
Thank you
You're welcome, thanks for watching. 🏠🏩🛵 🙏🛵🏩🏠
Power points ? In the bathroom ? I think this arrangement is not allowed in the UK .
It's allowed in Australia but not in Singapore from what I can tell.
ty alot
Welcome!
Wow….can you still get value like that?
Yes it's very achievable.
Hi guys secret garden have kitchen for cooking ?
It's currently being sold, unsure what's happening with the rooms. We are going to do some places to stay shortly, 🙂😁
@@ForRiel ok thanks
Hi Claire how are you? this is Veasna!
Veasna! So lovely to hear from you. I hope you and your family are well. We are back in Brisbane right now. Are you working on your own projects now?
Any info on pet friendly condos?
There are plenty, but you need to ask individually. It depends on what kind of pet, how many you have, and how the owner feels.
@@ForRiel two cats.
I would like to get in contact with yada yada place. I'm in Siem reap and looking for a contract
Great! The landlady's name is Sotinnea Ang. You can find her on Facebook and message her. facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009557586043
You forgot barking dogs! That’s a big one here.
Yes, they can be very loud.
Imagine someone in 80’s hearing you say “internet is like air”
I know! 🤣 Now I earn a living working on this internet thing that would have blown my 20 year old mind.
Sounds like a nightmare!! I'll just deal with the inconvenience of the Thai visa 😂
I would think you would have the same problems in Thailand, except in Cambodia you don't have to worry about not being let back into the country 😉
@@ForRiel no way ! It's late in California right now but the biggest issue is the visa, and price of said visa. I also need the ocean ( hence California) . I'll come check out sihanoukville ( wrongly spelled lol). Peace
Barking dogs drive me insane too. 😬
They are a problem in SE Asia
@@ForRiel Urgh. Not sure how I will cope with that. :(
Is the test removed on arrival..? 🍺💙🤝💐👏🌻👍🥂🤠🍹👍🌿👌❤️🙏.
PCR gone, just a $5 rat and you're good to go. 🙏😊🍺🍍
@@ForRiel Thank you very much indeed Riel, i appreciate for your answer..‼️👍💙💐💜🍺🙏💛🍹🌿👏🍺💚👌🥂🌻🤝🥂🤠🍻💐🍹🌺🙏👍🙏👏.
😊😊😊😀😉😉🤗🙂
🏠🏩🛵 🙏🛵🏩🏠🏠🏩🛵 🙏🛵🏩🏠
First
Yay! You win two free beers. 🍺 🍺
am besten als eigene NGO gemle
👍🙏🙂
🇦🇺🍺🙏🤟
🏠🏩🛵 🙏🛵🏩🏠
Sounds like a marvelous place!..................Not.
Have you been?
These are just things to look out for when renting. These are just minor things compared to the amazing time you can have there.
Saying that most of the things to lookout for are getting less common, every year.
What? Why would you say that? Cambodia is fantastic!