Can Cambodia be Considered a COVID-19 Escape?

Cambodia is located in Southeast Asia, with a vast population of more than 16 million people. While COVID-19 travel restrictions make travelling out-of-country incredibly difficult, travel to Cambodia has become increasingly popular. While COVID-19 continues to surge within the United States of America, Cambodia has reported an absurdly low number of cases, hanging at only 283. The small country has been placed under a Watch Level 1, by the CDC, and a Watch Level 2 by the U.S. Department of State, which may have helped control the virus from the very beginning.

Since as early as March of 2020, Cambodian stores, restaurants, and services have remained generally available, but the Cambodian government restricted the operation of select businesses such as cinemas, karaoke, and entertainment clubs. Also, new requirements have since been implemented for travelers, including a $2000 USD deposit upon arrival for mandatory testing and information, as well as potential treatment.

Those willing to travel to Cambodia must also purchase a health insurance package for $90 USD from Forte Insurance Company, which is valid for 20 days. A negative COVID-19 test for travel is also required, with an expiration time of just 72 hours. Should an individual test positive upon arrival, all passengers must undergo a 14 day quarantine at a location picked by Cambodian authorities. After 13 days, the passengers are again tested, and, if negative, are required to shelter-in-place at their lodging destination.

Those who would like to take a test after arrival can have a test taken at National Institute for Public Health (NIPH), the Khmer-Soviet Hospital, and the Chak Angre Krom Referral Hospital, and is paid at the United States citizens’ cost. Should a passenger refuse testing, they will be denied official entry to the country.

If after all of those tasks are completed, visitors have an abundance of sights to see in their extended visit. The Bayon Temple is a finely decorated temple built in the late 12th or early 13th century. Visitors may also view the Central Market, a huge shopping complex with a vast dome on the roof. Visitors at all locations, however, are required to wear face coverings.

While the period of adjustment has changed the way we as people interact with each other, it does not revoke the spirit and pride communities endure. While Cambodia is not perfectly COVID clear, it is a good example of controlling the pandemic.