You’ve been thinking about moving to Koh Kong, Cambodia, but you still have a ton of questions. What’s it like to live there as an expat? Will you be able to find work? What about healthcare and safety? Moving to a new country is always scary, but you’re feeling that wanderlust itch again. Don’t worry, we get it! This complete guide to moving to Koh Kong as an expat will give you all the nitty-gritty details you need to make this big life change. We’ll cover visas, cost of living, where to live, jobs, healthcare, safety, and more. By the end, you’ll feel ready and confident to make the move if Koh Kong calls your name! Let’s dive in and explore everything you need to know before relocating to this tropical riverside town in Cambodia.
Why move to Koh Kong? The Pros and Cons
Gorgeous Natural Beauty
Koh Kong province is one of Cambodia’s most stunning natural areas, with tropical rainforests, mangroves, islands, and beaches. You’ll be surrounded by unspoiled natural scenery, perfect for eco-adventures and outdoor activities. If you’re looking to escape the chaos of city life, Koh Kong is ideal.
Low Cost of Living
Your money will go a long way in Koh Kong. Rent, food, and transportation are cheap compared to other parts of Cambodia. You can live comfortably on $500–$1000 per month. While Koh Kong province is developing, costs are still low. However, infrastructure is lacking, and options for dining and entertainment are limited.
Peace and Quiet
Life moves at a slower pace in Koh Kong. The province has a laid-back vibe with little traffic and pollution. If you want to relax, unwind, and de-stress, Koh Kong offers a tranquil setting. However, the isolation and lack of amenities may not suit everyone. Some expats struggle with boredom and limited social interaction.
Job and Business Opportunities
As Koh Kong’s tourism industry grows, more jobs and business opportunities are emerging, especially in ecotourism, hospitality, English teaching, chinese and trade. The low cost of living also allows you to live comfortably while building your own business. Still, there are not many jobs available, and it can be difficult to launch a business without the necessary infrastructure and resources.
While Koh Kong has an appealing natural environment and a low cost of living, the lack of infrastructure and limited opportunities may deter some. But if you’re looking for a simple life surrounded by natural beauty, Koh Kong could be a tropical paradise.
Preparing for Your Move to Koh Kong
Moving to a new country is always exciting but also stressful. There’s so much to organize before you hop on that one-way flight to Cambodia! To make your move to Koh Kong as smooth as possible, here are some tips to prepare.
Handle the Legal Requirements
Make sure you have a valid passport and the proper visas to enter Cambodia and stay long-term. For most nationalities, tourist visas are easy to obtain on arrival for 30 to 90 days. For longer stays, apply for an extended tourist visa or business visa before your trip.
Arrange Shipping and Storage
Decide what you want to bring, sell, or put in storage before the move. Shipping large furniture or vehicles to Cambodia can be pricey. It may be better to buy locally. If you keep things in storage, find a reputable company and check what climate-control options they offer. The heat and humidity can damage belongings!
Learn About Healthcare and Insurance
Healthcare in Cambodia is basic, so many expats choose international health insurance. Check if your current policy covers medical care abroad or look into new Cambodia-specific policies. Make sure you understand how much coverage you’ll need and what the insurance includes before purchasing.
Open a Bank Account
Opening a local bank account in Cambodia before you move allows you to transfer funds easily once you arrive. U.S. dollars are widely accepted for most transactions, but having access to the Cambodian riel is helpful too. Research banks ahead of time to find ones that cater to expats and that offer accounts you can open from abroad.
With the right preparation and planning, your move to Koh Kong can be an exciting new adventure. Take it step by step, tick off all the essentials, and before you know it, you’ll be settling into your new tropical paradise!
Finding Housing and Employment Before Moving to Koh Kong
Secure Housing
Once you’ve made the decision to move to Koh Kong, finding a place to live should be a top priority. Koh Kong has a range of housing options, from basic rooms to rent to fully furnished houses. Check sites like Koh Kong Expats Club and Koh Kong Property for listings. You can often find basic rooms for under $200 per month. If you want more space or amenities, expect to pay $300–$500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Employment opportunities in Koh Kong are limited, so many expats work remotely for companies based elsewhere. Some possibilities for finding local work include teaching English, running a small business, or working in the tourism industry. Salaries in Hong Kong tend to be quite low, so remote work may be more lucrative.
Do Your Research
Before packing up and moving to Koh Kong, do thorough research to understand what you’re getting into. Join Koh Kong expat groups on Facebook to connect with others who have already made the move. They can offer insightful commentary on Koh Kong life as well as practical advice.
Check if you need a visa to enter Cambodia and stay long-term. Most nationalities can enter Cambodia for 30 days, but for longer stays, you’ll need an ‘Ordinary Visa’ or business visa. Requirements and fees can change, so check with your local Cambodian embassy for current details.
Also, research the cost of living in Koh Kong to budget properly. While housing and meals are inexpensive relative to Western countries, imported goods and healthcare will likely cost more than you expect. Understanding all your expenses in advance will make for a smoother transition.
Moving to a new country is challenging, but with thorough preparation, Koh Kong can be an exciting new adventure. Connect with the expat community, secure housing and income, and learn as much as possible about living in Cambodia. If you go in with realistic expectations, Koh Kong has much to offer for those seeking an affordable seaside lifestyle in Southeast Asia.
What to Expect When Living in Koh Kong
The Culture
Koh Kong has a predominantly Cambodian population, so you’ll be immersed in Cambodian culture. People here are very friendly and welcoming to foreigners. You’ll notice that culture revolves around family, religion, and food. Most people are Buddhist, and you’ll see many temples around town. Family bonds are very strong, and elders are highly respected.
The Weather
With a wet season from November to April and a dry season from May to October, Koh Kong’s climate is similar to that of a tropical monsoon. During the wet season, you can expect hot weather with occasional downpours and thunderstorms. The dry season is more pleasant, with lower humidity and little rain. Temperatures remain hot year-round, ranging from 77 to 95 F. Be prepared for the heat and have clothing for both rainy and dry weather.
Safety
Koh Kong is a safe town for foreigners, though petty crimes like pickpocketing can happen. Exercise normal safety precautions, like not walking alone at night or leaving valuables unattended. Koh Kong’s location on the Thai border also means that illegal activities occasionally pass through the area. However, violent crime against foreigners is rare. Corruption still exists in Cambodia’s police and government, so you may encounter requests for bribes. Politely refuse and avoid confrontation.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Hong Kong is very affordable compared to Western standards. Rent for a basic apartment can be found for under $200 per month. Meals at local restaurants are around $1 to $3. Transportation via tuk-tuk or motodop (motorcycle taxi) is very cheap, at around $1 to $3 per ride. Activities like visiting waterfalls or beaches are also budget-friendly, usually under $10. However, imported goods and medical care will cost more. Overall, you can live comfortably in Koh Kong for under $1,000 per month.
With its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and low cost of living, Koh Kong has a lot to offer expats looking for an off-the-beaten-path tropical destination. While living in a developing country like Cambodia certainly has its challenges, the rewards of immersing yourself in such a culturally rich place can make it worthwhile. If you go in with an open and adventurous mindset, Koh Kong may just win you over.
FAQ: Common Questions About Moving to Koh Kong
Do I need a visa to move to Koh Kong?
As an expat moving to Cambodia, you will need to obtain the proper long term visa. Most expats opt for a business visa (e-class), which allows you to stay for up to 1 year. To obtain this, you must have a Cambodian business sponsor your visa. The procedure, which normally takes four to six weeks, calls for a number of documents, including a lease agreement, proof of funds, and a health check.
How much does it cost to live in Koh Kong?
The cost of living in Koh Kong is very affordable compared to most places. Rent for a basic one-bedroom apartment starts at around $200 to $500 per month. Utilities like water and electricity average $30 to $50 per month. Groceries and dining out are also very budget-friendly. You can get a meal at a local restaurant for $2 to $5. However, some imported goods and luxury items may cost more. Generally, $500 to $1,000 a month should be enough to live comfortably on.
What is healthcare like in Koh Kong?
The healthcare infrastructure in Koh Kong is basic. There are a few small clinics and hospitals that can treat minor conditions, but for serious medical care, a trip to Phnom Penh or Thailand is usually required. In order to guarantee they have access to top-notch medical care, the majority of expats decide to buy additional foreign health insurance.
Is Koh Kong safe?
Koh Kong is generally a safe place to live, especially compared to other areas of Cambodia. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing and scams can occur, so exercise caution. As in any new place, be aware of your surroundings, don’t display valuables, and avoid walking alone at night. Also, Cambodia’s road conditions and driving standards are poor, so extra caution is advised if driving yourself.
That covers some of the most frequently asked questions about moving to Koh Kong. Let me know if you have any other questions!
You might also want to read:
The Ultimate Koh Kong Travel Guide: What to See and Do
Remote Work in Cambodia: A Guide for Digital Nomads