Chantrea personally recommends each of these options. From budget guesthouses to comfortable mid-range hotels β all are safe, well-located, and suitable for new arrivals.
"When you first arrive in Phnom Penh, I always recommend staying somewhere central β near the riverside or BKK1 area. It's easy to walk to cafes, markets, and restaurants while you're getting your bearings. Once you've been here a few weeks and know which neighbourhood you like, then you can look for a longer-term apartment."
Chantrea meets every new arrival at the airport and takes them directly to their accommodation. She'll have already given you a full briefing on WhatsApp before you land, so there are no surprises.
All options are in safe, well-connected areas of Phnom Penh. Prices are approximate and in USD.
Phnom Penh has dozens of clean, safe, and friendly guesthouses in the BKK1 and riverside neighbourhoods. Most include WiFi, air-conditioning, and a simple breakfast.
~$15β25/night Β· Walking distance to cafΓ©s, markets, and transport
Many budget hotels offer weekly rates that work out cheaper than nightly. Ideal for your first 2β4 weeks while you get oriented and find longer-term accommodation.
~$200β350/week Β· Great for the first month
Cambodia Ready graduates sometimes have spare rooms. Chantrea can connect you with the teacher community β you might find a housemate before you even land.
~$250β400/month Β· Ask Chantrea for connections
Comfortable rooms with a view of the Tonle Sap or Mekong River. Most include pool access, reliable WiFi, and are a short walk from Sisowath Quay and key schools.
~$35β55/night Β· Perfect for your first few weeks
BKK1 is Phnom Penh's most popular expat neighbourhood. Clean serviced apartments with kitchenettes are plentiful and great for stays of 1β3 months.
~$400β700/month Β· The go-to neighbourhood for teachers
Russian Market area β vibrant, affordable, and packed with Western cafΓ©s and restaurants. Very popular with long-term teachers and expats.
~$350β600/month Β· Great food scene and local market
For teachers who want a more comfortable base while they settle in. Rooftop pools, gym, concierge, and reliable air conditioning. Perfect for the first 1β2 weeks of arrival.
~$70β130/night Β· Worth it for the first week or two
If budget allows, Phnom Penh has some genuinely excellent apartment complexes with pools, gyms, and full building security. Great for teachers planning a longer stay.
~$700β1,200/month Β· For a truly comfortable experience
Some of Phnom Penh's best hotels sit directly on the riverside. If you want to treat yourself to an unforgettable first week in Cambodia, these are the options.
~$100β150/night Β· Spectacular sunrise views
Phnom Penh's most popular expat neighbourhood. Lined with Western cafΓ©s, restaurants, and supermarkets. Walking distance to many international schools. Most teachers end up here.
Central Phnom Penh, along the Sisowath Quay. Great for sightseeing, cafΓ©s, and the social scene. Slightly more touristy but very convenient for your first few weeks.
Popular with long-term expats for its authenticity and great food scene. The Russian Market is a landmark. Slightly more local feel than BKK1, with cheaper rents.
Message Chantrea β she'll ask about your school placement and budget, then recommend the perfect neighbourhood for you.
Chantrea can advise on the best options for your budget, timeline, and school location.