TOP 10 TIPS if you are Moving to Cambodia ALONE

[@onevision8097]

Well stated. I saw a KZbinr from India traveling from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh. It was a budgeted trip and unfortunately he ran out of money to make the entire way. So, he ended up hitch hiking. A truck driver delivering goods was heading to Phnom Penh with his young son in the front seat. He picked up the KZbinr and along the way, stopped at a rest stop and bought snacks and offered to the KZbinr then continued on. The point is, I feel that Cambodians are big hearted people, in general. They are willing to help you out in needy situations. I see this with the Cambodian friends I have. Of course, there are always bad apples but that is expected no matter where you go. I feel that you have chosen a perfect country to call home for long term - the people and the spirituality of the country. Cambodia, please take good care of our friend Julia. Okun (Thank you).

[@juliahaw]

I couldn't agree more. The #1 reason why I'm even here in Cambodia is the Khmer people. They collectively have the kindest and biggest hearts and spirits I've ever witnessed on this earth! Orkun jraurn.

[@songsang11]

Agreed

[@Sketchbook999]

Thankyou gives me much HOPE 😊

[@Sketchbook999]

​@@juliahawwhat languages are spoken there please?

[@juliahaw]

I feel safer in Cambodia than anywhere on earth!!! I agree... what a beautiful story!! Thank you for sharing.

[@KhmerMinnesnowta]

Great tips, Julia. There are always pros and cons no matter where we live. Life is short to do the things we don't love doing. When you travel, you will never be alone and you will meet new people. Be kind. Be cool. Be safe. Enjoy your travels!

[@geoffmcintosh3]

Great video. I am watching you as I pack my gear to move to Siem reap from Australia. Especially your last 5 tips . Slow down and smell the roses or durian in Cambodia.

[@juliahaw]

Oh hell yeah! That's the type of energy I'm talking about!!! LMK when you get to town. We'll have a coffee!

[@alex.jhoare]

This video hit hard Julia! Thank you so much for always speaking so openly and honestly. Your channel is making the planning stages of my move to Siem Riep so much easier. Thank you!

[@juliahaw]

That's so awesome!! This comment made my day! I know I haven't made videos in a while, but it's because I've been so darn busy with other projects! Thank you for watching!!

[@alex.jhoare]

@@juliahaw I love that you put your energy into so many things but still find time for the little things like replying to your viewers! So inspiring. I owe you a beer when I arrive!!

[@kizzyb2871]

Subscribed right away. Loved this video. This woman is awesome. Cannot wait to go to Cambodia and I as a solo female traveller myself, your advice was PERFECT! Some people may not think they need it till they actually hear it. Thanks for the tips!

[@juliahaw]

Awwww thank you SO much for watching and for these kind words!! xo

[@frankkluz9787]

# 1 FOR ME -- is to buy a Bajaj RE tuk tuk for personal transportation. Ideal for hauling groceries & 'stuff' keeping out of rain & sun + exploring the city & the area ! --- I'm a retired old man don't drink or smoke but love to eat good food. --- Meeting neat people and other expats will be fun & friendly locals getting acquainted and learning where the deals are ! --- Some real tranquil relaxing meditation is a great idea. --- I'm excited to get there and spend a month or two just looking where I might enjoy it the most. -?- Could be more than 1 area ? Pick the brains of people who know & perhaps hire a tour guide for the best places for this or that. An adventure and fun filled exploration for a quality retired life I will really enjoy ! --- Siem Reap is a beautiful city and the English spoken with the USD used - it should be a stress reliever compared to Hispanic cultures with pesos & Spanish being alien to me ? Thrifty somewhat and yet quite comforfortable on a $1000 -- $1500 budget. Rents now are even cheaper with many empty apartments to pick from.

[@juliahaw]

Sounds like you're bringing a good vibe! Cheers!!!

[@LJ-jq8og]

FRANK -- you are scaring me... I have the "same dream" (Owning my own tub tuk...) I also DON'T drink or smoke... and am a plant based eater... I also had considered Mexico for a long time but I have learned too much about it... and it is also changing for the worse... Are you still in USA ? If so where ?? Would love to catch up on our mutual interest.

[@kcs8888]

Interesting channel... Do you have a video or can you make a video(s) on some more practical tips/your experiences for everyday life when moving to Cambodia/Siem Reap. Or if not do you have some links to some videos/blogs/websites that helped you with everyday life? Like Visa applications/options. What visa option you chose and why? How was the visa process from your perspective? Do you have registered a business in Cambodia? How does the Tax system work? What does a rental contract for an apartment look like? What about the banking system? What bank do you use and why? How is the healthcare system? Do you have health insurance? Driver licence? Do they have a waste management system? etc. Or for example, where do you prefer to buy Groceries and why? What are the options for buying household articles, electronics, stationary, furniture, gardening stuff and so on? Assume they don't have a Wall Mart or Home Depot but maybe something similar. Is there something like Amazon or a webpage where locals sell and buy stuff privately? Hope you had a great time at your silent retreat. Cheers!

[@roberthurand7846]

Merci!

[@juliahaw]

Are you serious!? This is the KINDEST thing someone has done for me in a while!!!! THANK YOU!!!! How meaningful!!!!! I am beyond appreciative!!!! Big hearts!

[@cecilwampler8733]

Good advice. I've lived in Siem Reap for several years and it is important to be careful if you're travelling solo.

[@rickyheaton8305]

Great video. Retiring to S.R in 4 months. So good advice. Keep them coming.

[@juliahaw]

Woooohooo!! SR welcomes you! Happy approaching retirement! That's a monstrous accomplishment! x

[@TonyKeepingItClean]

Thanks for sharing. I’m coming to Cambodia next month to try and find work as a teacher.

[@matt55592]

I might be moving to Cambodia next year to teach English. I’m scared but also ready to take the leap of faith and have courage to go for what I want!

[@juliahaw]

GO FOR IT!!!!

[@martinamen9080]

I am Cambodian born in NZ moving back to Cambodia in november and this honestly really helped

[@juliahaw]

I am so thankful to hear this!! :)

[@meaghantimms7207]

I really loved this. I will be in Siem Reap for a few months mid January. Everything you said at the end was so true. I really love your energy. Keep doing what you are doing.

[@juliahaw]

Amazing! I'm so happy you'll be visiting the Kingdom of wonder!!! Sending good vibes your way. It means a lot you're watching! Cheers!

[@koufax174]

I have traveled all over Asia solo since 1990. I am psychologically, emotionally very stable and happy. I don’t drink, go to bars or any other potentially dangerous practices. That keeps 90% of danger away. I live consciously. I’m aware of consequences before I make a choice. I make decisions based on what will give me the most peace of mind. I am my own best friend which makes me less vulnerable to unhealthy connections. I’m not needy. My solo travels will continue without incident because of how I make decisions and take very good care of myself emotionally, psychologically and physically

[@juliahaw]

This post is EVERYTHING. Language. Emotion. Divine ordinance. LOVING IT. Thank you.

[@timmyjones1921]

Awesome Life Saving Tip's.

[@Nebuheru]

After considering several neighboring countries I've decided to move to Cambodia. I'm leaning heavily towards Siem Reap but also considering Phnom Penh. But yeah, this trip is a huge reset for me. Will be arriving in Sept. If I can find a really 🔥 apartment in "true" walking distance to street vendors, I'll be sold on Siem Reap. And yes, it DOES take a great amount of courage to pack up and leave on your own 💯

[@juliahaw]

I highly recommend SR, although PP has more jobs still. If you don't need a job, come to SR! Congrats!!

[@Nebuheru]

@@juliahaw Looked over a bunch of apartments both on YT and the web and it seems you can get something nice for $400 a month in Svay Dankum. So Seim Reap it is!

[@juliahaw]

I have a place in Svay Dangkum that's fully serviced with elevator...brand new $350! You can even find cheaper in this neighborhood though~ @@Nebuheru

[@Nebuheru]

@@juliahaw Well now I'm REALLY looking forward to seeing what 350.00 - 400.00 will get me. Thanks!

[@ArabellaRue31]

Super duper helpful. Thank you for taking time to share this video. I'm doing research and hopefully backpack Asia by the end of this year. Hope to meet you next year ❤

[@normanoglesby8345]

Thank you , well said, and some good advice

[@davidloke3683]

Takk!

[@juliahaw]

Awwww so sweet!!! Thank you so much!!!! I'm so appreciative!

[@tieniekleinhans9465]

Visit once before.... Visited Thailand many times. On retiring coming there (Cambodia) long term on my own (63y)Retirement Visa Cant wait!🥰

[@juliogonzalez4764]

I've been looking at places that I'm considering to visit to find a place to retire to. Thailand, Mexico, and Cambodia are where I'm going to visit. I came across your apartment rental video (which was very informative), I then saw your leaving Michigan video and it was moving. I just subscribed and hope your are well (in all ways). Good luck to you.

[@juliahaw]

How are your retirement plans going?

[@stacypetersen1793]

Thank you for your insight. I’ve been here in Siem Reap for 6 months now. I live a 5 minute walk from Pub Street on the other side of the river however and a couple minutes walk from Wat Damnak. I encourage everyone who is considering coming to do it! It’s easy to make friends with locals if you engage them and are real. I have dinners weekly with my new friends in their homes as family.

[@juliahaw]

It's the friendliest place in the world!!!

[@stacypetersen1793]

@@juliahaw I agree with you. Have local friends it’s the surest way to love living here. Everyone is so kind.

[@bangkokmaco]

in Phnom Penh the most important thing for an expat is to fit into an area that matches your income level. you want to be able to easily walk to your social hangouts. Phnom Penh is not nearly as cliquey as Bangkok, but you will most def be ostracized if you're perceived to be lower class. Siem Reap is socially flatter and easier to make friends, although it's more like a collection of villages than a city, so you'll end up on your moto quite a bit.

[@KB3TLE]

Not a bad collection of advise Julia ! -- Sounds like you have a completely new life over there ? At my age I am unable to do much beyond a frugal retirement. Younger people however need your advise and would benefit if they are willing to follow some of it ? You are an inspirational speaker ! Well done.

[@doblesptag]

Very wise advices. Thank you Julia!!

[@jameswilde3203]

that was beautiful I am going to siam reap in January good look with your new life

[@C1K450]

My only concern is work. What type of jobs are available in Cambodia. What online jobs are available to work from anywhere. Can you walk into any Cambodian establishment, most likely a restaurant or hotel to ask for a job application? How easy is this. The only thing that holds me back is employment and job stability.

[@juliahaw]

This is a great question and no - you cannot just walk into any establishment and get a job. There is actually a list by the government of jobs that are not available for foreigners to work. One of the best jobs to work here is: teaching English online -- or you could lead fitness/yoga classes... there are jobs you just have to be very creative and lend your skills freelance if need be. What field are you in?

[@invinoveritas6859]

Time alone makes you a stronger person,not weaker !!!

[@kellyname5733]

Thanks for this vid. Im leaving my home country to get away from the crazy. Im leaving the high cost of living. Im leaving for peace of mind and Im leaving for a much slower pace of life. Now..Cambodia is on my top 3 places because it checks all the box's. Nice people and good food and of course a slower pace.

[@mariajanechan5906]

Awesome video! ❤

[@LJG29]

Is there an artist community in Siemens Reap? I may be a bit of a basket case especially since I’m 65 years of age, but would love an artist community and a little conversation or guidance. Are there painting groups or life drawing classes?

[@seans7228]

Hi. I just subscribed. I spent months alone in Phnom Penh last year (2023) but the smog is too much for me. I'm getting ready to try living in Siem Reap.

[@MaryAustin-s1u]

Wondering how to stay in touch with folks back home? Do the sim cards allow international calling? Does the call feature of Facebook work in Cambodia?

[@Assertiveman]

Wow your so brave to move to another country I wish you success, I'm Cambodian but I was born in america and I only speak English

[@seans7228]

Hi. I'm diabetic and can't eat the omni-present white rice or white rice noodles. Are there brown rice options at the restaurants in Siem Reap? Or, clean eating places? Thanks!

[@juliahaw]

Hi Sean! What a wonderful question. Absolutely. I highly, highly recommend Hey Bong. They are 100% vegan and have many clean options. Krousar Cafe also caters to Keto diet so they have lots of yummy zoodle dishes etc. There is also Elia, a delicious Greek place... and Banlle with lots of vegetation and clean options. SOOO many options. You will have no problem finding all sorts of delicious and clean food while you're here. SR is known for the amazing culinary cuisine!

[@seans7228]

@@juliahaw Thank You!

[@davidloke3683]

Thank you Julia for all the Great advice. You are a beautiful woman, hope i bump into you when im heading oversas in 6 months time🙏💙

[@juliahaw]

Thank you so kindly for saying so and for watching!!!

[@larrydeng4788]

I’m glad you loving Cambodia ❤

[@craigdawson7632]

She's stunning. Looking at heading over next year. I'll be big spoon then neither of us would be alone 👍🤣 Never thought about the day light hours we have 15.75 hour days in the peak of summer. 8.5 in winter though. Also the sun will be at a funny angle. 29deg to 75deg winter to summer. I'm from Invercargill NZ My main concerned about how easy it will be to leave a small foot print there. No plastic, more eco friendly than standard organic food, being self sufficient with meat and veg is the norm here. I'm moving for the more friendly tax rates, and to help people with sorting out some solar and plumbing. Seems like I'd get more bang for buck for my effort there. Sucking the juice out of someone like a vampire 🤣🤣🤣 No biting it 😳

[@TigerCatMkd]

Thanks Julia, i want to move from Europe to Cambodia soon, and stay there at least for some time.

[@juliahaw]

Awesome!! How are the plans going?

[@philliphazell4211]

Hello Julia , i have watched your videos and particularly loved the meditation retreat in Thailand despite being an atheist with no formal religion or spirituality . For me settling in Siem Reap has had enormous difficulties , not from Cambodians who have uniformly been lovely and polite and accepting . Unfortunately as a 60 year old gay guy it's some Expats i have found rude and unaccepting . Having befriended some American guys in my gym when it came to a night out and questions arose about kids or girlfriend i was open and honest about being a ' WOKE GAY GUY , Atheist , into identity politics ' the response wasn't great and they have shunned me ever since . It's a small town too and a few drunken mistakes and tons of people think they know me . I am not a party animal , introverted , quiet ( except when drunk ! ) finding my niche has been a thankless task . If you are already a minority in your home country then think carefully about what you want . Thankfully i am resilient , pretty damned independent but sometimes emotionally vulnerable and over sensitive . Photography , reading , hiking , gym keep me occupied but i think i am off to Korea and Japan for 6 months before deciding whether i will come back for another year . Since Covid Siem Reap is a lot quieter and all the photographers i knew have left . I am hoping Seoul has a dynamic alternative music and arts scene and lots of photographers . Siem Reap can be too laid back at times .

[@philliphazell4211]

Being a gay guy i would not recommend moving to a country on your own unless you are super super confident . Gay people in general have a different way of thinking and perspective on identity , gay , trans , non believer . It's something heterosexual people don't even think about , they rarely question norms of identity . Tuk Tun drivers caught when they offer you Lady Boom Boom and you say you want a middle aged hairy husband laugh along with you . Heteronormative people go quiet on you . Specifically for gay men then Cambodia is very traditional and runs like many SE Asian societies . As the older Western Guy it is assumed you will be the father figure , financially secure and a relationship will be based on the older guy taking care of the younger guy . Many older western gay men here are in relationships with much younger men . The same happens with older western guys with Cambodian girlfriends and wives . There is an established order of relations that does not match conventions in the West . As a western gay guy who seeks friends as equals intellectually and emotionally this is problematic . Anyhow the perspective of an ageing gay Brit on difficulties you may face in another country with a different culture and history . It can be both exciting and unnerving .

[@lukem4ceo]

Hello Julia, Found your KZbin by searching for Chang Mai back in November. Went there last June 2022 and absolutely fell in love with the Place! Working on moving there i a few years. Would love to touch base with you on the logistics of moving from the USA. Thank you so much for very interesting Videos.

[@juliahaw]

Hi Luke-- amazing there you're moving to Chiang Mai -- that place is a total VIBE!!!! I'd consider moving there if I wasn't so in love with SR already. ;)

[@mmellowest]

Love your content so far. Just stumbled on your channel. I grew up in Cambodia but left after graduation in 2018. Now in 2023 my partner, pets and I are planning to move to Siem Reap in March. I haven't been home since and I can't wait to return. I saw you're looking to create community and I am too. Would love to get in touch!

[@juliahaw]

Oh my gosh, I'd love to!!!!! LMK when you get here in March -- we'll meet up for sure....what an interesting story!! AND you're bringing PETS!!! You're really doing it.... See you soon and thank you so much for watching! xo

[@Heshhion]

Julia: Have a good time but don't get obscenely obliterated. Aussie girls: But....

[@juliahaw]

hahaha Aussies in general my love... Gotta love the Aussies!!!!

[@moriahproctor951]

What’s the difference of the culture between where you are verses the capital?

[@JustInNow987]

Hi Julia! I am in Siem Reap right now! Can we link up 🥺🙏

[@johng1216]

Like you needed to be made up to be more attractive than you are. We love the new look. Love the videos, excellent advice, I need a lot of that, and keep up the good work.

[@Ironbullentertainment]

Beautiful

[@gregsandifer2398]

Great video and info!

[@angelashaske9157]

So true about the party life. Just concentrating on the party and party friends is ultimately an empty quest. Also, love the vampire analogy! It's perfect. I try to avoid or discontinue relationships with energy vamps.

[@juliahaw]

Yeah... energy vamps are NOT the vibe!!!! I'm not about the party live, although I LOVE having fun and going out. Gone are the days where I drink booze because let's just say it doesn't suit me. ;)

[@gsomethingsomething2658]

Actually great advice. New sub :)

[@juliahaw]

Yay!! Thank you!!

[@gsomethingsomething2658]

@@juliahaw Lol, Julia, my comment was from 7 months ago! Anyway, you are welcome ;)

[@rusco1948]

GREAT VIDEO THANKS

[@juliahaw]

You are so welcome! Thank you for watching. :)

[@ziaali5264]

👍👍👍 great advi se. Thank you

[@Cohowarren]

Retired in US and my life savings got stolen. So Siem Reap here I come. I have many friends there! Ready to have fun again.

[@juliahaw]

I'm terribly sorry to hear that.... Welcome to SR!

[@coreana.aesthetics]

Awesome and informative video.

[@juliahaw]

Thank you so much!!! I'm glad you watched!

[@ExiledTexan]

Very Good. Thanks Julie

[@juliahaw]

I'm so glad you like it. Cheers!!

[@raheretewaharoa9280]

I want to go to Cambodia and would love to touch base with you as I am an artist who wants to reset and recalobrate my thoughts while imbracing a new culture.

[@juliahaw]

That sounds idea! Where are you living now?

[@adammitchel3374]

Would you be able to do a video on the legal and/ work life or permit things one has to do to be stable in Cambodia?

[@juliahaw]

I'm going to write video ideas in a log for the future. This is a great idea. Cheers and thanks for the recc!!

[@LJ-jq8og]

JH Rocks 💪❤

[@juliahaw]

hahah Thank you!!

[@Sketchbook999]

WELL DONE. I am Also an Artist and intetested in living in Combodia. Did you get the hepatitus shots begore coming please? Any information appreciated

[@juliahaw]

I did when I initially came. But honestly things are clean in SR. :)

[@juliahaw]

You can get shots much cheaper here - Neak Tep Clinic

[@mealea98]

Hi Julia! I am in Siem Reap right now! Hehe just visiting though haga

[@juliahaw]

Yayyyy!!! Enjoy your time and your stay here!! Thanks for visiting this wonderful place!

[@mealea98]

@@juliahaw thank you!!!

[@petercedilnik3254]

Pretty

[@juliahaw]

Thank you!!

[@brucemacmillan9581]

I don’t think I'm 'amazing'. I know I have certain talents (primarily musical). But I try not to be over the top about it. Even people you might think are amazing are flawed. All of them.

[@nicklawrence9224]

3 more months! I cannot wait:)

[@juliahaw]

wooohoooo!!! This place is a DREAM!!!!!

[@nicklawrence9224]

@@juliahaw Off to PP but you have inspired me to go to Chaing Mai😀

[@juliahaw]

@@nicklawrence9224 haha awesome!! Chiang Mai is a total vibe for sureeeeeeee

[@fendermon]

Watching this more than once, good stuff :) I'll add one tip to not put everything ID and payment wise in one wallet. It's normal to want to streamline things. Don't do it. I just lost my wallet on my last trip with everything in it. I NEVER lose my wallet at home. You are not at home. Your mind is not in the same place. My co-travelers, and a very kind stranger, bailed me out 100%.

[@juliahaw]

GREAT tip!!!!!

[@fendermon]

Thanks :) @@juliahaw

[@JohnSmith-xw4yb]

Look like Marilyn Monroe. Thank you for the upload

[@juliahaw]

Aww thank you!

[@franciscusjohannesburger3720]

Good advice Tanks !

[@juliahaw]

Thank you so much for watching!!!

[@thewordmanofalcatraz]

Thanks. What about ideas on health insurance?

[@juliahaw]

That's a good question and not quite in my field of expertise. In the case of something really bad, I suggest taking an immediate taxi to Bangkok for world class care -- but mostly all medications can be purchased at near-cost in any pharmacy in town, providing you know what's going on. There's good, cheap dental here, as well as eye doctors -- and a great Japanese hospital that does wonderful bloodwork to text for things like that.

[@thewordmanofalcatraz]

@@juliahaw Magic. Thank you.

[@gregorylong4054]

Good advice. Spent much time in Cambodia. Looking to make the move as I am unvaxxed and life is hard here in Oz for us. Can't move back to Canada as it's the same. Best of luck, be safe. Thank you

[@sengpiseth636]

Welcome to Cambodia 🇰🇭

[@juliahaw]

Thank you so much!!

[@lucknlu2116]

I totally agree with you 🤓

[@juliahaw]

I'm glad. Thanks for watching!

[@erikacooper4707]

Make up is pretty

[@juliahaw]

Thank you :)

[@xpokerxpoker8490]

Good advice

[@juliahaw]

Thanks so much for watching!

[@nanthakumarannkathiresu232]

I love that

[@anonymous12726]

Hello, miss. I do like the way you wear the makeup you like to wear. You know who you remind me of while it is on you? You look like Marilyn Monroe.

[@juliahaw]

That is sweet! Thank you! :)

[@X_Marks-u7r]

I left the West to get away from western people. So siem reap would be a nightmare to me.

[@juliahaw]

It's very diverse here. A lot of French, Japanese, South African, Irish, Scottish.... I love the blend!

[@edwinodus]

You need to be an English teacher in cambodia

[@basedgodrock]

🔥🔥🔥vid & gr8 advice peep

[@juliahaw]

Thanks bro! New album released by $uicideboy$ I see!

[@basedgodrock]

@@juliahaw yah I really like tha serpent and the rainbow & center core no more on that I been bumpin those heavy

[@danwilliams8695]

🔥

[@SamsTrekOut]

Just messaged you.

[@samedikoch3371]

🇰🇭🇺🇸❤️👍 !

[@X_Marks-u7r]

Im moving there with a blow up doll.

[@shane5385]

Cambodia is crazy expensive and offers nothing. Thailand and Philippines are way better

[@johnthomas8731]

...tip #11.... don't do it....

[@roberthurand7846]

Hello Julia thanks a lot for the vidéo it s very interesting , i a m ROBERT and i moving to KAMPOT in next november , i will continu to fallow your video , i m french from montreal quebec canada , and you help me to practice my english , it s been a long time 🙃🙃🙃You speak fast but with a good prononciation , and i realy appreciate all the information you give.....i don t know if you are on facebook to, but this is my own.........BOB LEGRAND

[@juliahaw]

Absolutely wonderful!!! Cheers on your move to Kampot.. it's such an amazing place!!!