Cambodia & Thailand Travel Guide: Navigating the Current Situation

July 2025 - Amanda Crewe Travel

Planning a trip to Cambodia or Thailand right now requires careful consideration of the current border situation. While both countries remain incredible destinations with rich cultures, stunning temples, and warm hospitality, recent developments along their shared border have created some travel challenges that require smart planning and awareness.

Understanding the Current Situation

Thailand has ordered the closure of its entire 817km border with Cambodia following recent armed confrontations, with casualties reported including 14 civilians and a soldier killed. This affects land border crossings but doesn't impact the overall safety of major tourist destinations in either country.

Major tourist centers like Bangkok, Siem Reap, and Phnom Penh remain largely unaffected, with tourists reporting only minor disruptions and increased security presence. The situation is primarily affecting border regions rather than the main destinations most travelers visit.

Which Areas to Avoid

Border Regions: Avoid areas within 50 kilometers of the Thailand-Cambodia land border throughout the provinces of Buriram, Si Saket, Sa Kaeo, Surin, Ubon Ratchathani, Chanthaburi and mainland Trat. These restrictions are temporary safety measures and don't affect popular tourist routes.

Affected Attractions: Some border temples and historical sites have temporarily suspended operations for visitor safety. Check current status before planning visits to border region attractions.

Safe Travel Options

Flying Between Countries

Air travel between Thailand and Cambodia remains completely normal and unaffected by border tensions. Flying is currently the most convenient way to visit both countries on the same trip.

Key Routes:

• Bangkok to Siem Reap (1.5 hours)

• Bangkok to Phnom Penh (1 hour)

• Phuket to Siem Reap (2 hours with connection)

Staying Within One Country

Both Thailand and Cambodia offer incredible experiences independently, making single-country itineraries an excellent option during this period.

Thailand Travel Tips

Safe Regions: Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, and other major destinations operate normally with no travel restrictions.

Current Conditions:

• Enhanced security at some transport hubs (minimal impact on travelers)

• All major attractions, hotels, and services operating normally

• Domestic flights and transportation unaffected

What to Do:

• Explore Bangkok's temples, markets, and street food scene

• Island hop in the south (Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Krabi)

• Experience northern culture in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai

• Visit floating markets and historical sites in central Thailand

Cambodia Travel Tips

Accessible Areas: Siem Reap (Angkor Wat), Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, and Battambang remain fully accessible and welcoming to tourists.

Entry Requirements:

• Fly into Siem Reap or Phnom Penh airports

• E-visa applications processed normally

• Tourist infrastructure operating as usual

Must-Do Experiences:

• Angkor Archaeological Park (unaffected by border situation)

• Phnom Penh's Royal Palace and markets

• Coastal areas and islands from Sihanoukville

• Cultural experiences in rural provinces away from border areas

Smart Booking Strategies

Travel Insurance: Ensure comprehensive coverage that includes trip interruption and political unrest clauses.

Flexible Bookings: Choose refundable or changeable flights and accommodations where possible. Many hotels are offering flexible cancellation policies during this period.

Monitor Updates: Border situations can change quickly. Register with your embassy and follow official travel advisories from your government.

Alternative Multi-Country Options

If you're keen on a multi-country Southeast Asian experience, consider these combinations instead:

• Thailand and Vietnam

• Thailand and Laos

• Cambodia and Vietnam

• Thailand and Malaysia

Practical Considerations

Currency: Bring USD for Cambodia (widely accepted alongside Cambodian Riel). Thai Baht for Thailand.

Communication: Download offline maps and translation apps before traveling. WiFi and mobile coverage remain excellent in both countries.

Health Precautions: Standard tropical travel precautions apply. Both countries have good medical facilities in major cities.

When Will Normal Travel Resume?

Border situations are typically temporary, but exact timelines depend on diplomatic resolutions. For the most current information, monitor:

• Your government's travel advisory websites

• Official embassy updates

• Tourism authority announcements

The Bottom Line

Both Cambodia and Thailand remain spectacular destinations worth visiting. The current border situation affects overland crossings but doesn't diminish the incredible experiences available in each country. Whether you choose to explore Thailand's diverse landscapes and vibrant cities, or immerse yourself in Cambodia's rich Khmer heritage and archaeological wonders, you'll find warm hospitality and unforgettable memories.

The key is staying informed, being flexible with your plans, and focusing on the many safe and accessible areas that showcase the best of Southeast Asian culture, cuisine, and natural beauty.

Ready to plan your Southeast Asian adventure? Contact Amanda Crewe Travel for personalized itineraries that take current conditions into account while maximizing your travel experience.

This information is current as of July 30, 2025. Travel situations can change rapidly, so always check the latest government travel advisories before departure.