Siem Reap’s vibrant social scene just got a whole lot more interesting with the arrival of Level Up, a new, cool communal space that’s all about entertainment and connection in the tourist town. 

Whether you’re looking to game, co-work, attend an event, or simply find a place to unwind without the typical bar scene, Level Up is the fresh, innovative spot you didn’t know you needed.

A Space Built for Community

Opening its doors on January 1, 2025, Level Up was born from a vision to create a multipurpose venue that fosters community without centering around alcohol. “One of the things we kept saying as we were discussing the initial idea was ‘we aren’t a cafe, or a gaming cafe, or a co-working space, or an events venue. We are all of these things combined but the one thing we 100% are not, is a bar!’” says the Level Up team.

With Siem Reap growing at an exciting pace, Level Up is positioning itself at the forefront of this transformation, offering locals and visitors an inclusive environment to connect, create, and collaborate. “We believe right now is a very exciting time for Siem Reap, it is growing and developing at a very fast rate. We want to be at the forefront of this change, we see ourselves as ‘the space Siem Reap didn’t realize it needed.’”

More Than Just a Gaming Spot

While gaming plays a big part in the space, Level Up is much more than a board game café. Many visitors initially come to co-work or attend events, only to find themselves immersed in an impromptu puzzle challenge or a strategic board game session. “The best part of the job is introducing new people to something we’re passionate about—board games!” the team shares. “They are only a small part of what Level Up has to offer, but some of our community who initially started using Level Up as a co-working space have also started enjoying playing our games or completing puzzles when they need to take a break.”

In an era where digital interactions often replace face-to-face connections, Level Up fosters a real-world sense of community. The space provides an antidote to social isolation, encouraging people to interact, share ideas, and take part in shared experiences.

A Refreshing Alternative to Siem Reap’s Bar Scene

Siem Reap is known for its vibrant nightlife, but Level Up offers something refreshingly different. While they do serve a small selection of craft beers, their focus is on quality teas, specialty coffees, soft drinks, and healthy food options. “As noted earlier, we are really trying to be an alternative to the extensive bar scene here in Siem Reap. While we do serve a limited range of craft beers, alcohol really isn’t the focus. We provide a wide variety of teas, coffees, soft drinks and healthy foods.”

It’s a haven for families, health-conscious individuals, and those looking for non-alcoholic social activities, proving that a night out doesn’t have to revolve around drinking.

A Hub for Events, Creativity, and Social Interaction

Beyond gaming and co-working, Level Up is a true community space. Hosting a wide range of events—including book clubs, art classes, business meetings, and social meetups—the venue provides a private event space for hire, adaptable to whatever the community needs.

“We host regular events around multiple activities, and we also have a private room for hire, which could be used for literally anything the community needs—book clubs, art classes, business meetings, you name it!”

Rooted in Cambodia’s Warmth and Energy

What makes Level Up truly special is the passion of its founders, who each have their own unique story of how they ended up in Cambodia. “Our favorite things about Cambodia are the people, the relaxed atmosphere, and the sense of community we feel living here,” the team reflects. “Each of the three founders of Level Up has their own unique story of how we came to live in Cambodia, but we are all very happy to call it home and feel very lucky that we are involved in creating something new, cool, and unique for Siem Reap that we hope will bring people together over shared passions.”

Visit Level Up

Looking for a cool, alternative space to connect with others in Siem Reap? Whether you’re a traveler, digital nomad, creative, or board game enthusiast, Level Up welcomes you to experience something new.

• Address: Street 3, Wat Damnak, Siem Reap (above Nomad Eatery)
• Opening Hours: 8 AM – Midnight (and later if the space is in use)
• Social Media: Facebook, Instagram (@levelupsiemreap)
• Contact: social@levelupsiemreap.com | Telegram: +855963556921
• Website: Coming soon at levelupsiemreap.com

Level Up is more than a venue—it’s an experience. Step inside, meet new people, and be part of Siem Reap’s growing creative and social scene.

	Cambodia
	https://www.cambodialifestyle.com
	+855 9 678 01791

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Cambodia in 2024 is where old traditions meet modern convenience, and your smartphone is your best companion in navigating this dynamic country. 

From ride-hailing to cashless payments, Cambodia’s digital landscape is growing fast. Whether you’re living here, traveling, or just passing through, these five must-have apps will make your time in Cambodia much easier. Here’s our list of the essential apps for 2024.

To read if it is safe to live in Cambodia click here.

1. ABA Mobile

ABA Bank dominates the banking scene in Cambodia, and the ABA Mobile app is your go-to for all financial needs. Whether you’re paying your electricity bill, transferring money to a friend, or paying for lunch, ABA has you covered. The app is slick, with features like QR code payments and a user-friendly interface in English, making it perfect for expats. ABA’s security is also top-notch, and regular updates ensure you’re always using the latest version of the app.

Top Feature: The ability to pay directly through QR codes means you can leave your cash at home, making everyday transactions a breeze.

2. Grab

For anyone navigating Cambodia’s sometimes overwhelming traffic, Grab is indispensable. It’s not just a ride-hailing app but also offers food delivery, grocery shopping, and even package delivery. It covers all major cities like Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville. Whether you’re looking for a tuk-tuk or a car, Grab is reliable, easy to use, and provides cashless payments. The pricing is transparent, and the app works seamlessly with ABA or other e-wallets.

Top Feature: Grab’s all-in-one convenience for rides, deliveries, and payments makes it the best way to move around Cambodia.

3. PassApp

PassApp is Cambodia’s homegrown answer to ride-hailing and is a favorite for tuk-tuk rides. If you’re opting for a more local experience and often cheaper tuk-tuk rates, this app is a must. The fare is pre-set, so you don’t have to worry about haggling or surprises at the end of the journey. The app has full English language support and has a wide network of drivers, especially in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, making it a reliable choice.

Top Feature: Tuk-tuk drivers know the local streets better, which can often mean quicker rides through traffic-clogged areas.

4. Nham24

If food is your priority (and it should be in Cambodia), then Nham24 is your go-to app. Think of it as Cambodia’s answer to Uber Eats or Deliveroo. Nham24 connects you to a huge range of restaurants, cafes, and even street food vendors, bringing a diverse selection of Cambodian and international cuisine right to your doorstep. Whether you’re craving Khmer street food or a Western burger, Nham24 has an extensive list of food options to choose from. The app is easy to use, works in English, and accepts multiple payment methods, including cash on delivery.

Top Feature: Access to a wide variety of both local and international food, making it a must-have for food lovers living in or visiting Cambodia.

5. Wing

As Cambodia’s fintech ecosystem grows, Wing has become one of the most trusted and widely used e-wallets in the country. Wing allows you to send money, pay bills, top up mobile phones, and make purchases at thousands of partner merchants across Cambodia. Whether you’re handling utilities or sending money to friends and family, Wing has proven itself as a reliable and accessible financial tool, especially in areas where traditional banking may not be as prevalent.

Top Feature: Wing’s ability to reach rural areas, combined with its extensive merchant network, makes it the go-to app for cashless transactions across Cambodia.

Final Thoughts

Navigating life in Cambodia in 2024 is made infinitely easier with the right apps. From handling your finances with ABA Mobile, moving around town with Grab or PassApp, ordering from your favorite restaurant with Nham24, to sending and receiving money through Wing, these apps ensure that you’re well-prepared for modern life in this beautiful and bustling country. So, whether you’re an expat, a traveler, or just getting started in Cambodia, make sure these apps are at the top of your download list.

	Cambodia
	https://www.cambodialifestyle.com
	+855 9 678 01791

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Cambodia has seen a rapid rise in the banking sector over the past decade. With a mix of local and international banks, each offering different services, it’s important to find the right one that suits your everyday needs. 

Whether you’re a local resident, expat, or traveler, here’s a countdown of the top 10 best banks in Cambodia for daily banking.

To read about banking in Cambodia click here.

10. Foreign Trade Bank of Cambodia (FTB)

FTB takes the top spot for everyday banking in Cambodia. It’s one of the most reliable and trusted banks in the country, and it combines the best of both worlds: extensive ATM and branch coverage, alongside a user-friendly mobile app. FTB is known for its competitive rates, good customer service, and low fees. Whether you’re looking to pay bills, send money, or just withdraw cash, FTB offers the best all-around experience in Cambodia today.

9. Canadia Bank

One of Cambodia’s oldest banks, Canadia Bank has a well-established reputation. Its services are pretty straightforward, with good account options for both locals and expats. However, the bank’s app can be slow, and customer service, while decent, sometimes lags compared to other institutions. Nevertheless, its solid ATM network and long-standing presence in the country make it a safe choice for day-to-day banking.

8. WING Bank

WING has made waves in the mobile banking industry in Cambodia. While it started as a mobile money transfer service, WING has since developed into a full-fledged bank. It’s great for cash transfers and payments on the go, especially for those who want to avoid long queues at traditional banks. The downside? It lacks the full range of banking services for bigger transactions, so it’s better as a supplementary option rather than your main bank.

7. Cambodia Asia Bank (CAB)

Cambodia Asia Bank is a relatively small player compared to some of the bigger names on this list, but it offers solid everyday services like savings and checking accounts. Its credit card options are better than most, with more competitive interest rates. The main drawback is a limited ATM network, but with growing partnerships, this is starting to improve.

6. Sathapana Bank

Sathapana is known for its user-friendly mobile banking app and strong customer service. It’s a reliable bank with a growing branch network across the country. The bank is particularly popular with younger Cambodians who value ease of use and digital access. However, its ATM coverage still needs improvement compared to the bigger players on this list, which is why it sits at number 6.

5. Prince Bank

A relatively new player, Prince Bank has quickly built a reputation for being tech-forward with an excellent mobile app and online banking services. It’s perfect for anyone looking for an easy, digital-first banking experience. Prince Bank’s modern approach makes it ideal for everyday use, especially for those who value convenience over physical branches. The downside? Their ATM network is still growing, so you may have to rely on other bank ATMs, which could mean extra fees.

4. J Trust Royal 

J Trust Royal is another great choice for everyday banking, particularly if you’re looking for a mix of local and international services. With roots in Australia (as it was formerly known as ANZ Royal), J Trust offers a great combination of global banking standards and local expertise. It’s perfect for those who want a familiar banking experience while living in Cambodia. The only drawback? Fees can sometimes be higher than local banks, but the trade-off is in the higher level of service.

3. Maybank Cambodia

Maybank is a solid option for both locals and expats. This Malaysian bank brings a level of international professionalism and service quality that’s hard to beat. With competitive rates for international transfers, it’s a favorite among expats who need to send money home. Their physical presence isn’t as large as some of the local banks, but their customer service and reliable online platform make up for it.

2. ABA Bank

ABA Bank is often hailed as the best bank in Cambodia, and for good reason. It has the best mobile banking app in the country, offering seamless transfers, bill payments, and even loan applications online. Their ATM network is extensive, and their customer service is top-notch. So why isn’t it number one? Well, fees can be a bit high for certain services, and getting in touch with support during busy times can be challenging. But there is a reason people say “can I ABA you” rather than “Can I AEON Mall bank you”

1. Acleda Bank

Acleda Bank is the largest bank in Cambodia, and while it has a massive network of branches and ATMs across the country, its services are better suited for businesses and larger transactions. For everyday banking, Acleda were previously a bit below par, but of late have introduced a greta new app, as well increasing interest rates and just being a bit more foreigner friendly.

Conclusion

While all these banks have their pros and cons, the right choice depends on your personal needs. For those looking for solid everyday use with good digital services, banks like FTB, ABA, and J Trust Royal stand out. If you’re in rural areas or just want easy mobile transfers, Wing and Acleda might be more practical. Ultimately, Cambodia’s banking sector is growing fast, and no matter where you end up, you’ll find a range of options to suit your lifestyle.

	Cambodia
	https://www.cambodialifestyle.com
	+855 9 678 01791

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Photo: Responsible Travel

Cambodia offers some of the most scenic boat journeys in Southeast Asia, and the ferry from Siem Reap to Battambang is a perfect example. Winding through rivers, floating villages, and the iconic Tonle Sap Lake, this boat trip gives you a glimpse of rural Cambodian life from the water. 

Whether you’re looking for an adventure or simply want a change from bus travel, here’s everything you need to know about taking the ferry from Siem Reap to Battambang.

Booking Your Ferry Ticket

The first step is booking your ticket. Ferries from Siem Reap to Battambang are typically available during the wet season (from June to November), when the water levels are high enough for boats to make the journey. Tickets can be booked at many tour agencies around Siem Reap, or through your hotel or guesthouse. Prices range from $20 to $25 depending on the service and season. For more convenience, you can also check online platforms like BookMeBus for ferry ticket availability.

Departure Time and Location

The ferry departs early in the morning, usually between 6:30 AM and 7:00 AM. Be sure to arrive at the pier in Siem Reap on time to check in and secure a good seat on the boat. The pier is located just outside of Siem Reap, and most ticket agencies will offer a shuttle service to take you there. If not, tuk-tuks are readily available, but make sure to leave early enough to avoid delays.

For those looking to explore more of Siem Reap before heading to Battambang, check out our guide on things to do in Siem Reap to make the most of your time in the city.

The Ferry Experience: What to Expect

The ferry ride from Siem Reap to Battambang takes between 6 to 8 hours, depending on water levels and the time of year. While this might seem like a long journey, the incredible views make it worthwhile. The boat weaves through floating villages, offering you a glimpse into the unique way of life in these communities. You’ll see fishermen casting their nets, children paddling through the water, and homes perched on stilts that seem to float on the water.

However, the boat is basic. Don’t expect luxury seating—this is more about adventure than comfort. Bring a cushion or something soft to sit on, as the seats can be hard. There’s also limited shade on the boat, so bringing sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water is highly recommended.

While the trip may be long, it’s an unforgettable journey through Cambodia’s waterways, and there are plenty of photo opportunities along the way. You can read about a similar journey on The Street Food Guy’s blog for more insights on what to expect.

Photo: Angkor Express Boat Trip

Arrival in Battambang

After several hours on the water, you’ll arrive at the Battambang pier, which is located a few kilometers outside of the city. Tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis will be waiting to take passengers into the city center, which should cost around $2 to $3 depending on your negotiation skills.

Battambang itself is a charming city, known for its colonial architecture and laid-back atmosphere. It’s also home to some fantastic street food. Be sure to explore the local food scene once you arrive.

Best Time to Travel by Ferry

The best time to take the ferry from Siem Reap to Battambang is during the rainy season (June to November) when water levels are at their highest. During the dry season, the water levels can drop, and the journey may take longer or be canceled altogether. Be sure to check the current situation before planning your trip.

While it’s a bit of an adventure, the ferry ride offers a unique perspective on Cambodia’s rural life. If you’re the type of traveler who enjoys seeing the off-the-beaten-path aspects of a country, this ferry trip is well worth it. For more information on traveling through Cambodia, visit Cambodia Lifestyle.

	Cambodia
	https://www.thestreetfoodguy.com/
	+855 11 814 349

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Coming to the payment section of a Cambodian store can often be quite a scary thing, with QR codes for numerous banks, as well as an equal amount of digital wallets.

Which ones though are best to use as an expat, or as a tourist, and can you use cards to pay for goods within Cambodia? Here’s the CLN guide to digital payments in Cambodia in 2024.

Can I use credit and debit cards in Cambodia?

Visa and Mastercard are by far the most common cards accepted in Cambodia, with UnionPay of China and JCB coming in next. When it comes to American Express in Cambodia you can pretty much forget it, with this being the domain of high-end hotels like the Sofitel, as well as randomly Angkor Mart supermarket in Siem Reap.

Yet while many restaurants, marts and shops take cards this is not the case for regular shops, local bars and taxi drivers. To pay digitally for these in Cambodia you will need to enter the realm of a bank account, or digital wallet.

The best digital wallets in Cambodia

A few years ago this was not only a minefield, but an extremely saturated part of the Cambodian market, with seemingly everyone offering their own take on things.

Said wallets allowed people to store money through their branches and pay for things such as utilities, phone top-ups, purchase at stores, as well as even pay Tuk-Tuk drivers. 

They also offered a simple way for not only the unbanked to have access to limited banking, but also technically at least for visitors to have a digital payment method.

This arena has been dominated by Wing (who are now a bank), TrueMoney of Thailand, and PiPay, which started by the late chairman of Phnom Penh Crown. 

I personally used Wing when I first came to Cambodia as it was allowed for non-residents and had the most acceptance. This in my opinion is still the best option for tourists that don’t necessarily want to top-up phones, pay for Tuk-Tuk’s, or simply don’t want to have excess cash on them.

Main digital payments in Cambodia

Initially this was another overdone and confused market with every bank offering their own form of QR code payment systems, which meant cash registers being filled with QR codes for ABA, Sathapana, Accleda and Prince Bank, to name but a few – none initially working with each other.

ABA though eventually won this race, with the term “Can I ABA you” being common utterance. Thankfully the codes were also integrated, so you can use the QR code ecosystem regardless of whom you bank with. 

And this has grown like wildfire with even mom an pop stores, as well as street food even taking digital payments in Cambodia.

You can now also use your ABA account with the QR system in Thailand, as well as link your card to Weixin in China. 

The only problem with this system though is that you will need a work permit to be able to even open a bank account within Cambodia, thus meaning this is not something tourists are able to use, although you can often use Wing in many of these places.

Therefore regardless of if you are a tourist, or long term stayer in Cambodia, there are now plenty of options for digital payments in Cambodia. 

	Cambodia
	https://www.cambodialifestyle.com/
	+855 9 678 01791

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