The Ultimate Digital Nomad Guide to Living in Siem Reap
When people think of Siem Reap, they usually picture the iconic sunrise at Angkor Wat or a scene from Tomb Raider. While those images capture its historic charm, this town has evolved into much more.
Over the years, Siem Reap has quietly transformed into a thriving destination for digital nomads, offering reliable high-speed internet, great co-living and coworking spaces, a vibrant food scene, and a community that’s both welcoming and diverse.
In this guide, I’ll share everything I’ve learned about living and working in Siem Reap as a digital nomad. From the best places to stay and work to tips on navigating everyday life, this is your go-to resource for making the most of your time here. Let’s get started!
Why Siem Reap? My Experience as a Digital Nomad
I first came to Siem Reap over a decade ago, thinking it would be just another stop on my Southeast Asia backpacking trip. But this little town surprised me. I fell for its relaxed vibes, friendly locals, and slower pace of life. It was a breath of fresh air! A year later, I moved here and have been living here on and off ever since.
Over the years, I’ve seen Siem Reap change a lot. It’s grown into a vibrant hub for digital nomads, creatives, and expats. While it doesn’t have the polished infrastructure of a big city, that’s a big part of why I love it. Life here feels more real, more authentic.
One of the things I appreciate most is how welcoming Siem Reap is. The Khmer community is incredibly warm, and you’ll find people from all over the world living here. There’s this mix of cultures that makes the town feel alive. It’s also one of the most inclusive places I’ve been—very LGBTQ-friendly and open to people of all backgrounds.
Pros and Cons of Living in Siem Reap
Living in Siem Reap has been and continues to be an incredible and enjoyable experience for me. But like anywhere, it comes with its highs and lows. Here’s a breakdown of what I’ve found:
Pros
- Rent, food, and transport here are incredibly budget-friendly, which means I can enjoy more experiences without constantly stressing about money.
- I find that the slower pace of life is perfect for relaxing and finding a better work-life balance. This was a very welcome change in my life.
- Locals are incredibly friendly and those working in tourism and hospitality often speak great English, which makes settling in and getting around much easier.
- Siem Reap is steeped in culture, similar to what I experienced in Chiang Mai, with endless opportunities to explore local markets, Buddhist pagodas, and even the remnants of French colonial history.
- The café scene is amazing, add in the professional co-working spaces like Siem Reap House, and it is easy to stay productive while meeting like-minded people.
- Outdoor adventures are always within easy reach, including exploring ancient ruins, kayaking or boating on the Tonlé Sap, cooling off at the Phnom Kulen waterfalls, ziplining through the jungle, or wakeboarding. There is so much to do!
Cons
- The heat from March to May can be intense, often soaring above 40°C, making it challenging to work or explore comfortably during the day.
- Many roads outside the main streets are unpaved, and during the wet season, they can become muddy and difficult to navigate. Though for me, it does add to the town’s charm!
- The tourist high season from November to February brings a noticeable increase in visitors, leading to busier streets and attractions.
- Siem Reap lacks a public transport system, but affordable tuk tuks and the town’s flat, walkable layout make getting around manageable. Cycling is also a great option for those who enjoy being active.
- Access to specialized healthcare can be limited, often requiring trips to Phnom Penh or even neighboring countries like Thailand. Having good health insurance is highly recommended for peace of mind.
What’s the Cost of Living in Siem Reap?
One of the things I’ve always loved about living in Siem Reap is how budget-friendly it is. The affordable cost of living lets me enjoy a great quality of life without constantly worrying about money. You can get by on a tight budget or spend a bit more to enjoy some extras—it’s really up to you.
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to spend each month based on my experience:
Accommodation
$200-$900 USD per month. Options range from budget rooms to modern apartments with pools and gyms. Commune, where I stay, offers studio apartments with utilities and extras included, starting at $650 USD per month.
Meals
$100-$300 USD per month. Local dishes at local vendors cost as little as $2 USD, while Western-style meals and imported groceries will cost more. Shopping at local markets is a great way to save and immerse yourself in the local culture!
Transportation
$20-$100 USD per month. Tuk tuks are cheap for getting around town, but renting a motorbike or bicycle is a good longer-term option as tuk tuk expenses quickly add up! I mostly walk or cycle, which is free and keeps me active.
Co-working memberships
$50-$150 USD per month. My membership at Siem Reap House is included with my rent at Commune, which is a great perk.
Gym memberships
$35-$100 USD per month. My gym membership at Bulldogs Fitness Center is also included with my rent.
What Are the Visa Options for Digital Nomads in Siem Reap?
Cambodia is hands down one of the most digital nomad-friendly countries in Southeast Asia when it comes to visas. The process is straightforward, and you can stay long-term without too much hassle if you choose the right visa.
For short stays, most nationalities can get a Tourist Visa (T-class), which lets you stay for 30 days and can usually be extended once for another 30 days. But if you’re planning to stick around longer, the Ordinary Visa (E-class) is the way to go. It starts with a 30-day validity, but you can extend it for 3, 6, or even 12 months. The 6- and 12-month options are especially popular with digital nomads since they come with multiple entries, so you can leave and come back without any issues.
Cambodia doesn’t require a special visa for remote work. Combine that with the low cost of living, and you’ve got a pretty ideal setup for working remotely.
From January 1, 2025, the e-Visa fees have been reduced, which makes it even better:
- Tourist e-Visa (T-class): Now $30 (down from $36)
- Ordinary e-Visa (E-class): Now $35 (down from $42)
Of course, it’s always a good idea to double-check the latest visa rules and requirements for your nationality. You can find the most up-to-date info and apply for an e-Visa directly on the official Cambodian e-Visa website.
Working Remotely in Siem Reap
Working remotely in Siem Reap has been such an easy and enjoyable experience for me. The town is small and laid-back, so everything feels within reach. Staying in a co-living space with an attached coworking area has made it really simple to balance work and downtime. On top of that, the strong sense of community, vibrant culture, and easy access to outdoor activities have done wonders for my productivity and overall happiness.
Internet and WiFi
In my experience, Wi-Fi in Siem Reap is generally reliable, especially in co-working spaces that cater to professionals with dedicated, high-speed connections. Most cafés offer free Wi-Fi, which is great for light tasks over a coffee, although speeds can be a bit patchy.
When it comes to accommodation, Wi-Fi is often included in the rent, but the quality depends on your landlord’s Wi-Fi plan and can occasionally be unreliable. Personally, I’ve had no issues with the high-speed internet in my co-living space, and it’s made working from home easy.
That said, it’s always good to have a backup, especially if you’re working remotely. I’ve been using an eSIM, and it’s been great! It’s easy to set up, doesn’t cost much, and works perfectly when the Wi-Fi isn’t reliable. Plus, having mobile data on your phone is super useful for exploring Siem Reap.
Work Spots, Laptop-Friendly Cafés and Coworking Spaces
Siem Reap has plenty of great spots to work, including cozy cafés and professional coworking spaces. I typically use a coworking space for most of my work, but I love mixing it up with coffee meetings at some of my favorite spots.
Here are my top picks:
Best Coworking Spaces in Siem Reap
- Siem Reap House: As the newest and largest co-working space in town, Siem Reap House stands out as the only purpose-built, premium facility of its kind in town. It has redefined co-working standards with its impressive amenities, including hot desks, private meeting rooms, phone booths, a lecture hall, and even an auditorium. The friendly, attentive staff and the respectful work environment make it a joy to be here, and free coffee is the cherry on top!
Best Laptop-Friendly Cafés in Siem Reap
- The Little Red Fox Espresso: Affectionately known as “The Fox”, this place has been my personal favorite for over a decade. Their cold drip coffee is amazing (I’m hooked), and the vegan-friendly menu never disappoints. It’s a laid-back spot with great service and an atmosphere that’s just as welcoming for locals as it is for expats. For me, it’s hands-down the best café in town.
- Sister Srey Café: I love Sister Srey for its hearty menu and inspiring social mission. It’s easily my second favourite café in town and my top pick for a leisurely Sunday brunch. With its riverside location, warm staff, and delicious food, it’s always a feel-good experience.
- Brother Bong Café: Run by alumni of Sister Srey, this café is another gem. Their award-winning coffee, freshly-squeezed juices, and mix of local and Western dishes make it a great spot. Add in the chill atmosphere, outdoor seating, and friendly vibe, and it’s easy to see why people keep coming back.
- Kai Fun Café & Eatery: Located in the heart of Rose Apple Square, Kai Fun is perfect for quick coffee runs, casual meetings, or a relaxed lunch. It’s stylish and budget-friendly, which makes it a great choice if you’re watching your spending but still want quality.
Best Areas to Stay as a Digital Nomad in Siem Reap
Siem Reap’s small size makes it super easy to find accommodation close to everything—cafés, coworking spaces, and other amenities are always just a short walk or bike ride away. Most neighborhoods near the town center are great for digital nomads, but here are my top three picks, each offering something unique:
Svay Dankum
This is a popular spot for expats and digital nomads. It’s a charming neighborhood with a mix of housing options to suit different lifestyles. One standout is Commune at Rose Apple Square, a premium co-living space that’s perfect for remote workers. Svay Dankum is close to the Old Market and Pub Street, coworking spaces like Siem Reap House, gyms, and a buzzing café and dining scene. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a balance between productivity and a lively social vibe.
Wat Bo
Wat Bo is a vibrant and central neighborhood, offering the perfect mix of local charm and modern convenience, which reminds me of Hoi An. It’s known for its boutique hotels, shops, and a variety of cafés and restaurants. The area feels lively but still laid-back, which I love. It’s close to the Old Market and Pub Street, so you’ve got nightlife and shopping nearby, but it’s also quieter and more residential—great if you want a bit of a retreat from the busier parts of town.
Wat Damnak
If you’re looking for a quieter, more relaxed vibe, Wat Damnak is a solid option. It’s near the Siem Reap River and offers a mix of small guesthouses, boutique hotels, local restaurants, and creative spaces. It’s a little more low-key but still close enough to the Old Market and Pub Street to be convenient. It’s ideal if you want a blend of local culture and practicality without too much hustle and bustle.
Top Tips for Digital Nomads in Siem Reap
Living and working in Siem Reap has been amazing, but there are definitely a few things I’ve picked up along the way that make life here even smoother:
Learn a bit of Khmer
Most people in tourism speak English, but learning a few basics like “aw kun” (thank you) and “suosdey” (hello) always makes locals smile. It’s a small effort, but it really helps.
Grab an eSIM card
Getting an eSIM should be one of the first things you do before you arrive. It’s the easiest way to stay connected in Siem Reap. With an eSIM, like Holafly or Airalo, you can instantly access data for booking tuk-tuks on apps like Grab or staying online without the hassle of finding a local SIM card.
Get a bike
Siem Reap is flat and super bike-friendly. Cycling is my go-to—it’s cheap, keeps me fit, and lets me enjoy the town in a way you just don’t get from a tuk-tuk. It gives me the same sense of freedom I’ve felt biking through Lombok, Indonesia!
Shop at the markets
The supermarkets are fine, but places like Phsar Leu and the Old Market are where you’ll find the freshest produce at better prices. Plus, shopping there is a fun, authentic experience.
Respect the café scene
Siem Reap’s cafés are great for working, but don’t camp out all day if you’re only buying one coffee—owners really don’t appreciate that. If you’re working for hours, coworking spaces are a better fit.
Avoid political topics
It’s best to steer clear of talking about politics or the government while you’re here. It’s just easier that way.
Be mindful of local customs
When visiting temples, cover your shoulders and knees, and always take your shoes off when entering homes or pagodas. If you’re not sure what’s okay, just ask—people here are super kind and happy to help.
These little things have made my time in Siem Reap so much easier and more enjoyable. Hopefully, they help you too!
Best Digital Nomad Communities in Siem Reap
Siem Reap’s digital nomad scene has been steadily growing, and there are a few great spots where remote workers naturally come together. Here are some of my personal favorites:
Commune at Rose Apple Square
If you’re looking for a co-living or coworking space, one of the best options in town is, without a doubt, Commune. It’s the first co-living space in Siem Reap designed specifically for digital nomads. Commune offers private studio apartments with en-suite bathrooms and kitchenettes, along with shared spaces like a huge kitchen, a dining area, a cozy lounge, and a pool. On top of that, your rent includes free access to Siem Reap House coworking space and Bulldogs Fitness Center, which is a pretty great deal.
What I love most about Commune, though, is the community vibe. They host regular events and group activities, making it super easy to meet other remote workers and build connections. Whether you’re here for a few months or planning to stay long-term, Commune is a fantastic spot that combines convenience, productivity, and a sense of belonging.
Cambodia Digital Nomads & Residents
This Facebook group is a great place to connect with other digital nomads, expats, and online entrepreneurs in Cambodia. People share tips, ask questions, and swap advice about everything from remote work to travel. It’s especially handy if you’re looking for recommendations or just want to chat with others living the nomad lifestyle in Cambodia, including Siem Reap.
Siem Reap Expats & Locals
Although it’s not specifically for digital nomads, this Facebook group is a fantastic resource if you’re living in or moving to Siem Reap. It’s full of local insights, from restaurant suggestions to tips on navigating everyday life here. Whether you’re a long-term resident or brand new to town, it’s a helpful and friendly space to get advice and connect with others.
Ready to Make Siem Reap Your Next Nomad Destination?
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