Introduction
Sihanoukville, a port town on the Cambodian coast, has grown from a sleepy fishing village into a busy tourist destination. Its fabulous beaches, low cost of living, and raising expat community make it one of the destinations for retirees who want to see out their days in a tropical paradise. This guide presents information that can help you decide whether or not Sihanoukville is the right place for your retirement.
Cost of Living
Sihanoukville features a much lower cost of living compared to most Western countries. Decent and quite affordable accommodation, food, transport, and amusements ensure that retirees can have a comfortable way of life even on a quite modest budget. Of course, there are areas of town—in particular, the beachfront—which are a bit pricier. Careful planning and budgeting will let you find the exact balance between affordability and lifestyle.
Visa Requirements
There’s a retirement visa that Cambodia has in store for foreigners who are 55 years of age or older. With a retirement visa, you may be able to stay up to 12 months, with extensions possible. Of course, that is by the satisfaction of certain financial criteria and proof of retirement status.
Healthcare
Cambodia is developing very fast, with a mixture of public and private hospitals and clinics. Medical care has vastly improved in recent years, but it is still advisable to have full health insurance coverage. Sihanoukville hosts a variety of healthcare facilities, whereas in case bigger ones are needed, these are found in Phnom Penh.
Lifestyle and Culture
Sihanoukville offers the relaxed feeling one gets from a beach town, complemented by an increasing number of modern amenities that will soon allow you to swim, sunbathe, and engage in water sports while shopping, dining, and being entertained. The expat community is large, providing a support network and social activities.
Safety and Security
Sihanoukville, much like other coastal towns, has had its problems in the safety department. Though things are getting better than they were a few years ago, it’s still about keeping your wits about you at night. Watch for tourist scams, and take care of your possessions. Good relations with locals will make you much more safe and relaxed.
Things to Think About Before You Move
The choice of the correct area to live is vital in enjoying retirement in Sihanoukville. Considerations that should be made include lifestyle, budget, and access to facilities. Property options are myriad, ranging from affordable apartments to beachfront villas. Remember to be prepared for this tropical climate—it is hot and humid for most of the year.
Transportation
Getting around Sihanoukville is relatively easy. Motorbikes, tuk-tuks, and taxis are freely available in the city. There is a developing public transport system in the city, but it may not be like in big cities.
Education
If you have children or grandchildren considering education in Sihanoukville, the options are limited. The city offers some local schools while the international ones can be found in bigger cities like Phnom Penh.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
Sihanoukville is considered the entrance to discovering the natural beauty along the Cambodian coastline. You can enjoy island hopping, diving, snorkeling, and fishing. The city also drives tourism with new attractions and facilities.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Beautiful beaches and tropical climate
- Relaxed and laid-back lifestyle
- Improving Expatriate Community
- Abundant water sports opportunities
- Affordable cost of living
Cons:
- Limited options for public transport
- Infrastructure in some areas is still underdeveloped
- Safety issues in some areas
- Cultural adjustment to a different culture
- The complicated process for obtaining a visa
Weighing the pros against the cons will help you decide whether the coastal charm and inexpensive lifestyle of Sihanoukville truly meet your vision for retirement.
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Ray Brocklesby, the site owner, is a Brit who now lives in the Philippines. He is retired and lives with his wife Weng, Daughter Kristelle, nephews, Harvey and Boknoy, and mother-in-law. Ray also has a son and daughter living in the UK, and a son in New Zealand.
