Getting from the airport into Phnom Penh is quite easy and relatively hassle free compared to some other airports. When you exit the arrivals hall, you’ll have a dozen men shouting “taxi! taxi!” at you, but feel free to ignore them, as I do. Why reward that kind of behaviour?

Tuk tuk, sir?

Once outside and on the sidewalk, there will be more men asking if you want a taxi. There should be one handing out yellow slips of paper — this is your receipt for the taxi and proof of the price. The price for a taxi from the airport is $9, with no extra charges for baggage or additional passengers. They may try to charge you $10, but don’t fall for this, $9 is the official charge. Tipping is not required.

If you take a tuk tuk from inside the airport gates, it will cost $7 to go to town. This is not particularly good value, with taxis only costing $9. Tuk tuks are less safe but as one enthusiastic driver told me recently, “good way to see city, fresh air, nice ride.” And while I do recommend the taxi in order to keep your bags safe, there is something magical about that first tuk tuk ride into the city that I won’t ever forget.

If you do decide to take a tuk tuk, consider walking directly outside the airport gates. There will be a dozen tuk tuks lined up who will go to the city for $4. I pay $5 if there will be two stops, but I know of people who manage to pay far less. Your mileage may vary, but it’s always much cheaper than the official tuk tuks inside the gates.

There aren’t official motodops at the airport, but you can nab one just outside the gate for about $2 into town. A number of people have sustained serious injury after having their bags snatched while on the back of a moto, so ask the driver to hold your bag up front, or carry it between you and the driver. And welcome to Phnom Penh!

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Tags: motodops, Phnom Penh International Airport, taxis, tuk tuks