Chaktomuk Short Film Festival happens every year in Phnom Penh, the intersection of four river arms, hence our name “Chaktomuk”. If you live far from our capital, it is strongly recommended to book your stay at least ahead of our event period.
- Visa Application
Visitors need a visa to enter Cambodia. A Tourist Visa is easily obtained either on arrival, or by applying for an e-visa ahead of time. It costs US$30 and allows you to stay for 1 month, with the option to extend for an extra month through any local visa agent. It is best to allow 7-10 days for an extension to be processed. If you overstay your visa, you will be charged US$10 per day.
Please be aware that like many countries, Cambodian authorities may ask you to show that you have sufficient funds saved for your stay, as well as a hotel booking and flight or overland ticket to leave the country again. They do not always ask, but it’s best to be prepared.
If you are entering Cambodia by land, the crossings along the Cambodian-Thai border are currently closed while other borders, with Laos and Vietnam remains open. You can still enter from Thailand and other parts of the world by plane.
- Currency
Cambodia accepts both US dollars (USD) and Cambodian riel (KHR). It is a good idea to carry cash in smaller denominations, as it is sometimes difficult to get change for larger notes. Many places will not accept US notes if they are torn or damaged. Cash is easily withdrawn from most ATMs. We recommend those from ABA bank, as they allow you to withdraw cash in both USD or KHR.
- Getting Around
Before you arrive, I recommend downloading either the Grab or Pass-app Cambodia apps for booking Tuk-Tuks and taxis easily.
- Accommodation
We recommend you stay in one of the following areas:
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Daun Penh: Home to many of Phnom Penh’s notable landmarks such as the Royal Palace, National Museum, Riverside (recommended for its weekend night market and walk street), Wat Phnom, Independence Monument, and many local markets.
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Beong Keng Kang (BKK): This are has many shops and restaurants, including S21, the Genocide Museum.
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Toul Tompoung (TTP): Very similar to BKK, Toul Tompoung has recently seen a lot of new restaurants and cocktail bars opening up, as well as featuring the long-time tourist favourite Russian Market.
Regarding travel support, our budget is limited this year, so we are unfortunately not able to cover international filmmakers’ travel expenses. However, if you do decide to travel at your own expense, we will do our best to help secure a discount from local hotels. We have compiled a list of recommended hotels for your consideration. Our lodging partners this year are: YK Art House and Amanja Pancam Hotel, of course, with their respective budget ranges and amenities.
YK Art House – Standard Double Room
Amanjaya Pancam Hotel – Deluxe Room
If you have any other questions, or would like recommendations for places to see or things to do, please reach out to us at info[a]csff.co.
