Hi,
I have just found out that it is Khmer New Year ( 13th- 16th April)whilst I am in Cambodia, I am planning to be traveling around during this time, Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh then Phnom Penh to HCMC, does anyone know if transport will operate normally during the New Year?
Many Thanks
Martin
They operate at maximum speed, but fares skyrocket.Bus companies, vans taxis exploit the situation that half the nation is on the move.
I happen to be near a travel agent and checked.
All travel prices will rise about $3 - $4, on a $10 fare
But more importantly, accommodation prices will go up drastically, and some places will be fully booked.
So maybe you will have to book online to pay the normal prices.
Online booking has many risks, but check the accommodation out carefully online, including prices, and make your choices.
they most certainly can at other times of the year and I would be very surprised if they can not be booked over the new year - indeed I have seen many book travel on the bus at this time of year even to be picked up mid-route- true might be too early to book now but no way is the only way to turn up and go
I did some limited travel around New Year in 2015. Bus companies reduce their services and for days service only major routes like PP-SHV, PP-SR, and PP- Battambang. Reservations for at least up to one week (and probably also more) were available. I found out when I asked about a ticket and was told that between Monday and Friday I had no chance but could purchase the ticket for after that date. Purchase as doing it in person at the ticket counter.
Also, the steep increase in prices lasted a few days longer than the holiday.
having said that even a 50-100% increase should not stop you from your trip.
In sum, the SHV-PP ticket will be doable if you're flexible.
An alternative might be the van from SHV to the Vietnamese border near Kep. Cross there and take a look at the deep south on your way to HCMC.
If you can avoid it, dont travel during those 7-10 days.