Tipping in Cambodia isn’t a traditional custom, however tipping does go a long way due to the low wages. Even a dollar can be half a days wage for a Cambodian. So if you have a $1 or $2 to spare then a tip can go a long way and bring lots of smiles. Use our tipping guide below and only tip if the service is good, as you don’t want to encourage bad service. That goes for anywhere in the world!
Taxis: For pre-negotiated prices you don’t need to tip. If the driver did an outstanding job then rounding up will bring a smile. If you have a driver for the whole day then a small tip is warranted assuming he did a good job.
Hotels: If a bellboy or staff goes above and beyond then a small tip may be warranted. Also a $1 on the pillow for the maid can go along way.
Restaurants: Restaurants catered to westerners will expect a tip. Here a 5-10% tip should be added if service was good.
Bars: Like restaurants, bars that catered to westerners will expect a tip. Here a 5-10% tip should be added if service was good.
Other: Since tipping isn’t common in Cambodia there is a lot of debate on when its required. We think that if someone provides a service and goes above the normal means then a 5-10% tip is warranted. Sometimes this is only a $1 or $2 but can go a long way to some.