ABU DHABI- Etihad Airways (EY) and Air Cambodia (KR) have launched a codeshare partnership that connects passengers from Etihad’s global network to Siem Reap (REP) via Phnom Penh (PNH) on a single ticket. The agreement allows travellers to check baggage through to their final destination, removing the need for rebooking or rechecking at transit points.

Air Cambodia (KR) passengers also gain access to Etihad’s service between Phnom Penh (PNH) and Abu Dhabi (AUH). The partnership strengthens connectivity between Southeast Asia and the Middle East, with both airlines expanding their reach across key leisure and business travel markets.

Etihad Unlocks New Destination

Through this codeshare, Etihad Airways (EY) customers can book flights from across the airline’s network to Siem Reap (REP), home to the iconic Angkor Wat temple complex. Siem Reap attracts visitors from around the world for its ancient temples, vibrant night markets, traditional Khmer cuisine, and rich cultural heritage.

Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways, highlighted the growing demand for travel to Cambodia. He noted that the partnership with Air Cambodia extends the airline’s reach by providing guests with seamless access between Siem Reap and the wider region through a single booking via Abu Dhabi (AUH).

Eng Molina, Chief Commercial Officer at Air Cambodia, said the partnership strengthens connections between Southeast Asia and the Middle East. He added that Air Cambodia passengers gain direct access to Abu Dhabi, an important hub for business, trade, and tourism. At the same time, Etihad’s customers can explore Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage through the expanded route options.

Interline Agreement Opens Vietnam Routes

Beyond the codeshare, Etihad guests can also access Air Cambodia’s Vietnam network through a separate interline partnership.

This opens additional travel options across Southeast Asia, including routes to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), Da Nang (DAD), and Phu Quoc (PQC).

The interline arrangement complements the codeshare by giving Etihad passengers broader connectivity in the region.

While the codeshare covers the Abu Dhabi to Siem Reap routing via Phnom Penh, the interline extends choices into Vietnam’s most popular destinations.

Etihad’s Growing Presence in Southeast Asia

Etihad Airways launched direct flights between Abu Dhabi (AUH) and Phnom Penh (PNH) in October 2025. Cambodia represents a growing market within Etihad’s network, driven by increasing demand for both leisure and business travel.

The codeshare with Air Cambodia builds on this route launch and positions Abu Dhabi as a connecting hub for travellers heading to Cambodia and the wider Southeast Asian region. With single-ticket booking and checked-through baggage, the partnership removes friction for passengers travelling beyond Phnom Penh to Siem Reap.

Cambodia Travel Guide

Cambodia’s capital city serves as the ideal starting point for a two-week journey across the country. Most international travellers arrive at Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH), while others fly into Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) in neighbouring Vietnam and take a bus across the border.

World-class Airlines such as Qatar Airways (QR) and Singapore Airlines (SQ) offer convenient one-stop connections from Europe and Australia to Cambodia.

A 14-day Cambodia itinerary covers the country’s essential highlights, including the capital Phnom Penh (PNH), the coastal town of Sihanoukville (KOS), the charming riverside towns of Kampot and Kep, and the temple city of Siem Reap (REP). Travellers can navigate between these destinations by bus, train, or domestic flights, with overland routes offering a closer look at Cambodia’s rural landscapes and daily life.

A 14-Day Trip Across Cambodia

Cambodia rewards slow travel. The country’s single train line connects Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville, with stops in Takeo and Kampot along the way. Refurbished carriages with air conditioning make this route one of the most enjoyable transport experiences in the country. The journey passes through the suburbs of Phnom Penh before opening into wide fields and farmland.

For bus travel, Giant Ibis operates reliable services between major cities and across the Vietnamese border. Most bus routes take six to eight hours, compared to one to two hours by domestic flight. Tickets cost roughly a third of airfare, making buses the preferred option for budget-conscious travellers. Buses can be booked online through platforms such as Baolau or 12Go.

Domestic flights connect Phnom Penh (PNH), Siem Reap (REP), and Sihanoukville (KOS) for travellers with limited time.

Day 1: Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh offers a mix of historical sites, markets, restaurants, and nightlife. Since this itinerary returns to the capital later, travellers do not need to cover everything on the first visit.

Key attractions include Tuol Sleng, the former high school turned prison during the Khmer Rouge era, and Choeung Ek, one of the regime’s killing fields. The city’s markets sell souvenirs, street food, and local goods. Cooking classes provide a hands-on introduction to Cambodian cuisine.

Where To Stay In Phnom Penh

Accommodation in Phnom Penh suits every budget. Mad Monkey Hostel offers air-conditioned dorms and private rooms with an outdoor pool. G Mekong provides a mid-range experience with a rooftop swimming pool. Raffles Hotel Le Royal delivers luxury in the city centre with excellent dining options.

Days 2-5: Sihanoukville And The Islands

From Phnom Penh, the train south to Sihanoukville takes longer than the bus but provides a far more scenic ride. Sihanoukville itself functions primarily as a gateway to Cambodia’s islands. Travellers benefit from heading straight to the coast and islands rather than lingering in town.

Otres Beach, located south of the main Sihanoukville area, offers a quieter stretch of sand with accommodation ranging from budget guesthouses at around $11 USD per night to boutique hotels at $71 USD per night.

Koh Ta Kiev

Koh Ta Kiev sits 10 kilometres off the Sihanoukville coast. The island remains far less developed and crowded than its neighbours Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem. A handful of guesthouses, jungle trails, and pristine beaches make up the island’s offerings. There is no electricity, Wi-Fi, or ATMs, so travellers should pack all essentials including sun cream, insect repellent, medication, and cash.

Kactus, located on the sunset side of the island, offers simple bamboo huts, treehouses, and hammocks. The French owners prepare communal meals each evening.

Days 6-7: Kampot

A two-hour bus ride from Sihanoukville leads to Kampot, a riverside town on the Preaek Tuek Chhu River. Kampot is known for its relaxed atmosphere, independent coffee shops, riverside restaurants, and a lively night market.

A tour of a local pepper plantation is essential. Kampot pepper holds a global reputation as one of the finest varieties available. Many accommodations sit along the riverbank, including Sabay Beach, which features its own small beach area surrounded by mango, durian, and coconut trees.

Day 8: Kep

Kep lies 45 minutes by bus from Kampot. For a more scenic approach, the Crab Shuttle travels down the Preaek Tuek Chhu River and into the Gulf of Thailand. This old colonial seaside town is best known for its signature dish: locally caught crab served with green Kampot peppercorn sauce.

Knai Bang Chatt offers a standout luxury stay with a beachfront infinity pool. Khmer Hands provides a solid budget-friendly alternative.

Days 9-10: Return To Phnom Penh

The bus from Kampot to Phnom Penh takes approximately 2.5 hours. Alternatively, the train runs from Kampot, though it does not operate daily. This second stay in the capital allows time to explore sites missed during the first visit, including riverside bars like The Foreign Correspondents Club.

Days 11-14: Siem Reap

A night bus from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap covers the distance overnight, allowing travellers to maximise their time. Giant Ibis operates comfortable sleeper buses on this route.

Siem Reap serves as the base for exploring the Angkor temple complex, Cambodia’s most famous landmark. Three to four days provide enough time to see the highlights, including Angkor Wat at sunrise, the tree-covered ruins of Ta Prohm, and the many smaller temples throughout the park.

Beyond the temples, Siem Reap offers Kulen Waterfalls, the Landmine Museum, the Cambodian Circus, Pub Street for nightlife, and several local markets.

Where To Stay In Siem Reap

Nikas House suits budget travellers with a pool and central location. Memoire Siem Reap provides mid-range comfort with attentive service. FCC Angkor by Avani offers luxury in the city centre. Bensley Collection at Shinta Mani delivers a top-tier five-star experience complete with personal butler service.

What To Eat In Cambodia

Cambodian cuisine blends Chinese, French, Thai, and Vietnamese influences into a distinct culinary identity. Dishes to try include Fish Amok, a coconut milk curry steamed in banana leaf; Beef Lok Lak, a stir-fried beef dish with oyster sauce served over rice; and Beef Saraman Curry, a rich curry with coriander, cardamom, coconut milk, and peanuts.

Kep Crab with Kampot Pepper remains the signature coastal dish, featuring fresh crab in green peppercorn sauce. Lighter options include Banana Flower Salad and Green Mango Salad, both featuring shallots, garlic, and chilli. Kuy Teav, a clear pork broth soup with noodles and greens, appears at meals throughout the day. Adventurous eaters can sample deep-fried tarantulas, crickets, and snakes from street vendors.

Cambodia Accommodation And Budget Tips

Cambodia offers excellent value across all budget levels. Clean guesthouses with air conditioning and hot water are available for under £15 per night. Hostel dorms start below £7 per night. Luxury hotels, particularly in Siem Reap and Kep, provide five-star experiences at rates well below comparable destinations in Southeast Asia.

Best Time To Visit Cambodia

Cambodia remains warm throughout the year. The optimal travel window falls between November and May, when rainfall reaches its lowest levels. Two weeks provide the ideal duration to cover the main cities, temples, beaches, and coastal towns without rushing.

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