Frequently asked questions by our community
About The HideAwayBar & Community Space
We’ve created a welcoming, inclusive space for everyone—LGBTQ+ individuals, allies, and travelers. Our vibe is “relaxed and social,” “vibrant and friendly” with a focus on conversation, great music, and signature cocktails. It’s more than a bar; it’s a community hub where you can be yourself. consequatur.
Absolutely! We have a regular calendar of events to bring the community together. This includes weekly quiz nights, themed parties, drag shows, and casual social mixers. Check our dedicated Events Page for the latest schedule and details
We encourage you to express yourself! Our dress code is smart-casual. Feel free to be comfortable or fabulous—just be you. We simply ask that guests avoid beachwear or overly ripped clothing.
We offer a curated menu of delicious bar snacks and light bites designed to complement our drinks. For a full menu of our innovative cocktails and offerings, visit our Drinks Menu page.
Yes, many of our patrons are solo travelers or new in town. Our layout encourages mingling, and our staff are famously friendly. Don’t hesitate to join the conversation at the bar—you might leave with new friends!
Gay Life & LGBTQ+ Community in Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is generally very tolerant and welcoming. While public displays of affection are modest across the board, the city has a visible and growing LGBTQ+ scene with bars, cafes, and events. The community is integrated, and same-sex couples are a common sight in expat and local social circles
Yes, the scene is diverse! Alongside our own venue, The HideAway Phnom Penh, there are several other bars, nightclubs, and LGBTQ-friendly spaces ranging from casual pubs to lively dance clubs. We will be pleased to suggest something to your taste
Following local LGBTQ+ organizations on social media is a great start. Attending events at community-focused spaces like ours is one of the easiest ways to meet people. Also, look for festivals like Phnom Penh Pride, which usually happens in May.
In most tourist and mid-to-high-range hotels in Phnom Penh, there will be no issue. It’s standard practice. For absolute peace of mind, you can book a double room with one large bed. We recommend checking reviews on gay-friendly travel sites
Grindr, Tinder, and Blued are widely used in Phnom Penh. As always, exercise the same caution you would anywhere: meet in public places first and trust your instincts.
Visas, Immigration & Long-Term Stays
Most tourists can obtain a Tourist Visa (T-class) on arrival or via the e-visa platform. It’s valid for 30 days and is extendable. The Ordinary Visa (E-class) is for those planning to work, study, or stay long-term, as it allows for extensions like the EB (Business) or ER (Retirement) visa.
Tourist visas can be extended once for an additional 30 days through a travel agent or visa office. For longer stays, many people convert to an Ordinary Visa (E-class) and then apply for longer-term extensions (1, 3, 6, 12 months)
The most common route is the Ordinary Visa (E-class) with an EB (Business) Extension. You don’t necessarily need to run a business; many freelancers and remote workers use this by partnering with a local agent. The ER (Retirement) Extension is also an option for those over 55 with proof of pension/income.
While border runs were common in the past, immigration policies have tightened. It’s now more reliable and often cheaper to arrange a proper visa extension within Cambodia than to risk denial of entry at a land border. We advise against relying on visa runs.
For official rules, check the Cambodia e-Visa Website. For practical, current advice on extensions, we recommend speaking to a reputable visa agency in Phnom Penh—our staff can point you to a few trusted ones.
Cambodian Law & Social Etiquette for LGBTQ+ Visitors
Yes. There is no law criminalizing homosexuality. The Cambodian Constitution promotes equal rights, and the King has publicly supported LGBTQ+ rights. However, same-sex marriage is not legally recognized
Cambodian culture is generally reserved regarding public affection, regardless of orientation. Holding hands is usually fine, but more intimate gestures are best avoided in public. This is a cultural norm that applies to all couples and shows respect
Violent crime is rare, but petty scams can happen. Be cautious of overly friendly strangers inviting you to secluded places. As in any city, use common sense: keep valuables secure, don’t leave drinks unattended, and use reputable taxi apps like PassApp or Grab
Attitudes are broadly tolerant rather than overtly celebratory. There is a concept of “Kteuy” (a traditional third gender) that is integrated into society. Most Cambodians follow a “live and let live” philosophy. Discretion and politeness are highly valued.
The general emergency police number is 117. For tourist police, dial 012 969 991. It’s also wise to have the contact details for your country’s embassy. For non-emergency issues or advice, feel free to ask our staff—we’re here to help
Nightlife & Entertainment in Phnom Penh
The city offers diverse nightlife districts. Bassac Lane is famous for its tiny, themed cocktail bars. The Riverside area has pubs and clubs with great views. Street 278 is a backpacker hub, and BKK1 has upscale bars and restaurants. Each has its own character worth exploring!
Most bars, including ours, open in the late afternoon (around 5 PM) and close around midnight or 1 AM, especially mid-week. Nightclubs get going after 10 PM and can stay open until 2 AM or later. Always check specific venues’ social media for special events or changes
It’s not common at regular bars. Most clubs and larger venues will have a cover charge on weekends or for special events (often including a drink). We do not have a cover charge at The Hideaway unless hosting a major ticketed event, which we’ll advertise in advance.
For safety and convenience, we highly recommend using ride-hailing apps PassApp or Grab. They’re affordable, track your route, and eliminate cash haggling. Tuk-tuks from these apps are a fun and authentic way to travel. Avoid unmarked moto-taxis late at night.
Absolutely! Beyond the famous Angkor Beer, try a Kampuchea Beer or a Prahok-flavored cocktail for the adventurous (a bold, local ingredient). For snacks, look for pleah sach ko (beef lime salad) or spicy cashews. Our own menu features some local twists—ask our bartenders for their recommendations!
Practical Tips for Living in Phnom Penh
It depends on your budget and lifestyle. BKK1 & Tonle Bassac are upscale and central, popular with professionals. Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market) is trendy and full of cafes. Daun Penh is more local and bustling. Chroy Changvar offers newer apartments and river views, slightly out of the center.
It’s relatively easy. Use Facebook groups (e.g., “Phnom Penh Rental”) and agents. Expect to pay $300-$600/month for a decent studio/1-bed in central areas, and $600-$1,500+ for luxury apartments. Key costs: one-month rent as a deposit, and often one month’s rent as an agent fee
Generally excellent in central areas. Fiber-optic connections are widespread. Speeds of 50-100 Mbps are standard and affordable. Many cafes and co-working spaces offer reliable, fast Wi-Fi. Always test the connection before signing a long-term lease if your work depends on it.
ABA Bank and ACLEDA Bank are the most popular with foreigners due to their excellent English apps and widespread ATMs. To open an account, you typically need your passport and a valid visa (E-class/extension is best). Some branches may ask for proof of address or employment
For Western imports, Aeon Mall Supermarket, Thai Huot, and Lucky Supermarket are the main chains. For fresh local produce and cheaper goods, visit local markets like Orussey Market or Russian Market. Facebook Marketplace is great for second-hand furniture and appliances
Health, Safety & Emergency Info
No. Do not drink tap water in Phnom Penh. Always drink bottled or filtered water. Most restaurants and bars (including ours) use filtered water for ice and drinks, so it’s generally safe. Use bottled water for brushing your teeth to be cautious.
For serious emergencies, Royal Phnom Penh Hospital and Sen Sok International University Hospital are the top-tier, international-standard (and more expensive) options. For general consultations, European Dental Clinic & International Clinic or Tropical & Travellers Medical Clinic are well-regarded.
Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTaP) should be up-to-date. Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and Tetanus are strongly recommended. Consult a travel clinic at least 4-6 weeks before your trip for personalized advice. Malaria risk is low in the city, but dengue fever is present—use mosquito repellent.
Phnom Penh is generally safe, but petty theft (bag snatching, phone grabs from motos) is the primary concern. Never hold your phone loosely while walking or in a moving tuk-tuk. Also, be vigilant with your drinks in crowded clubs. We advise using ride-hail apps instead of random moto-taxis late at night.
Officially, you need a Cambodian driver’s license to drive a car or motorbike. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is sometimes accepted for rentals, but not legally binding if stopped by police. For motorbikes under 125cc, many tourists ride with their home license, but this carries a risk of fines. We recommend using PassApp/Grab for hassle-free transport.