Tourism Fears Rise in Siem Reap After Border Air Strikes

Siem Reap officials are urging international visitors not to abandon their travel plans after Thai F‑16 air strikes near the Srei Snam district border triggered a wave of cancellations and fresh concerns about safety in Cambodia’s top tourist province.

The strikes, carried out on 15 December, pushed deeper into Cambodian territory, but local authorities insist the violence remains confined to remote border areas between Oddar Meanchey and Siem Reap. The city itself, they stress, is calm, open and operating normally.

Tour guides, however, say the headlines are already having an impact. One guide, speaking anonymously, said several clients cancelled after seeing reports of casualties and the bombing near the provincial border. “They’re worried about their safety,” he explained. “Those who were about to come have cancelled. My friend’s clients also cancelled.”

Chhay Sivlin, President of the Cambodia Association of Travel Agents, acknowledged that the proximity of the Thai air strikes has unsettled some travellers. Even so, she emphasised that those already in the country can see for themselves that Siem Reap remains secure under the protection of Cambodian authorities.

Siem Reap spokesperson Ly Vannak echoed that message, highlighting that tourism activity continues uninterrupted. “Everyone is welcome to visit,” he said, noting that more than 2,000 visitors recently bought tickets to Angkor. He confirmed that the Thai military dropped bombs along the border but reported no deaths or injuries, adding that the city remains safe.

Vannak said it is understandable that some travellers might hesitate during a period of regional tension, but stressed that the situation is limited to border zones. Major destinations including Siem Reap, Preah Sihanouk and Phnom Penh continue to operate normally.

The reassurance comes as Cambodia receives a boost from abroad. BBC Travel recently named Phnom Penh one of the top 20 places to visit in 2026, praising its rapid transformation, new sustainable developments and a growing creative scene. From the pedestrianised Chaktomuk Walk Street to electric tuk‑tuks and revived architectural landmarks, the capital is being positioned as a rising hub of urban tourism.

For now, Siem Reap authorities hope that clear communication and on‑the‑ground stability will help restore confidence — and keep visitors coming despite the turbulence at the border.

-2025-12-18