As someone who has been in Cambodia (Phnom Penh) for 9 years now. I have a few pearls for those contemplating moving here.

After living and working in Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand and now Phnom Penh. I can say that Cambodia fits me like a glove. Even when I now go back to those homes of the past. I no longer like what they have become. Originally from Sydney. Even there has become just another place to visit.

As a single male I do think as a foreigner here Cambodia is an easier place to live than if I were married or in a relationship with a western partner. If I was to advise a couple about moving here, I'd say don't do it. Believe me. He will stray! Maybe not today, tomorrow or next week. But he will. Ive seen it in all the places I've lived in SEA. Its a certainty.

If you do find yourself here, embrace it and keep your mind open. Don't be one of those westeners who live here and spend all your time comparing it to wherever you come from. "But back home it's better because..."

If you like it so much more there, then go back. No one likes a whinger. Try not to cast judgements on others living here. Try not to impose your western values (within reason) on people who are having their own SEA adventure and are embracing change and lifestyle change.

Something I'm seeing more of is the segregation of the expat society. There's the NGO crowd, the younger clubbing crowd, the single male crowd, the white women for moral judgement crowd. Can't we all just get along.

For me it's the reason I came here, to get away from all the crap back home. Always being pigeonholed and judged.