Many countries are doing whatever they can to encourage tourists to book a flight this summer. Cambodia, while not exactly discouraging tourism, is attaching a pretty hefty price tag to an already expensive vacation. The Cambodian government recently announced that incoming visitors will be charged a $3,000 coronavirus deposit, as well as proof of health insurance valued at a minimum of $50,000. These measures are to prevent the country from footing a medical bill should tourists become infected with the coronavirus during their visit.
Photo: Efired/Shutterstock
Cambodia Is Asking Tourists for a $3,000 Coronavirus Deposit Upon Arrival
The $3,000 deposit can be paid by cash or credit card and is required upon arrival at all Cambodian airports. The possible costs associated with the virus in Cambodia are many. According to the Ministry of Health, the mandatory COVID-19 tests costs around $165, which includes the test itself, travel to the testing center, an overnight hotel stay while you await your results, and three meals. If you test negative, this is all you’ll have to pay, and the remainder of your deposit will be refunded to you.
If someone on your plane tests positive, however, you can expect to have $1,281 deducted from your deposit to cover your two-week quarantine and $330 per day deducted should you test positive yourself to cover hospital bills.
Even though the cost will be minimal if you text negative, since you never know the health status of others on your flights, it’s a good idea to be financially prepared for all scenarios. 