Angkor: Ticket Sales Drop 30% in May 2026

• 30% drop. Ticket sales for the Angkor park fell by nearly a third in May 2026 compared to the same period in 2025.
• Border conflict. Cambodia-Thailand tensions deterred Thai tourists, who made up a significant share of visitors.
• Economic challenges. The global economic slowdown and rising cost of living reduce international travel.
• Impact on Siem Reap. The tourism-dependent city sees hotel closures and declining demand for expat-related services.
• Ongoing measures. Cambodian authorities seek to attract tourists from other markets (China, Europe, Americas) to offset the loss.

The decline in Angkor ticket sales is part of a trend that began in late 2025, worsened by regional tensions.

1. Late 2025: First signs of tourism slowdown in Siem Reap, with hotel bookings down 15% year-on-year.
2. January 2026: Cambodia-Thailand border conflict intensifies, leading to travel restrictions and negative media coverage.
3. March 2026: Thai tour operators cancel trips to Angkor, causing a sharp drop in visitors from Thailand.
4. May 2026: Angkor ticket sales fall 30% compared to May 2025, confirming the trend.
5. June 2026: Cambodian government launches a promotional campaign targeting Chinese and European markets, and eases visa conditions for tourists.

The decline in ticket sales does not affect all segments uniformly. Here is the breakdown by visitor type and origin.

• Reduced activity for tourism workers. Guides, drivers, and hotel staff see their incomes drop.
• Business closures. Several hotels and restaurants have reduced hours or closed temporarily, cutting job opportunities for expats.
• Increased competition. Expats seeking work in tourism face more candidates for fewer positions.
• Lower rents. Some landlords lower prices to attract tenants, which can be an opportunity for expats.
• Gloomy atmosphere. Fewer tourists affect nightlife and social activities, reducing Siem Reap's appeal for digital nomads.

1. Diversify your income sources. Don't rely solely on tourism; explore remote work, online teaching, or consulting.
2. Review your budget. Anticipate lower income and cut non-essential expenses.
3. Stay informed. Follow local news via Telegram groups and Cambodian media to anticipate developments.
4. Maintain your network. Attend expat events and keep in touch with other professionals to seize opportunities.
5. Consider geographic mobility. If the situation persists, prepare a Plan B to move to another city or country.
6. Take advantage of low prices. With lower demand, some services (accommodation, leisure) are cheaper; use this to reduce your cost of living.
7. Keep a positive attitude. Crises are temporary; stay flexible and open to change.