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The majority of travel made over the Thailand-Cambodia border, is done via air.
But what if I told you there’s another way—no airplane mode, no 10ml liquid restrictions (yeah, you read that right. Unbelievable).
This method requires actual mobility and movement, across the very ground that lies beneath you.
Come with me as I take you on a journey across the border by bus.
Was it worth trading turbulence for potholes? Did I manage to make it all the way whilst keeping my dignity intact?
The answer, I think, might surprise you…
🛂 Note: This border crossing took place in March 2025, before any recent tensions at the Thailand–Cambodia border. Please check the latest travel advisories before planning a similar route.
Why We Chose the Bus
A direct flight would’ve cost around $60–$100 USD, but the Giant Ibis bus was $45—a win on the budget front. Plus, we’d heard good things about the company, so we gave it a go.
The bus had spacious leather seats in a 2-1 layout, more legroom than expected, air conditioning, tray tables, USB outlets, and individual air and light controls.
It genuinely felt far more comfortable than any other long-distance bus I’d taken previously. We even got free iced coffee and a snack before departure—which, honestly, was a lovely touch.
We left about 10 minutes late while the staff waited for a couple of passengers to arrive (mainly me & my girlfriend).
No big deal—just a reminder to pre-book your travel to the departure spot ahead of time.
Love an early start.
The First Stop
Roughly two hours into the journey, we stopped for food, drinks, and a much-needed toilet break. There’s no bathroom onboard, so these stops are essential.
There were plenty of snack options and even a plucky lil 7-Eleven. If you’re picky about loos, there was a Western-style toilet tucked away in the disabled stall.
Pro tip: always have some toilet paper handy when travelling in SEA. Trust me.
The first half of the journey cruised by—steady, smooth, and never dragged.
If you’ve already got roaming data for Thailand set up on your phone, you’ll stay connected during this leg of the journey.
The coach technically had Wi-Fi, but it was a bit ropey on the day.
I made the rookie error of not having any mobile data lined up for when we crossed the border. It was literally a line in the sand—as soon as we stepped over, bingo, no service.
Don’t make the same mistake.
Stay connected worldwide with BNESIM’s travel eSIM—mobile data in 200+ countries, no roaming fees, and instant activation the moment you arrive.

(Psst… subscribe at the end of this blog for a surprise discount 🎁)
Visa Made Easy
About an hour before reaching the border, we pulled into what I can only describe as a visa office-consulate-slash-some-sort-of-official-looking-place-thingy.
UK citizens can get a visa on arrival for around $30 USD, but with Giant Ibis handling the process for $35–$40, we didn’t even need to leave the bus. The staff collected everyone’s passports and took care of it all while we waited in our seats.
Honestly? That extra $5–$10 is worth every cent just to avoid standing in line sweating over paperwork.
(FYI: There are ATMs at stops along the way if you need to grab cash before the border.)
Heads up: Make sure to check your own country’s visa requirements online before entering any country. And if you’re unsure about the process, double-check with your transport provider before you travel.
Crossing the Thailand-Cambodia border
We were all given lanyards to wear, which seemed to help move things along quicker and provided some much-needed direction in what would otherwise be an overwhelming and unfamiliar situation.
The crossing was quick — we arrived around 1:20 PM and were back on the bus by 2:00 PM. Definitely efficient compared to most land border experiences.
It’s incredibly surprising (and blindingly predictable) how much changes once you enter Cambodia.
Sure, you’re in a completely different country, but it’s only a two-minute walk across the so-called Friendship Bridge.
Maybe it’s because I’m so familiar with Thailand, but I noticed a drastic shift — an unknowingness that added a slight sense of bewilderment to the air.

Chaos and casinos seem to rule the roost once you cross the border.
Plenty of folks offering transportation and SIM cards are on the prowl, but a simple no thank you or a glance at the lanyard instantly diverts their attention.
You don’t have long to take it all in — it’s a case of heading straight for the massive bus with Giant Ibis emblazoned on the side, hopping on, and settling in under the welcome blast of air conditioning.
They also provided fried rice and bottled water on the coach, which was very much appreciated.
Arrival in Siem Reap
The final stretch took another two or three hours, including a short stop. We rolled into Siem Reap late-afternoon.
Tuk tuk drivers were waiting to whisk us off to our hotels, ‘the coach man’ advised us all it shouldn’t cost more than $2–$3 USD.
Solid info if you’re anything like me and tend to overpay.
Even after a full travel day, we arrived feeling surprisingly human — not something I’d usually say after an eight-hour bus journey.
Final Thoughts
The Giant Ibis service from Bangkok to Siem Reap was reliable, comfortable, and well-organised. I’d definitely consider using them again.
Would I rather fly instead? It’s 50/50.
Sure, you’re on the coach longer than a plane, but then again, airports mean waiting around for your flight anyway.
It really depends on convenience and cost for you on the day—I just wouldn’t discredit taking the bus from BKK to Siem Reap entirely.
What was Siem Reap like?
You wouldn’t believe it even if I told you.
Drop a comment below, and let me know if you want to hear about all the heavenly highs — and the lethargic lows — of my trip to one of the most fascinating places I’ve ever visited.
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Prices accurate at time of writing and are subject to change.