I am an American expat working in South Korea as an English teacher, and me and the wife (Korean) head back to the states in a month before I start a new job and adventure in Phnom Penh to teach there. We would like to take advantage of our trip home to buy or stock up on any items that we will be glad we get before we fly to Cambodia. Are there anythings you can all suggest we purchase in the US before we come there? We always cook at home and are glad to switch brands when we arrive but want to know if there are certain things we should be hoarding that we can't find or pay crazy premiums for there.

So what items do Americans take for granted that are inconvenient or expensive to obtain in Cambodia? From my friends who have already visited before, we have some ideas, such as our favorite knives, but we might be missing some others. Of course these could be irrelevant once we get to Cambodia!

And what are the best places to hang out with expats in Phnom Penh, Cambodia? The expat community is quite large so it must be an ideal place to meet people we assume, but we need help coming up with a list where we can meet long-term expats?

We are not big drinkers, but always up for some sundowners on what looks like a beatuful riverside area. Thanks.

Women who say "thank you"...

As for foodstuffs, you will have to get your things from several different outlets or severely curtail your shopping habits. Nothing is a one-stop shop here. It is one of the worst aspects of living here.

Stuff I always (used to) bring with me after a trip home:

Leather shoes my size.
Tooth picks in the right shape. I can't get used to the ones here.
Local candies.

Pretty much everything you need or want can be found in Cambodia, or ordered online. If not, adapt and overcome...learn to live without.

You'll find the quality of both goods and service is lower in Cambodia. The variety is also much lower. The last time I had to leave the country to buy something was when I needed climbing shoes. I usually do loads of shopping when I get the chance just because shops are clean, comfortable and well organised in other countries.

Crack cocaine.

Good warranties, Spotify, PayPal, reasonably priced dairy goods.

Make sure to bring a few self-awarenesses and a pinch of responsability's sense, it's not like it's on every shelf. Oh and a pack of self-control just in case

Learn to live without, or adapt to what is near to the items. Good lightbulbs and fittings now the Chinese items are dangerously on the market.