Cambodia
The wild, untamed landscape of Cambodia, coupled with its fantastic heritage and warm friendly people, gives this country an edge that appeals to travellers from all over the world. Adventure-seekers tend to head for the mountainous north east of the country to indulge in trekking, mountain biking and other more strenuous forms of exploration; whilst nature-lovers can find delightful species of bird, fish, reptile and mammal nestling in all corners of the land.
The dominance of the Mekong River and Tonle Sap lake gives rise to the abundance of wild animals found in Cambodia – this, along with the monsoon climate, gives the country an incredibly unique and exotic feel.
Bordered by Laos, Vietnam and Thailand you can rightly imagine that much of Cambodia’s charm lies in its tropical environment, diverse wildlife and countless opportunities for adventure; but just as enthralling is its sense of culture. Cambodia is home to numerous ancient communities, monuments and temples with its hill tribes continuing to live how nature intended even after thousands of years.
Examples of Cambodia’s rich, artistic past are found in the silverware, artefacts and handicrafts of its cities markets. Remnants from the Khmer empire stand out not only in distinctive styles of architecture and sculpture, but in the dance and dress of the local people.
Cambodian culture has been heavily influenced by the Angkor era as well as by modern globalisation and the Khmer Loeu tribes based in the highlands. You can sample much of this culture in the towns and cities of Siem Reap, Phonm Penh and Sihanoukville, where you will be extended the warmest of hospitalities from local people keen to show you their heritage.
Siem Reap
The ancient Angkor site consists of over 100 fascinating Hindu and Buddhist temples, the most famous of these being Angkor Wat, the largest and most breathtaking monument of them all. One of the wonders of the modern world, Angkor Wat is one of the main draws for travellers visiting this part of South East Asia. It, along with its neighbouring temples were built between the 7th and 14th century for Khmer Kings to rule over their vast territory and many of them remain today for the rest of us to marvel over.
Phnom Penh
If you want, you can take the ferry to Phnom Penh from Siem Reap, which usually takes around 4-5 hours and is relatively cheap – this is by far the best way to get a great view of Cambodia’s adventurous landscape and can be very relaxing.
Phnom Penh is also one of the best places in Cambodia to sample a wide range of culinary treats that aren’t usually found in the rest of the country. Influenced by both the Vietnamese and the French, food in Phnom Penh mixes the best elements of these cuisines with modern Cambodian dishes flavoured with ginger, lemongrass, garlic and coconuts. Of course, if you are happy to stick with what you know, you can also stock up on standard backpacker fodder such as pizza, bananas, pancakes and rice! Take a wander down to the riverside area which is one of the best ‘foody’ areas in Phnom Penh.
Sihanoukville
Aside from the pleasure of swimming and sunning yourself on the beach, this is a great (dare we say it?) ‘resort’ for scuba diving, fishing, snorkelling and island hopping boat trips. Couple this with mountain biking, walking, shopping and checking out the Buddhist temples in the town itself, Sihanoukville is most definitely a place that everyone should visit during their Cambodian travels.
More great pictures from Cambodia…
To make the most of your time in Siem Reap, why not book a day tour to the Angkor Ruins?