Cambodia - Asia Holidays

ABOUT CAMBODIA

Bordering Cambodia are the countries of Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand. It has a very youthful population with one-third comprising of individuals under the age of 14. On the other hand, 15 to 64 years old make up its two-thirds.

While famous for the magnificent UNESCO Heritage Angkor Wat temples of Siem Reap that represent the great Khmer civilization of ancient times, the dark side of Cambodia’s recent history of the Khmer Rouge is a stark reminder of how evil humanity can be. For more on this read the book or watch the movie ‘First they Killed my Father‘

There’s More To The Country than just Angkor Wat…

But the magic of Cambodia extends far beyond the walls of the Angkor Wat. In fact, the remarkable heritage of the nation is a combination of untamed wild landscapes and warm welcoming people. Its artistic past remains alive with handicrafts and silverware, which you can find in the bustling markets of Phnom Penh.

In addition, the country offers tourists diverse places to discover. This includes white sand beaches, sleepy island resorts in the Gulf of Thailand, the colourful river life on the mighty Mekong Delta that runs right through the country mixed up with the typical South East Asian charm and chaos that are bound to intrigue even the most avid traveler. Adventure seekers will love to explore the wild northeast of Cambodia where striking scenery and wildlife will greet you.

Cambodia is a country you’ll never want to leave once you set foot on it. From charming cities, rich culture, and bustling beaches, not to mention Cambodians greeting you with wide smiles, you are sure to have unforgettable experiences here.

Cambodia Travel Destinations

SIHANOUKVILLE

On the south coast, in the Gulf of Thailand, Sihanoukville encompasses several beaches and islands including Koh Rong. The beaches are more developed and have better infrastructure in neighbouring Thailand but things are swiftly morphing into something new here – it will have to be seen whether it’s a forward or backward step! Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem are where you’ll find that more tropical island feeling. Accommodation varies from backpackers through to ultimate luxury.

Find yourself a nice spot on the beach, chill out and relax.

SIEM REAP

Located in northwestern Cambodia, Siem Reap is the gateway to the ruins of Angkor, the royal city dating from the 9^th to 15^th centuries. Located about 8 kilometres from the ancient ruins, Siem Reap has a surprising variety of hotels, restaurants, bar and entertainment and sees over 1 million tourists passing through each year.

Angkor Wat temples is the obvious reason for visiting Siem Reap. Generally a day is plenty enough time to see the highlights although you can purchase a 3 or 7 day pass for the serious temple lovers out there. The Land Mine Museum, founded by a former child solder brings to life the reality of how evil things became in the late 1970’s. Millions of land mines and unexploded objects were left behind by decades of conflict, and the effects are still seen in the many legless beggars around town. Watch the circus! The big top Phare Circus features acrobatics, comeda and apsara dance. Talk a walk down Pub Street and visit the night market. Street food, cheap drinks and markets are all to be had after dark.

PHNOM PENH

Chaotic, colourful, perhaps a little crazy, it’s rising from the ashes to perhaps becoming even a little hip with its alluring café culture, bars and a world class restaurants. Phnom Penh is where you can find shocking reminders of how evil humanity can be.

Visit the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. It’s unfortunate that one of the main things to experience has to do with the Khmer Rouge atrocities of the 1970’s. Not a place to take the kids. If you like hot, stuffy markets built like mazes, then check out the Russian Market that sells food, clothes, trinkets and every other sort of merchandise imaginable. Take a cruise on the Mekong River which is home to lots of life and colour.

BATTAMBANG

Battambang is a city on the Sangkae River in northwestern Cambodia and makes a interesting stopping point between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.

Phare Ponleu Selpak Circus is the number 1 attraction. Performers in the big top are students in a professional circus school. The Bamboo Train is a fun and thrilling trip though the countryside. The 4km trip takes you through some fantastic scenery.