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A beautiful and fascinating archaeological site.
Even if you're not a PhD in archaeology, you can still be captivated by visiting Angkor Wat – Cambodia's 12th-century temple complex, a major tourist attraction.
We recommend waking up early to enjoy the most spectacular sunrise at Angkor Wat. Afterwards, you can visit other nearby sites such as Angkor Thom, a lesser-known ancient city, and Ta Prohm, a historical site featured in the blockbuster movie Tomb Raider (the first installment).
For those interested in learning about gemstones and fascinating archaeological facts in Cambodia, they can visit the Angkor National Museum in Siem Reap.
Spicy food with unique flavors.
Like Thailand and Vietnam, Cambodia boasts a unique and fascinating culinary culture.
Cambodians are accustomed to eating spicy food, but in restaurants, owners usually place chili peppers on the side for customers to add themselves, rather than adding them directly to each dish. Cambodian dishes use fewer sweet ingredients like coconut milk and sugar compared to Thai cuisine, while bananas, limes, lemongrass, and chives are favored for adding flavor.
Cambodians often use herbs, rather than spices, to liven up their dishes. Pork and chicken are the most common meats, although seafood, especially crab and squid, is very popular in coastal areas. Typical Cambodian dishes include: fish curry, bok svay (green mango salad served with dried fish), and samlor karkoo (a soup made from green vegetables and fruits - usually jackfruit, banana, and papaya).
Art and delicious cocktails
Believe it or not, Phnom Penh is emerging as one of Southeast Asia's most exciting nightlife destinations thanks to its cheap riverside cafes and lively bars, such as the tuk-tuk bars you'll find in the Bassac area.
But the favorite spot for journalists on weekends is the famous Foreign Correspondents Club. Established in the early 1990s, this club is a popular gathering place for journalists documenting Cambodia's post-war recovery. It attracts reporters because of its eye-catching interior, delicious cocktails, and the discounts offered to foreign journalists.
Explore historical value
Cambodia experienced some of the darkest days of the 20th century: the genocide that occurred from 1975 to 1979, when the country was ravaged by the Khmer Rouge. Today, tourists can visit Cambodia to learn about its history. A guided tour of Cambodia is the best way to gain a deeper understanding of the past, especially with guides supported by non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
We recommend a visit to Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields, an execution site under the Khmer Rouge. A visit to Phnom Penh's Tu Tu Sleng prison, where thousands of Cambodians were imprisoned and killed, will also be very meaningful.
Local people welcomed them.
Cambodians are incredibly proud of their country's recovery and are very friendly to tourists. Therefore, when traveling in Cambodia, if possible, immerse yourself in the local culture by having dinner at one of the restaurants sponsored by NGOs (for example, the New Hope Cambodia vocational training restaurant) or visiting Cambodian social enterprises.
Beautiful and diverse scenery
Cambodia boasts stunning and diverse landscapes. While renowned for its ancient temples, the country also possesses some of Asia's most beautiful beaches, along with picturesque scenery along the Mekong River, Southeast Asia's longest river.
Additionally, visitors can explore Tonlé Sap Lake, near Siem Reap, home to nearly 3 million residents and numerous floating villages. They can also experience the vibrant atmosphere of Phnom Penh and discover the ancient architecture of the colorful town of Kratié in the east. This historic town is renowned for its French colonial buildings and wide, tree-lined avenues.
A place with easy access to neighboring countries.
Cambodia is an ideal destination for a land-based adventure into neighboring countries, specifically Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam. All of this can be packed into a single trip. Visitors can easily visit the capitals of Thailand (Bangkok) and Vietnam (Hanoi). This is also an effective way to experience the diverse and colorful border crossings, as you drive across the border from Vietnam into Cambodia or Thailand. You could choose to travel by plane, but nothing beats crossing the border by car.
