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Cambodia, bordered by Lao PDR (Laos) Thailand and Vietnam offers
an amazing historical and cultural experience, warm friendly people
and an untamed wild landscape.
Years of turbulence have now given way to peace and an emerging
tourist industry based around the country’s impressive heritage.
Cambodia is home to one of the world's most spectacular historical
sites - Angkor, a 12th century city built by the sophisticated Khmer
civilization. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a historical treasure
house, but Cambodia also has a wild side. Stunning mountain scenery
and ethnic hill tribes make Cambodia's untamed north east a perfect
place to see Asia’s wildlife.
Why Visit?
 A
Cultural Masterpiece |
The Angkor temple complex near Siem Reap is simply stunning, covering
an area of several hundred miles. While many of the main temples
are located within a 10 mile radius, you should allocate at least
3 days to explore the immediate area around the main temples at
Angkor Wat. Developing fast, it’s a good time to visit now.
| Attractions
– Culture |
 Angkor
Wat and Angkor Thom - credited with being "discovered"
by a Frenchman, Henri Mouhot, who stumbled upon the jungle covered
ruins in 1860. The influence of the Khmer civilisation can still
be seen today in the art, handicrafts and silverware in the markets
and shops around Phnom Penh. You can walk, bicycle or take a helicopter
ride around the ruins. Heritage tours are available from
Phnom Penh or Siem Reap - the main town for Angkor. Siem Reap,
has grown rapidly in the last few years with international hotels
now established. Close by is Tonle Sap (Great lake) fed by the Tonle
Sap and Mekong rivers – home of local fishing communities.
| Attractions
– Cities |
Phnom Penh (Capital City) - The Cambodian capital with
its colonial architecture and wide boulevards reflects the French
presence in Indochina. Phnom Penh also has fine temples and excellent
markets selling handicrafts and local attractions. It’s also
a starting point for a trip along the Mekong river to Siem Reap
(Angkor.) A reminder of Cambodia’s more recent history can
be seen at the grisly Tuol Sleng Museum – from the dark days
when Cambodia was ruled by the Khmer Rouge.
| Attractions
– Adventure |
Cambodia's north east offers adventure, hill tribes, trekking
in the remote provinces of Rantanakiri and Mondulkiri. Home to elephants,
leopards and the Irrawaddy Dolphins that inhabit the Mekong river
near the Lao border.
| Activities |
Forget the conventional route, go biking or take a helicopter ride
around Angkor. Cruise on the Mekong from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap
or elephant trekking.
| When
to Go |
November to March, (dry season) - ideal for visiting Angkor. Bring
lots of film.
| Getting
Around |
Flying is the most efficient way of getting around. Domestic flights
operate regularly to Siem Reap. Or take a trip on the Mekong river.
| Official
Language |
Khmer. English is understood in the major cities.
| Culture
/Customs |
Tipping is not expected but well appreciated as salaries remain
very low. Service is often excellent because hospitality is part
of the Cambodian culture.
| What
to Buy: |
Cambodia is a country of fine craftsmen. You’ll find fantastic
wood-carvings, other-of-pearl inlay lacquerware, silk, temple paintings
and silver filigree items – at bargain prices.
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