Cambodia

Cambodia, located on the Indochinese mainland of Southeast Asia, is a land of plains and rivers that lies amid important overland and river trade routes linking China to India and Southeast Asia. Cambodia is bordered to the west and northwest by Thailand, to the northeast by Laos, to the east and southeast by Vietnam, and to the southwest by the Gulf of Thailand. It is home to the iconic Angkor Wat complex, spectacular temples and serene beaches, as well as beautiful countryside landscape and charming towns. From the hustle and bustle of Phnompenh to the remote villages surrounding Kampot, Cambodia is a hidden gem in southeast Asia that should not be missed.

The main cities are fairly developed for tourism. Phnompenh the capital is in the southern region, Siemreap is north of Tonle Sap Lake and Battambang is east. Sihanoukville is northeast of the gulf of Thailand.

Siemreap

Siemreap used to be a small village, but it has been growing as a gateway to Angkor Wat since the temple complex opened to the world. It already has a large number of hotels, restaurants and other businesses related to tourism. It is the most popular tourist destination in Cambodia.

Normally people stay in Siemreap at least two days to see its highlights. One day is devoted to the must-see temples: Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm and Banteay Srei. Another day can be spent transferring to Kompong Phluk and exploring the floating village, which thrives on fishing.

You can have some special experiences at Siem Reap: Cycling or watching the sunrise at Angkor Wat; seeing the sunset on Bakheng Hill; enjoying the unique Apsara dance show over dinner; attending a cooking class; visiting the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary, riding a quad bike in the countryside, and zip-lining ]over the tree-tops.

Phnompenh

As the capital, Phnompenh is the political and cultural center. It was founded in 1434 and was given the nickname “Pearl of Asia” because of its French-style buildings from the 1920s. But its own traditional and historical architecture still remains. It has about 1.5 million inhabitants.

Discover the history and Khmer-style architecture of Cambodia by going on a one-day city tour, including the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, the National Museum and the Central Market. The Toul Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek Memorial are outside the city.

Battambang

Battambang is the leading rice-producing province in Cambodia and the second largest city of the country. It is home to some of the best-preserved French colonial architecture and temples, similar to the ones in Siem Reap.

If you plan to stay in Cambodia for a week or so, you can go to Battambang, about 3.5 hours by car from Siem Reap. It is worth exploring the colonial villas and shopping malls left by the French Colonial administration.

Sihanoukville

This city was named after the former king Norodom Sihanouk. There are various seaside resorts built for tourists. Some of them have a private beach, like Sokha Beach or Independence Beach, so named by the resorts. Victory Beach on the other side is full of budget travelers.

The facilities in Sihanoukville are basic, as well as the beaches. There are not many optional for special activities on the beaches.