Southeast Asia is arguably one of the most fascinating and exotic regions in the world to travel. From glittering golden temples to steamy jungles, fiery cuisines, picture postcard-perfect beaches and ultra-modern cities to ancient world wonders – Southeast Asia has so much to offer. Travel to Cambodia and explore its incredible tourist attractions, find out what to do and where to go in Cambodia.
Here’s why Cambodia is our favourite country in Southeast Asia
Cambodia is a small, developing country nestled between Thailand and Vietnam but with a distinctly different feel from both these neighbouring countries.
Cambodia Travel: Fascinating History
Discovering Cambodia’s history will take you on an emotional roller coaster ride as it ranges from the glorious days at the height of the Khmer Empire when Angkor was the largest city of the pre-industrial world, to the days of French colonialism and then the atrocities of the horrific Khmer Rouge regime. This brutal part of the country’s history is shocking and depressing but essential learning and the way that the people have come back from those awful times is inspiring.
Cambodia Travel: Amazing Temples
Undoubtedly Cambodia’s most famous sight is the mighty Angkor Wat. It is one of the largest religious building in the world and truly one of the most spectacular sights I’ve ever seen. Also, visit Cambodia’s other UNESCO site Preah Vihear and many other impressive temples, both old and new, dotted across the country. Nowhere do ancient temples quite like Cambodia and scientists are still discovering massive ancient sights hidden in the jungle! This is an exciting time to explore Cambodia!
Cambodia Travel: People
For me, the Khmer people are the main reason why we love Cambodia and the country’s greatest asset. The Khmer people seem content and happy with their simple lives and are mostly genuine, open, friendly and charming people, despite their difficult history. The Cambodian people have bounced back with an infectious optimism which makes Cambodia the genuine ‘land of a thousand smiles’ but unlike tourist weary Thailand.
Cambodia Travel: Unique, Undeveloped Scenery
Another reason we love Cambodia is that it offers a bucolic, offbeat escape from the modern world. Cambodia is a beautiful, tropical country that is still blissfully undeveloped and retains its unique character. The unspoilt countryside is an idyllic patchwork of rich, luscious, emerald green paddy fields interspersed with villages of wooden houses on stilts where children and animals play outside. The low rise cities retain some elegant French colonial architecture and elaborate golden temple spires and curving Khmer rooftops still dominate the skyline.
Cambodia Travel: Unspoilt Beaches
Perhaps one of the biggest surprises for me was Cambodia’s delightful coastline. Cambodia has unspoilt white sand beaches and turquoise seas that easily rival Thailand but with only a fraction of the crowds. Sihanoukville offers up a fun, laid back beach scene with resorts and lively nightlife while the (so far) undeveloped island of Koh Rong is a real offbeat paradise. Cambodia’s beach scene is like Thailand’s islands were 20 years ago but you’ll need to go soon before it gets too popular!
Cambodia really has everything you could wish for if you are looking for an interesting, offbeat adventure. With friendly locals, world-class sights, beautiful scenery and fascinating history it’s no surprise that this country really captured our heart