Reasons To Visit Cambodia
Otherwise known as the water festival, Bon Om Tuk is when Siem Reap and Phnom Penh come alive. Cambodia's most important festival, Bon Om Tuk celebrates the turning of the water in the Mekong, a phenomenon to which the Tonle Sap owes its very existence.
Despite Cambodia`s turbulent history the Khmer people show true strength of character. Everywhere you travel you will be greeted with a smile, from the urbanites of Siem Reap and Phnom Penh to the eclectic indigenous populations of the remote Rattanakiri and Mondulkiri provinces.
Often overlooked by the more famous cuisine from its neighbours Cambodia is actually home to some savoury delights. Sample a tasty amok at the market in Siem Reap or indulge in Kep's delicious crab. For those more adventurous you could try an infamous deep fried spider or cricket!
From the sleepy coastal town of Kep with its dilapidated 1960s villas to the mangroves near Koh Kong, the Southcoast has plenty to offer. And for a bit of barefoot luxury, you can spend some time at Song Saa or the 'Sweetheart' islands.
The number of visitors to Angkor multiplies exponentially each year but we can recommend ways to appreciate even the busiest sites, like Angkor Wat, and would encourage you to visit some of the lesser-known temples, such as Beng Melea and Banteay Srei. Alternatively, escape the crowds and explore the temples further afield on a temple camping safari.
It's hard to ignore the mass genocide of an estimated 2 million people. The effects of Polpot transcend the nation and every Khmer can tell you a story of their time under the despot, the history can be felt and explored throughout the country - from the historical musuems in Phnom Penh to the final resting place of Pol Pot near Anlong Veng.
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Southeast Asia
Siem Reap is famous for one thing: the temples at Angkor - the world’s largest religious monument. Here, knowledgeable guides will bring these ancient temples’ colourful history alive.
An excellent and stylish hotel option for those who want something more refined whilst in town.
This excellent boutique hotel offers fantastic value. Rooms are housed within a traditional wooden Khmer building, and the whole hotel is beautifully decorated with local silks and...
Nestled in the heart of Siem Reap just a short stroll from the riverside this simple but elegant hotel offers good facilities in a welcoming atmosphere.
Siem Reap’s superb new five-star option is ideally located for exploring the temples, but also within a short walk of the town’s best restaurants and bars. Hotel De La Paix...
La Residence d’Angkor exudes understated luxury and is definitely among the most stylish options in Siem Reap. A firm Audley favourite.
Owned by the Raffles group, this fantastic old colonial hotel is steeped in tradition and history and is Siem Reap’s grandest. Over the years, the hotel’s 131 lavishly appointed...
This French-owned chain of small, high quality hotels have been very popular with Audley clients for several years now, and the first Victoria hotel to open in Cambodia, the Victoria Angkor,...
Without doubt the most stylish hotel in Siem Reap, perfect for those who want to see Angkor in the lap of luxury.
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Further reading:CambodiaWhen to GoHighlightsItinerary IdeasPlaces to GoThings to DoAccommodationAbout CambodiaCountry Guides
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