Cambodia Travel Guide
A country of rich culture heritage and spectacular natural scenery, Cambodia has a sad recent history from which it is still picking up the pieces. From former heights of the mighty 10th century Angkor Kingdom to the lows of Pol Pots murderous regime that wiped out a quarter of the population, Cambodia has had an eventful past. It might be quite low-key compared to its more popular neighbor, Thailand, yet it has charms of its own. With ancient temples, fascinating ruins, peaceful beaches and the very touristy Angkor Wat, Cambodia is slowly making its way to become one of the popular destinations in the Southeast Asia.
Weather – when to go
Hot weather all year round with April being the hottest month when the temperature can reach up to 40ºC. The country is affected by the cool, dry north-eastern monsoon from November to February, so the weather is nice and temperate during this period, making it the busiest season of the year. The humid south-western monsoon hits Cambodia from May throughout October, filling most afternoons with rainfalls. Average annual temperatures vary from 21ºC to 35ºC
Highlights
Siem Reap: home to many interesting sights including the world-renowned temples of Angkor (Angkor Wat), the remains of an ancient Khmer city and religious center. The Bayon and Ta Prohm temples are also worth visiting.
Phnom Penh: many outstanding colonial architectural wonders, old temples, the National Museum, the Silver Pagoda, and busy streets attract tourists to Cambodia’s capital city where unique historic charms fill the air.
Mekong Island: visit a small zoo and weaving villages. Befriend big, friendly elephants and explore the island on their backs.
Sihanoukville: this resort town in the south boasts tranquil beaches, several natural spots such as waterfalls and rolling hills, and is a great place to relax with a plenty of peaceful resorts.
Battambang: Cambodia’s second-largest city, about 290kms from Phnom Penh, features many temples and villages. A small museum displays a selection of Angkor-era artifacts while a large lake is an ideal place for relaxing amid nature.
Traditional performances: tourists can catch one-of-a-kind public performances of traditional Khmer dances in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. Check out English local newspapers for more information.
Recommended Itinerary
A week would be enough for an introduction to Cambodia but many simply fly in to see Angkor Wat, a two to three day experience.
Three days in Siem Reap
Three days in Phnom Penh
Two days in Sihanoukville
Additional time
Two days in Battambang
Health and safety
Locals are passive and generous, greatly due to their strong devotion to the precepts of Buddhism to do good deeds. However, the country is not quite safe as poverty still remains the biggest problem, hence plenty of pick-pockets. More of a concern is the ‘vigilante mentality’ which is a hangover from the Khmer Rouge days, and firearms are widely used in lawless ways. Phnom Penh after dark can be dangerous and getting into arguments can proved deadly. Be on guard at all times especially when you are in touristy places in Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville or at Angkor Wat. There are also many health risks that visitors should be aware of such as Malaria, Dengue Fever, Hepatitis B, Typhoid and Yellow fever. Those with sensitive stomach can easily catch diarrhoea from food and drinks. Only drink water from a bottle as tap water, even if boiled, is not clean enough to be consumed.
Activities:
Diving: good diving spots can be found in Sihanoukville where waters are unspoiled and rich with marine life. There are more than 20 islands to choose from. The best scuba destinations are K. Tang, K. Prins and Poulo Wai.
Dirt-biking: A big trend in Cambodia, dirt-biking routes include a motor cross track over the Japanese bridge where races are held every month. The country offers the best off-road trails in the region, with the remote and untouched eastern provinces recommended.
Whitewater rafting: not for fainted-heart, white-water rafting in Cambodia is sheer madness. This adrenaline-pumping activity is usually organized on the Mekong and Tonle Sap Rivers.
River tours trips: cruising along some of the beautiful rivers here is a great way to see the city from a different angle. You might also spot Cambodia’s famous freshwater dolphins.
Nightclubs: many visitors find the disco nightlife in Phnom Penh vibrant and exciting. Clubs are packed with both locals and tourists. There are many ‘hostess clubs’ outside Phnom Penh where ladies are also welcomed.
Food and Hospitality
Despite what they have been through in the past, Cambodians are very friendly and helpful towards clueless tourists. There are many resorts and hotels with fair facilities for holidaymakers. The cost of living in Cambodia is cheaper than its more glamorous neighbor, Thailand, which means you can get a lot of good bargains here. Restaurants are aplenty but make sure you go for the most hygienic ones you can find.
Transportation
The fastest way to arrive in Cambodia is by air. The airport in Phnom Penh receives flights from Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Ho Chi Minh City and Guangzhou. From the airport, local buses are provided to take you to your destinations while taxis are aplenty at the airport and in the city. There are also frequently flights to Siep Riep from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya and other regional airports – for convenient short trips to Angkor Wat.Alternatively, you can reach Cambodia by waterway from neighboring countries. The country’s international seaport is located in Sihanoukville. To get around, use the services of trishaws and taxis. The road network is in a poor state and land transport is both tedious and uncomfortable.
