Russian tea at Victory beach, Sihanoukville
Why do we travel to Cambodia?
For tourists Cambodia remains one of the most exotic and probably the most mysterious travel destination in Asia. What is it that attracts both young backpackers and serious businessmen to this country? There are many good reasons to visit Cambodia. For example it has many more freedoms not now to be found in the West. It is also a wonderful destination for a two or three week romantic holiday. Unlike neighboring Thailand, Vietnam or Malaysia, Cambodia is still somewhat less developed and sophisticated. It is a country where you can still find unique artifacts of the Khmer culture and discover secrets of ancient temples. It is a country with mountains and jungles and blessed with miles of clean ocean and lots of unusual wildlife. This place is untidy in places but strange and bright and colorful. Eco-tourists already love Cambodia. You will too with its cordial welcome.
Phnom Penh
The capital of Cambodia is the main transport hub of the country: Pochentong International Airport connects Cambodia with the entire world. Most travelers start their journey here. However most visitors spend only a few days inPhnom Penh before traveling to see Angkor Wat or the beaches of sunny Sihanoukville. If you visit Phnom Penh for business or for a few romantic nights in the many nightclubs then you will not be disappointed. The city you will find to be sometimes busy and littered, but with many places worth a visit. For example we recommend you to visit the Royal Palace – the residence of the King and the infamous "killing fields".
The evening time take a walk on a riverside street – there you will discover a meeting place of local celebrities and foreign tourists. You will also find many good and inexpensive restaurants and bars. Pay special attention to French restaurants on the Riverside: the food they serve is always fresh, tasty and not too expensive.
Siem-Reap and Angkor Wat
The city of Siem-Reap is located near to the world famous Angkor Wat temple complex. The city has grown around the needs of its visitors to Angkor Wat and the local economy is almost entirely dependant tourism. There are many excellent modern hotels, resorts and clean guesthouses which are sure to fit any budget. Even when busy, you will have little difficulty finding a good clean room. Siem-Reap has many quality restaurants of many different national cuisines all waiting to serve you.
The entrance fee to visit the world heritage site of Angkor Wat is $25 for foreign tourists and $10 for locals. The multi pass is valid for 3 days, so we recommend you stay at least that long. There are so many 12th century temples located here for you to explore.
Besides its core Khmer treasure, Siem-Reap is also well known as a cultural capital of Cambodia. In the tourist center of the city you will find many art galleries, art cafes and souvenir boutiques selling authentic and quality craftworks. Siem-Reap is a home of various thematic expos and seasonal festivals. It also has the biggest souvenir fair in Cambodia – the Night Market – collectors of exotic objects shouldn't miss it!
Sihanoukville
Sihanoukville – or Kampong-Saom in Khmer language – is a very young city. Some 50 years ago it was just an ordinary fishermen's coastal village, surrounded by wild jungles and mountains. Now Sihanoukville is the main sea gate of Cambodia and a most important destination for tourists and expats from over the world. It has almost everything for a perfect holiday to fit every taste. It has many clean and beautiful beaches with well-developed services for tourists. A mixed nightlife, multiple disco clubs and many casinos are to be found. One missing thing in Sihanoukville is an international airport. This has already been constructed but as yet not opened.
There are many islands in the gulf of Sihanoukville; most of them are uninhabited. Boat trips to the islands are a traditional entertainment for tourists and a one-day trip costs from $6 per person. Custom tours for lovers of sea fishing and diving are also very popular and readily availible. It will cost you more, but you will be provided with all necessary fishing or diving equipment for an extra charge.
If you are not a master of fishing, then visit the central market ("psaa leu") with its spectacular fish area. The fish market of Sihanoukville is famous and feeds all the country. It offers to guests a unique opportunity to taste a wide range of exotic, sometimes very strange seafood, from multicolor tropical fishes to giant barracudas or hummer-fishes.
Special underwater fauna and coral is of interest to lovers of diving and there are currently three professional local diving agencies in the city. They will also train you if required to make your adventure safe and pleasant.
Recommended hotels and guesthouses
Air flights to Cambodia
Visa on arrival
Bus transport
Souvenirs from Cambodia
Basic Khmer phrases
Tips for travelers
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