Cambodia is a land on the mend. From 1977 through 1980,
the Khmer Rouge ruled the country, fanatics bent on genocide.
Millions were killed
and the period was put to film in the movie, “The Killing Fields.”
Fortunately, those days are over and
the country is becoming a tourist destination,
and one of Trippin Traveller’s picks of the year 2017.
Cambodia is a land of incredible contrast.Thick forest, mountains
and pristine rivers compliment amazing white beaches.
When you get down to it,
however, travelers know Cambodia for just one thing: Angkor Wat.
But there is more to Cambodia than these beautiful temples.
Cambodia tourism is picking up. Let’s start with the capital:
Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is the capital of Cambodia.
The city is a combination of old French beauty and modern condominiums.
The city is full of amazing Wats [Buddist monasteries],
including Wat Ounalom, Wat Phnom and Wat Moha Montrei.
Modern buildings surround these monasteries
and it’s difficult to avoid a feeling that the old ways are being lost.
Still, the vibrancy of the city is impressive considering the fact that
it was completely abandoned for three years in the last 70s.
During this period,
the Khmer Rouge tried to return the Cambodian people
to their agricultural heritage and evacuated all cities.
The only exception, of course,
is Tuol Sleng, a high school used to torture and kill “enemies of the state.”
Just beyond the city,
one will also find the infamous killing fields
where thousands upon thousands were put to death.
Sihanoukville
Sihanoukville is a small, sleepy village on the Southwest edge of Cambodia.
Fairly undeveloped, the area is an oasis similar to the beaches of Thailand.
The difference, however, is the lack of tourists.
Depending on the time of year,
the beaches can be more or less empty and privacy assured.
Rooms run between $5 and $15 a night and come with private bathrooms.
If you are looking to lounge professionally,
Sihanoukville is a very good place to do it.
Angkor Wat
Stunning.
There is no other word for the temples of Angkor Wat.
Angkor Wat is a temple surrounded by hundreds of others.
Each is unique and worth a look.
The most famous are Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Phrom.
Angkor Wat is in the best shape as well as the most known.
The Bayon is impressive,
but the constant mob of tourists makes it a pain to visit.
Ta Phrom is amazing because it has been left to the jungle,
which is to say trees and the structure have become one in many areas.
If you have seen Tomb Raider with Angelina Jolie, you have seen Ta Phrom.
If you are fascinated by this country, and we hope that you are,
why don’t you write to us for a customized itinerary for Cambodia?
We work with tour operators who are committed to
giving you an experience of the country, and not just a travel package.
Our tours of Cambodia will leave you wanting to know
more about this beautiful country.
According to the Tourism Statistics Report published
by Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism,
more than 4.7 million international tourists visited Cambodia last year.
What’s keeping you waiting?
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