Cambodia is perhaps one of the least known and least visited destinations in South East Asia.
Cambodia shares borders with Thailand Laos and Vietnam, but it can be rough to travel overland between these countries. The most comfortable way to travel to Cambodia is to fly directly to its capital, Phnom Penh, from overseas or via Bangkok to Siem Reap/Cambodia.
' Angkor Wat Archeological Park' near the northern town of Siem Reap is the key tourist attraction of Cambodia. The nearly 1000-year-old temple of Angkor Wat, along with some 100 other temples, such as 'The Bayon' and 'Ta Prom', are described the jewel of the country, transporting visitors in time and spirit. Since its rediscovery in the late 19th century, the area has been competing with monuments like the "Taj Mahal " listed as the eighth world wonder.
Any visit to Cambodia should definitely include a visit to its capital, Phnom Penh. The city is renowned for its beauty, especially the area surrounding the Royal Palace, the nearby National Museum, Tuol slaeng Museum, and the many colonial French villas, and, of course, the beautiful riverside.
Another destination in Cambodia is Kampong Som (Sihanoukville) on the South Coast. Here, bays and white sand beaches lined with palm trees are being developed for tourists and are waiting for visitors to relax, sunbathe and snorkel.
Another interesting citiy is Battambang, in the north of Cambodia, the second largest city of the country, accessible by road, offerering a fine line of old colonial buildings along a sengkae river. The town has much to offer, and has quite a relaxing atmosphere.
Ratanakiri is an interesting province in the North-East, a bit detached from the rest of the country. That's where a number of ethnic minority peoples live, and where you find untouched jungles and wildlife. There is a regular flight from Phnom Penh to Banlung, Ratanakiri's capital, particulary regular during the dry season
Cambodia has three seasons. a cooler season from November to January, the dry, very hot season from Febuary to April, and the rainy season from May to October. Temperature changes between seasons range between 21 and 35 degrees celcius .
Cambodian food is delicious, though not as spicy as Thai food. There is a great number of very good retaurants in Phnom Penh. Particularly, the local amok dishes are very popular.
The safety aspect of Cambodia may be a bit overplayed. People are very friendly. However, sensible precautions are adivsed, such as not flashing money or cameras & not walk in Phnom Penh after dark but rather using a tuk-tuk or a taxi.