10 Reasons to Visit Cambodia
Cambodia is home to many unforgettable sights that will be etched in your memory for decades to come. From watching the spectacular sunrise over Angkor to riding the bamboo train through local villages to educating yourself on the country’s traumatic past, Cambodia is a country that stays with you for a long time. If Cambodia isn’t already on your radar, here are 10 reasons why it should be.
Explore ancient temples
Step back in time and explore the ancient temples and crumbling ruins of the Khmer Empire. History buffs have never had so much fun ducking through jungle-grown passageways and centuries-old doorways.
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Island retreat
People rarely think of Cambodia as a beach destination, but the Koh Rong archipelago is made up of dozens of unspoiled islands. This little-known paradise is a haven for sun-worshippers with white sand beaches and shallow turquoise waters.
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Watch the sunrise over Angkor Wat
Watching the sunrise over legendary Angkor Wat is reason enough to book your flight. Rise before dawn to see the sky light up in vibrant pinks and purples over this ancient temple and the reflection of the sky mirrored on the lake.
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Fragrant food
Cambodian cuisine doesn’t get much attention, as neighbouring Thailand and Vietnam steal the limelight. With gently spiced curries and flavourful dishes, it’s one of my all-time favourites. Their national dish is Amok which is a fragrant curry seasoned with coconut milk, lemongrass and Kampot pepper and will serve as a wonderful introduction to the amazing food to come.
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History
The temple region surrounding Angkor Wat is an ancient playground of secret passageways and underground tunnels. Dating back to 1,000 AD, it’s hard to get your head around just how old some of these temples are. There is no better way to understand the Khmer Empire than by exploring the very buildings that they resurrected centuries ago.
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Affordable luxury
As with many South-East Asian countries, your money goes very far in Cambodia. Five star hotels are immaculate and affordable, as are luxury spas and fancy restaurants. If there was ever a place to over-indulge without feeling guilty, it would be in Cambodia.
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Captivating culture
There is so much to be learned from Cambodian culture, from the country’s unwavering resilience to its gentle nature. A deeply Buddhist country, the philosophy of caring is innate. Monks are respected, Buddha is worshipped and ceremonies are an elaborate affair shrouded in incense and smoke.
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Educate yourself
Cambodia suffered tremendously under the rule of the Khmer Rouge who are responsible for brutally killing a third of the population. Whilst Cambodians are moving on from their traumatic past, it’s important to educate yourself on the atrocities they lived through. Nowhere is this more chilling than at the Killing Fields and Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh.
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The people
Cambodians have a reputation for being among the humblest and kindest people in Asia and it’s so true. You will be greeted with warmth and friendliness from nearly every local you encounter.
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Charismatic cities
Loose yourself in Cambodia's charismatic cities from the bustling markets of Siem Reap to the chaotic capital of Phnom Penh. Cambodia's cities are a sensory overload with live scorpions being grilled at street stands and cockroaches being savoured by locals. If that all sounds too much, then spend your time taking in the French colonial buildings along Phnom Penh’s riverfront.
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