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ABOUT US
Welcome traveler!
We're Andre & Lisa, adventurers and experienced budget travelers.
We have over two decades of travel experience and since 2018 have led a full-time nomadic lifestyle.
Thank you for visiting and we hope you find value in our destination pages! We thoroughly research and curate all content ourselves and everything you find on this site is put together by only the two of us.
CAMBODIA TRAVEL GUIDE
The Kingdom of Cambodia is a country in Southeast Asia, with Vietnam to the east, Laos to the north, and Thailand to the west of the country. The country has a turbulent and unstable history and still suffers from great poverty today. Overall security has improved immeasurably, and this allows ever-increasing numbers of visitors to safely visit and discover Cambodia's stunning temples and beaches. If you’re planning on visiting Cambodia, be sure to approach your travels with an open mind and an adventurous spirit - Cambodia is a place where things don’t always go according to plan, and the more you’re able to relax and go with the flow, the better your trip will be.
We spent a month visiting Cambodia for the first time in December 2019. We still only scratched the surface of Cambodia and flew into Sihanoukville and out of Siem Reap while visiting Kampot, Kep, Phnom Penh, and Battambang along the way. While the bustle of the big cities might be the country’s main attractions, our favourite spots in Cambodia are the smaller towns and villages. From the jungles to the beaches, this country is full of amazing sights just waiting to be explored.
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Capital: Phnom Penh
Official Language: Khmer
Currency: Cambodian Riel (KHR), but US dollars are widely accepted
Population: Approximately 16 million
Major Religion: Buddhism (over 95% of the population)
Famous Landmark: Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world
Best Time to Visit: November to February, during the dry season
Local Cuisine: Must-try dishes include Amok (curry), Lok Lak (stir-fried beef), and Khmer noodles
Transportation: Tuk-tuks are a popular and affordable way to get around
Wildlife: Home to unique species such as the Indochinese tiger and the giant ibis
Useful Information for Visitors
When visiting Cambodia, it's important to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting temples and be mindful of local etiquette. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few basic Khmer phrases can enhance your experience.
Fun Facts
The Cambodian flag features the image of Angkor Wat, symbolizing the country's cultural heritage.
Cambodia has a rich history, including the Khmer Empire, which was one of the most powerful empires in Southeast Asia from the 9th to the 15th century.
The country is known for its vibrant festivals, such as the Water Festival (Bon Om Touk), which celebrates the reversing of the Tonle Sap River.
Cambodia is home to the world's largest freshwater lake, Tonle Sap, which is vital for the local ecosystem and economy.
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SEASONS AT A GLANCE
Most destinations have different times of the year when they’re more or less popular with tourists.
Peak Season
Shoulder Season
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BEST TIME TO VISIT CAMBODIA
Cambodia is hot and sticky throughout the year, with the peak visitor season from November to April, when the weather is fairly dry and temperatures are at their coolest (25-30°C). This means that the temples are packed, especially around the end of year holidays and accommodation prices are also at their highest.
March to May are the hottest months, with temperatures easily reaching 40°C. The rainy season is from May to October when some roads leading to the temples can turn into muddy messes. The advantage of braving the wet season is that the temples are at their quietest, and it's still often possible to do a half-day of sightseeing before the afternoon rains start.
BEST TIME FOR:
Cambodia is often celebrated for its rich history and stunning temples, but it also boasts some beautiful beaches that are definitely worth a visit. If you're looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the ocean breeze, here are some noteworthy beaches to consider.
First up is Otres Beach, located near Sihanoukville. This beach is known for its laid-back vibe and stunning sunsets. It's less crowded than some of the other beaches in the area, making it a perfect spot for relaxation. The best time to visit Otres Beach is from November to April when the weather is dry and the sea is calm. You can enjoy lounging on the soft sand or indulging in fresh seafood at one of the local beach shacks.
Next, we have Koh Rong, an island that feels like a slice of paradise. With its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, it's hard not to fall in love with this place. The island offers a range of activities, from snorkeling to hiking, and it's a great spot for both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind. The ideal time to visit Koh Rong is also during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is perfect for beach hopping and water sports.
Another gem is Sokha Beach, which is known for its pristine beauty and tranquility. This beach is part of the Sokha Beach Resort, so it tends to be a bit more upscale and less crowded. The soft sand and clear water make it a perfect place for a peaceful day by the sea. Just like the others, the best time to visit is from November to April, ensuring you have the best weather possible.
For those looking for a more secluded experience, consider visiting the beaches on Koh Ta Kiev. This island is less developed than its counterparts, offering a more rustic and untouched feel. You can find basic accommodations and enjoy the natural beauty without the hustle and bustle of tourist hotspots. The best time to visit Koh Ta Kiev is again during the dry season, when the weather is most favorable for exploring and relaxing.
Lastly, don’t miss out on the beaches of Kep, a charming coastal town known for its crab market and tranquil atmosphere. The beaches here are not as sandy as others, but the views of the nearby islands and the fresh seafood make it a delightful spot to spend an afternoon. The best time to visit Kep is also between November and April, when the weather is pleasant and perfect for enjoying the local cuisine.
In summary, Cambodia's beaches offer a delightful escape, especially during the dry season from November to April. Each beach has its unique charm, whether you're looking for relaxation, adventure, or a taste of local culture. So pack your sunscreen and get ready for some fun in the sun!
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Travel in Cambodia is pretty affordable which explains why it is a popular destination along most backpackers' routes through Southeast Asia. If you’re happy sleeping in a hostel and eating street food, you can easily get by on as little as $15-25 a day. If you want to stay in slightly nicer accommodation (simple double en-suite style) but are happy to eat local food, up your budget to $35-50 per day and if you prefer to splurge on fancy digs or a few gourmet meals, you might want to up your budget to $100.
Note that ATM withdrawals are generally limited to 1000 USD. Try to get smaller notes if possible as 100 and 50 USD bills may be difficult to use in general as most smaller shops will not have change.
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TRANSPORT IN CAMBODIA
Getting around Cambodia is simplest done by bus. Three are fairly good quality roads linking most major cities, although the traffic and general lawlessness on the roads can be horrendous. You can also find a few internal flight options which may be safer but will take equally as long at a far greater cost. Skyscanner.com or Kiwi.com are handy tools for finding great flight deals.
You will need to take a boat to reach the southern islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem. There are only limited rail routes remaining and the famous Bamboo Train near Battambang is now for tourist purposes only. Bus accidents are common and often fatal, so be sure to rather spend a little more for a bus ticket from a more reputable agency.
We recommend using BookAway or 12Go to view bus and boat schedules ahead of time as these are often sold out well in advance, particularly in the busier seasons.
WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN CAMBODIA
Visit Angkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap
Angkor Archaeological Park, just 6km south of Siem Reap, is so much more than just the famous Angkor Wat. The most famous temples are indeed Angkor Wat (the largest religious monument in the world) and the Bayon Temple at Angkor Thom.
The temple and surrounding complex engulfs over 400 sq km and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1992. Angkor was once the heart of the Khmer civilization, and the temple is now perhaps the best remaining representation of Khmer art and culture. Whether you’re interested in history and archaeology, or just like taking in the incredible views at sunrise, Angkor Wat is a must-see. There's also much more to Siem Reap than just temples, so don't fear the inevitable temple burn-out!
As independent travellers, we usually prefer to go at activities ourselves and although you can most definitely just wander around on your own at Angkor Wat, it definitely makes a difference when you have a guide giving you some relevant background information about each temple - which is why in this case we strongly recommend going on a day tour.
Angkor Wat Sunrise Day Tour With a small group tour (max 10 people) this tour will take you to experience the legendary Angkor Wat sunrise as well as taking you around the other famous temples like Ta Prohm, Angkor Thom City, and Bayon Temple.
Full-day Angkor Wat Private Tour Perfect if you prefer to explore on your own, this private tour will give you the freedom to sightsee and explore at your own pace. The guide will be there to explain historical temples and to take you to the best spots around the Park. Being a sunrise tour, this offers a great chance of seeing the park "come to life" as visitors flood in.
Angkor Temples Siem Reap Bike Tour For something a bit more active, opt for a bike tour around the Park. As you are travelling by bike, your guide will be able to take you through some lesser-known temples which make the entire experience super memorable.
Angkor Wat Two Day Private Tour Two days of exploring the Park is an absolute minimum as you can see and everything without ever feeling too rushed.
Explore The Capital of Phnom Penh
The capital city of Cambodia is a busy city where, amongst other city attractions, you can visit the Royal Palace, National Museum, and Toul Sleng Museum. While a visit to the historical parts of Phnom Penh like the S21 Prison and the Killing Fields will probably be a harsh reality check and can be painful and depressing, they are absolute musts in your visit to this country. Understanding the history of the country will give you a new sense of comprehension of the true resilience and kindness of the Cambodian people.
As with Angkor Wat, you can visit the sites by yourself but by joining a tour you will better understand the scale of what the Cambodian people went through and the extent of their suffering.
Private City and Genocide Tours in Phnom Penh This tour includes an English speaking guide that will take you to all the highlights including Wat Phnom, Wat Onnaloam, National Museum, Royal Palace, Diamond Island, Independence Monument,. King's Statues, Genocide Museum, Killing Field and theRussian Market
From Phnom Penh: Killing Fields and Prison S21 Tour Learn about the dark days of the Khmer Rouge regime. Visit Prison S21 and the Cheung Ek Killing Fields, where thousands were imprisoned and killed. Getting a private tour allows you to take your time through the sights - recommended if you prefer travelling at your own pace.
Relax in Kampot - Kampot is a charming place where you can relax and enjoy the peacefulness of The Kampot River. Kampot is also home to the beautiful and scenic Preah Monivong Bokor National Park which is well worth visiting. Kampot has become increasingly popular with tourists and ex-pats in recent years and it has plenty of restaurants, quaint shops, and riverboat cruises to keep you entertained. It's a great place for a breather during your travels, with time and space to relax.
Kep - The original beachside town of Kep is slowly gaining popularity once again as fewer people are attracted to the mass development of Sihanoukville. In addition to beautiful white sand beaches, Kep is also home to Kep National Park.
Battambang - While Battambang has become famous for Norry, the Bamboo Train, there is so much more to see in this area. A great way to start is by doing a walking or cycling tour of the city. There are also numerous temples to explore such as Baset Temple, Wat Ek Phnom, Prasat Banan, and Prasat Snung. Located between two mountains, you will find Kamping Puoy lake which is famous for its giant lotus flowers whose fiber is spun and weaved to make a new organic fabric. We also really enjoyed attending the Battambang Circus (Phare Ponleu Selpak) for a fun and affordable night of entertainment!
Koh Kong - In addition to white sand beaches for relaxing, Koh Kong also claims to have Southeast Asia’s largest mangrove forest. Or you can explore the Cardamom mountains with jungle trekking and waterfalls.
Visit The Islands Of Cambodia
Currently, Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloeum are the only two islands accessible to the public and with any form of development. Koh Rong is the larger of the two islands and is easier to reach from Sihanoukville. It does, however, have a fast-growing backpacker presence and is developing to this ever-growing tourist market. Koh Rong Samloeum is the smaller of the two islands, is just as beautiful, and is currently favoured as the quieter and less developed island getaway.
Join a Tour of Cambodia
If you prefer travelling with a group tour, we highly recommend G Adventures. With many years of running tours around Cambodia and the rest of Southeast Asia, they're known to be reputable and reliable. We particularly love this Ultimate Cambodian Adventure as it covers all the highlights. G Adventures has loads of different tour types that cater to all travellers such as well as wellness tours, tours for 18-30-year-olds, and even tours that take you all over Southeast Asia, allowing you to explore a little bit of everything on one trip.
If you prefer travelling in a group and making new friends, check out their website for details of the variety of tours that G Adventures offer, using the filters in the side-bar to match your travel style and -dates to an available option.
WHAT TO EAT IN CAMBODIA
While Cambodian food might not be as well known as neighbouring Thailand’s, it’s a unique cuisine full of vibrant flavours and spices and is a must-try when you’re in the country. We'll briefly describe some of the most popular and common Cambodian dishes below.
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Bai Sach Chrouk (pork and rice) - This is one of the simpler dishes and should satisfy even the pickiest eaters out there. Sweet pork is grilled, often marinated first in coconut or garlic, and served over warm rice with a side of pickled cucumbers and radishes and broth. This is a common breakfast item in Cambodia, and you’ll find it on most street stalls throughout the country.
Bai Sach Chrouk (pork and rice) - A common breakfast item found in the street stalls of Cambodia, this is one of the simpler dishes that should satisfy even the pickiest eater. Often first marinated with coconut or garlic, sweet pork is grilled and served over warm rice, accompanied with broth, pickled cucumbers and radishes.
Fish Amok - While the idea of a “fish mousse” might sound repulsive, this curry dish offers a warm and buttery melt-in-your-mouth taste that perfectly balances local herbs like lemongrass and ginger with just the right amount of spice. This is one of the most popular dishes in Cambodia.
Lap Khmer (lime-marinated beef salad) - The thin slices of beef, marinated in lime juice and spaces, that make up Lap Khmer often reminds of ceviche. Sometimes the beef is lightly seared first. Packed with fresh chillies, this is definitely not a dish for those with sensitive palates!
Nom Banh Chok (Khmer noodles) - Noodle soup tends to be most popular for breakfast in Cambodia, contrary to the expectation that it's more suited to lunch or dinner. You can find it at street stalls or from vendors wandering the streets in the early mornings. Rice noodles are combined with a fresh green curry sauce and topped with bean sprouts and other vegetables.
Khmer Red Curry - Similar to, but less spicy than Thailand's famed red curries, Khmer Red Curry has a creamy coconut milk base blended with chunks of beef, pork, or chicken and a mix of local herbs and spices. Most often served with bread, you can also it served with rice.
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WHERE TO STAY IN CAMBODIA
From $5 hostels to $100 hotels, Cambodia has a huge variety of accommodation options. Competition can be fierce and spending a few extra dollars can get you significantly nicer accommodation. While you can find some luxurious stays in the main cities, venturing off into the countryside, you will have to accept very basic accommodation.
When visiting Cambodia for the first time, it's essential to choose the right area or region to stay in to explore the country's rich history, stunning temples, and vibrant culture. Here are some recommendations along with accommodation suggestions for each category: budget, mid-range, and luxury.
Where to stay in Siem Reap:
Siem Reap is the gateway to the magnificent Angkor Archaeological Park, home to iconic temples such as Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm, making it an ideal base for exploring Cambodia's ancient wonders and cultural heritage.
Budget: Mad Monkey Hostel Siem Reap - Affordable hostel offering dormitory and private rooms, social activities, and a lively atmosphere, located near the city center and Pub Street.
Mid-range: Central Suite Residence - A mid-range hotel featuring modern rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving Khmer and international cuisine, situated within walking distance of the Old Market and Night Market.
Luxury: Angkor Grace Residence & Wellness Resort - A luxurious resort offering elegant rooms, gourmet dining options, a spa, and a tranquil setting amidst lush gardens near the Angkor temples.
Tips: To find the best value accommodation in Siem Reap, consider visiting during the offseason (May to October) when prices are lower due to fewer tourists. Additionally, booking accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, can help secure better rates.
Where to stay in Phnom Penh:
Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia, offers a blend of history, culture, and urban charm, with attractions such as the Royal Palace, Killing Fields, and vibrant riverside promenade, providing visitors with insights into Cambodia's past and present.
Budget: The Local Riverside - Situated along the Tonle Sap River, The Local Riverside provides basic yet comfortable accommodations at budget-friendly prices. The location is excellent for exploring the city on foot.
Mid-range: The Pavilion - Set within a beautifully restored colonial building, The Pavilion offers stylish rooms and personalized service. It's located in the heart of Phnom Penh, within walking distance of major attractions like the Royal Palace and National Museum.
Luxury: Raffles Hotel Le Royal - A legendary luxury hotel offering colonial-era elegance, opulent rooms, gourmet dining options, a spa, and a prestigious location near the Royal Palace.
Tips: To find the best value accommodation in Phnom Penh, consider staying in boutique hotels or guesthouses located in the city center, where you can find charming accommodations at reasonable prices. Additionally, exploring accommodation options in the less touristy areas of Phnom Penh may offer better value for money.
Where to stay in Sihanoukville (Kampong Som):
Sihanoukville is a coastal city known for its white sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and island-hopping opportunities to destinations like Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, offering visitors a relaxing beach getaway with plenty of recreational activities.
Budget: Sunset Lounge - Sunset Lounge offers affordable accommodations in a relaxed setting near Otres Beach. The hotel features comfortable rooms and a rooftop terrace where guests can enjoy stunning sunset views over the ocean.
Mid-range: Independence Hotel Resort & Spa - Located on Independence Beach, this mid-range hotel offers spacious rooms with modern amenities and stunning ocean views. Guests can enjoy access to the hotel's swimming pool, spa, and beachfront restaurant.
Luxury: Sokha Beach Resort - A luxurious beachfront resort offering spacious rooms, upscale dining options, a spa, and a private beach, set amidst tropical gardens overlooking the Gulf of Thailand.
Tips: To find the best value accommodation in Sihanoukville, consider visiting during the offseason (May to October) when prices are lower, and there are fewer tourists. Additionally, booking directly with hotels or guesthouses and negotiating room rates may result in better deals.
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FLIGHTS
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. These are our favourite flight search engines. They index other travel websites and airlines across the globe to easily find you the best deal.
ACCOMMODATION
Booking.com is our number one resource for researching and booking accommodation. In addition to Booking.com, we have found Agoda.com to consistently returns the cheapest rates in Southeast Asia.
TRANSPORT
DiscoverCars.com is a leader in online car rental bookings; we compare car rental deals from many companies so that you can choose which is best for your trip. 12Go connects the world door-to-door, from transfers to flights, under the same user-friendly ticket.
INSURANCE
Travel insurance can protect you against unexpected illness, injury, theft, and cancellations.
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