Cambodia is a unique country in Asia that offers travelers an affordable and authentic experience.
With Siem Reap as the main tourist hub, there is a plethora of historical ruins, temples, and archaeological sites to visit. But the country also offers sun-soaked beaches, beautiful landscapes, and traditional cuisine.
Here are the top 11 things to do on Vacation in Cambodia:
Angkor Wat, Siem Reap: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the most famous attraction in Cambodia and a must-visit for first-time travelers. Tourists arrive early to watch the sunrise over this Wonder of the World, but be cautious of the monkeys who call this area home, as they are known to steal things and climb on tourists.
Bayon Temple, Siem Reap: Built in the 1190s AD to celebrate the king of the country, this temple is a great place to visit in the morning and at sunrise, as it faces east. The smiling image on the huge stone face is believed to be of King Jayavarman VII and is often referred to as the "Mona Lisa of Southeast Asia."
Ta Prohm, Siem Reap: This temple, known as the "Tomb Raider Temple," was used in the 2001 movie and is left in its natural, crumbling state, allowing visitors to see the temple in its original condition, complete with tree roots.
Choeung Ek Genocidal Center, Phnom Penh: This memorial and museum, commonly referred to as the Killing Fields, is a reminder of the country's dark past and an important stop on any trip to Cambodia. Visitors should prepare themselves for the thousands of human skulls on display and mass grave sites of the approximately 1.7 million people who were victims of genocide.
Ride a Tuk-Tuk: This is a quintessential experience for visitors to Cambodia and a popular activity in downtown Siem Reap and elsewhere in the country. It is an efficient way to get around and a unique experience in itself.
Relax on the Beach at Koh Rong: For a relaxing break, head to Koh Rong for white-sand beaches and bright blue seas. This island has been gaining popularity among backpackers and is a great place to party, mix, and mingle.
Archaeological Sites at Koh Ker: This ancient capital site was left abandoned for centuries but is now a great place to learn about history and architecture in Cambodia. The Prasat Thom temple pyramid, with its seven tiers, is often compared to Mayan-style architecture.
Tonlé Sap Lake, Siem Reap: To get a better sense of local life in Cambodia, consider visiting Tonlé Sap Lake and taking a boat to the floating villages. This impoverished area is home to primitive fishing villages and shacks on stilts and is a great place to buy food and handcrafted items to support the local residents.
Popokvil Waterfall at Bokor National Park: To get out in nature in Cambodia, head to Bokor National Park to see the Popokvil Waterfall. This two-tier waterfall is stunning, especially during the rainy season, and is a great place to swim, view native monkeys, and other wildlife.
Watch an Apsaras Dance Performance: Visitors to Cambodia should add this to their itinerary. These dance performances can be found regularly in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh and celebrate ancient gods and celestial beings with beautiful hand and body movements and costumes.
Traditional Food: Don't forget to sample the traditional cuisine in Cambodia, including dishes like Amok, a coconut milk-based curry, and Nom Banh Chok,