Cambodia is a beautiful and culturally rich country located in Southeast Asia. With its stunning temples, delicious food, and friendly people, it is the perfect destination for a holiday. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, there is something for everyone in Cambodia. In this article, we will explore some of the top things to do when on holiday in Cambodia.
Visit the Temples of Angkor
The Temples of Angkor are one of the most popular tourist destinations in Cambodia. These ancient temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are considered to be one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. The temples were built between the 9th and 15th centuries and are a testament to the architectural and engineering skills of the Khmer people. The most famous temple is Angkor Wat, which is the largest religious monument in the world. Other temples to visit include Bayon, Ta Prohm and Banteay Srei.
Explore the Cambodian Countryside
Cambodia is a rural country and there are many opportunities to explore the beautiful Cambodian countryside. One way to do this is by taking a bike tour. This is a great way to see the local villages and meet the friendly people who live there. Another way to explore the countryside is by taking a boat trip on the Mekong River. This is a great way to see the rural life along the river and also to visit some of the floating villages.
Experience Cambodian Culture
Cambodia has a rich culture and there are many ways to experience it while on holiday. One way to do this is by visiting the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh. This is the official residence of the King of Cambodia and it is open to the public. The palace is a beautiful example of Cambodian architecture and is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the country. Another way to experience Cambodian culture is by visiting a traditional Cambodian village. These villages are a great place to see how the people live and learn about their customs and traditions.
Visit the Killing Fields and S-21 Prison
The Killing Fields and S-21 Prison are two of the most important historical sites in Cambodia. They are a reminder of the atrocities that occurred during the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s. The Killing Fields is a site where thousands of people were killed and buried in mass graves. S-21 Prison is a former school that was converted into a prison where thousands of people were tortured and killed. These sites are a sobering reminder of the past and it is important to visit them to understand the history of Cambodia.
Shop at the Central Market
The Central Market is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Phnom Penh. It is a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothing, and other items. The market is also a great place to experience the local culture and see how the people live. The market is open every day and is a great place to find unique items that you won’t find anywhere else.
Relax on the Beach
Cambodia has some beautiful beaches that are perfect for relaxing on holiday. Some of the most popular beaches are Sihanoukville and Koh Rong. These beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the beautiful scenery. They are also a great place to find a variety of water sports activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.
Enjoy the Food
Cambodian food is delicious and it is a great way to experience the culture of the country. Some of the most popular dishes include Amok, a traditional fish curry, and Lok Lak, a dish made with marinated beef and vegetables. There are also many street food vendors selling traditional Cambodian snacks such as fried insects, which are a delicacy in Cambodia. For a more upscale dining experience, there are also many high-end restaurants in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap that serve traditional Cambodian dishes with a modern twist.
Take a Cooking Class
If you want to learn more about Cambodian food and culture, taking a cooking class is a great way to do it. Many local cooking schools offer classes where you can learn how to make traditional Cambodian dishes such as Amok, Lok Lak, and other favorites. These classes are often held in local homes and are a great way to experience the local culture and learn about the food and ingredients used in Cambodian cooking.
Visit the National Museum
The National Museum in Phnom Penh is a great place to learn more about the history and culture of Cambodia. The museum is home to a large collection of Khmer art, including sculptures, ceramics, and other artifacts. This is a great place to learn about the different periods of Cambodian history and to see some of the most important cultural artifacts of the country.
Visit the Elephant Sanctuary
Cambodia is home to many elephants, and visiting an elephant sanctuary is a great way to experience these gentle giants up close. There are many elephant sanctuaries in Cambodia where visitors can interact with the elephants, feed them, and even take a ride on their back. These sanctuaries are also a great way to learn about the conservation efforts that are being made to protect these animals.
Cambodia is a beautiful and fascinating country with many things to see and do. Whether you are interested in history and culture, or simply want to relax on the beach and enjoy the delicious food, there is something for everyone in Cambodia. With its stunning temples, friendly people, and beautiful landscapes, Cambodia is the perfect destination for a holiday.