Cambodia

Cambodia has had a painful past- most notable are the “killing fields” of the Khmer Rouge of the late 1970s. However, Cambodia's painful history is matched in intensity by its scenic beauty. From the temples of Angkor Wat (believed to be the largest religious structure in the world) to its white sand beaches and waterfalls, the country if full of amazing visual beauty. The Khmer people, which make up 95% of the country’s population, are very resourceful and have many religious customs, beliefs, celebrations, and festivals. Cambodians take part in these festivals, from showing patriotism for their country with flags during the Independence Day Celebration, to watching and celebrating the natural phenomenon of the world’s only reversing river. Its capital is Phnom Penh, which is located in the eastern part of the country.

Lay of the land

Cambodia is located in Southeast Asia and it is bordered by: Vietnam to the east and southeast, Thailand to the north and west, and Laos to the northeast. It contains the Cardamom and Damrei Mountain Ranges, and the Mekong River and the Tonle Sap River and Lake are large water influences.

What to see and do

The temple ruins of Angkor Wat (which means Capital Temple) are the most popular tourist attraction in Cambodia. You can get a one day, three day, or week long pass (days run consecutively) ranging from US$20 to US$60. There are also many temples, wats, beaches, swimming holes, markets, authentic Khmer restaurants, and riverside towns where you can get a feel for the country’s culture.

Getting around

Most Cambodian rentals include a moto-taxi (with an average of US$6-8 a day, or a single trip in town is between 1,000 and 1,500 riel). Also, like other Cambodian rentals, negotiation is an option if the driver’s price is too high. A tuk-tuk single ride is usually US$1-2 or US$7-10 a day. A car rental is approximately US$25 a day and restaurants and hotels can arrange car taxis. Most guesthouses and hotels rent out bicycles. There are some restrictions in different parts of the country. You can find specifics by looking at our tabs to different Cambodian cities.

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