Activities in Cambodia

There are many must-visit attractions in Cambodia, but some of the most popular include Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm, the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda in Phnom Penh, and the Killing Fields. Angkor Wat is a temple complex in Siem Reap that is one of the most famous landmarks in Cambodia. Bayon Temple, also located in Siem Reap, is known for its many giant stone faces. Ta Prohm is famous for the trees that have grown around and through the temple ruins. The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda in Phnom Penh are stunning examples of Khmer architecture. And the Killing Fields are a sobering reminder of Cambodia's recent history.

There are many fun activities to do in Cambodia, such as exploring the temples of Angkor Wat, taking a boat ride on the Tonle Sap Lake, visiting the night markets in Phnom Penh, learning how to cook Cambodian cuisine, and trying traditional Khmer massage. You can also go on a bike tour of the countryside, take a hot air balloon ride over Angkor Wat, or go zip-lining through the jungle. If you're interested in history, you can visit the many museums and galleries in Phnom Penh. And if you're looking for adventure, you can go hiking in the Cardamom Mountains, kayaking in the Mekong River, or scuba diving in the Gulf of Thailand.

Cambodia is generally a safe country, but there are some things you should keep in mind to stay safe. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like markets and tourist attractions. Keep your valuables close to you and don't leave them unattended. Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. If you're traveling alone, avoid walking alone at night and take a tuk-tuk or taxi instead. Be respectful of local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and religious sites. And be sure to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun and heat.

The best time to visit Cambodia is from November to February, when the weather is cool and dry, making it perfect for exploring the temples of Angkor Wat and other outdoor activities. The months of March to May can be very hot and humid, so it's best to avoid them if possible. The rainy season, which runs from June to October, can be a good time to visit if you don't mind the occasional downpour. The countryside is lush and green during this time, and there are fewer tourists. However, some roads may be impassable, and some outdoor activities may be affected by the rain.

There are many delicious traditional Cambodian dishes to try, such as amok, a coconut milk-based curry with fish or chicken, lok lak, a stir-fried beef dish with rice and vegetables, and num banh chok, a noodle soup with fish and fresh herbs. Other popular dishes include kuy teav, a pork and seafood noodle soup, and bai sach chrouk, a dish of grilled pork served with rice and pickled vegetables. Cambodian cuisine is also known for its use of fresh herbs and spices, such as lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal.

The currency of Cambodia is the Cambodian riel (KHR), although US dollars are widely accepted. It's a good idea to carry both currencies with you, as some smaller vendors may only accept riel. ATMs are available in most cities and towns, and major credit cards are accepted at many hotels and restaurants.

There are many good accommodations in Cambodia, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. In Siem Reap, some popular choices include the Belmond La Rsidence d'Angkor, the Shinta Mani Shack, and the Park Hyatt Siem Reap. In Phnom Penh, the Raffles Hotel Le Royal, the Rosewood Phnom Penh, and the Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra are all highly rated. Other good options include the Song Saa Private Island Resort in the Koh Rong Archipelago and the Six Senses Krabey Island near Sihanoukville. For those on a budget, there are many hostels and guesthouses throughout the country.

The official language of Cambodia is Khmer, although English and French are also spoken in some areas. It's a good idea to learn some basic Khmer phrases before your trip, such as 'sues'day' (hello), 'aw kohn' (thank you), and 'lah orkun' (goodbye).

Yes, most visitors to Cambodia need a visa to enter the country. You can apply for a visa online or on arrival at the airport or land border. The cost is typically around $30 for a tourist visa. You will need a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of entry, and you may be asked to provide proof of onward travel.

The transportation system in Cambodia is fairly basic, but there are several options for getting around. Tuk-tuks are a popular and inexpensive way to travel short distances in cities and towns. Taxis and private cars are also available, although they can be more expensive. Buses and minibuses are a good option for longer distances between cities, and there are also several domestic airlines that operate flights within the country. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also rent a bicycle or motorbike and explore on your own.