Captivating Cambodia: Why It’s Worth the Trip Once in Your Life
Southeast Asia doesn’t fall short of amazing travel destinations. There is the metropolis of Singapore, the temples of Thailand and the islands of the Philippines.
Needless to say, it’s easy to miss Cambodia due to its more popular neighbors.
But the almost landlocked nation at the southern part of the Indochina peninsula doesn’t disappoint every traveler who visits it.
In fact, it’s a treasure trove of wonders waiting to be explored. Here’s why Cambodia should be part of your bucket list:
See: Cambodia Tour Packages
It is home to the Angkor Wat.
The photos you see in travel magazines don’t give justice to the splendor of Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s most popular temple complex and national symbol.
Every year, at least 2.6 million tourists travel to the country just to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Siem Reap, and for good reason.
The temple built in the 12th century is the largest religious monument in the world and it is surrounded by several structures including Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, and Bayon.
If you’re a sucker for historical places, Angkor Wat is a must-visit site at least once in your life.
It has many unspoiled spots.
Unlike its neighbors, many tourists haven’t explored Cambodia extensively yet. This means that you can still find many unspoiled spots around the country where you can truly relax and have fun.
If you’re about beaches and nature, head to Koh Rong Samloem.
If you’re looking to do some partying, go to Koh Rong for its popular bars.
But if you really want to escape from it all, travel to Koh Ta Kiev where you can stay in a bamboo hut by the beach with no wi-fi or electricity.
It has the warmest locals.
When travelers say that great people make great destinations, they’re probably talking about Cambodia.
The locals are some of the friendliest and most hospitable people anywhere in the world, and they are especially welcoming to travelers who visit their nation.
Cambodians are known for being contented people and most of them can speak and understand English, so communication won’t be a problem.
It offers unique food.
Khmer cuisine is easily overshadowed by Thai and Vietnamese food, but it doesn’t fall short on unique flavors and textures.
All you have to do is visit a food market and buy from street vendors who will prepare your food right in front of you.
Some of the must-try dishes in Cambodia include the famous Fish Amok or steamed white fish in banana leaf topped with lemongrass curry paste, Bok Svay or green mango salad with dried fish, Lap-Khmer or thinly sliced beef cooked ceviche-style and Kdam-chaa or stir-fried crab.
If you’re up for some exotic food adventure, the streets of Cambodia have plenty of snacks for you to munch on including deep-fried crickets and tarantulas.
Ready to be captivated by Cambodia?
There is so much that Cambodia has to offer. It’s also a good starting point if you’re planning to do a backpacking trip around Southeast Asia. Whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple or with the entire family, Cambodia should be part of your bucket list.
