Cambodia
Cambodia carries the weight of its history and the warmth of its people in equal measure. Angkor Wat rises from the jungle at sunrise in a way that stops you mid-sentence. Phnom Penh holds its past with honesty and moves forward with remarkable energy. Further south, Kampot drifts along the river and the islands of Koh Rong offer beaches that make you rethink your flight home.
Unmissable Moments
Seeing Angkor Wat at first light.
The world's largest temple – 200 hectares of 12th-century stone towers rising out of the jungle as the sun breaks. Properly jaw-dropping. Then heading deeper into Ta Prohm and Preah Khan where massive tree roots are literally tearing through stone walls. Pure Indiana Jones energy – temples being swallowed by the jungle, nature reclaiming ancient empire. It's the kind of thing that makes the 4:30 AM wake-up call worth it. Unreal, except it's completely real.
Eating with Your Right Hand: Cambodia's Unspoken Rule
In Cambodia, as in much of Southeast Asia, the left hand is considered unclean, traditionally reserved for personal hygiene. When eating, passing food or receiving something from someone, always use your right hand. It's a small thing that goes a long way in showing respect to the people and culture around you.
Cheat-Sheet:
MAJOR AIRPORT:
Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) and Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI)
CURRENCY:
Cambodian Riel (KHR), though US dollars are widely accepted and commonly used
HIGH TRAVEL SEASON:
November to April (cool, dry and ideal for temple exploring)
LOW TRAVEL SEASON:
May to October (wet season, fewer crowds, lush landscapes and lower prices)
TIPPING CULTURE:
Not expected but genuinely appreciated, a small tip goes a long way in a country where tourism is a major livelihood
HOW TO SAY 'THANK YOU':
Awkoun, pronounced "aw-koon"
Why we love it
Lucy
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