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Cambodia

TRAVEL GUIDE

Cambodia

TRAVEL GUIDE

It's not by chance that Cambodia has become highly popular among eclectic travelers of all sensibilities, whether they're seeking lush jungles spotted with dusty temple ruins, idyllic beaches with an air of luxury, artsy boutique hotels, exciting nouvelle cuisine, or ethical shopping, among numerous other vibrant options. Its rich—some may say loaded—history has peeled away to reveal the admirably dynamic, positive, and creative ability of its people to pull through and launch into new beginnings, bringing Cambodia to the world stage as a destination that stands on its unique cultural identity.

Phnom Penh is the bustling capital, where visitors can dip into the darkest corners of the country's traumatized past by walking through the Killing Fields one day, and the next exploring t... Read More

It's not by chance that Cambodia has become highly popular among eclectic travelers of all sensibilities, whether they're seeking lush jungles spotted with dusty temple ruins, idyllic beaches with an air of luxury, artsy boutique hotels, exciting nouvelle cuisine, or ethical shopping, among numerous other vibrant options. Its rich—some may say loaded—history has peeled away to reveal the admirably dynamic, positive, and creative ability of its people to pull through and launch into new beginnings, bringing Cambodia to the world stage as a destination that stands on its unique cultural identity.

Phnom Penh is the bustling capital, where visitors can dip into the darkest corners of the country's traumatized past by walking through the Killing Fields one day, and the next exploring the hip, edgy, new design boom exemplified by the city's hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops. Siem Reap is still a leading draw because it's the base for visiting the country's architectural crown jewel, the stunning Angkor Wat, which continues to epitomize the merging of spirituality and symbolism. Then there's the South, where once-sleepy coastlines are being transformed, sometimes into tasteless seaside party zones, but in other cases into enchanting havens of stylish beach chic.

An interesting trend with which tourists are met when exploring Cambodia is the staunch support given to local communities by NGOs, the creation of which blossomed in the early 1990s. In the aftermath of Cambodia's grueling civil war, foreign aid groups and governments have poured billions of dollars into the country, but not without coming under scrutiny. Around half of them have faced criticism for lack of structure, profiteering, and the commercialization of humanitarian efforts. Nonprofit organizations—in most cases working toward a better Cambodia—address a wide range of humanitarian, cultural, and environmental issues. Today there are about 3,500 registered NGOs in Cambodia, which has the second-highest number of NGOs per capita in the world, after Rwanda. Many nonprofits now run accommodations, restaurants, and travel agencies that provide the visitor with more than they expect to receive on vacation—the chance to help, and an education. But it's worth checking out the legitimacy of an organization before parting with your money. Do-good travel options are noted in this chapter's listings.

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Language

Khmer

Nearby Airports

REP, PNH

Electrical Outlets

230v/50 cycle; plugs are either U.S. standard two-prong, European standard with two round prongs or UK standard three-prong. Power adapter needed.

Currency

Riel

Language

Khmer

Electrical Outlets

230v/50 cycle; plugs are either U.S. standard two-prong, European standard with two round prongs or UK standard three-prong. Power adapter needed.

Currency

Riel

Nearby Airports

REP, PNH

Cambodia has two seasons, both affected by the monsoon winds. The northeastern monsoon blowing toward the coast ushers in the cool, dry season...Read More

Discover the best neighborhoods in Cambodia with curated recommendations from our editors.

Explore All

Cambodia has two seasons, both affected by the monsoon winds. The northeastern monsoon blowing toward the coast ushers in the cool, dry season...Read More

Discover the best neighborhoods in Cambodia with curated recommendations from our editors.

Explore All

Cambodia has two seasons, both affected by the monsoon winds. The northeastern monsoon blowing toward the coast ushers in the cool, dry season...Read More

Discover the best neighborhoods in Cambodia with curated recommendations from our editors.

Explore All