The Senses of Cambodia

Siem Reap is the gateway to Cambodia’s vast and spectacular temples of Angkor undoubtedly one of the world's greatest archaeological sites. Constructed between the 9th and 15th centuries, these magnificent temples were once the grounds for the Khmer Empire’s capitals. The Angkor Archaeological Park covers around 400 sq km, and the largest, most well-known temple is Angkor Wat. The mysterious architectural techniques used to construct these temples still amaze the world today. Apart from the temples, one can take a Vespa ride and weave through the streets with a local guide on a street food tour. Head into the countryside for a cooking class, cycle or even ride a quad bike along the backroads, passing villages, paddy fields and taking in a more peaceful side to the city. Further afield is Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake - the Tonlé Sap. Cruise past the villages of stilt houses rising from the lake, such as Kampong Phluk town that soars above the water in the dry season and sits on top of the water in the rainy season. Welcoming 2.6 m tourists annually, Siem Reap is one of the biggest tourism hubs in Southeast Asia. From exploring ancient temples and floating villages to indulging in exquisite Khmer cuisine and relaxing in luxurious resorts, the town promises an unforgettable experience that blends cultural immersion with modern comforts.

Battambang is a city located in northwest Cambodia and the second-largest city in the country. It is known for its beautiful colonial architecture, traditional Cambodian art scene, and for being a hub for rice production. Providing arguably the best street food in the country and a busy central market, it is a lovely town to explore by bicycle or on foot. Angkor-era temples, hillside pagodas and, more solemnly, notorious areas relating to the rule of the Khmer Rouge; all can be experienced on a day out from Battambang, but without the crowds like some similar sites in Siem Reap. Outside the city, there are outdoor attractions and eco-tourism activities, including the famous bamboo railway, mountain cycling, kayaking and trekking tours. Battambang is also the country's artistic hub, with an abundance of artists setting up base around the city. It is home to Phare, the country's central institute for artists, singers and dances; and unique circus performances. More than a circus, it is a special storytelling combined with song, art and traditional dance forms.

Phnom Penh is the most populous city in Cambodia and supposed to the most beautiful French built city in Asia. Abandoned during the Khmer Rouge period and with very little development until the 21st century, Phnom Penh has avoided the mass modern high rise development of other cities in the same area. The city maintains a unique vibrancy and provides a fascinating contrast between old and new. For many visitors, Phnom Penh is a transit stop before hopping on to Siem Reap, nevertheless, there are plenty of reasons to linger in the city. From the historical significant sites to understand what happened in Cambodia during the Khmer Rouge and Pol Pot years to the astounding temples and palaces to explore the classic Khmer architecture that make Phnom Penh an excellent location to spend a few days before heading into other parts of the country. Aside from sightseeing, Phnom Penh has a range of options for nightlife options and restaurants, including some great rooftop bars. There are a plethora of street stalls where you can fill up on noodle dishes, filled baguettes and fruit shakes. The bustling riverfront and Sisowath Quay are lined with cafés, restaurants and bars serving cuisine from all over the world. Boeung Keng Kang is also packed with swish cafes, restaurants and bars. The restaurants are reasonably priced, and many visitors end up lingering in Phnom Penh for the restaurant scene.

The small, sleepy town of Kep was founded in the early 1900s during the French colonial period, and towards the ’60s, it was developed into a luxury beach resort town, welcoming laidback visitors to its warm seashores. Things came to a crashing halt when the Khmer Rouge swept into power and most of the villas were abandoned, but thankfully today the town is once again on the rise. The town is best explored by tuk-tuk traveling along the picturesque coastline, stopping at the markets, a fishing village and salt fields to see how locals make a living. A must-do during your stay is to walk through the bustling crab market as locals cook up their fresh catches, before sitting down to sample the local delicacy - crabs fried with Kampot pepper at one of the many restaurants next door. Beyond the town, there are plenty of activities to do. Take a short boat ride to Rabbit Island which remains undeveloped with only a handful of family-run bungalows, restaurants and seaweed farms. Providing a real taste of rustic island life, this is the ideal place for outdoor activities such as snorkelling, sunbathing and beach barbecues. The jungle-like Kep National Park is also nearby, home to butterflies, monkeys, snakes, squirrels and birds. Let's challenge yourself with a well-marked 8km circuit navigable by foot, mountain bike, or motorbike for a spectacular view over the region.

Kampot is a charming riverside town located in the south of Cambodia. Once a bustling trading port, Kampot still boasts a Chinese population, their single-storey houses, built without stilts, contrasting with the Khmer stilt-houses and colonial shophouses that grace the town’s streets behind the sun-kissed, tree-lined riverfront. A gentle stroll, cycle or tuk tuk ride through the town will take you past crumbling French colonial architecture, the Old Market as well as Kampot Wat, the main Buddhist temple. Kampot’s surrounding countryside is scenic, tranquil and well worth a ride along the red dirt roads as you pass through villages, plantations, paddy fields, palm trees and locals going about their daily lives. This town is also the perfect base to explore the Bokor Hill Station on top of Bokor Mountain, which is often coated in a thick mist adding to the mythical feel of the place. The coastal town is also well-known for its pepper, often regarded as some of the best in the world. Pepper production here has been documented as far back as the 13th century, and the climate and soil in the province are ideal for the plants, providing a distinct aromatic flavour that has made it such a world-renowned product. A stay in Kampot would be incomplete without a visit to a plantation to discover how several variations of the famous spice are grown, harvested and eaten.

Sihanoukville, located on the southern coast of Cambodia, is bustling tourist attraction for those who seeking sun, sea, and sand. Known for its vast coastline, untouched as well as bustling beaches, the port town is a heaven for laidback time and water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Sihanoukville also offers a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous beachfront bars and clubs. Additionally, the city is a jumping-off point to nearby breathtaking islands, including Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, which are easily accessible by boat. Embark on an island-hopping adventure and discover the hidden gems that await you offshore. Visitors can also explore the Ream National Park, an area of outstanding natural beauty with mangrove forest and fine sandy beaches. Lace up your hiking boots and venture into this lush wilderness to discover its stunning viewpoints, cascading waterfalls, and serene rivers. Or travel by boat through the mysterious forests to witness the unique ecosystem thriving in these brackish waters and a variety of wildlife including macaques, gibbons, hornbills, and even elusive leopard cats.