CAMBODIA TRAVEL GUIDE
Cambodia is one of my favourite countries in Southeast Asia. It’s not as developed as Thailand, which is nice, the people are reserved but very friendly and there’s lots to see from deserted beaches to the temples of Angkor Wat.
Siem Reap is a popular town with great nightlife and the starting point to visit Angkor Wat and surrounding temples. Watching the sunrise over the temple is wonderful and reason alone to visit Cambodia. They also filmed ‘Tomb Raider’ in some of the smaller temples with Angelina Jolie. Exploring the old ruins, that have half been taken over by jungle feels like an adventure not to dissimilar to that of the film.
From Kep, you can take a small boat over to Rabbit Island, where there is no wifi and only a handful of simple beach huts and cafes. This is a great chance to get away from the modern world and really start to unwind. The capital city Phnom Penh is lively, busy and noisy. There are several markets to explore selling everything from food, jewellery, hand crafted goods, clothing and cheap electronics (although I’m not sure how god they’ll be). The food is delicious from the markets and cooked in front of you.
You can also head out into the countryside and explore the relaxed town of Battambang. Or take a visit the S21 prison and killing fields to learn more about Cambodia’s violent past. Although an upsetting visit, it can be a way to learn more about the resilience of the Cambodian people and of the horrors that when on during the Khmer Rouge era. Now, Cambodia is a welcoming country, with lots to see and do and with prices remaining very cheap by Western standards, it’s great for backpacking on a budget.
SOLO FEMALE TRAVEL IN CAMBODIA
Travelling alone in Cambodia is very safe and a country I would recommend along with most others in Southeast Asia. It’s pretty easy to get around, you will undoubtably meet many others doing the same in the hostels and the locals are friendly.
Most places speak good enough English to get by too, which helps. Just take general safety precautions like keeping your belongings close by you- there are instances of bag snatching around. Dressing moderately in the temples. do a bit of research on tuk tuk prices as the driver might put up the prices unfairly.
Apart from the general precautions, Cambodia is very safe and recommended for solo female travellers.
BEST TIME TO VISIT CAMBODIA
Dry season: November to May is dry season. November to February is particularly busier due to much cooler temperatures. Bear in mind that prices of accommodation will go up during this time. March to May is a very hot time to visit.
Wet season: June to October is rainy season so some roads do get flooded. Still, I went during this time and the scenery was super green and Angkor temples reasonably quiet. The rain can make for an interesting atmosphere for photos too.
POSTS FROM CAMBODIA
How to Spend 36 Hours in Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Phnom Penh is the busy capital city of Cambodia and although maybe not as attractive as say Siem Reap or the islands, there is still plenty of things to do here that shouldn’t be missed. Cambodia’s capital is noisy, busy and cultural. If you’re short on time then here’s my itinerary on how to spend
Cambodia’s Killing Fields & S21 Prison: A Sombre Visit
Cambodia’s Killing fields are one of the most humbling and emotional places I’ve visited. In this post I’ll explain why they are worth a visit to find out about the countries history and to learn more abut the atrocities that when on during this time. Don’t know much about Cambodia’s past? Neither did I until
Cambodia: What’s the food like?
Cambodian or Khmer food has influences from neighbouring countries such as Thailand and Vietnam but definitely has it’s own distinct taste. Some dishes can be spicy but most curries are not as hot as the ones you will find in Thailand and are made with a much more sweet taste. I must admit I do
Have You Been to Cambodia’s Rabbit Island?
A simple beautyRabbit Island is what I would imagine some of Thailand’s islands to be like, only 15 years ago. It’s pretty much undeveloped AND that’s the exact reason why you should go there. With no internet, no fancy hotels and not a huge amount to do, Cambodia’s Rabbit Island is a simple paradise in
Catching the Sunrise at Angkor Wat, Cambodia
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Angkor Wat’s Surrounding Temples: Tomb Raider Style
Time to explore the temples of Angkor Wat… Although Angkor Wat is the main attraction, the archaeological park houses numerous more temples to explore in this huge and exciting complex. You could get lost for days here exploring all the temples. I only had 1 day so did Angkor Wat and Bayon Temple in the
Siem Reap: Gateway to Angkor
Siem Reap is a small but busy town and the base for most tourists visiting Angkor Wat. This was one of my favourite towns, with lots of activities, shopping, nightlife and friendly locals. It’s a great town for backpackers but also catering to all budgets. There is a lot of nightlife with cheap drinks and
A Must Do: Riding Battambang’s Bamboo Train, Cambodia
Although being made increasingly popular by the bamboo train, Battambang is a city in North-western Cambodia, not frequently visited by travellers- but it totally should be. Cheap eats and delicious milkshakes are to be had in the market and the town is surrounded by beautiful countryside. Accommodation here is cheap too, I had a basic
Is Sihanoukville, Cambodia Worth a Visit?
Sihanoukville shorelineSihanoukville, on the Southern-West coast of Cambodia, has mixed reviews and depending on what you’re looking for you will either love it or hate it. Known for being a party town with ever increasing casinos and resorts, it’s a backpacker hangout suited for a young crowd. However, it is the gateway to Cambodia’s south