Highlights van Cambodja

About the destination: Siem Reap is the capital city of Siem Reap Province in northwestern Cambodia. It is a popular resort town and a gateway to the Angkor region. Siem Reap has colonial and Chinese-style architecture in the Old French Quarter, and around the Old Market. In the city, there are museums, traditional Apsara dance performances, a Cambodian cultural village, souvenir and handycraft shops, silk farms, rice-paddies in the countryside, fishing villages and a bird sanctuary near the Tonle Sap Lake. Siem Reap today—being a popular tourist destination—has a large number of hotels, resorts, restaurants and businesses closely related to tourism. This is much owed to its proximity to the Angkor temples, the most popular tourist attraction in Cambodia.

About the destination: Discover Hanchey, a hidden gem nestled within the majestic landscapes of Cambodia. This enchanting locale offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage that is simply irresistible to the discerning traveler. Hanchey is most renowned for its awe-inspiring Bamboo Bridge, a testament to local ingenuity and resilience. This remarkable structure, rebuilt annually after the monsoon season, spans the mighty Mekong River, providing a unique crossing experience for visitors and locals alike. While in Hanchey, visit the Hanchey Bamboo Resort, an eco-friendly retreat offering breathtaking views of the Mekong River and the lush Cambodian countryside. Stay in one of their charming bamboo bungalows, indulge in traditional Khmer cuisine, and participate in a range of activities that promote sustainable tourism. No trip to Hanchey would be complete without a visit to Wat Hanchey, an ancient hilltop pagoda dating back to the 8th century. Here, you can immerse yourself in Cambodia’s spiritual traditions, explore the intricately carved sandstone structures, and enjoy panoramic views of the Mekong River and surrounding landscapes. Hanchey also serves as a gateway to the fascinating world of rural Cambodia. Embark on a guided tour to witness the simple yet fulfilling lives of the local community. Learn about their age-old traditions, witness the process of making handmade silk, and participate in a traditional cooking class. As the sun begins to set, take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront, where you can witness the daily life of the local fishermen and enjoy the tranquil ambiance. The vibrant hues of the sunset reflecting in the waters of the Mekong is a sight to behold, a perfect ending to your day in Hanchey. Immerse yourself in the untouched beauty and rich cultural tapestry of Hanchey. This Cambodian treasure is sure to offer an unforgettable travel experience that will stay with you long after your journey ends.

About the destination: Phnom Penh, located at the confluence of the Mekong and the Tonle Sap rivers, is the capital and largest city of Cambodia. There is a very strong French influence in Cambodia, particularly Phnom Penh, so much so that the city was once known as the Paris of the East. The French developed the canal system, ports, roads and buildings. Even though most of the city’s French flair has disappeared, there are a few beautiful French colonial buildings remaining. The Riverside district with its charming river walk, is full of hotels, restaurants and bars looking over the river and is very handy for visiting the main tourist sites. The main tourist attractions in Phnom Penh are Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, the Killing Fields, the National Museum, the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda and the temple Wat Phnom. Today, Phnom Penh is one of the fast growing cities in Southeast Asia and you can find upmarket cuisine, a very good arts scene and a vast array of markets. Phnom Penh is a worthwhile destination and a convenient base to explore the rest of the country.

About the destination: Immerse yourself in the rustic charm and natural beauty of Khlong Yai, a hidden gem nestled in the southeastern part of Thailand. Just a stone's throw away from the Cambodian border, Khlong Yai offers travelers a unique fusion of Thai and Cambodian culture, coupled with picturesque landscapes that are sure to captivate your senses. Khlong Yai is a destination that welcomes you with open arms into a world where time seems to stand still. This serene coastal town is best known for its thriving fishing industry, which provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the local people. As you walk down the bustling fishing pier, you can watch the fishermen going about their daily tasks, mending their nets and selling their fresh catch of the day. One of the must-visit spots in Khlong Yai is the renowned Had Sai Yao Beach. This lengthy strip of soft golden sand is fringed by swaying palm trees and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal place for sunbathing, swimming, and other beach activities. As the sun sets, the beach transforms into a vibrant venue where locals and tourists gather to enjoy delicious seafood barbecues under the starlit sky. Khlong Yai is also home to a number of Buddhist temples, with Wat Khao Lan being the most prominent one. Perched atop a hill, this temple offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding sea. The temple itself is an architectural marvel, with its intricate carvings and stunning murals that depict various scenes from Buddhist mythology. Foodies will find themselves in a paradise of flavors in Khlong Yai. The local cuisine is a delightful blend of Thai and Cambodian influences. Don't miss out on trying the fresh seafood dishes, particularly the spicy shrimp soup and the grilled fish, which are local specialties. Another unique feature of Khlong Yai is its vibrant markets. Visit the morning market for a wide array of fresh produce and the night market for a variety of street food, handmade crafts, and clothing. These markets provide a perfect opportunity to mingle with the locals and get a taste of their way of life. Khlong Yai is more than just a travel destination. It's a place where you can slow down, breathe in the fresh sea air, and immerse yourself in the simple pleasures of life. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a culture vulture, or a food lover, Khlong Yai promises a memorable travel experience that will linger in your heart and soul long after your journey ends.

About the destination: Battambang is the capital city of Battambang province in north western Cambodia. Founded in the 11th century by the Khmer Empire, Battambang is the leading rice-producing province of the country. For nearly 100 years it was a major commercial hub and provincial capital of Siamese province of Inner Cambodia (1795-1907), though it was always populated by Khmer, with some ethnic Vietnamese, Lao, Thai and Chinese. Battambang remains the hub of Cambodia's northwest, connecting the region with Phnom Penh and Thailand. The city is situated on the Sangkae River, a tranquil, small body of water that winds its way picturesquely through Battambang Province. As with much of Cambodia, French Colonial architecture is a notable aspect of the city, with some of the best-preserved examples in the country.