[iWantSun]
Enclosed between two countries and sat on a tiny section of the South
China Sea, Cambodia has to be one of the most fascinating destinations
on earth. Dreadfully poor in places, but always ready to treat you with a
smile, the South-East Asian country is currently undergoing a tourist
boom, and luxury resorts and boutique hotels are springing up all over.
Enjoying a humid and hot climate all year round, it makes a safe
romantic holiday destination where you can stroll along the banks of the
Mekong or stare in wonder at the fabled Angkor Wat complex.
With some of the most pristine and unspoilt beaches anywhere in the
world, charming cultural towns, a frenetic and fascinating capital city,
historic sites to take your breath away, and unrivalled opportunities
for adventure travel, the country is fast becoming an up-and-coming
destination. The civil war is long over, and business and commerce is
once again flourishing as the capital gets back to its cosmopolitan
roots. So sit back and read our guide to this fascinating destination
where the sun never stops shining!
Riverside life
A city-lovers delight, the frenetic capital Phnom Penh is a fascinating
place. At times chaotic and mad, the locals are unbelievably friendly,
and the weather is always hot! First of all take in the Khmer Rouge
horrors of S21 and Cheung Ek. In 1975 the whole capital was evacuated in
three days - the population taken to rural locations to live out the
communist government’s regime. S21 is a prison where interrogations took
place, while Cheung Ek is a large burial ground. Although harrowing,
they are a must to understand Cambodian culture. Get a blind massage at
Seeing Hands, followed by a jacuzzi treatment in Bodia Spa. Rent a tuk
tuk and let the driver take you to the grand Victory Monument as well as
other unique Buddhist statues. Do not miss out on the majestic Royal
Palace - with its detailed handiwork on numerous gold and white pagodas,
it’s very beautiful. With the turquoise Mekong River flowing through
the city centre, it’s only natural that numerous restaurants have sprung
up along the riviera. A good mid-price option is The Riverside Bistro,
which serves local delicacies such as Fish Amok curry. And this can all
be washed down with a tasty Angkor Beer (or two!).
Temple Land
No trip to Cambodia can even be considered without a visit to Angkor
Wat. This huge temple complex built in the 12th century was forgotten
for years until being rediscovered in the 19th century by French
explorers. Hire a tuk-tuk or explore on a bicycle, there are wonders to
be had here! Get up early to witness the sun rise over Angkor Wat
itself, then visit Bayon with its multitude of faces staring at you in
all directions. Ta Prohm is the most unique: left as how the French
explorers first found it. Huge trees have wound their roots through the
stones, and have risen 200 feet up into the air. And culture lovers can
rejoice! The town of Siem Reap holds the temple complex together. With
its happening bar scene down Pub Street, markets, and unique boutique
shops selling art and clothes, it is the place to be at the moment.
Heritage Suites Hotel boasts spacious rooms, beautifully decorated
around a salt-water pool. Get yourself some souvenirs in Phsar Chas
market, and enjoy some European wine at the chic Arts Lounge. The
adventurous can feast on a do-it-yourself Khmer barbeque of snake,
crocodile, and kangaroo. While the even more adventurous can try a deep
fried tarantula!
The coast
Beach-bums rejoice, the south coast of Cambodia offers an unspoilt
coastline of inky blue water, with limestone hills jutting out in the
distance. Sihanoukville is the most touristy, and so the easiest place
to bag a sun-bed! Independence Hotel offers deluxe rooms overlooking a
private beach. The almost haunted town of Kep is a two-hour’s drive
away. Great for a romantic holiday, the unique statues of the town can
be experienced on the back of a moto. The fish market is a brilliant
place to feast on the region’s speciality - crabs. Ask how to peel them,
and dip the fresh meat in a sweet chilli sauce as fishermen chug by on
junk boats. Knai Bang Chatt is a luxury beach retreat in pleasant
surroundings, offering hammock lounging, sailing, yoga, and
snorkelling.
Kampot is a cultural treat, with crumbling French colonial architecture
and a pristine river front. About two miles inland, fantastic evening
cruises can be taken out to sea, while the falling sun drops below
temple-clad mountains. Watch locals exercise communally, and sip a beer
in the waterfront setting. Rikitikitavi boasts boutique rooms on the
riverside, while most hotels in the area can organise a hike up Bokor.
The French hill station now stands 3500 feet above sea level, with
unbelievable views of the sea, while the abandoned and lichen-filled
casino and hotel of the French colonists stand eerily atop the hill
station.
Cambodia is a fascinating destination, truly inspiring. So get here first before every-one else cottons on!
No comments:
Post a Comment