Tonlé Sap is definitely one of the essential places to visit when exploring Cambodia. To really do it properly and get the most out of the experience, you need to meet the people who inhabit this floating world, head out with the fishermen in their dugout canoes, and discover the myriad different species of birds that inhabit the lake environment. And you can do all this safe in the knowledge that your presence here will actually be of benefit to the people of Tonlé Sap.
I strongly recommend visiting the islands off the coast of Sihanoukville, Kep and Kampot. These are privileged places, ideal for spending one or more days in order to take advantage of their white sand, turquoise water, and everlasting tranquillity.
Don't just visit the temples of Angkor. It's really worth it to spend several days in Siem Reap, to enjoy its many activities and the beauty of its countrysides. Recommended for athletic people, and also for a family trip to Cambodia!
Follow the guide to discover the secrets of Angkor! The temples don't stop with Angkor Wat. If you take the time to travel just a little further you will encounter some real architectural jewels.
Kratié is a provincial town with the quiet charm of the towns along the river. And what a river! The Mekong, the mythical Mekong. Walking along it, admiring the sunset, taking a boat ride, in contemplation... And then, riding a bike, looking for the freshwater dolphin, going across to be an explorer on the island of Koh Trong. Between action and contemplation, you just have to choose.
Go and discover Battambang, the city that suffered the most from the dictatorship and purification by Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge: today its people are trying to reconnect with its culture, and they offer many artistic initiatives.
The plateau where Sen Monorom is located is about 3000 feet above sea level, making it a cool region for Cambodia. The climate plays a particularly important role and you'll need to consider it in your travel plans. The rainy season makes access to the town complicated because of landslides. As for winter, don't forget your fleece, because it gets cold at night!
Sil Island is called that because of the numerous silk weavers who perpetuate their skills. You can spend a day here , cycling around and discovering the real, authentic Cambodia.
Don't miss Tonlé Sap lake, which is the biggest in south-east Asia. It's a hub of daily life and fishing, and the whole Cambodian population depends on it for supplies. It's also a tourist zone with cruises and boat trips.
The town of Kep was the settlers' seaside resort during the time of French occupation, and Kampot was a famous coastal town. Today, these two cities keep their authentic charm and recall this period in Cambodia's history.
