CAMBODIA |
A mesmerising land refreshingly untouched by tourism |
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THAILAND
Battambang
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Siem Reap / Angkor |
M ekong Rive |
Don Khone
Lumphat
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Bursting with temples , UNESCO World Heritage sites and silky beaches , Cambodia has overcome its recent tragic past to become one of Southeast Asia ’ s best travel destinations . In the captivating capital Phnom Penh , broad tree lined boulevards and ramshackle French-colonial architecture provide an attractive backdrop to the colourful markets , riverfront and roadside vendors . For many , a highlight of any visit to Cambodia is the vast temple complex of Angkor , a UNESCO World Heritage site . Superbly preserved and visually entrancing , the vast centrepiece Angkor Wat was built to replicate the heavens on earth . Gateway to the temples is the former backwater town of Siem Reap , now a lively city with sophisticated restaurants , bars and shops . Within easy reach of Siem Reap are the string of floating villages and stilted houses on Tonle Sap , Southeast Asia ’ s largest freshwater lake . Also close by is Battambang , an engaging city known for its striking colonial architecture and contemporary arts scene , as well as the departure point of the quirky Bamboo ‘ Train ’. In southwest Cambodia amid the wildlife-rich rainforest and coastal mangroves of the Cardamom Mountains , get back to nature with conservation activities , wildlife treks , kayaking or simply absorb the incredible vistas . The riverside city of Kampot is very atmospheric and ringed by tranquil countryside and pepper plantations . Where better to conclude a beguiling cultural tour than Cambodia ’ s southern beaches . Kep , which originated as a retreat for the French elite in 1908 , has a tranquil air and is famed for its seafood . For pure escapism it ’ s hard to beat the untouched Koh Rong Islands with their pristine sands and warm crystal-clear waters . Equally idyllic , Krabey Island is a droplet of paradise and will suit anyone seeking a secluded beach experience . |