Cambodia Travel Guide

Cambodia OVERVIEW

Cambodia has been plunged in a sea of misery for the last half-millennium. Once a powerful 15th century Khmer Empire, the land was repeatedly raided and plundered by its neighbors and exploited during French colonialism. Years to follow did not brighten up the country with hope for a better future, either. The horrors of 1970s civil war, incredibly brutal Khmer Rouge reign of terror, genocide and atrocities beyond imagination, let alone understanding, have left Cambodia on her knees and bleeding. It is only after UN sponsored elections in 1993 that the country is slowly gaining confidence and raising its head.

For years off the tourist limits, Cambodia is opening its magical treasure box. And, my dear traveler, there are shimmering jewels to be discovered and have you stunned. You will find wild jungle and unspoilt countryside, mystical ancient temples of Angkor Wat where spirituality and symmetry fuse into majesty and hill tribes around Banlung. You will admire the colonial architecture of Battambang and the sun-bleached beaches of Sihanoukville. Phnom Penh, Cambodia's capital, will welcome you with the famed solid gold Buddha while Tuol Sleng will face you with the Khmer Rouge and its killing machine.

Do expect some culinary adventures, too. If you're one of the intrepid foodies to seek out the quirkiest of bite, sample some deep fried spiders and cockroaches, northern Cambodia delicacies and, sadly, reminders of the food crisis endured by Cambodians under the Khmer Rouge. And whoever you are, an independent backpacker to dive into the breathtaking sugar-palm dotted hinterland or a luxury tourist opting for massages and exquisite French meals, Cambodia is ready to satisfy you and cast its magical spell.