Cambodia is an amazing country that deserves to be on any travelers must visit list. From the bustling metropolis of Phnom Penh, to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Angkor Wat, to the tropical islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem, there is something for all types of travelers. Development has dramatically increased in the past decade and things are changing fast, and not always for the better, for this emerging country. Here are our top locations for your visit to Cambodia.
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Getting Around Cambodia
For the most part we found it quite easy to get around Cambodia. We mainly took buses from place to place and the prices were some of the cheapest we experienced in South East Asia. We did splurge and take the Giant Ibis bus from Phnom Penh to Siem reap. The cost was $15, but it includes wifi, online booking and the ability to choose your seat. Most of our other buses cost around $5-$6. Road conditions vary across the country. As of March 2019, there was heavy construction on the highway leading south out of Phnom Penh toward Kampot and Sihanoukville.
Currency
The Cambodian Riel is the official currency of Cambodia, but U.S. Dollars are used in all tourist areas throughout the country and can be withdrawn from all major ATM’s. The exchange rate for riel to dollars is about 4,000 to 1. It’s quite common to pay for things in dollars and receive your change in riel. One thing to note is that ATM’s tend to give out large denominations when withdrawing large amounts. We withdrew $200 at the airport and received 2 $100 bills. It can be quite difficult to find a place that can break such a large bill. We quickly learned to take out smaller increments of $90 at a time. Luckily for us our bank refunds all ATM fees around the world. Check with your bank before leaving home to see if they charge for international ATM charges, as these fees can quickly add up when each ATM charges $5 or more per transaction.
Siem Reap
This once dusty frontier town has definitely been transformed in the last decade. The roads are now paved and trendy bars and restaurants have popped up across town. Famously known as the home to the Angkor Temple Complex, this up an coming town has a lot more to offer than just temples. You could easily spend a week exploring the town, temples, and surrounding area. Sunrise at Angkor Wat is something that should definitely on your list. We also enjoyed sampling the local cuisine, grabbing cocktails on Pub Street and lounging at Cambo Beach Club.
Check out our guide to Siem Reap. Top Things to do in Siem Reap
Battambang
Battambang feels like it is off the beaten path even though it is Cambodia’s second largest city. It lies on the western side of the Tonle Sap Lake, which puts it off of the traditional tourist route. Only 4 hours from Siem Reap, but you won’t find the buses filled with tourists crowding the streets here. The pace is much slower, with a lingering colonial feel. Don’t forget to ride the Bamboo Train. Definitely worth a visit if you have the time.
Check out our guide to Battambang. Top Things to do in Battambang
Phnom Penh
As more and more airlines fly directly to Siem Reap, many people are bypassing Phnom Penh altogether. That is such a shame, as Phnom Penh has so much to offer, and should not be missed. The skyline continues to grow as more and more skyscrapers are being built across town, with many of them decorated with colorful lights that come alive as the sun goes down. We recommend at least 2 or 3 nights in order to experience what this city has to offer.
Check out our guide to Phnom Penh. Top Things to do in Phnom Penh
Kampot
Kampot is the relatively sleepy gem of Southern Cambodia. This laid back town sits along the banks of the Praek Tuek Chhu river and offers a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. You could easily spend 3 or 4 days exploring the town and surrounding areas. We recommend renting a bike or scooter and cruising around town. The side roads are nearly traffic free, which is perfect for a leisurely ride.
Check out our guide to Kampot. The Best Things to do in Kampot
Koh Rong Sanloem
When you think of a tropical paradise chances are you are envisioning something strikingly similar to Koh Rong Sanloem. Crystal clear water, lush tropical forest, white sand beaches, coral reefs – Koh Rong Sanloem has them all. Not all that long ago Koh Rong Sanleom was the much less developed neighbor to the more well known Koh Rong. Today, resorts are sprouting up all over the island to cater to the increased influx of tourists. Even with the increased attention the island still feels secluded and laid back.
Cambodia has so much to offer. The places listed above were our favorites, but there is so much more to explore. We would love any feedback you might have and recommendations of your favorite places and activities in Cambodia. We hope you found the information listed helpful!
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