Vacations in Cambodia
Introduction to Cambodia
Cambodia, a country with rich cultures and histories which can be dated to 1 B.C., is finally emerging from the impact from years of wars. The Khmer civilization started in 9th century, whereby the culture was greatly influenced by the Indian Civilization. The first King of Kampuchea, King Jayavarman was crowned in 802 A.D. This Angkor Empire/Khmer Empire remained a dominant position in the Cambodian history and was a monarchy system mirrored Indian Empire.
During Khmer Empire, many temples and statutes were built to worship Hindu God. Among all, the most well preserved temple is Angkor Wat, and the ancient capital city Angkor Thom. Angkor means “City” in Sanskrit Language.However, since 13th century, with the fall of the Khmer Empire, neighboring countries like Vietnam and Thailand started invading the borders until French colonial took control of Cambodia in 1887. Nonetheless, the dark ages of the Khmer in history was a civil war from 1975 to 1979 between military regime of General Lon Nol and the communist, Khmer Rouge. The Khmer Rouge which led by Pol Pot ruled Cambodia from 1975 to 1979, where life of 1/3 of the 7.5 million population was seized during this 4 years period. A former high school was renamed to Toul Sleng by the Khmer Rouge and used as a security prison and interrogation center. The civil war ended with Vietnam invaded Cambodia as a measure to protect its border from Khmer Rouge incursion.
In fact, Cambodia had gained its independence from France in 1953. The Independence Monument was built in memorable of the independence in 1954.
Today, Phnom Penh is the capital city of Cambodia with most population. It serves as a political, business and industrial hub whereas Siem Reap is a popular tourist attraction point with the famous Angkor Wat.
Transportation in Cambodia
For transportation across town, a motorized bicycle, locally referred to as “tuk tuk” is a good option. Price generally ranges from USD1 to USD 2 per person. Tuk Tuk is a better option compared to driving a car as most towns are lack of proper traffic governance.
There are domestic flight service operated by Siem Reap Airways between Phnom Penh International Airport and Siem Reap International Airport. Alternatively, travel by road is another option. Mekong Express, the Cambodian long distance bus operator has the best reputation and service. Lastly, during the raining season (May to October), there are boat service operated between major cities.
Official Language in Cambodia
The official language is Khmer, but English is gaining its popularity by the locals due to sprouting tourism. French are also a popular language due to Cambodia was once a French Colonial.
Currency in Cambodia
Riel is the official Cambodian currency. Nonetheless, US Dollar is preferred and widely use. Remember to prepare small USD denomination, especially USD1 and USD5 to avoid the hassle of change.
Immigration Requirement in Cambodia
Every foreigner exiting Cambodia is required to pay USD25 to the custom.
Best time to Travel to Cambodia
The best time to visit Cambodia is from November to March, where the temperature ranging from 21ºC to 35ºC. Temperature can go as high as 40ºC. in the month of April. May to October is the raining wet season.
Places of Interest in Cambodia
Phnom Penh
The capital city and largest in Cambodia. It was once known as Pearl of the Orient. There’s a legend on how the city is named. Legend had said that a grandma named ‘Penh’ had found a Buddha statue at nearby river and thus decided to settle down on a small hill nearby. Hence the name Phnom Pehn (Phnom means hill).
Siem Reap / Angkor Wat
Best known for its proximity to Angkor Wat, Siem Reap is today a popular tourist destination with wide selection of hotels and restaurants. While Angkor Wat remains the main attraction, there are plenty of other things to experience, such as a trip to floating village and cultural village, dinner with Aspara Dance performance, bicycle tour around the rice paddies field, or a visit to silk farm and craft workshop.