Cambodia travel. An extraordinary trip to Cambodia

The visiting card of Cambodia is, of course, the Angkor temple complex. The classic one-day option for visiting the main attraction looks like this: you negotiate with a tuk-tuk driver (you can’t drive a motorbike around Angkor on your own), and he takes you to watch the sunset (it’s worth considering that there will be about 200 other people with you). The next morning you go to watch the sunrise (be sure to check the sunrise time on the Internet, as they often arrive an hour and a half earlier); Afterwards, spend the whole day moving from one temple to another. Those who do not want to share the mystical atmosphere of the temple ruins with a crowd of tourists should come here as soon as dawn (but the sun has not yet risen) and walk along the deserted corridors alone with the patterned bas-reliefs.

• When to visit Angkor: early morning before noon and after three o'clock in the afternoon.
• How to dress: light clothing covering shoulders and knees (respect temples and protect yourself from the sun).
• How to behave: Make friends with the tuk-tuk driver and arrange for him to take you to the temples in reverse order to avoid groups of tourists.
• What to take: Bring water, a hat and sunscreen.

No. 2. Siem Reap

In my opinion, Siem Reap is the most pleasant town in Cambodia. The infrastructure is well developed here, there are a lot of hotels for every taste, excellent service and very tasty cuisine. Due to the fact that Angkor is the main source of income from the tourism sector throughout Cambodia, everything here looks relatively prosperous.

A classic day for a traveler in Siem Reap looks like this: the morning and first half of the day are given over to Angkor, or spent in the arms of Morpheus after a stormy night the night before; after four o'clock in the afternoon everyone returns to the hotels, where they can swim in the pool or enjoy massages and spa treatments. When darkness falls, all the people flock to two points - Pub Street and the Night Market. In the market you will find many useful and useless goods, both local and Chinese. It is worth paying attention to scarves made of silk or cotton and various kitchen utensils carved from the trunk of a coconut tree. In addition to shopping at the night market, you can get a massage. In local restaurants you can try frogs and crocodile steak, and also unexpectedly catch an excellent concert of some little-known Filipino band.

• How many days to spend: minimum 3 days.
• What to do: circle Angkor-Spa-Shopping-Restaurant-Nightclub-Angkor and choose your favorite activity to repeat the next day.

No. 3. Battambang

Battambang is just a village compared to Siem Reap. But it’s convenient to stop here on the way to Phnom Penh for a day or two. The most interesting thing in the vicinity of the city is the mountain with the Phnom Sampeou temple. You can spend the whole day here, calmly climbing to the top and stopping along the way at quaint monuments and Buddha statues. Everything here seems to have been done by a big child - primitive, but at the same time very touching. This is probably where Alice would have ended up if she lived in Cambodia. In addition to the hill with the Phnom Sampo Temple, Battambang has another hill with the ruins of the Phnom Banan Temple, an abandoned Pepsi factory and a local attraction - the bamboo train.

• How many days to spend: maximum 2 days.
• What to do: Take a break from the hustle and bustle of Angkor Wat and meditate on the top of the hill.

No. 4. Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh is a city of contrasts. Some are in a hurry to leave here as soon as possible so as not to see the dirt and poverty, while others happily walk along the wide avenue, visit palaces and temples, and in the evening sit on the Mekong embankment, drinking iced coffee and detachedly watching the life of the city . Phnom Penh is actively growing, clearing dirt and child prostitution from the central streets. It’s convenient to stop here for a day or two to see with your own eyes the city that was once the prosperous capital of Indochina, and then, deserted in the bloody seventies, stood for 4 years collapsing.

• How many days to spend: maximum 2-3 days.
• What to do: visit the main attractions (Wat Phnom on the hill, the Royal Palace, the National Museum of Cambodia, the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum), spend the evening on the Mekong embankment, join group aerobics on the square at the Cambodia-Vietnam Friendship Monument, try the whole variety of Khmer cuisine.

No. 5. Sihanoukville

And of course, the main resort place in Cambodia is Sihanoukville. Here you will find sand, sea, hotels for every budget size, delicious seafood, and noisy bars. In short, the ideal place to end your trip to Cambodia. If two days of lying on the beach are enough for you, and the spirit of adventurism haunts you, then feel free to go sailing around the nearby islands, taking a snorkeling mask with you. Stay longer on one of the uninhabited islands and imagine yourself as a character from the movie Cast Away.

• How many days to spend in Sihanoukville: minimum 5, or up to 2 weeks.
• What to do: enjoy a beach holiday, get a massage every day, go to a mini-cinema, go to the islands, climb Mount Bokor, meet everyone in bars.

No. 6. Bokor

Another interesting place that is unfairly missed by many travel agencies is Mount Bokor. It is located in the vicinity of a town with a cute name for the Russian ear Kampot, just two hours drive from Sihanoukville. At the top of the mountain there was once the residence of the king and a casino that was very popular in the 50s. Now all the buildings, including a church and a post office, are in disrepair and look like something out of a mystical thriller, especially when the fog creeps in. The unexpectedly eerie atmosphere and mountain coolness make it worth spending a day here.

Where to stay:

• Siem Reap:

The hotel is located in the very center, next to the bar street and market. Spacious modern rooms are suitable for young couples and groups of travelers.

Delightful cozy bungalows with gardens and a pond on site. A high level of service and its own theater are an excellent choice for discerning travelers.

• Battambang:

Nice hotel in the town center with a wide range of prices. There is a wonderful terrace on the roof where the restaurant is located.

Spacious modern rooms and good level of service. The hotel is located in a quiet location, but close to the center.

Cambodia is one of the least explored countries in Southeast Asia by tourists. If today only a lazy tour operator does not offer inexpensive tour packages to neighboring Thailand, then Russian tour operators practically do not work directly with this country. Therefore, we will tell you how to organize an independent trip to this exotic and mysterious country of ancient and modern monuments, beautiful beaches and delicious Khmer cuisine. We offer two options for traveling to Cambodia.

1. Book your own flights to Cambodia

Let us immediately note that this method is not budgetary precisely for the reason that tour operators practically do not carry out charter flights to Kampuchea, as the Asians themselves call the country, and regular direct flights from Russia to Cambodia are an almost mythical phenomenon.

Go to the websites of airline ticket booking systems and book seats on flights with one or two connections.

The estimated cost of tickets is from 35 thousand rubles. per adult round trip passenger. Planes usually arrive in the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh or in the tourist town of Siem Reap.

Despite the fact that Phnom Penh is the main administrative city of the country, it does not abound in tourist attractions. Do not forget that for several decades until the 90s, Cambodia was torn apart by civil war and its consequences. Many buildings and people were destroyed. The initiator of the war was the bloody dictator Pol Pot. It is in Phnom Penh that you can visit the building of a former concentration camp for Cambodians who did not join the Khmer Rouge. You can stay in this city for a couple of days to explore it, wander through the streets of the capital and be amazed at how sincerely friendly and welcoming the Khmer people are, despite all the recent suffering caused by the war.

The cost of guesthouses in Phnom Penh, as in the cities of Siem Reap and Sihanoukville, starts from $5 for a simple “bedroom” without air conditioning to $20-30 for an apartment in a luxury hotel or guesthouse.

Next from Phnom Penh you can head to the city of Siem Reap, which attracts about two million tourists every year. People come here mainly to see the monument of religious architecture - Angkor Wat. The city is replete with a variety of cafes with delicious and inexpensive food from different nations of the world. Dishes cost $1.50 and up. You can get here from Phnom Penh by a regular bus, which runs daily several times a day, or you can order a local taxi. The road from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap will cost approximately 10 to 20 dollars per person.

From Siem Reap there are direct buses to the seaside resort town of Sihanoukville, famous for its wonderful beaches and active nightlife. The cost of the bus is from 11 dollars. You can take a taxi for about 40-50 dollars per car.

Another cost item is a Cambodian entry visa, which is issued to Russian citizens after 30 days of stay and costs $20. Getting a visa is easy. To do this, you need one photo for a visa, an international passport and a completed arrival card, the form of which is issued by border guards.

2. Buy a tour package to Thailand, and upon arrival buy a tour to Cambodia

This is a simpler in terms of organization and a budget option. From different parts of Russia, tour packages to Thailand for two weeks today cost from 20 thousand rubles. per person. There are a lot of travel agencies in Pattaya or Bangkok that offer excursions in Russian to neighboring Cambodia lasting two days and costing from 4,000 rubles.

Fast, inexpensive and convenient. There is only one thing: on these trips, led by accompanying persons and guides, you will not get the full experience of the trip that independent tourists get. However, it is very convenient when traveling, for example, with a small child.

Choose a travel option that is convenient for you and enjoy the unique exoticism of Cambodia!

Priceless treasures of the ancient Khmer country for those who do not have a million and those who do.
In the pre-dawn fog rising from the jungles of Cambodia, in the rays of the morning sun, ancient temples entwined with vines slowly appear one after another with cracked walls containing traces of medieval wars; In the ruins, only the sound of the wind can be heard. The ancient temples of Angkor, in various stages of destruction, are located over a vast area in the northern part of the country and represent one of the most amazing archaeological sites on our planet.
But many are deeply mistaken, believing that there is nothing else to see in Cambodia besides Angkor and prefer to spend a maximum of three days staying in the country, as a transit stop from Thailand to Vietnam. And only real travelers know that in Cambodia you can have a complete vacation, combining a beach holiday with a varied excursion program.
The capital, Phnom Penh, has a small-town feel with impressive river views, bustling markets and streets bustling with scooters. The area between Phnom Penh and the closest city to Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, is home to a number of charming, sleepy towns, a legacy of the French colonialists. When traveling in the north or east of the country, you need to visit villages where national minorities live, wander through ancient cemeteries and admire waterfalls, or go to the south of the country if you like tropical waters and mountains. And travelers will always be rewarded with the warmth and hospitality of the locals.
We have selected the best cities and places for those who want to go on an independent trip to Cambodia and not miss the most interesting things.

9 reasons to go on an independent trip to Cambodia

ANGKOR WAT
Lost in the jungle for hundreds of years, these majestic temples still retain the charm of days gone by.
CARDAMOM MOUNTAINS
This part of the country has the greatest biological diversity in Southeast Asia; The landscape is dominated by mangrove forests, winding rivers and rushing waterfalls.
PHNOM PENH
Everything in this amazing city - from ancient buildings from the era of French colonialists to the infamous "Killing Fields" - is literally imbued with the spirit of history.
TONLE SAP LAKE
There are several floating villages located in the protected biosphere area. This is a paradise for eco-tourism lovers who love to spend time observing the life and habits of birds.
MONDULKIRI PROVINCE
An amazing place with green hills and pristine forests; This area is home to more than half of Cambodia's entire elephant population.
RATANAKIRI PROVINCE
Visit secluded minority villages, wander through ancient cemeteries and sail to lakes in the craters of extinct volcanoes.
KEP
Soak up the atmosphere of a sleepy coastal town and sample some wonderful seafood.
ARCHITECTURE
A combination of quaint buildings in cities dating back to the French colonial era, Art Deco buildings with hints of Soviet-era Communist influences are all reflected in Cambodia's varied architectural history.
PEOPLE
The cheerful, welcoming and hospitable people of Cambodia will also become an integral part of getting to know this country.

How to get to Cambodia

By plane. Now getting to Cambodia is not as difficult as it once was, because the country is served by two large international airports. One of them is located in Phnom Penh; the other is located in Siem Reap, the closest city to Angkor Wat.

From Moscow, St. Petersburg, Vladivostok and other Russian cities, you can get to Cambodia with only 1-2 transfers via, Shanghai, Seoul, and even . Airlines Cambodia Angkor Air, Vietnam Airlines, Thai Airways, China Eastern- these are just a few of the list of air carriers operating flights to this ancient country. Travelers can get from the airport to their desired location by taxi or tuk-tuk.

By bus or car. Cambodia has good road connections with Laos, Vietnam and Thailand. It is quite convenient to cross the border with these three nearby states. Most often, the route runs through border checkpoints in Aranyaprathethe And Had Lek in Thailand, in Voeung Kam in Laos and also in Mok-bae, Ving Xuong, Xa Xia And Le Tanh in the province Gia Lai in Vietnam.
On the ferry. The border with Phnom Penh can be reached by one of the passenger ferries operating between Chau Doc(Vietnam) and the capital of Cambodia. Travelers can also arrive from Laos from the border crossing at Koh Chheuteal Thom, but since ticket prices are not cheap, many tourists prefer road transport to river transport.

When to go. Best time to visit Cambodia

The climate in Cambodia is typically tropical - it is hot and humid almost all year round. Two types of monsoons have the greatest influence on the climate: southwestern and northeastern. The southwest monsoons bring downpours to the country from May to October, while the northeast monsoons bring downpours from November to March.
In general, in the northern part of the country, which occupies two-thirds of its territory, the dry season lasts longer than in the rest of Cambodia. The average temperature in most of the country, especially in the area around the Tonle Sap Lake basin, ranges from 22C to 28C. The amount of precipitation depends on the altitude: in the mountains the climate is the most humid.
Summer in Cambodia is unbearable - hot, humid; This is the most unpleasant time of year in the country. And the worst thing is that even during the rest of the year it often rains; northeastern monsoon showers occur in most parts of the country even in November.
The best period to visit Cambodia is December-February, when the air temperature is quite acceptable and there are no showers. Rainy season, mainly occurs during the period from April to October; but even at this time of year you can have a pleasant time in the country, especially if you want to see Anchor Wat in all its splendor: all the natural springs are filled with water and the greenery around is in full bloom.

Visa to Cambodia

Since November 21, 2012, an agreement has been in force between Thailand and Cambodia, according to which you can stay in the territory of one of the countries with a visa from another country, but the period of stay should not exceed the validity period of the visa. In fact, this agreement is often ignored by Cambodian border guards, so in order to avoid annoying misunderstandings, it is better to take care of a visa to Cambodia in advance. Obtaining a national visa to enter the country is quite simple and you can use any convenient method.
METHOD 1. VISA ON ARRIVAL
A visa can be obtained upon arrival at the airport of Phnom Penh or Siem Reap or crossing the border by land through any of the checkpoints.

DOCUMENTS FOR VISA TO CAMBODIA
— a valid international passport;
— 1 photo* of a passport type.
* if you don’t have a photo with you, you will have to pay a “fine” of $3 and the documents will be accepted.
— a completed application form, which is issued at the checkpoint.
Visa cost: $20
Registration time – 20 minutes

METHOD 2. ELECTRONIC VISA
I get a visa on the website of the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, after filling out the form. The cost of the visa in this case will be $28 (payment is made by credit card). The only drawback of such a visa is that you can only enter Cambodia with it if you cross the border by air, that is, fly from Bangkok to Siem Reap or Ho Chi Minh City - Phnom Penh (other options are possible). Or you cross the border through a land checkpoint, but only through the Cham Yeam (Aranyaprathet, Thailand) and Moc Bai (Vietnam) border crossings.
METHOD 3. VISA AT THE EMBASSY
You can obtain a visa either directly in Russia or in any other country where there is a Cambodian embassy. To obtain it, in addition to your international passport, you will need 3 color photographs (4×6) and a completed application form. The cost of the visa is $20 or the equivalent currency of the country in which you are submitting documents.
The visa processing time will be a little more than a day (you submit documents in the morning, the next day after lunch you pick up your passport with a visa).

Ways to get around Cambodia

Traveling around Cambodia is not that difficult thanks to well-developed transport links. You can use airline services Bangkok Airways And Thai Air Asia And Cambodia Angkor Air servicing Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Battambang, Kompong Som,Koh Kong And Stang Treng.

While getting to the border with Cambodia by car is not difficult, traveling inside the country on Cambodian roads is not the best choice due to their deplorable condition. Therefore, it is best to travel long distances along the country’s water routes. There are about 1,900 kilometers of rivers and shipping canals in Cambodia. The country's capital, Phnom Penh, can be reached by sea.
To get around the city, you can rent taxis, motorcycles, scooters, tuk-tuks, tricycles - samlors and cycles; there is also a fairly acceptable quality bus service in the suburbs of the capital. Public transport is a relatively inexpensive way to get around the city that you can use without putting your budget at risk. However, it is still worth bargaining when getting into a taxi. Smile and be sure that the driver will agree to give you a ride at a discount. If you want to rent a car, contact the tourism office staff in Siem Reap or Pohn Penh - they will issue a government car with a driver.

Siem Reap

Once a small trading town, Siem Reap is now experiencing a period of extraordinary prosperity, largely due to the fact that the city is the gateway to Angkor Wat. The city has an incredible selection of great hotels, restaurants and bars, but to experience authentic Cambodia you need to venture further afield, such as strolling through the local market or surrounding villages. From Siem Reap it is easy to get to Tonle Sap Lake - a place where there are several floating villages, the largest of which is home to about 10,000 people; all these people live by fishing. Visit one of the local houses if you want to get a closer look at the life of local fishermen and have lunch with a local family.
The lake's water comes from the Mekong, and the water level fluctuates throughout the year, so the lake is at its most picturesque from October to December, when it is full after summer rains.
There, on Lake Tonle Sap, there is a biosphere reserve Preak Toal, considered one of the best bird watching destinations in Southeast Asia; For example, it is home to such rare species of waterfowl as the greater and lesser adjutant, the Steller's ibis, the Indian beaked whale and the snakebird. True nature lovers can take a one-day visit to the local biological station to observe changes in bird activity at different times from dawn to dusk.
One of the most exciting adventures in Siem Reap can be experienced while flying over the area in a helicopter, taking in truly beautiful views of the Kingdom of Angkor. The flight route passes over the temples of Ankor Wat, as well as the Hindu temple of Prasat Kravan, whose age is more than 1000 years old, the Sras Sranga ablution pool and the temple mountain Pre Rupa. The helicopter also flies over East and West Baray, one of the many protected areas that supply water for intensive irrigation of the land around Anchor.
For those interested in photography and those who want to document their stay in the temples of Cambodia, special tours are organized accompanied by a local professional photographer who will take them to their favorite and most famous local temples and help improve their knowledge of photography.
Another very exciting activity that you can enjoy while traveling to Siem Reap is horse riding in the outskirts of the city. Such walks involve a leisurely introduction to local rural life, passing through rice fields and villages and admiring ancient temples.
For the more adventurous, ATV rides are a fun and adventurous way to explore the countryside around Siem Reap, giving you an insight into the lives of local farmers. In every village, travelers are greeted by gangs of local children; The kids wave warmly after them, hoping for a return smile. The return to the city always takes place in the evening so that you can watch the picturesque sunset over the rice fields.

WHERE TO LIVE. BEST SIEM RIP HOTELS
Hotel Victoria Angkor Resort & SPA has a unique view of the city's lotus gardens. The 130-room hotel is built in a colonial style. It has a seawater pool, massage and beauty services, and two restaurants serving Khmer and French cuisine
One of our favorite hotels, La Residence D'Angkor, is located just 15 minutes drive from the main temples. 62 stylish rooms are decorated with bamboo furniture, and linen is made from natural materials - silk and cotton. The restaurants serve Khmer and foreign cuisine, and the lounge is always stocked with light snacks. The seawater pool is hidden in the thickets of flowering bushes. La Residence D'Angkor- a wonderful oasis, which is so pleasant to return to after a hot day; and if you want, a complex of health services and a SPA salon are always at the disposal of hotel guests.
If you want a delightful holiday in a boutique hotel at a fantastically low price - book Hanuman Alaya Boutique Residence. It is housed in a building of traditional Khmer architecture, richly decorated with local silks and antiques. The small size of the hotel gives guests the impression of a certain intimacy; Each room is air conditioned and the hotel has a lovely swimming pool in the courtyard - a great place to relax after a day of temple tours. Perhaps the best feature of the hotel is the hospitality of the staff; The hotel staff does everything possible to make your stay here one of the best experiences of your life.
This hotel is perfect for lovers of antiquity and history. Amansara, built in 1967 as a guest house for King Sihanouk. This secluded retreat fit for kings bears witness to the country's interesting and eventful past. IN Amansara a total of 24 rooms, 12 of which have private pools; The hotel pays special attention to detail and personal service. It has its own gallery of Khmer art and artifacts, and you can even visit a fortune teller. It also has its own fleet of tuk-tuks, scooters and bicycles for easy exploration of nearby Angkor. Yoga fans always have the opportunity to start their day with exercises under the guidance of a professional trainer; In addition, there are two swimming pools and a SPA salon. And the hotel's chef offers an exquisite menu from a combination of local recipes and European dishes.

• DISCOUNTS AND SPECIAL OFFERS FOR ACCOMMODATION IN SIEM RIP HOTELS

Phnom Penh

The bustling markets and wide boulevards of Cambodia's historic capital give the impression of a vibrant, charming city. You can spend one or two days in Phnom Penh. Dedicate the first day to visiting the majestic royal palace with its adjacent silver pagoda on the banks of the confluence of the Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers, and then visit the national museum, which houses a collection of Khmer treasures within its walls; this will be a good preface to getting to know Angkor. And the next day we recommend visiting the Tuol Sleng genocide museum, located in the building of an ordinary high school, and the infamous “Killing Fields”. Although these types of excursions are emotionally draining, they provide an opportunity to look into the history of the country and learn in more detail about the events that took place during the Khmer Rouge uprising and during the dictatorship of Pol Pot.
But even if you decide to take care of your psyche and refuse such an experience, there is something to see in Ponom Penh. You can wander through the numerous markets directly in the city or go for a walk in the nearby villages.

WHERE TO LIVE. BEST PHNOM PENH HOTELS
Boutique hotel Villa Langka- a small oasis among the endless bustle of Phnom Penh - conveniently located in the very center of the city. The hotel has 43 rooms, furnished in both modern and more traditional styles, with an adjacent garden and swimming pool. The staff are welcoming and the atmosphere is relaxed and informal.
Raffles Hotel Le Royal is one of the best hotels in Cambodia, where you can feel the atmosphere of bygone eras. Built in 1929, this colonial-style building has seen its fair share of guests in its time, from members of the royal family to war journalists; it was even briefly shown in the film “The Killing Fields.” After many years of neglect, the hotel reopened in 1997 under the Raffles brand. The hotel's 170 Art Deco-style rooms are set among manicured gardens and swimming pools, while the Elephant Bar offers a cozy aperitif and colonial-era charm. The hotel also has a good SPA salon where you can restore your strength after long walks.
Located on the banks of the river overlooking Phnom Penh, with its eternal bustle, Quay- one of the most conveniently located hotels in the city, and, thanks to its modern design, also one of the most stylish in Cambodia. On the ground floor of the hotel there is a minimalist restaurant serving both European cuisine and traditional Khmer dishes. All rooms have DVD players and wide-screen TVs. Eight panoramic view rooms located on the front of the building offer wonderful views of the river, while the balconies and rooftop bar provide a wonderful place to relax while watching the bustling life of the city.

• DISCOUNTS AND SPECIAL OFFERS FOR ACCOMMODATION IN PHNOM PENH HOTEL

Battambang

Officially the second most important city in Cambodia, Battambang is located 40 kilometers from Tonle Sap Lake in the center of a fertile valley. It has retained the characteristics of a market town, and apart from a few large shops, there seems to be little here that reminds us of the twentieth century, let alone the twenty-first. The city itself is located on the Sangker River, and on its streets you will see buildings from the colonial era. It's one of the calmer cities in Southeast Asia, and there's a lot to see besides everyday life. The nearest attractions are the temple located on the hill Wat Banana, sacred mountains and death caves Phnom Sampo and coastal temple Wat Ek Phnom.
From Phnom Penh and Siem Reap to Battambang you can get by bus, or by boat (if you are planning to travel from Siem Reap), but since the journey takes from 3 (from Siem Reap) to 5 hours (from Phnom Penh) it would be the right decision to book in Battambang hotel for one or two nights and then continue your journey.

• DISCOUNTS AND SPECIAL OFFERS FOR ACCOMMODATION IN BATTAMBANG HOTELS

Beaches of the South Coast of Cambodia

Compared to nearby Thailand, Cambodia's southern coast remains relatively unexplored. The main beaches are in Sihanoukville and attract crowds of holidaymakers, so we recommend heading further up the coast for a leisurely exploration of Cambodia away from the noisy tourist crowds. There are several islands here, as well as Ream National Park - all of them are worth visiting. From here it is quite easy to get to the border with Vietnam, there are convenient transport links, so you can combine a stay on the South Coast of Cambodia with a visit to the Vietnam Delta.
On the southern coast of Cambodia the most popular has always been considered Sihanoukville, the beaches of which have been visited by many travelers throughout its history. Some areas of the city have chosen the concept of budget holidays, and as a result many cheap hotels have appeared, but the choice of quality accommodation has become very limited. However, this area is calmer than neighboring beaches in Thailand; it is a peaceful resort with several wonderful beaches for those who are interested in little other than the opportunity to relax from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
About an hour's drive from the picturesque coastline of Sihanoukville, it is located Kep- Cambodia's first coastal resort, founded by the French in 1908. There is a magical atmosphere of desolation here, with beautiful examples of modernist architecture left empty due to the civil war. Nearby islands, e.g. Koh Tonsay(Hare Island) are quite popular for day tours, and the delicious crabs are considered one of the most popular and delicious dishes to have for lunch, which attracts thousands of tourists to the Khmers. A stay in Kep can be combined with a visit Kompong Trach, where you can see limestone deposits and a whole network of caves.
The delights of Cambodian rural life can be experienced Kampot– a sleepy coastal town with the charm of remains of the French colonial era. The city has many colonial-era architectural monuments, especially in the area adjacent to the old market and along the coastal road. Rent a bicycle or scooter and explore the city and countryside; or, alternatively, sit back in one of the charming seaside cafés and watch provincial life go by.
WHERE TO LIVE. BEST HOTELS ON THE SOUTH COAST OF CAMBODIA
On a pristine archipelago Koh Rong there are two small islands, Koh Ouen And Koh Bong, known locally as Song Saa (meaning “Lovers” in Khmer). The islands are connected by a small footbridge; they constitute a private Song Saa Resort; on one island there are 27 villas, and on the other there is a wonderful SPA salon.
All villas offer a wonderful view of the sea and every evening, sitting on the terrace, you can watch the amazingly beautiful sunsets. From Sihanoukville you can get here in 30 minutes by boat, from Siem Reap you can get there in an hour by plane; Song Saa is an exclusive place located in one of the most untouched corners of Cambodia.
When in Kep, you should choose a boutique hotel for a comfortable stay Knai Bang Chatt- an important legacy of Cambodian architecture. The hotel consists of three restored villas built in the 1970s by associates of Vann-Molyvann, to whom the country owes most of its modernist architecture. This hotel's 11 rooms are located in the original building; all rooms have unique features. On the shore there is a restaurant and yacht club, which was once a modest fisherman's cottage and is now an ideal place to watch the sunset on the shore.

• DISCOUNTS AND SPECIAL OFFERS FOR ACCOMMODATION IN SOUTH COAST HOTELS

Koh Kong Province

The southwestern province of Koh Kong attracts travelers with one of Cambodia's most famous natural landscapes, a variety of flora and fauna; deserted islands and beaches, thundering waterfalls and rivers fringed by mangroves, and the impenetrable jungle of the Cardamom Mountains, the second largest rainforest in Southeast Asia. The Cardamom Mountains remain one of the most environmentally friendly places on the planet, largely due to their remoteness. Their territory is home to at least 59 critically endangered species, including the clouded leopard. If you want to get to know Cambodia better and see something besides the well-known Angkor and Phnom Penh, be sure to include Koh Kong in your travel itinerary.
A few days spent in the Koh Kong area will allow travelers to get closer to the beautiful nature of Cambodia; Here you can kayak through mangroves, as well as get to waterfalls and visit remote fishing villages. Koh Kong can be reached from Phnom Penh; In addition, you can get here from Thailand through the Cham Yim crossing.
WHERE TO LIVE. BEST HOTELS IN KOH KONG PROVINCE
Situated on the banks of the Tatai River on the outer border of the Cardamom Mountains, the floating 4 Rivers Hotel Easily accessible from the nearby town of Koh Kong, it's a convenient base for exploring Cambodia's eco-friendly areas, including pristine mangrove forests. Unique lodge 4 Rivers, which can only be reached by boat, consists of 12 tents in pure African style, which are located on floating platforms. This unusual hotel is the first in Cambodia

• DISCOUNTS AND SPECIAL OFFERS FOR ACCOMMODATION IN HOTELS IN KOH KONG PROVINCE

Kratie Province

A bustling city on the banks of the Mekong River, Kratie is a popular stopover for travelers en route to Laos. One of the main attractions in the area is the small population of endangered Irrawaddy dolphins; Conservationists are painstakingly working to preserve this species. Dolphins are quite easy to see here, especially during the dry season. Although the choice of hotels in the area is limited, staying in a local home or guest house is a great opportunity to get a closer look at the life of the local population. The province has excellent motorbike routes, you can also take part in a reforestation project and plant a couple of trees yourself, and visit the local floating villages, which makes you feel like part of the local community.

• DISCOUNTS AND SPECIAL OFFERS FOR ACCOMMODATION IN HOTEL KRATJE

Mondulkiri Province

The easternmost province of Cambodia, Mondulkiri, is one of the last little explored places in this country. Although Mondulkiri is Cambodia's largest province in size, it has a population of only 50,000 people, most of whom are members of the Bunong (Pnong) and Khmer ethnic groups. You can now get here from Phnom Penh via a good paved road, but the journey still takes about seven hours.
The town is nestled among the hills and dense forests Saint Monorom is the tiny capital of Mondulkiri province. Life here moves even slower than anywhere else; All life is centered around the local market, which is the center of life in the local community. Saint Monorom– a great place to start exploring the region.
Although living conditions here are modest, new opportunities are constantly opening up. Mondulkiri province is best known for elephant trekking, and in small villages Fu Lung And Patang The possibility of organizing such hikes lasting from two hours to two days is offered. Mighty waterfalls Bow Sraa- the largest and most famous in Cambodia - are immortalized in song. In the province of Mondulkiri you can visit many small villages inhabited by representatives of national minorities; these people are proud that their culture is different from that of other provinces of the country mainly due to the unique features of the architecture of their houses and communal way of life. In order to get to know this province as closely as possible, we recommend spending at least three days in the town of Saint Monorom.
While traveling around the province, it is also worth devoting time to the village Skuon, where the local delicacy, fried tarantula, comes from. Another interesting place to stop is Kampong Cham. Kampong Cham was once an important trading post; Now it is a multinational Indo-Chinese river port, which supports its livelihoods through rubber plantations managed by the French. Tourists often overlook the unique town, so if you want to relax outside the tourist routes, Kampong Cham is perfect.
During the dry season, when the water level in the Mekong drops, you can ride a motorcycle around the nearby island Koh Paen. This rural islet can be visited by taking the bypass route to or from Mondulkiri Province. Mondulkiri's hilly landscape is unique to Cambodia, with tiny villages, fabulous waterfalls, pine forests and scenic views.

• DISCOUNTS AND SPECIAL OFFERS FOR ACCOMMODATION IN HOTELS IN MONDULKIRI PROVINCE

Project ELIE

The Elephants Livelihood Initiative Environment (ELIE) is a project created with the support of the Bunong people to protect abused domestic elephants. This is a unique experience. This will allow travelers to learn more about Cambodia's elephants and the efforts that conservationists make to protect them. The focus is on observing and caring for the elephants rather than riding them, and it is a great opportunity to relax and experience the beauty. Experience the countryside and get to know the culture of the Bunong minority. Experienced mahouts accompany travelers and elephants on a leisurely walk through the jungle to the waterfall.

Ratanakiri Province

Far in the northeast of the country is the province of Ratanakiri. Few tourists make it to this remote corner of Cambodia and get the full taste of the desert in this country. The area feels even more secluded as you drive along roads strewn with reddish dust, past bushland, rubber plantations, cashew and pepper plantations and dense forests. There are many waterfalls here, and in the lake Yeak Laom, near the city of Banlung, formed in the crater of an extinct volcano, according to the stories of local residents, some mysterious water spirits live; this is truly one of the most mysterious places in the country where you can cool off and admire the sunsets.
In the 1960s, the Khmer Rouge base was located here, where Pol Pot spent a long time. These places are little visited by tourists, but there is something to see here: crystal clear rivers flow through dense forests, which occasionally alternate with cascades of waterfalls; The province is home to several small tribes that rarely have contact with the rest of the world. Take a walk up the river to the lake Tongesap and villages Cachon, in which representatives of the Tampuon small nation live; here are their traditional cemeteries with carved images on tombstones and unique burial rituals. Separate dwellings for men, which can be seen in the village Kreung, give an idea of ​​the amazing courtship customs among the local inhabitants. There are also Laotian and Chinese communities, as well as many small tribal communities, making the region a melting pot of cultural traditions.
Being the capital of Ratanakari, Banlung will be a great place to start exploring the interesting places of this province. Banlung has a wild west feel to it, with dusty roads and only one main street. This city can be reached by river; it is one day's journey from the coastal town of Crantier; or you can take the longer, bumpier road from Cambodia's capital, Phnom Penh.
WHERE TO LIVE. BEST HOTELS IN RATANKARI PROVINCE

Wonderful hotel Terres Rouge was once the home of a former governor; these days it is one of the most charming hotels in northern Cambodia. Interior imbued with French charm Terres Rouge presents a surprising mixture of wood-trimmed interiors, wall embroideries, local fabrics and sculptures. Rooms located in the main area are equipped with fans, while the newly built bungalows scattered in the gardens are air conditioned. Each of the rooms has a unique interior, as a result you get the feeling that you have stepped back in time - to the era of bounty hunters and explorers.
The hotel's restaurant offers an extensive selection of Cambodian and French cuisine; a well-stocked bar with “the best bar from scratch.” Set back from the main road, among lush tropical gardens overlooking the lake, the hotel also has a beautiful swimming pool; in a word, this is an excellent place where you can find a comfortable shelter while traveling around the country.

• DISCOUNTS AND SPECIAL OFFERS FOR ACCOMMODATION IN RATANKARI HOTELS

Cambodia is the country of the ancient civilization of the Khmer Empire, at various times called the Angkor Empire, the People's Republic of Kampuchea and the Kingdom of Cambodia. In Cambodia you will find magnificent sandy beaches, pristine islands washed by the crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Thailand.

And of course Angkor Wat - this gigantic temple complex was built by King Suryavarman II (900 years ago). The complex was “discovered” in the jungle for European civilization only in 1861 by the French traveler Henri Muot. In 1992, Angkor Wat was declared a world heritage site and is under the protection of UNESCO.
Reverse side:
Cambodia is one of the most heavily mined countries in the world. Three decades of war and civil conflict have left several million mines scattered across this country. During the three and a half years of rule of the Khmer Rouge, 25% of the country's urban and 15% of the rural population (about 1.7 million people) were destroyed. The wars only ended in 1989.

Concept

Independent travel from 03/17/2012 to 03/29/2012 (14 days) along the route Moscow - Thailand (Bangkok) - Cambodia (Siem Reap - Angkor Wat - Phnom Penh - Sihanoukville) - Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City) - Moscow.
Budget: 50,000 rubles per person.
Two main goals:
1. Get acquainted with the cultural heritage of the ancient Khmers (3 full days);
2. Beach holiday (3 full days).

Brief travel plan

Day 1 Flight from Moscow to Bangkok (Russia)
Day 2 Arrival in the “City of Angels” Bangkok (Thailand)
Day 3-6 Siem Reap, cultural treks to the temples and Angkor Wat complex (Cambodia)
Day 7 Phnom Penh, capital (Cambodia)
Day 8-11 Sihanoukville, beach holiday (Cambodia)
Day 12 Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam)
Day 13 Departure from Ho Chi Minh City to Moscow (Russia)