The best beaches in Cambodia are an unforgettable experience. Cambodia: fragments of the great Khmer empire on the ocean shore Private guides in Cambodia

Bright and amazing Cambodia - a note for tourists. Useful articles on “Subtleties of Tourism”.

Cambodia is a vibrant and amazing Asian country, full of special charm and exotic flavor. Famous all over the world temple complex Angkor Wat, listed world heritage UNESCO; contrasting and colorful Phnom Penh is the capital of Cambodia, striking in its luxury and poverty, the splendor of the Royal Palace and references to the country’s terrible past; tropical beaches with white sand and uninhabited islands, not yet spoiled by mass tourism - only a small fraction of what Cambodia can give to an inquisitive traveler.

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In Cambodia, you can meet ethnic minorities completely different from the Khmers and walk through the jungle on elephants. Colorful floating villages on Lake Tonle Sap and the wild nature of national parks, volcanic lakes and Khmer temples lost in the jungle, majestic waterfalls and endless rice fields, snow-white beaches washed by the warm waters of the Gulf of Thailand and well-developed infrastructure...

Today, the market offers a wide variety of tours to Cambodia to suit every taste. This could be an acquaintance with the main attractions of Siem Reap and (or) Phnom Penh, followed by a vacation at sea, or a thorough study of the country as part of a rich excursion tour. Udachnoe geographical location Cambodia allows you to combine travel with neighboring Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and Burma. A variety of tour options are also possible here, from exploring the temples of Angkor, combined with a holiday in Thailand or Vietnam, to rich programs that allow you to see the most interesting sights of several countries within one trip.

In Cambodia, as well as in neighboring countries, throughout the year you can enjoy exotic fruits, take a course of traditional Khmer massage in one of the salons or spa centers, get new gastronomic experiences by tasting local delicacies and become immersed in the culture and traditions of the country by visiting museums and theatrical and musical performances.

Cambodia is one of the Asian countries that, despite its fame, is just beginning to gain popularity as a destination for a beach holiday.

beautiful children in Cambodia

In the past, there were friendly relations between the Soviet Union and Cambodia, then the country was called Kampuchea. Over the past few decades, everything has changed here - in particular political system– Kampuchea used to be a socialist state, now the Kingdom of Cambodia is a monarchy.

The main attraction of the country is the ancient city of Angkor, this place was found in the nineteenth century, and after the film about Lara Croft it became known among travelers, archaeologists and historians around the world.

Angkor is an ancient city, which is also quite large in size; it is popular to come here on tours lasting one or two days while on vacation in Vietnam or Thailand.

Cost of a holiday in Cambodia

Going to Cambodia on vacation is inexpensive, the main part of the cost is the price of air travel.

It will be more profitable to buy air tickets from Russia to Cambodia on the search engines skyscanner.ru and aviasales.ru

Cheap flights to Phnom Penh

The easiest way to get here is through Thailand or Vietnam, where they fly charter flights from Moscow and other Russian cities.

the oldest Bayon temple in Angkor, Siem Reap

The cost of living in Kampuchea itself is quite reasonable; renting a two-room apartment per month costs from 100 to 250 dollars , a similar figure will be for a week's stay in one of the local very good hotels.

If you wish, you can find a hostel for 1-5 dollars per day.

Where is the beach holiday in Cambodia?

Throughout the year beach resorts Cambodia can offer you good opportunities for recreation, because the water here warms up to 27-28 degrees all year round.

The most popular beaches in the country are:

• Ochheuteal Beach;
• Victoria Beach;
• Otres Beach and others.

However, when going on vacation to one of the beaches of Cambodia, you should remember that local resorts are characterized by the concept of seasonality and there may be rain in the period from June to October.

beach in Cambodia

The best beaches in Cambodia

Cambodia can offer a pretty good beach holiday, but you should understand in advance where you are going and what you can find at a particular resort.

Local beaches are covered with snow-white sand, there are turquoise bays and tropical greenery.

The main difference between Cambodia and neighboring Thailand is that Cambodia has fewer people and slightly lower levels of service.

The best beaches in Cambodia are:

1. Ochhutil;
2. Serendipity;
3. Independence;
4. Victoria.

Ochhutil Beach is considered one of the most beautiful and picturesque on the shores of the entire Gulf of Thailand in Cambodia.

Thanks to its beauty, a huge number of tourists come here, so finding a free place to relax is quite difficult.

The length of the beach is about three kilometers, it is located directly in Sihanoukville, along coastline There are a lot of hotels, boarding houses, guesthouses, bars, restaurants, shops and other places that are so necessary for vacationers.

When vacationing in this region, you should be careful, because the seemingly calm sea contains a lot of dangers, including underwater currents.

Serendipity Beach

Serendipity Beach

Serendipity Beach is great for independent tourists, there are many options for accommodation here. This region very popular with vacationers, so it’s always crowded

Otres Beach

Otres beach

Otres Beach is more peaceful and comfortable place for recreation, cost of living in local hotels higher than in neighboring resorts, this place is suitable for romantics and lovers of silence.

Independence Beach

Independence Beach is one of the most classic resorts in Cambodia; it gets its name from a hotel located in this region.

Independence Beach in Sihanoukville

This hotel was built in the sixties of the last century, during the same period the history of the resort itself began.

The beach itself is located on the Sihanoukville Peninsula.

Victoria Beach

Victoria Beach is chosen by lovers of active recreation; prices for accommodation here are quite affordable, the price-quality ratio is quite good, and there is also a lot of entertainment for tourists.

If you wish, from this place you can go on an excursion to one of the nearby islands.

Victoria beach

Holiday seasons in Cambodia

Cambodia is one of the Asian countries, and as you know, they are characterized by the concept of seasonality. Like all of Asia, Cambodia has two main seasons – dry and wet.

The dry season lasts from mid-October to May. The bulk of tourists come in winter, at which time the air temperature is 22-25 degrees.

Otres beach

In the spring there are significantly fewer tourists, the air temperature is at around 30-35 degrees, also given time The year is considered optimal for traveling around the country.

The wet season or rainy season lasts from June to mid-October. In summer, it usually rains at night or in the evening, but almost every day.

Also, it is in the summer that it is best to visit Angkor, because thanks to the daily rains everything blooms and the ancient city becomes incredibly green and beautiful.

The heaviest rainfall occurs in September and the first half of October, during which time most of the roads are flooded or turned into mush.

Summer holiday on the beach

Summer in Cambodia is considered to be the rainy season, although due to the peculiarities of the local climate and geographical location They come here at night or in the evening.

beach in Sihanoukville

Summer holidays in Cambodia is a subjective concept, some consider this time to be optimal for traveling around the country, because due to frequent rains everything blooms, while others, on the contrary, say that holidays in Cambodia in the summer are not the best choice, because of daily rains and high humidity not the best things to spend your holidays with.

Wave season

Holidays in Cambodia consists of two seasons - dry and wet, during the dry season there are practically no waves, rain and the maximum comfortable conditions for a beach holiday.

There is also the rainy season, during which it is not very comfortable to plan your beach holiday.

Between June (less often mid-May) and mid-October, it rains every day in the country, particularly in the southwest, and swimming in the sea is not comfortable due to strong waves.

Particularly strong waves occur in the summer months, and at this time the roads can be covered with a fairly large layer of water.

During the dry season - from mid-October to May, there are practically no waves, the air temperature is comfortable for beach and excursion holidays.

Diving in Cambodia

The underwater world in Cambodia will delight diving enthusiasts, but this pleasure is not available all year round, because... During the rainy season, the water in the Gulf of Thailand will be very cloudy.

The best time to dive is from February to May, when the sea is clearest and visibility is highest.

In the coastal waters of Cambodia you can find parrot fish, clown fish, barracudas, see beautiful corals and much more.

The best islands to dive on are Koh Khun and Koh Rong Salolem.

Best places in Cambodia

The Cambodian capital Phnom Penh has not been affected by the rapid development of megacities, as in neighboring Asian countries, so you can see here beautiful architecture times of the colonial past combined with amazing oriental flavor Asia.

When coming to Phnom Penh you should be careful, because the crime rate here is quite high, so always be attentive to your personal belongings.

MustSee's next location is coastal town of Kampot.

This place has become popular resort back in the times of the Portuguese, and now there are luxurious mansions from colonial times, beautiful landscapes and beautiful waterfalls.

Angkor Wat temple at dawn

One of the most popular places in Cambodia is the tourist Siem Reap. This resort is experiencing an unprecedented tourism boom.

It is noteworthy that this is the only city in the country that was not damaged during the Khmer Rouge.

The popularity of the city of Siem Reap is explained by the presence in this territory of the ancient complex of Angkor temples, which attracts tourists from all over the world. That's how he attracted me. I hope to return to these places again.

Diving reviews

In Cambodia, you can easily find dive centers, some of which are Russian-speaking.

Dives are carried out mainly on one of local islands, the attention paid to tourists is enormous, and the level of service offered by local dive centers is literally at the highest level.

The coral reef is significantly inferior in beauty to the Red Sea, the water in the bay is muddy, but there is a fairly large species composition of fish, so divers are pleasantly satisfied with the dive.

Reviews about Cambodia

Cambodia – quite popular, although relatively new tourist destination. Holidays here have both their pros and cons.

poor side of Cambodia

Tourists who come to Kampuchea to explore local attractions speak quite positively about the country; they are happy to explore local tourist sites that amaze them with their beauty and splendor.

If we talk about the Angkor temple complex, then the impression from visiting the objects is incredibly positive! Such ancient places are never forgotten. This is a real find for a traveler and these are really very beautiful temples, which I would call one of the wonders of the world!

The Cambodian capital Phnom Penh is a place where cultures meet, in areas where there are buildings from Portuguese times, everything looks beautiful. True, you need to move a little away from the center and you come across poor Cambodian villages and slums.

Tourists in their reviews complain about crime in the city; they also ask in their advice to pay attention to the presence of bars on the windows of rented apartments.

Family holiday problems

Sihanoukville

Cambodia can hardly be called a tourist destination for family vacation, because there is crime in the country, the beaches are not the cleanest, people in Cambodia are poor, in need of help and money.

However, the country is developing quite rapidly, so many families also fly here for a vacation.

What difficulties can you expect upon arrival?

There is crime and theft in Cambodia, especially in the capital and resorts, so you should be careful and store valuables in safe places.

Also, any foreigner is a source of income for locals, so prices will be inflated for you. Be prepared to bargain if you notice that the price is high for transport or excursions.

Order an inexpensive transfer - taxi in Cambodia

Before agreeing to an excursion or any other service, check with the Cambodian how much he will need to pay for the entire service, for all the entertainment, and whether he will need to pay extra for entry or swimming anywhere during the excursion.

We had a sad experience, for me it was tragic due to the fact that the driver did not warn us about all the costs and future confrontations with the sad reality that we met and suffered on the very first day of traveling in Cambodia.

Tomle Sap Lake in Siem Reap

Judge for yourself: The driver, after dropping us off at the hotel from the airport, told us that he could take us to see it in the evening beautiful sunset on the lake.

We agreed and paid the taxi driver for a ride to the lake, where you can watch a beautiful sunset. He only demanded $5 for it.

When he brought us to the lake, it turned out that this is a port from where we need to take a boat to the sunset - i.e. You still have to sail for a long time on the ship.

In the end, we paid about $60 for the three of us to take a boat ride on Lake Tomlesap (this was the minimum price) and see the sunset.

Then it turned out that poor Cambodian children live on Tomle Sap Lake and go to school there, who have no food and water. We bought them a bag of rice at the water market.

In general, our expenses that evening were clearly not 5$, but 100$.

us and Cambodian children living on the water

In addition to all this, instead of the planned sunset with pleasant impressions, with the planned relaxation after arriving in Cambodia, we received completely different shocking impressions of the poor side of Cambodia.

Renting a car in Cambodia

Where is the best place to relax with children in Cambodia?

Holidays in Cambodia with children is a very controversial issue; in most cases, only naturally calm parents who are not characterized by moments of excitement with or without reason are capable of doing this.

In almost all expensive hotels you can find a nanny for a child for a small fee; nannies are mostly fluent English, finding a Russian-speaking nanny is rare.

with a child on the beach in Cambodia

For a family holiday with children, it is best to consider Sihanoukville, in particular the most expensive hotels resort in order to be confident in the quality of service, food and other little things that can negatively affect a vacation with a child.

Of the local beaches, preference should be given to the Ochjutil region.

The cheapest tickets from Moscow to Phnom Penh and back

Hotels in Cambodia

However, everyone chooses the type of vacation for themselves, but it doesn’t hurt to study forums and thematic sites about Cambodia, you can also choose excursion routes and read information about prices for hotel accommodation, and even contact a Russian-speaking guide in advance, who will be happy to accompany you throughout your holiday.

Tours to Cambodia: where it all begins

Upon arrival in Cambodia, you immediately feel wildly delighted with everything that surrounds you. Locals immediately try to persuade them to buy a taxi (by the way, interesting fact, cars are mostly Toyotas of different years of manufacture!), which will cost around $50. vary in level of comfort, with an average stay costing about $100 per night. All hotels have cozy restaurants where, immediately upon arrival, you can try savory rice and seafood dishes of local cuisine.

Local Khmer residents speak English, French and Khmer, have a friendly disposition, and in return expect the same from tourists. It is especially important to show respect when visiting local shrines, which includes a small donation.

Holidays in Cambodia: where to go

The most enthusiastic reviews from tourists who have visited Cambodia are the Tonle Sap Lake, which is almost impossible to get to during the rainy season except by swimming. Here the so-called floating village makes a special impression - nothing exotic can be said, the only thing that confuses us is the poverty of the local residents.

Tourists who are not averse to experiencing first-hand what it’s like active recreation, you should definitely organize a hike into the mountain jungle to the lingams and waterfall. You will never forget such a trip! Jungle wildlife, huge rocks, clear mountain streams and Hindu lingam shrines, some of which are over 1000 years old.

Don’t forget about the numerous sacred temples, the most famous of which is stunning in beauty and luxury, and, of course, the beaches, which, with such an abundance interesting places there is practically no time left.

Cambodia, located on the Indochina Peninsula - amazing country interesting sights and fabulous beaches. The beaches of Cambodia are not as popular as in Egypt, Turkey or Vietnam, but there are many beautiful coastlines here, and there are not so many people on the coast.

The coast of the country is washed by the waters of the Gulf of Thailand. Here, year-round, the water temperature does not drop below +21 degrees, which allows tourists to enjoy both beach and active recreation.

How to get there

There are no direct flights from Russia to Cambodia yet. But in recent years, this tourist destination has been gaining momentum, which means that if the flow of tourists increases, there will be a need to organize direct flights to this country.

Cambodia is located between Vietnam and Thailand. It is through one of these countries that tourists arrive here. From Moscow you can fly to Bangkok, and from there move to Cambodia. This method is the most optimal.

The cheapest tickets from Moscow to Bangkok and back

Features of staying in Cambodia

Before traveling to Cambodia, you must obtain a visa - tourist or transit. This will require a standard package of documents. The application is reviewed within one day. Issued tourist visa for 1 month, its cost is about 20 dollars.

The low crime rate makes holidays in Cambodia as safe and relaxing as possible. Traveling even to the most remote and remote places does not pose any threat, and the Khmers warmly welcome tourists in the best Asian traditions.

In Cambodia, the rainy season is between September and early October. There is nothing to do here during this period, as most of the roads are flooded and turn into mush.

Where to stay

Almost all hotels in the country are a combination of excellent service and luxury.

Freedom Hotel is located in Siem Reap province. It is designed in the style of traditional Khmer architecture. For guests there is provided outdoor pool, free wi-fi, bar, restaurant.

Mary Beach Hotel& Resort – resort hotel with modern, comfortable rooms with stunning views of the ocean. Located in Sihanoukville on the new first class Otres II Beach.

Queen Grand Boutique Hotel and Spa located in Daun Penh, Phnom Penh. This is an excellent choice for those interested in museums, temples and street markets. Guests can enjoy the rooftop hydromassage pool and admire the stunning panoramic views while sitting in the bar or restaurant.

Sufficient choice and budget options. For example, in guest house Good Day Guesthouse you will be greeted by good-natured hosts who will offer you comfortable, cozy rooms with free internet and air conditioning. Spa services are offered to guests.

You can rent bungalows, which are located mainly in beach areas. Superior comfort housing guarantees high service, as well as the beauty of nature and oriental hospitality. Great option for those tourists who have arrived in Cambodia for a long time.

The price range in the cost of living is quite large. What type of hotel to choose - hotel, guesthouse or bungalow - is up to you.

Important! Accommodation will be much cheaper if you take care of this issue in advance, ordering accommodation online several months before arrival.

By the way, on New Year Even the simplest rooms are not cheap.

Beach holidays in Cambodia

Cambodia also offers tourists a beach holiday.

• Sihanoukville province is a great place for those who like to sunbathe and swim in the waters of the Gulf of Thailand. It's always fun and interesting here. It’s especially good on Sokha and Independence beaches, where they are clean and cozy. But only guests of Sokha hotels can enjoy their holiday on these beaches Beach Resort and Independence Hotel Resort& Spa.

The advantage of a holiday in Sihanoukville is its lack of demand. Prices here are the lowest in all of Southeast Asia. Even in the high season there are few tourists here, so you can count on a quiet, relaxing holiday. The beaches are not polluted, which is also important for relaxation.

Ochjutil beach captivates with its beautiful coastline and picturesque landscapes. Its length is about three kilometers, and along the entire coastline there are hotels, restaurants, bars and other privileges of the civilized world.

• Fans of a relaxing family holiday can go to small town Cap. This is beautiful quiet place has clean and well-maintained beaches on the coast. There are few tourists here, so it is always calm. Hotels at affordable prices.
• You can count on an excellent beach holiday on the islands of Koh Rong, Koh Tan or An Tai located near Kep. There are not only amazing landscapes here, but also clear azure water with a snow-white sandy shore. Young companies will find it a bit boring here, but married couples with children will find it very comfortable.
• There are many secluded places in Cambodia. Sea, sun and tranquility await those who wish to do so on the outskirts of almost any resort.

Thus, the coast of the country can boast a small number of tourists, which ensures a calm and measured holiday. The unobtrusive but good-natured local population, as well as the decent, varied service, do not leave you indifferent.

Diving enthusiasts will not be bored in this country either. The depths of the sea offer lovers of deep-sea beauty excellent opportunities for diving and snorkeling. And all this thanks to the unique fauna and flora.

Important! It is recommended to choose a suitable place to relax immediately. This is explained by the fact that Cambodian transport is not particularly comfortable, so it is better not to take risks and not decide on a long and inconvenient journey from place to place.

What to visit and what to see in Cambodia

Some people go to Cambodia to enjoy a secluded beach holiday. But for some, the historical and cultural component is of paramount importance. In this case, you should pay attention and visit the following attractions.

• The most popular among tourists is the Angkor temple complex. At one time, this city was the center of the country's cultural life. The surviving ruins testify to its former greatness. The area on which they are located occupies about 200 square kilometers. It was in these places that the popular Hollywood movie “Lara Croft - Tomb Raider” was filmed.
• It is wise to combine your trip to Angkor with a visit to the city of Siam Reap, which serves as the gateway to Angkor. Lovers ancient history Cambodia and Buddhist shrines will be delighted with these places.
• Phnom Penh is unusual with its combination of the most beautiful ancient buildings and modern skyscrapers. This city is the capital of the country - a Cambodian metropolis with many different entertainment activities. Young companies looking for a fun holiday and adventure will especially like it here. Worthy of attention Royal Palace, National Museum, Wat Phnom. A special impression will remain after a walk along the embankment.
• There is a genocide museum in Phnom Penh, but only people with a strong nervous system should visit it. Here are collected exhibits that testify to all the horrors of the regime of Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge.
• A two-hour drive from Siem Reap is a seven-tiered ziggurat that is part of ancient city Lingapur.
• Those who want to see the famous floating villages can go to the north-west of the country, where fresh lake Tonle Sap.
• In the northeastern part of Siem Reap is the holy mountain Phnom Kulen. Here tourists are interested in the very first Angkorian temple and the Thousand Lingman River.
• Preah Vihear Temple is not easy to get to. Today, a one-day tour is available for tourists in this direction. The temple is the subject of a territorial dispute between Cambodia and Thailand.
• In the south of the country, in the province of Takeo, there are many Pre-Angkorian temples, which are also of interest to tourists.
• Located in the south of Cambodia, the small town of Kampot surprises with French architecture that you would never expect to find here. This is where you can see how the best pepper in the world grows and where the salt is evaporated.
• 8 kilometers from the city of Kampot lies national park Phnom Bokor. The view of the waterfalls is breathtaking. Everything in this area is imbued with the flavor of bygone eras.
• Ratanakiri province is located in the northeastern part of Cambodia. Unusual mountain tribes live here, but you need to remember that you can only visit those who live in villages, not far from cities, they do not pose a danger.

Cambodia is still in the process of developing its tourism potential, so the country manages to avoid a massive influx of tourists even during the hottest season. Untouched exotic nature, secluded islands, quiet uncrowded beaches - there is everything for a relaxing holiday away from civilization. The Kingdom of Cambodia is a unique opportunity to plunge into the special charm of this country, get closer to the examples of the brilliant art of the Khmer civilization and, of course, enjoy a wonderful holiday in an exotic atmosphere.