Cambodia, a Rich History a Beautiful Country
Many people travel to Cambodia each year to visit the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat. This is one of the most impressive temples on the planet dating back to the 12th century. The Khmer Empire built it over decades and since the country has opened up in the 1990's people from all over the world have been visiting temples in increasing numbers each year.
This majestic complex consists of hundreds of temples covering 500 acres of land. It wasn't long ago that you could walk through these ruins without seeing another person for hours. Where once it was abandoned and looted of precious pieces, it is now a thriving attraction receiving over a half a million visitors a year. With admission being $20 per day it is a real deal by western standards.
It is an awesome sight to see the temples swallowed up by vines and trees. Almost reclaimed by the jungle, Angkor Wat was saved in the nick of time. The main temple of Angkor Wat is one of the best preserved temple and the most famous image of the temples. It is a massive structure spanning 1.6 km and reaching 66 meters into the sky.
Be sure not to miss visiting Ta Prom. This is the temple that has been completely left in its original form. Trees and jungle have grown right out of the structure. Another must not miss temple is Angkor Tom. A famous sight where 54 Gods and Demons line the road. They have been badly looted, but with restoration efforts, many heads are now back on the statues.
Many people spend several days at Angkor Wat. An interesting way to see the ruins is to try to see them from above. You can hire a hot air balloon for a birds eye view or you can climb up Bakhen Hill for sunset. This will give you a true sense of just how grand the ruins are.
The main town near Angkor Wat is Siem Reap. It is being restored nicely as tourist flock to the area and you can take a walk to see the French Influence left behind by their occupation. Colonial buildings and baguettes are just a few things that will remind you of a little piece of France.
For a different view, check out the old market. It will give you a real sense of life in Cambodia as vendors line the aisles with everything from live fish that they will clean before your very eyes, to fresh fruit. It is recommended to look for trinkets and souvenirs here instead of at the more expensive tourist stores.
Cambodia is one of the most heavily land mined countries in the world and you can learn about the affects that decades of war have had on its people at the Cambodia Land Mine Museum. Located 12km out of town, it was founded by Aki Ra, a soldier who has been clearing mines since 1995. Starting out as a small display in his hut, this collection of decommissioned mines has grown over the years prompting the construction of a new building and a proper museum.
In actual fact there are an estimated 6 million landmines posing a danger to the people of Cambodia. Already there are tens of thousands of victims ranging from amputees to deaths. This museum is a place that has helped to bring awareness to the plight of the country's people.
Siem Reap has everything a tourist needs. A tropical destination, it can be enjoyed any way you want. Stay in world-class hotels and relax by the pool, eat in fine dining rooms and splurge on a massage. Others may choose to stay in small guest houses and munch on street meat while mingling with the local people. You can shop at craft stores and silk boutiques or barter in the local markets.
It is well worth it to get out of town as well. The countryside makes you feel as though you have stepped back in time. Oxen pull wagons down the street and cows walk in the middle of the road. People dress in traditional clothing complete with conical hats. You can visit a silk farm to see how it is spun by traditional means or you can visit a nearby lake to bird watch. Ton Le Sp Lake is South Est Asia's larges fresh water lake and you won't be disappointed to visit it.
If you are looking for something different for our next trip abroad. Put Cambodia on your list. It will be the most exciting and interesting vacation you have ever had in your life.
This majestic complex consists of hundreds of temples covering 500 acres of land. It wasn't long ago that you could walk through these ruins without seeing another person for hours. Where once it was abandoned and looted of precious pieces, it is now a thriving attraction receiving over a half a million visitors a year. With admission being $20 per day it is a real deal by western standards.
It is an awesome sight to see the temples swallowed up by vines and trees. Almost reclaimed by the jungle, Angkor Wat was saved in the nick of time. The main temple of Angkor Wat is one of the best preserved temple and the most famous image of the temples. It is a massive structure spanning 1.6 km and reaching 66 meters into the sky.
Be sure not to miss visiting Ta Prom. This is the temple that has been completely left in its original form. Trees and jungle have grown right out of the structure. Another must not miss temple is Angkor Tom. A famous sight where 54 Gods and Demons line the road. They have been badly looted, but with restoration efforts, many heads are now back on the statues.
Many people spend several days at Angkor Wat. An interesting way to see the ruins is to try to see them from above. You can hire a hot air balloon for a birds eye view or you can climb up Bakhen Hill for sunset. This will give you a true sense of just how grand the ruins are.
The main town near Angkor Wat is Siem Reap. It is being restored nicely as tourist flock to the area and you can take a walk to see the French Influence left behind by their occupation. Colonial buildings and baguettes are just a few things that will remind you of a little piece of France.
For a different view, check out the old market. It will give you a real sense of life in Cambodia as vendors line the aisles with everything from live fish that they will clean before your very eyes, to fresh fruit. It is recommended to look for trinkets and souvenirs here instead of at the more expensive tourist stores.
Cambodia is one of the most heavily land mined countries in the world and you can learn about the affects that decades of war have had on its people at the Cambodia Land Mine Museum. Located 12km out of town, it was founded by Aki Ra, a soldier who has been clearing mines since 1995. Starting out as a small display in his hut, this collection of decommissioned mines has grown over the years prompting the construction of a new building and a proper museum.
In actual fact there are an estimated 6 million landmines posing a danger to the people of Cambodia. Already there are tens of thousands of victims ranging from amputees to deaths. This museum is a place that has helped to bring awareness to the plight of the country's people.
Siem Reap has everything a tourist needs. A tropical destination, it can be enjoyed any way you want. Stay in world-class hotels and relax by the pool, eat in fine dining rooms and splurge on a massage. Others may choose to stay in small guest houses and munch on street meat while mingling with the local people. You can shop at craft stores and silk boutiques or barter in the local markets.
It is well worth it to get out of town as well. The countryside makes you feel as though you have stepped back in time. Oxen pull wagons down the street and cows walk in the middle of the road. People dress in traditional clothing complete with conical hats. You can visit a silk farm to see how it is spun by traditional means or you can visit a nearby lake to bird watch. Ton Le Sp Lake is South Est Asia's larges fresh water lake and you won't be disappointed to visit it.
If you are looking for something different for our next trip abroad. Put Cambodia on your list. It will be the most exciting and interesting vacation you have ever had in your life.
About the Author:
Deb Corbeil and Dave Bouskill are an Adventure Couple from Canada. Together they have traveled to over 35 countries on 5 continents. Every new adventure takes them to remote corners of the planet where they paddle, hike and trek their way around the earth. Visit their website theplanetd.com for new tips and information on exciting destinations around the planet. For photos of their journeys visit picturetheplanet
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