Cambodia

Siem Reap & Angkor Wat

Ankor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world. Built in the 12th century, it covers over 400 acres. Starting at sunrise was a bit of a let down because there were so many people. We really couldn’t appreciate it because there were so many heads in the way. Nonetheless, the temples are impressive due to their size and intricate carvings in the stone.

The town of Siem Reap is one big tourist attraction. There are neon lights and too much western food. I found it disappointing that there was few traces of Cambodian culture and people try to rip you off left and right.

Phnom Phen

Phnom Phen was a pleasant surprise and I wish I had a few more days to explore. It has the crazy energy of Saigon and Hanoi. The Russian Market was a good place to pick up some gifts. Bistros Langka has delicious French food and there’s a cool speakeasy next door that you enter through what looks like a coke machine door.

We also visited the Tuol Sleng Prison Museum that documents the horrors from the Khmer Rouge. It’s extremely hard to see but important to understand the countries history and how far they have come in 40 years.

Koh Rong & Koh Rong Samoem

The islands have beautiful beaches but that’s about it. Koh Rong has been ruined by the trashy backpacker bars. There aren’t really any decent places to stay unless you venture to Koh Rong Saloem but then all you have is resorts. If you want islands, go to Indonesian, Thailand or the Philippines.