Refreshed July 2026
Visiting Cambodia for the first time was a dream come true. For years I had wanted to see the magnificent Angkor Wat, one of the world’s greatest archaeological treasures, and finally the opportunity arrived. Combining Cambodia with neighbouring Vietnam made perfect sense, allowing me to experience two fascinating countries on one journey.
Like many travellers, I arrived expecting ancient temples. What I discovered was much more. Cambodia is a country of striking contrasts, where magnificent monuments stand alongside reminders of a painful recent history, bustling cities give way to peaceful countryside, and warm smiles welcome visitors wherever they go.
Although Angkor Wat was undoubtedly the highlight of my trip, it was only one part of a journey that introduced me to Cambodia’s culture, cuisine, history and wonderfully welcoming people.
Phnom Penh – Cambodia’s Capital
My first introduction to Cambodia was Phnom Penh. Rather than joining an organised sightseeing tour, another traveller and I hired a local tuk-tuk driver for several hours. His English wasn’t perfect and he wasn’t a professional guide, but his enthusiasm more than made up for it. It was an enjoyable way to explore the city’s main landmarks while experiencing everyday life at street level.
No visit to Phnom Penh can ignore Cambodia’s tragic recent history. Optional excursions visited the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Choeung Ek Killing Fields, where the horrors of the Khmer Rouge regime are remembered.
I made the personal decision not to visit these sites. Several fellow travellers who did described the experience as incredibly moving, with some saying they were brought to tears. For me, simply learning about Cambodia’s history was enough, but every traveller must decide what feels right for them.
Cambodia’s past is heartbreaking, yet what stayed with me most was the resilience, kindness and optimism of its people.
Journey to Siem Reap
From Phnom Penh we travelled by Giant Ibis bus on the six-hour journey to Siem Reap, the gateway to the famous Angkor Archaeological Park.
Our journey included an unexpected stop at a roadside market where local delicacies were on display. Fried insects of every description were neatly arranged for adventurous visitors to sample.
Feeling braver than sensible, I agreed to try the leg of a fried tarantula.
That was adventurous enough for me!
Unlike a few members of our group, I couldn’t bring myself to eat the whole spider, but it certainly became one of the most memorable food experiences of the trip.
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Beyond the Temples
Although most visitors come to Siem Reap for Angkor Wat, there is plenty more to experience.
A fellow traveller, Diane, and I organised our own excursion to Tonlé Sap Lake, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake. We visited during the dry season, when the receding water revealed the tall stilts supporting many of the floating homes. Life on the lake moved at a gentle pace, creating a peaceful contrast to the busy streets of Siem Reap.
We also explored the lively night market and the famous Pub Street by tuk-tuk. Yes, it was touristy, but it was also full of energy, colour and atmosphere, making it a fun place to spend an evening.
One of my favourite memories was attending a traditional Cambodian cultural performance accompanied by dinner and drinks. Watching the elegant dancers in their beautiful costumes while enjoying local cuisine gave me a deeper appreciation of Cambodia’s artistic traditions.
The People Who Made the Difference
More than anything else, I remember the warmth of the Cambodian people.
Everywhere I went, I was welcomed with genuine kindness. Whether chatting with tuk-tuk drivers, meeting market traders or simply asking for directions, people were patient, friendly and eager to share a little of their country with visitors.
Those human connections often become the memories that last the longest.
Looking Back
Cambodia gave me far more than the opportunity to tick Angkor Wat off my bucket list.
It introduced me to a country of extraordinary resilience, fascinating history, rich cultural traditions and unforgettable experiences. From exploring Phnom Penh and sampling unusual local food to relaxing on Tonlé Sap Lake and discovering the magic of Siem Reap, every day revealed another side of this remarkable country.
Angkor Wat may have been the reason I travelled to Cambodia, but it certainly wasn’t the only reason I’ll always remember it
Explore More About Cambodia
This article is part of my Cambodia collection. You may also enjoy:
- Angkor Wat: Cambodia’s Architectural Masterpiece
- Cambodia Travel Tips
In Pictures ....
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Glad you are a it again. Love them.
Thank you very much for appreciating my posts. xx
Nice one. Sounds interesting. Well done.
Thank you.I am glad you enjoyed reading my post.