Travel Cambodia - Phnom Penh, Angkor Wat, Sihanoukville
Cambodia is a land on the mend. From 1977 through 1980, the
Khmer Rouge ruled the country, fanatics bent on genocide.
Millions were killed and the period was put to film in the
movie, "The Killing Fields." Fortunately, those days are over
and the country is becoming a tourist destination.
Cambodia is a land of incredible contrast. Thick forest,
mountains and pristine rivers compliment amazing white beaches.
When you get down to it, however, travelers know Cambodia for
two things, Angkor Wat and the nastiest roads around. But, let's
not get ahead of ourselves.
Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is the capital of Cambodia. The city is a combination
of old French beauty and modern condominiums. The city is full
of amazing Wats [Buddist monasteries], including Wat Ounalom,
Wat Phnom and Wat Moha Montrei. Modern buildings surround these
monasteries and it's difficult to avoid a feeling that the old
ways are being lost.
Still, the vibrancy of the city is impressive considering the
fact that it was completely abandoned for three years in the
last 70s. During this period, the Khmer Rouge tried to return
the Cambodian people to their agricultural heritage and
evacuated all cities. The only exception, of course, is Tuol
Sleng, a high school used to torture and kill "enemies of the
state." Just beyond the city, one will also find the infamous
killing fields where thousands upon thousands were put to death.
Sihanoukville
Sihanoukville is a small, sleepy village on the Southwest edge
of Cambodia. Fairly undeveloped, the area is an oasis similar to
the beaches of Thailand. The difference, however, is the lack of
tourists. Depending on the time of year, the beaches can be more
or less empty and privacy assured. Rooms run between $5 and $15
a night and come with private bathrooms. If you are looking to
lounge professionally, Sihanoukville is a very good place to do
it.
Angkor Wat
Stunning. There is no other word for the temples of Angkor Wat.
Angkor Wat is a temple surrounded by hundreds of others. Each is
unique and worth a look. The most famous are Angkor Wat, Bayon
and Ta Phrom. Angkor Wat is in the best shape as well as the
most known. The Bayon is impressive, but the constant mob of
tourist makes it a pain to visit. Ta Phrom is amazing because it
has been left to the jungle, which is to say trees and the
structure have become one in many areas. If you have seen Tomb
Raider with Angelina Jolie, you have seen Ta Phrom. Personally,
I prefer Angkor Wat to the Pyramids in Egypt.
Roads From Hell
Cambodian roads are evil. There is simply no other way to put
it. The country is hit by monsoons every year and is still
recovering from the Khmer Rouge. This combination has resulted
in roads with huge potholes, missing bridges and pretty much the
worst elements of Dante's Hell. Avoid them if at all possible!