Cambodia is an amazing destination and if you are a passionate traveler you should visit this country at least once in your life. It is a country of contrasts because you will discover both poverty and wealth and beauty and ugliness there. Cambodia is one of those fascinating countries where you will have the chance to create many beautiful memories.
The most important tourist attractions there are Siem Reap and Ankor Thom&Wat. If you travel to Cambodia on your own, it is very important to be well informed and to consider the following tips:
1. It is easier to get to Cambodia by plane, but if you choose to travel by car you should take into account a few useful suggestions. Don’t use the services of any local travel agency if you need help to cross the border, unless you want to pay almost double. You will not save time either. However, if you choose this alternative, negotiate the price from the beginning. Ask about the price of the visa because they often charge more for it and about how much you need to pay for their services.
2.If you intend to visit both Cambodia and another country situated in the same region, it would be better to get your visas before you leave your home country. This way you could travel to the same country more than once without paying extra fees. For example, if you leave your home country without a visa, planning to get your visa when you enter Cambodia, you should know that every time you go in and out of the country you’ll have to pay a fee.
3.Don’t plan a one day trip to Cambodia. Siem Reap and the amazing complex of temples Ankor Thom&Wat are impressive. You should spend at least three days there if you want to admire those beautiful temples in all their splendor.
4.It is important to have US dollars with you because the US dollar is the second currency in the country and the most convenient currency there.
5.Practice your negotiation skills if you want to save a lot of money. If you drive a hard bargain, you might pay half the price for almost every product you buy.
6.Don’t miss the Night Market in Siem Reap. It will be an interesting experience and you will buy quality stuff at good prices (Did you know that some important brands are manufactured in Cambodia?).
7.Pay attention to the way you are dressed, in case you want to visit the temples. For example if you choose to visit Ankor Wat, you should know that you are not allowed to enter one of the temples if you are wearing shorts, miniskirts or any type of clothing which leaves your shoulders or your knees uncovered. Take a cardigan with you and wear a pair of suitable trousers because you will not be allowed to cover yourself with a scarf.
8.Don’t miss the Cambodian dance shows. No visit to Cambodia is complete without attending at least one dance performance. It is a unique experience because their dance styles are different from everything you have ever seen.
9.The best way to travel around town in Cambodia is by Tuk-Tuk. It will be a fabulous experience to see the beauty of Siem Reap from that lovely cab.
10.Interact with Cambodian people because they are friendly, kind and always ready for a good laugh. Their attitude is a perfect reflection of the spirit of their country. Respect them and their culture even though it is different than yours! Take a lot of pictures and enjoy every second there!
