On a recent research trip to Cambodia, our Asia specialist, Meg, discovered the country’s authentic side. From visiting lesser-known Angkor temples to participating in anti-poaching missions, she experienced things many travellers miss out on and is eager for you to be in the know. Read on to discover what made Meg’s trip to Cambodia so memorable…
Where did you visit?
During my 18 days in Cambodia, I visited Siem Reap and the Angkor Temples, the temple of Preah Vihear, the provinces of Ratanakiri and Kratie, the little island of Koh Rong, the Cardamom Mountains and Cambodia’s capital city, Phnom Penh.
What did you get up to?
What didn’t I get up to! I visited the lesser-known Angkor temples, where I enjoyed the beautiful structures in solitude. I explored the countryside surrounding Siem Reap, met local families who make palm sugar, juice and wine, and even tried my hand at making rice noodles. In Ratanakiri Province, I rode a traditional tractor and hiked with an Indigenous community. In Phnom Peng, I experienced the incredible street food of the BKK market before delving into the city’s vibrant street art scene along hidden streets. On Koh Rong Island, I walked on soft white sand and swam in turquoise waters. In the Cardamom Mountains, I kayaked at sunrise from my floating tent and watched water buffalo bathe at sunset. I joined an anti-poaching mission with the Wildlife Alliance at Shinta Mani Wild, helping confiscate illegally used chainsaws, snares, traps and weapons and searched the forest for snares or trapped animals to release. Finally, I went foraging for wild potatoes and mushrooms, which the chef prepared for my breakfast at Shinta Mani Wild.
What made your trip special?
I had so many special experiences in Cambodia. Seeing the wild, untouched side of the country was amazing, and it proves that the country is worth visiting in its own right, rather than simply as an add-on to a Southeast Asia combination holiday. The people I met along the way – guides, rangers and locals – also made my time memorable, as they were nothing but friendly and made me feel incredibly welcome.
Did you learn about any hidden gems?
I’ve been to Siem Reap before and thought I’d visited most of the temples in the Angkor complex. However, on my Unsung Temples of Angkor tour, I discovered temples hidden deep in the jungle that I had no clue existed. Clearly no one else did either, as I had them all to myself! The Ratanakiri Province was also a hidden gem as it’s not somewhere travellers usually think to go. If you’re looking for adventure, it’s the place to be.
What’s your favourite thing you ate?
My noodle breakfast at BKK market was hands down the most delicious meal I had. It was made of fresh rice noodles, herbs, spices, spring rolls, coconut broth and chilli sauce topped with peanuts. Eating it on a tiny stool alongside locals in the market was such an enjoyable and authentic experience.
What new things did you learn?
I learnt more about the Khmer Rouge history of Cambodia, which is a harrowing but fascinating story, and you can see how Cambodia still suffers in the wake of this today. I also learnt about Phnom Penh’s recent history and how building developments are forcing villagers out of their homes. Finally, in the Cardamom Mountains, I learnt about how the local communities protect the huge variety of wildlife there.
What’s one thing that can’t be missed?
It’s impossible to pick just one thing, but I don’t think you can visit Cambodia without seeing the Angkor Temples. Tourism has been slower to return to Cambodia after the pandemic, so now is the time to go. Koh Rong also blew me away with its sparkling white sand and turquoise waters – you'd almost mistake it for the Maldives.
What’s a top tip you’d give to clients?
Eat as locally as possible, and don’t be scared of eating food from street stalls or markets. You’ll spend about two to five pounds per meal, and it’ll undoubtedly be one of the freshest and tastiest meals you’ll eat.
Header Image by Samantha Faivre | Body Images by Megan Macmahon.
