SIGHTS & PLACES: Cambodia treats visitors to a wealth of ‘off the beaten path’ locations that unveil the ancient qualities of this rugged country. Emerging as one of Asia’s more compelling capitals, Phnom Penh has transformed itself to gracefully blend a riverfront location with remaining colonial structures and a deeply fascinating history. However Siem Reap remains the most visited destination and is home to picturesque streets full of boutique shops, busy markets and an immense range of eateries to suit all budgets, and of course, the stunning Angkor Wat complex. The coastline of Southern Cambodia is noted for its quiet, tranquil atmosphere and pristine beaches that are still largely undeveloped or overcrowded. In addition to the coastline’s unspoiled beaches and idyllic offshore islands, the area is also home to lush tropical forests and attractive towns such as Kep and Kampot.

WHEN TO GO: The winter months (October-February), are the best time to travel to Cambodia as the air is cool and the skies clear. However, the dust at this time of year can be irritating and the crowds at the Angkor temples at their highest numbers. March to May sees hotter temperatures and dry skies, and the heat continues into June and through August when the monsoon season starts. The rains however do not usually cause a major problem for travelers as they tend to be short and hard afternoon showers.

USEFUL INFOMATION:

• MONEY : Cambodia Riel (pronouced as "real"). US dollars are widely accepted. Currency Exchange services are available throughout the country and ATMs distributing US dollars can be found in the main city.

• VISA:Visa on Arrival service is available for most nationalities on international flights arriving in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, as well as most land crossings with Laos, Vietnam and Thailand.

• ELECTRICITY: Standard voltage in Cambodia is 230V with the frequency of 50Hz. The sockets are a mixture of flat 2-pin, round 2 or 3 pin plugs. Power outages are quite common but most hotels have their own generator.

• DIALING CODE: +855

• TIME ZONE: GMT/UTC +7

• GETTING THERE & AWAY: Cambodia celebrates a mix of Buddhist,Chinese and international holidays as well as national events.The main festival periods are Khmer New Year (mid-April),Pchum Ben and the Ploughing Ceremony (mid-September) and Boun Om Touk boat racing (Water festival) (early November).Many restaurants and businesses close during these periods,however tourist attractions are still open and there is very little disruption to travel plans.

• PUBLIC HOLIDAYS: Cambodia celebrates a mix of Buddhist,Chinese and international holidays as well as national events.The main festival periods are Khmer New Year (mid-April),Pchum Ben and the Ploughing Ceremony (mid-September) and Boun Om Touk boat racing (Water festival) (early November).Many restaurants and businesses close during these periods,however tourist attractions are still open and there is very little disruption to travel plans.

• LANGUAGE: Cambodia’s national language is Khmer and unlike the other languages of the region is not a tonal language. As in other former French colonies the educated older generation often speaks very good French while the younger generation prefers English. Outside the major centers of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap most people speak only Khmer, but you will always find somebody who speaks English wherever you go.

• - HELLO : Sour Sdei
• - THANK YOU : Aw Kuhn