5 Reasons to Visit Phnom Penh, Cambodia

5 Reasons to Visit Phnom Penh, CambodiaBy Stephen Holmes

Phnom Penh, Cambodia has a very dark recent history but this jewel of Asia remains one of the most beautiful cities in the world. In so many ways it is different from its neighbors in Thailand and Vietnam, it makes this small country well worth a visit. Here are my top 5 reasons to visit the amazing Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

1. The Colonial Architecture
Cambodia was colonized by the French; if you mix this with the traditional Khmer style and you have a unique brand of Architecture that is simply breathtaking. Some of the most famous buildings include the National Post Office, The Royal Palace and the National Museum. All of these buildings are well worth a visit where you can get some amazing photographs.

2. The Memorials of the Genocide
Although Gruesome to many, we should never forget such atrocities in the hope that they don't happen again. The Khmer Rouge invaded Phnom Penh in 1975 and forced the population in to the countryside to work on hard labor farms. Millions died of starvation as well as ritual executions. The 2 must see visits are the Killing Fields, which are a former graveyard of the Khmer Rouge's enemies. Tuol Sleng prison is a former high school that acted as a prison during the occupation of Phnom Penh by the Khmer Rouge and you can walk around and see the prison cells with many pictures of what actually took place there, a very emotional day out.

3. The Rivers
Phnom Penh lies on the intersection of 3 rivers. The Mekong, the Tonle Sap and the Bassac. You can take river boat cruises around the city and also up the Tonle Sap to Siem Reap, home of the famous Angkor Wat temples. There are hotels on either side of the river banks and bridges to easy access. The best time to visit is during the dry season as the rivers can get smelly and the rain too much to bear.

4. The Waterfront
The main waterfront area boasts some unique and idyllic cafes and restaurants. A throwback to the French colonial era, the cafes are small and inexpensive. You can sit and relax watching the tuk tuks ferry passengers around and watch the boats glide past. There is also a huge promenade that lines the bank of the river, great for jogging or a nice walk during sunset. It really gives you a sense of what Phnom Penh is all about.

5. The Cost of Living
Cambodia is by far and away one of the most affordable countries in the world. The country operates a dual currency system with the local currency (The Cambodian Riel) operating alongside the US dollar. You can sit at a cafe bar and order a meal and beer for less than 5 dollars. Happy Hour beers are less than a dollar and a tuk tuk to most places around the city will cost just 2 or 3 dollars. Rents are also low, making this ideal for expats and those looking for a long-term place to live. Considering Phnom Penh is an Asian capital city, you will spend considerably less than you would in Singapore, Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur.
Phnom Penh really is a beautiful and exciting place that is definitely on the rise. Now is the time to visit!

Read more about the amazing city of Phnom Penh and the wonderful country of Cambodia on my website Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Stephen_Holmes/2290261
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Tourism in Cambodia

Tourism in Cambodia
By Medhat Elsergany

With a surface area of less than 200,000 square kilometers and a population of less than 15 million people, what is it really in that destination that makes tourism the second most important source of national income, after the production of cloth? In other words, what makes more than 3 million traveler tour Cambodia every year? We will be shedding some light on the most important touristic attraction of the country.

As a matter of fact, tourists who travel to Cambodia have the option to enjoy a lot of stuff. The marvels of nature are greatly reflected in the Great Mekong River and the Tonl� Sap, one of the largest fresh water lakes in Asia. There are several remarkable ancient temples as well. On the other hand, Cambodia hosts many remarkable beaches with white soft sand and crystal clear water.

Angkor Wat Temples

Angkor Wat is a large complex of temples located to the South East of the capital. Established in the 12th century AD, the main temple of the complex was constructed for the cult of Hinduism. However, afterwards, it was transformed to be a Buddhism Temple.
This remarkable set of temples is actually one of the most notable highlights that almost all travelers who spend their holidays in Cambodia commonly visit. The temple is famous for its accurate amazing architectural features including the lotus flower shape that is drawn by the five towers constructed around the complex.

Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh is the capital of Cambodia and the most populated city of the whole country. Featured with its marvelous mix between the traditional and the French style of architecture, a visit to Phnom Penh is a must for any traveler who spends his vacation on Cambodia.

The Water Festival of Phnom Penh

One of the most important attractions that grab the attention of tourists to spend their vacations in Cambodia is the Water Festival that is held every year in November in the capital. This festival is actually organized to celebrate the reverse in the flow of the famous great River of Tonle Sap. The festival, which is held for three consecutive days, witnesses the organization of many activities including rowboats races, dances, water sports, and much more.

The National Museum of Cambodia

For history fans that enjoy their tours in Cambodia is the National Museum located in Phnom Penh. This is where the largest numbers of displays illustrating the Khmer art and heritage are exhibited. With more than 1400 displays, the museum tells the story of Cambodia from prehistoric periods till contemporary times.

The building of the museum is also quite impressive. Characterized by its distinctive Khmer style of architecture, inspired by the many temples constructed around the country, the museum building was erected in 1924 to be one of the landmarks commonly visited by tourists who travel to Cambodia.

The Prasat Preah Temple

The Prasat Preah Temple is perhaps the most remarkable Hindu temple usually included in many travel packages to Cambodia. Located on top of a mountain, with several marvelous straits and nature beauties, the construction of the temple is quite sophisticated. Being hewn out of rocks, the temple is quite impressive to the extent that the UNESCO enlisted it in its World Heritage List.

Right Travel is an organized travel agency which provides various packages for tours to Cambodia, vacations in Cambodia and travel to Cambodia. For more detail please visit here: http://www.righttravel.info/country/cambodia-32.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Medhat_Elsergany/2168991
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