On paper, Cambodia’s numbers are pretty stacked; its borders stretch out to an area of 181,035sq km (69,898 sq mi) with a population of 15 million. On the ground, that amounts to 83 people per square kilometre. Here’s another number: 95 percent of Cambodians are practicing Buddhists. So it makes sense that this Southeast Asian country celebrates its thousands of temples –– Angkor Wat being the most world-renowned.
I wanted to see what that looked like –– to experience these numbers off the page.
From ancient to modern history, Cambodia has fought to maintain its identity — from French colonization, the Vietnam War, and the Khmer Rouge. Yet, its people have a welcoming reputation and wear ear-to-ear smiles.
I wanted to see how resiliency shapes a nation.
So I travelled there, camera in hand, in an effort to tell the story of how 15 million people live proudly today, folding in centuries of history while maintaining a distinct culture.
Taking a tuk tuk around is a must.
In Southeast Aisa, durian fruit is known as the “King of Fruits,” but it sure doesn’t smell like royalty. Consider yourself warned.
Visiting Angkor Wat is a must when in Cambodia. Get there early, before the heat of the day.
Although Angkor Wat is the most well-known temple in the Siem Reap area, there actually are hundreds in the region. You’ll need at least one full day to take a small sampling in.
The fishing villages on Tonle Sap Lake wait for the rainy season. With no water, there is no rice production or fishing.
The increasing dryness of the dry seasons is putting a lot of stress on these villages that rely on agriculture.
To know Cambodia’s story, its important to visit some war museums and prison camps. They reveal a dark, yet very real, past.
Phnom Pen. The capital of Cambodia is alive, and full of places to go and sights to see.
The markets in Southeast Asia never disappoint, and those in Cambodia are no different!
Oh, the traffic!
You can’t visit Cambodia without going to one kick-boxing match…
The street food. Inclusive, with your choice of insects!
Time to cross the border into Vietnam. Stay tuned for that blog post, coming soon!
Getting There
G Adventures runs a number of departures in Cambodia encompassing a wide range of departure dates and activities to cater to different tastes. We’re thrilled at the prospect of showing you this big blue planet of ours — check out our small group trips here.
