Cambodian Traveller
Trip Details
Travel westwards from the chaotic streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the cosmopolitan canals of Bangkok, stopping en route at the spectacular Angkor complex and sobering Phnom Penh along the way. This fascinating journey provides ample time to marvel at the glory of the ancient Khmer civilisation, temple-hop, shop and savour the culinary delights of Indochina while on the exciting road to Angkor.
Itinerary
Day 1 Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam's largest city brims with streetside stalls, stylish new boutiques, tamarind trees and motorbikes carrying everything from children to chickens. Arrive early to slurp a steaming bowl of pho or try some bargain-hunting at the Ben Thanh Market.
Days 2-3 Phnom Penh
Cross into Cambodia and confront the country's tragic past in the chilling Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. A visit to the infamous Killing Fields is equally sobering, the site marked by a stupa made of some 8,000 skulls. There's time to explore other attractions such as the frantic Russian Market, the National Museum or the Silver Pagoda with its dazzling silver-tiled floor. Alternatively, stroll along the Sisowath Quay and have coffee at a cafe overlooking the bustling river traffic.
Days 4-6 Siem Reap/Angkor Wat
Travel back to a brighter time in Cambodian history with a trip to the temples of Angkor. From sun-up to sundown, soak up the sacred beauty of Angkor Wat, the eerie shadows of Ta Prohm and the serene smiles of the carved faces of the Bayon.
Day 7 Battambang
Admire the elegant architecture left behind by the French, learn the secrets of Khmer cuisine in a cooking class, take a leisurely stroll along the river or maybe hail an ox-cart to explore the tranquil surroundings.
Days 8-9 Bangkok
Skip back across the border to Bangkok for a spicy curry, a soothing Thai massage or a spot of shopping at the Suan Lum Night Bazaar. Charter a longtail boat or take in the Grand Palace's gleaming architecture as a fitting end to this historic adventure.
