#Indian restaurants in Phnom Penh

[namasteindiarestaurant]

Curries in Phnom Penh

[namasteindiarestaurantbkk]

Indian Restaurants in Phnom Penh

Established in 2018, Namaste India BKK restaurant is build with a mission to bring true fine dining experience with Indian food in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

[rpcomtrade123]

Indian food is beloved by many in Phnom Penh's lively food scene, which offers a wide array of delectable dishes. At Shiva Shakti, one of the oldest Indian restaurants in town, the devotion to Indian cuisine extends far beyond the traditional fare of biryanis and curries. Guests will have a lovely introduction to the many breads that go with every Indian meal at this restaurant that focuses on the art of Indian bread making.

[dreamstravel19]

Cheapest Countries to Visit from India: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Traveling the world doesn't have to break the bank. For Indian travelers looking to explore new destinations without spending a fortune, there are numerous countries offering rich cultural experiences, stunning landscapes, and unique adventures at a fraction of the cost. Here's a guide to some of the cheapest countries to visit from India, where you can enjoy a memorable vacation on a budget.

1. Nepal

Why Visit:

Nepal is a haven for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts. Home to eight of the world's tallest mountains, including Mount Everest, Nepal offers breathtaking views, vibrant culture, and rich history.

Highlights:

Trekking in the Himalayas

Exploring the capital, Kathmandu, with its historic temples and bustling markets

Visiting the birthplace of Buddha in Lumbini

Budget Tips:

Use local transport like buses and shared taxis.

Stay in budget guesthouses or hostels.

Enjoy local Nepali cuisine, which is both delicious and affordable.

2. Sri Lanka

Why Visit:

Sri Lanka, often called the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean," boasts beautiful beaches, lush tea plantations, and ancient ruins. Its compact size makes it easy to explore multiple destinations on a single trip.

Highlights:

Relaxing on the pristine beaches of Mirissa and Unawatuna

Exploring the ancient city of Anuradhapura

Taking a scenic train ride through the tea plantations in Ella

Budget Tips:

Travel by train or bus for cheap and scenic transportation.

Eat at local eateries and street food stalls.

Opt for budget accommodation, like guesthouses or homestays.

3. Thailand

Why Visit:

Thailand is renowned for its stunning islands, vibrant nightlife, rich culture, and delicious street food. It's an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure. One of the best cheapest countries to visit from India.

Highlights:

Exploring the bustling city of Bangkok

Relaxing on the islands of Koh Samui, Phuket, and Krabi

Visiting ancient temples in Chiang Mai

Budget Tips:

Use budget airlines or buses for internal travel.

Stay in hostels or budget hotels.

Enjoy affordable and delicious street food.

4. Vietnam

Why Visit:

Vietnam offers diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to serene countryside, and a fascinating history. It's a perfect destination for history buffs and nature lovers.

Highlights:

Cruising in Ha Long Bay

Exploring the historic city of Hoi An

Visiting the war museums and tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City

Budget Tips:

Travel by overnight buses or trains to save on accommodation.

Eat at local markets and street vendors.

Choose budget hotels or hostels for your stay.

5. Indonesia

Why Visit:

Indonesia, with its vast archipelago, offers a myriad of experiences from beach getaways to cultural explorations. Bali, in particular, is a favorite among travelers for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.

Highlights:

Relaxing on the beaches of Bali

Exploring the temples and rice terraces of Ubud

Diving in the pristine waters of the Gili Islands

Budget Tips:

Use local transport options like scooters or public buses.

Stay in budget-friendly guesthouses or hostels.

Enjoy meals at warungs (local eateries).

6. Cambodia

Why Visit:

On the list of cheapest countries to visit from India, Cambodia is home to the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and offers a deep insight into ancient civilizations. It's also known for its friendly locals and rich history.

Highlights:

Exploring the Angkor Wat temple complex

Visiting the Killing Fields and Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh

Relaxing on the beaches of Sihanoukville

Budget Tips:

Travel by bus between cities to save on transportation costs.

Eat at local markets and small restaurants.

Stay in budget hotels or guesthouses.

7. Malaysia

Why Visit:

Malaysia offers a mix of modernity and tradition, with bustling cities, beautiful beaches, and lush rainforests. It's a great destination for those looking for diverse experiences.

Highlights:

Exploring the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur

Visiting the historic city of Malacca

Relaxing on the beaches of Langkawi

Budget Tips:

Use public transport like buses and trains.

Stay in budget accommodation options like hostels.

Enjoy meals at local hawker centers.

Conclusion

Traveling doesn't have to be expensive, and these cheapest countries to visit from India prove that you can have an incredible experience without spending a fortune. By planning wisely, choosing budget accommodations, and savoring local cuisines, you can explore these amazing destinations without straining your wallet. So pack your bags, grab your passport, and embark on a budget-friendly adventure from India to these beautiful countries. Safe travels!

[pronititravelagency]

How Cambodia Luxury Tours Are Very Special

Historic monuments in Angkor, heartbreaking history in the city, and lush islands just waiting to be discovered and we can help you travel to Cambodia in comfort and style. With the finest in opulent lodging and exclusive, knowledgeable-led excursions, we'll design a custom itinerary around your interests, preferences, and needs.

Cambodia is a welcoming, vibrant nation with much more to offer than just the spectacular ruins of Angkor Wat. The capital of Cambodia, Phnom Penh, is rich in both ancient and contemporary history and offers crucial context for the nation. With its French colonial architecture, it serves as the entrance to the Angkor temple complex and boasts a thriving cuisine scene.

The coast is another factor in cambodia luxury tours as all can experience the stunning rainforest, national parks, tranquil riverfront areas, and delicious restaurants. With white sand beaches, clear blue water, and every luxury imaginable, the magnificent Song Saa private island is the epitome of a tropical escape.

If you have the time, you may easily add other nations to your schedule to create a comprehensive trip that includes Cambodia.

How Cambodia luxury tours are special

Enter a compelling world filled with elaborately carved temples, amazing structures like pagodas and monuments, stilted floating towns, fascinating fauna, and a wealth of artistic expression from a long-ago civilization that existed as early as 4200 BCE. The tropical nation of Cambodia is a riot of colorful festivals, celebrations, and holidays, many of which are centered on the Buddhist lunar calendar and have Indian cultural influences.

Located next to Vietnam, Thailand, and Laos, Cambodia has a troubled past that includes Japanese occupation during World War II and the overthrow of the government by the Khmer Rouge under the leadership of Pol Pot in 1975. You will be greeted by people who are extraordinarily polite, warm, cheerful, and giving in spirit despite the hardships Cambodians have experienced as a nation.

[indianamastey-blog]

[newstfionline]

Saturday, May 1, 2021

Student loan debts (WSJ) U.S. taxpayers could ultimately be on the hook for roughly a third of the $1.6 trillion federal student loan portfolio. This could amount to more than $500 billion, exceeding what taxpayers lost on the saving-and-loan crisis 30 years ago. While defaulted student loans can’t cause the federal government to go bankrupt the way bad mortgage lending upended banks during the financial crisis, they expose a similar problem: Billions of dollars lent based on flawed assumptions about whether the money can be repaid.

Costa Rica to close non-essential businesses next week over COVID-19 (Reuters) Costa Rica will for the next week close non-essential businesses, including restaurants and bars, across the center of the country due to a sharp increase in new cases of COVID-19 and hospitalizations, the government said on Thursday. From May 3-9, restaurants, bars, department stores, beauty salons, gyms and churches must close in 45 municipalities in central Costa Rica, where almost half the population lives and over two-thirds of new cases have been registered. The government will also impose travel restrictions during the week.

After a Year of Loss, South America Suffers Worst Death Tolls Yet (NYT) In the capital of Colombia, Bogotá, the mayor is warning residents to brace for “the worst two weeks of our lives.” Uruguay, once lauded as a model for keeping the coronavirus under control, now has one of the highest death rates in the world, while the grim daily tallies of the dead have hit records in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia and Peru in recent days. Even Venezuela, where the authoritarian government is notorious for hiding health statistics and any suggestion of disarray, says that coronavirus deaths are up 86 percent since January. As vaccinations mount in some of the world’s wealthiest countries and people cautiously envision life after the pandemic, the crisis in Latin America—and in South America in particular—is taking an alarming turn for the worse, potentially threatening the progress made well beyond its borders. Last week, Latin America accounted for 35 percent of all coronavirus deaths in the world, despite having just 8 percent of the global population, according to data compiled by The New York Times.

France Proposes More Surveillance to Hunt for Potential Terrorists (NYT) The French government, responding to several attacks over the past seven months, presented a new anti-terrorism bill on Wednesday that would allow intense algorithmic surveillance of phone and internet communications and tighten restrictions on convicted terrorists emerging from prison. “There have been nine attacks in a row that we could not detect through current means,” Gérald Darmanin, the interior minister, told France Inter radio. “We continue to be blind, doing surveillance on normal phone lines that nobody uses any longer.” The draft bill, prepared by Mr. Darmanin, came in a political and social climate envenomed by Marine Le Pen, the far-right leader, who applauded a letter published this month by 20 retired generals that described France as being in a state of “disintegration” and warned of a possible coup in thinly veiled terms. Published in a right-wing magazine, Valeurs Actuelles, the generals’ letter portrayed a country ravaged by violence, swept by hatred and prey to subversive ideologies bent on stirring a racial war. “If nothing is done,” they said, “laxity will spread inexorably across society, provoking in the end an explosion and the intervention of our active-service comrades in the perilous protection of our civilization’s values.”

Toll of Afghan ‘forever war’ (AP) After 20 years, America is ending its “forever war” in Afghanistan. Announcing a firm withdrawal deadline, President Joe Biden cut through the long debate, even within the U.S. military, over whether the time was right. Starting Saturday, the last remaining 2,500 to 3,500 American troops will begin leaving, to be fully out by Sept. 11 at the latest. Another debate will likely go on far longer: Was it worth it? Since 2001, tens of thousands of Afghans and 2,442 American soldiers have been killed, millions of Afghans driven from their homes, and billions of dollars spent on war and reconstruction. The U.S. and NATO leave behind an Afghanistan that is at least half run directly or indirectly by the Taliban—despite billions poured into training and arming Afghan forces to fight them. Riddled with corruption and tied to regional warlords, the U.S.-backed government is widely distrusted by many Afghans.

In India’s devastating coronavirus surge, anger at Modi grows (Washington Post) As he surveyed the thousands of people gathered at an election rally in eastern India on April 17, Prime Minister Narendra Modi appeared jubilant. “Everywhere I look, as far as I can see, there are crowds,” he said, his arms spread wide. “You have done an extraordinary thing.” At the time, India was recording more than 200,000 coronavirus cases a day. In the western state of Maharashtra, oxygen was running short, and people were dying at home because of a shortage of hospital beds. In Modi’s home state of Gujarat, crematoriums were being overwhelmed by the dead. For Modi, the most powerful Indian prime minister in five decades, it is a moment of reckoning. He is facing what appears to be the country’s biggest crisis since independence. Modi’s own lapses and missteps are an increasing source of anger. As coronavirus cases skyrocketed, Modi continued to hold huge election rallies and declined to cancel a Hindu religious festival that drew millions to the banks of the Ganges River. Modi swept to a landslide reelection victory in 2019, offering Indians a muscular brand of nationalism that views India as a fundamentally Hindu country rather than the secular republic envisioned by its founders. He has cultivated an image as a singular leader capable of bold decisions to protect and transform the country. Now that image is “in tatters,” said Vinay Sitapati, a political scientist at Ashoka University in the northern Indian state of Haryana. Modi and his governing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) built a formidable machine for winning elections, Sitapati said, but their mind-set of continuous campaigning has come “at the cost of governance.”

Iran and Saudi Arabia Edge Toward Détente (Foreign Policy) Iran’s relationship with Saudi Arabia could be entering “a new chapter of interaction and cooperation,” Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said on Thursday, as the two countries signal a rapid mending of diplomatic ties. Khatibzadeh’s comments came in response to an interview Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman gave to state television this week, when he said that problems between the regional rivals could be overcome and “good relations” could soon prevail. His recent comments offer a stark contrast with ones he made in 2018 when he compared Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to Adolf Hitler and described Iran as part of a “triangle of evil.” Behind the scenes, the two countries have also been busy. Earlier this month, the Financial Times broke news of direct talks, held in Baghdad, with a primary focus on ending the war in Yemen.

Chloe Zhao's challenge to Chinese Beauty standards (Quartz) Although Chloé Zhao’s Oscars win has largely been censored in China, her chill, no-makeup look at the awards ceremony has become a hit among many Chinese women, who say Zhao made them feel they can also ditch cosmetics and stop appealing to mainstream beauty standards in the country. China has a set of rigid standards for women’s appearance, prompting online slimming challenges that encourage young girls to pursue body shapes that allow them to wear children’s clothes, or have waists with a width similar to the shorter side of a piece of A4 paper (around 21 cm). As such, Zhao’s no-makeup look is a much-needed endorsement for women in China, where few public figures dare to break away from traditional beauty requirements.

Hong Kong’s latest star TV host? City leader Carrie Lam. (Washington Post) In a city known for producing action-packed martial arts movies, there’s a gripping new TV show on the block. The title promises to captivate viewers: “Get to Know the Election Committee Subsectors.” The star? Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam, not as a guest but as the host. The show, which premiered Wednesday on public broadcaster Radio Television Hong Kong, gives Lam a platform to promote electoral changes introduced by Beijing that further tilt the system against pro-democracy voices, add weight to industry-sector representatives and ensure only “patriots” loyal to the Communist Party can govern Hong Kong. People in mainland China have long been accustomed to state propaganda broadcasts. Hong Kong, however, traditionally had a freewheeling media environment. But almost a year after China imposed a security law that curtailed freedom of speech there, the public broadcaster has become a vital instrument of Beijing’s efforts to control the narrative. Wednesday night’s double-episode premiere featured furious agreement on the merit of Beijing’s electoral changes. The episodes scored only a few thousand views and mostly “thumbs-down” responses on YouTube. One user drew comparisons to George Orwell’s “1984.” If you missed the show, there’s plenty of opportunity to catch it again; episodes will air four times a day, every day.

Cambodians complain of lockdown hunger as outbreak takes toll on poor (Reuters) Residents in Cambodia’s capital gathered on Friday to demand food from the government, outraged at what they called inadequate aid distribution during a tough COVID-19 lockdown that bars people from leaving their homes. Authorities put Phnom Penh and a nearby town under a hard lockdown on April 19 to quell a surge in coronavirus infections that has seen Cambodia’s case total balloon from about 500 to 12,641 since late February, including all 91 of its deaths. Though private food deliveries are operating, markets and street food services are closed, making it difficult for poorer families to get supplies, with many without income because of the stay-home order. Amnesty International on Friday called Cambodia’s lockdown an emerging humanitarian and human rights crisis, with nearly 294,000 people in Phnom Penh at risk of going hungry.

Palestinian election delay (Reuters) It could have marked a political turning point. Palestinians were slated to go to the polls starting next month for the first time in 15 years—but on Thursday, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas announced he will indefinitely postpone the elections. He blamed Israel, accusing authorities of stonewalling efforts to let Palestinian residents of East Jerusalem cast their ballots. But Israeli officials suggested Abbas was using Israel as a pretext to cancel a vote his faction might lose. Hamas, his party’s rival, has rejected the move, and some Palestinians took to the streets to protest.

The real threat to Chad’s military rulers: unemployed youth (Reuters) When Neldjibaye Madjissem graduated with a mathematics degree in 2015, he began searching for work as a school teacher. Six years on, he is still looking—and is angry. The 31-year-old blames Chad's government for lack of work, mismanagement of oil revenues and corruption. No wonder people are protesting on the streets in their thousands, he says. The battlefield death of President Idriss Deby last week, after 30 years of autocratic rule, sent the Central African country into a tailspin. But perhaps the greater threat for Chad’s rulers comes from the mass of unemployed young people tired of the Deby family and its international allies, particularly former colonial ruler France. At least six people died in violent protests this week. "The lack of jobs risks creating a great problem. The people are angry," said Madjissem, as he prepared a private lesson to a high school student in the living room of a tiny house in N'Djamena. His infrequent wage: $3 an hour.

Famine looms in southern Madagascar, U.N.’s food agency says (Reuters) Famine is looming in southern Madagascar, where children are “starving” after drought and sandstorms ruined harvests, the U.N.’s World Food Programme (WFP) said on Friday. Amer Daoudi, senior director of WFP operations globally, speaking from Antananarivo, Madagascar, said he had visited villages where people had resorted to eating locusts and leaves. “I witnessed horrific images of starving children, malnourished, and not only the children—mothers, parents and the populations in villages we visited,” Daoudi told a United Nations briefing in Geneva. Malnutrition has almost doubled to 16% from 9% in March 2020 following five consecutive years of drought, exacerbated this year by sandstorms and late rains, he said.

[withsarahj]

phnom penh guide

RESTAURANTS 

Mexicano/Itacate - Really yummy Mexican food, probably the best in town, two branches are run by the same owner so if you want to skip the crowd go for Itacate (cooler atmosphere too). Get any of the classic tacos with a side of guacamole and sour cream + one of their lime sodas that come in a huge pot. Cute colourful interior and friendly staff. 

Jaru - Good value Korean food, chicken wings are great and they do a solid stew. Nice banchan and good atmosphere, is always full but you can always get a table.

Tokkiya - Homey Korean food for cheap, their Bimbimbap is the best I’ve tried. Low-key and very casual. Feels like your Korean grandma is cooking for you. 

Enso - Great for breafast/brunch. Australian style, healthy, fresh and has something for everyone. I always either get the mushroom omelette or the pancakes. Their bakery is pretty good too. Yummy smoothies.

Lot 369 - Along the same vein as Enso, Aussie style cafe, a bit more pared down. Nice ambiance and has a good range of food, service sometimes unreliable in the busier hours though. 

Java Cafe - One of the first cafes in town ever and still going strong. Go for the bagels, mushroom burger and huge salads. Friendly staff and very approachable with cool interiors. 

Backyard Cafe - Healthy food to the max but I love it when I’m in that mood. Huge portions, lots of veggies, salads and good for you food. Cold-press juice + healthy desserts too. 

The Shop - A Phnom Penh classic. Perfect breakfasts and even more perfect lunches. Go for the Benedict and the mango and passionfruit pancake. Smoothies and juices, I love their lychee mint one + they do a mean eclair. 

Origami - On the pricier side but they do set lunches for less than 10 if you’re on a budget. Great quality fish and good service. Feels like you’re in Japan.

O-san Ramen - The only acceptable ramen in the city. A super solid bowl of noodles. Hole in the wall kind of feeling, business guys getting off work and having dinner.

Shiva Shakti - Best Indian food in PP, a bit pricier but really worth it. Order your favourites + sweet lassi. 

Sesame Noodle Bar - Cute and quirky interiors, draws a nice crowd. Cheap and small menu. Star is the sesame noodles + Thor buns. 

Brooklyn Bistro - If you want to pig out, get the pepperoni pizza and the ribs. I can only go there when the mood hits since the food is on the heavier side.

Kravanh - Great Khmer food. Pricier side with traditional yet chic interior. 

Sakana Lab/Sushi Lab - Owned by the same people but different vibe. Sushi Lab for a one-time omakase experience. Sakana Lab for great japanese food for good value. Nice atmosphere and crowd.

Luna - My favourite pizza in town. Tuna salad + the seafood pasta is a favourite. Desserts are also great. 

Adachi - Solid Japanese food on the pricier side. Great service, super reliable and very high quality. You can get small Japanese style booths. Lively atmosphere usually. 

Fuwari - Small Japanese bakery. Best cream puffs and the mille feulle is wow. Takeaway is best, their seating is pretty limited.  

DRINKS

Tini - Tiny spot but beautiful and minimalist interiors. Nice coffee and artsy books to look through. Small menu + a few cakes. 

Kinin - Converted wooden house turned bar/restaurant. Nice open atmosphere, don’t really dig the food but the drinks are great. Mocktails are one of the best here too. 

Bassac Lane - Quickly turning into PP’s own Pub St so some areas can be seedier but Harry’s and Le Boutier are definitely the highlights. Yummy cocktails and a good vibe. Very hipster.

Sundown Social Club - Overlooks Russian Market, good spot for people watching. Nice cocktails and bar food but mainly go there for the beautiful interior and atmosphere. 

Brown - The ultimate local coffeeshop/brand. Brown is a PP icon. Delicious cold drinks and frappes. Ice lemon tea or ice latte is a go-to. Go for the great interiors, vibe and service, the food is not a highlight IMO. You’ll get a sense of the local coffee culture here.

Koi - Bubble tea is big here, so go for a takeaway cup. Oolong tea + their house grass jelly is my favourite. Another local fave is the green tea macchiato that you get a baby knife to cut and drink out of at a 45 degree angle. Extra but so yummy !

THINGS TO DO  Rooftop swim at Penh House or Patio: Rooftop swims are a big thing in the city, spend an afternoon just lounging around, drinking a coconut, eating too much from the poolside menu while watching the sunset. These two spots have the best views and ambience but can get crowded so go earlier.

Spa and massage at Bliss/Champei: Bliss has gorgeous interior and a super serene atmosphere, the building inside is very unique. Champei gives a good massage but on a budget. Cambodia is well-known for their spa-game so this is a must !

Russian market - Probably the most popular market in PP, I usually go for swimsuits, silver jewelry and sports clothes. They also have a food market inside, get the freshly squeezed orange juice to cool off.

Games cafe - So many games to play for cheap, paid hourly. I always have a good time here, there’s also a food and drink menu to order off of. 

Factory - Very cool and interesting co-working space + a bunch of other things. Huge place with coffee shop, basketball, games room + bikes for getting around. Trampolining is also here + a skatepark. 

Odom park - Relatively new park and one of the only truly green areas in the city. A space of calmness, draws a really diverse crowd. Has a cafe and some markets on the weekends. Worth it to check out. 

Now.here - Sweet studio run by a creative duo/couple. They do workshops, have prints and have other things for sale. 

Wander around in front of the Royal Palace - The street is blocked off from traffic, very rare in the city. Nice for people watching and has an otherworldly vibe. 

[shivashakti1-blog]

Shiva Shakti restaurant

Shiva Shakti is the best Indian restaurant in Phnom Penh in Cambodia. The restaurant has the best Indian dishes and a splendid interior with supportive staff and service. The restaurant is worth visiting.

 https://www.tripadvisor.in/RSManagementCenter-g293940-d2281769-Shiva_Shakti-Phnom_Penh.html

[the-nubian-world]

🍗🥤🍽 No filters required Keepin' it natural Natural HDR #nofilter #nature #motor #landscape #cars #cambodia #asia #phnompenh #thailand #malaysia #china #happy #summer #follow #vegan #mobilephotography #nightlife #qatar #blackandwhite #retro #fruits #camera #chillin #TheNubian_graphy #beach #sunset #black #food #rugby #love (at The Tandoor Indian Restaurant Phnom Penh) https://www.instagram.com/p/Bsf1JFagauY/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=pg590x0sq88q

[namasteindiarestaurant]

Namaste India was established with a goal in mind to provide the epitome of Indian cuisine along with the true dining experience to our customers.

[namasteindiarestaurantbkk]

Indian Restaurants In Phnom Penh

Established in 2018, Namaste India BKK restaurant is build with a mission to bring true fine dining experience with Indian food in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

[rpcomtrade123]

Embark on a sensory journey through the vibrant world of Indian spices, where flavors dance and aromas tantalize. Join us as we explore the essence of India's culinary heritage, guided by the expertise of Shiva Shakti, an esteemed authority in spice discovery, amidst the bustling spice markets of Phnom Penh.

[primortravel]

New Post has been published on https://primortravel.com/5-reasons-to-go-in-2021/

5 Reasons to Go in 2021

During my trip around the world, I was excited to backpack Cambodia in Southeast Asia for many reasons.

Ancient temple ruins set the scene for Hollywood movies, villages that float on water, and killing fields where the worst of humanity was witnessed.

Cambodia, a primarily rural country, is full of complexity.

In this post, I’ll share five reasons to visit the country, plus the best places to add to your Cambodia itinerary, all of which I hope will inspire you to spend time here, too.

Getting to Know Cambodia

Offerings for Buddha at Bayon ruins

Historical Influences

Over the last 2,000 years, Cambodia has been heavily influenced by Chinese and Indian culture, acting as a conduit to spread those influences to Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam.

One such influence has been Buddhism, written into the country’s constitution and practiced by 97% of the population.

Perhaps this is part of why Cambodian people are known to be so friendly.

As a practitioner of Buddhism, I loved being immersed in a country with such a rich tradition.

Today, there are more than 4,000 monastery temples across the country.

In the 12th Century, Cambodia’s Khmer Empire was the largest in Southeast Asia.

Their capital was Angkor, and it was during this time that Angkor Wat and Bayon were constructed.

Fast forward to the mid-19th Century, and Cambodia reached out to France for protection from Siam (now Thailand).

As a result, Cambodia was a French colony from 1857 to 1953.

The French language was taught in school. However, once the Khmer Rouge began waging their genocide in the mid-1970s, most educated, multilingual Cambodians were killed.

Modern-day Cambodia has benefited from its growth as a premier travel destination in the last 20 years.

The influx of travelers, expats, and businesses has also had an impact.

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

Learn About Genocide

When the Khmer Rouge took power in 1975, led by Pol Pot, millions of Cambodians were marched into the countryside to perform forced agricultural labor.

The educated class was tortured and killed en masse. Even babies, the most innocent form of human life, were brutally murdered by the regime.

An estimated two to three million Cambodian people died during the genocide or approximately 30% of the country’s population.

For this reason, you may not see many elderly Cambodians (over the age of 60), however as time passes, this effect is slowly fading.

I realize recommending visits to the Tuol Sleng Prison (aka S-21) and the Killing Fields at Choeung Ek, both in Phnom Penh, sounds like dark tourism.

By all accounts, it is. There’s nothing darker and few things crueler than genocide.

But, it’s critical for us as world travelers to educate ourselves on these atrocities so we can support efforts to prevent them in the future.

Phi-Lay on his motorbike

The People

A defining experience from my backpacking trip to Cambodia was spending time with Phi-Lay, a motorbike guide in Battambang.

I’d hired him to take me around the rural villages. We spent the day driving through green fields of rice and visiting colorful Buddhist temples.

We also made a somber stop at the Killing Caves (a genocide memorial).

Afterward, as I was eating lunch at a nearby restaurant, Phi-Lay shared his experience living through the genocide.

I hadn’t asked out of respect; however, I appreciated his willingness to share.

When we returned to Battambang at the end of the day, he invited me to dinner at his house with his wife and eight children. I said yes.

That night, I dined on curry-stuffed frogs at Phi-Lay’s home, and afterward, watched Bollywood DVDs together with his family.

I enjoyed the day so much, I hired him for the next day, too. And once again, he invited me over to dinner!

A few days later, after I arrived in Phnom Penh, I mailed Phi-Lay a few of the pictures I’d taken of him and his family. I hope he enjoyed them as much as I did.

Floating village on Tonle Sap lake

Wonderful Weather

Cambodia is in the northern hemisphere, and given its proximity to the equator, has fairly consistent temperatures year-round.

You can expect anywhere from 70 F for a low to 95 F for a high (21 to 35 C). Perfect for wearing a t-shirt and shorts day or night.

More importantly, there’s a wet and a dry season, which is good to know before choosing dates to backpack Cambodia.

The cool, dry season is from October to April, and the wet season runs from May to September.

I visited during the first few weeks of September and did experience some rain, but it wasn’t enough to cause any issues.

However, I did run into a delay when my minivan to rural northeast Cambodia had to detour around a very muddy, almost impassible stretch of road.

So, if you intend to get off the beaten path and spend more time in the countryside, perhaps it’s best to go in the dry season.

Enjoying the silence at a volcano crater lake

Natural Landscapes

Why you may wonder, was I going to Ban Lung in northeast Cambodia?

I’d learned there was a volcano crater lake (Boeng Yeak Laom) you could swim in, and that sounded swell to me at the time!

It was a heck of a long day in a crowded minivan to get there, but the journey was worth it.

The lake was completely undeveloped, except for a small wooden dock from which to stare out at the scenery or go for a swim. I hope that’s still the case.

To get there, I’d hired a motorbike guide who also took me to three local waterfalls, including one large one you could stand under without getting wet.

One thing I missed while backpacking in Cambodia was the beaches, specifically those around Sihanoukville.

Lonely Beach on Koh Rong and Otes Beach were highlighted as two of the best beaches in Southeast Asia by Thrillist.

The list could go on. The 18 days I spent backpacking in Cambodia were a truly wonderful experience I still savor years later.

_____

This story is brought to you in partnership with Karambol.

Dave is the Founder and Editor in Chief of Go Backpacking and Feastio, a food blog. He’s been to 65 countries and lived in Colombia and Peru. Originally from New York, Dave now calls Austin, TX home. Read the complete story of how he became a pro travel blogger.

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[aroundandaground]

Aus zwei mach drei - travelling Bangkok and Cambodia as a group for 2.5 weeks.

Nach unseren indischen Abenteuern genossen wir zunächst fast eine Woche lang unser liebes Bangkok. Wir gingen es gemütlich an und freuten uns sehr, als nach ein paar Tagen Lisa aus Deutschland einflog um uns etwas auf unserer Reise zu begleiten. So konnten wir ihr pünktlich zum Chinese New Year die großen Sehenswürdigkeiten der Stadt zeigen - diese teilten wir uns mit vielen Hunderten Chinesen, die wohl über das neue Jahr freigenommen hatten um in großen Reisegruppen nach Bangkok (und Angkor Wat) zu fliegen.

Drei Tage lang fungierten wir also als Bangkok-Guide und Lisa bekam die volle Tempelladung und den Backpacker Wahnsinn in Banglamphu, die Malls am Siam Square sowie den Weekend Market im Schnelldurchlauf gezeigt, bevor uns der Giant Ibis Bus in acht Stunden über die Grenze Kambodschas bis nach Siem Reap brachte. Dort blieben wir zwei Tage und fanden die lebhafte Innenstadt mit ihren guten Restaurants, Cafés und Spas super. Selbstverständlich waren wir auch (mit all den vielen Chinesen, die sich auch hier tummelten) einen ganzen Tag an den Ruinen von Angkor Wat, was sehr beeindruckend war - da sprechen die Foto-Posts hoffentlich für sich...

Weiter ging unsere Reise durch Kambodscha mit einem eineinhalbtägigem Zwischenstopp in der Hauptstadt Phnom Penh, die uns ebenfalls total gut gefiel. Unsere Unterkunft war nah am Fluss und umgeben von vielen guten Restaurants und Bars. Wir besuchten das Museum, das sich mit dem Genozid der roten Khmer am eigenen Volk beschäftigt. Die Gedenk- und Informationsstätte befindet sich in einer ehemaligen Schule, die vom

Regime Pol Pots zu einem „politischen“ Folter-Gefängnis umgewandelt wurde. Dieser Besuch war äußerst bedrückend, doch gleichzeitig ein Muss um die Geschichte dieses Landes zu verstehen. Der sehr gut aufbereitete Audio-Guide half uns dieses Stück Erinnerungskultur zu durchdringen.

Unser nächstes Reiseziel nach Phnom Penh war die Küste im Süden des Landes, genauer Sihanoukville bzw. der Otres-Strand ein paar Kilometer außerhalb. Vor allem für unsere deutschwintergeschädigte Lisa war ein Aufenthalt unter Palmen und Sonne am Meer unabdinglich und auch wir hatten Strandsehnsucht. So verbrachten wir vier Tage und Nächte gemütlich auf unseren Strandliegen bei viel Lime Soda tagsüber und ein paar alkoholischen Getränken nach Sonnenuntergang😉. Unser einziger „Ausflug“ war zum ‚Otres Market‘ wo sich im kleinen Dorf alle hippen, jungen Künstler und Macher am Samstag zusammentun um einen Markt bzw. ein kleines Festival zu veranstalten mit

Künstlerständen, Street Food und Bands. Eine sehr angenehme, alternative Atmosphäre aber sooo heiß...

VIEL Sonne getankt (für manche leider auf der Haut etwas zu viel!) ging es weiter nach Kampot, einem wunderbar gemütlichen kleinen Städtchen auf dem Rundweg zurück nach Phnom Penh. Wir blieben hier zwei Nächte und machten eine erfrischende Rollertour (auf der Hochebene hatte es ganze 10 Grad weniger als in Kampot!) in die nahegelegenen Berge sowie eine kleine Bootstour auf dem Fluss, wo wir den

Sonnenuntergang, Mücken und Glühwürmchen (der eigentliche Grund der Bootstour😉) sahen und kurzzeitig auf Grund liefen (passend zum Namen unseres Blogs, höhö). Ruhig war hier im Städtchen aber trotzdem gab es total nette Bars und Cafés und viele freundliche Kambodschaner und Expats - was übrigens auf ganz Kambodscha zutrifft! Es ist in der Tat auffällig, dass wirklich so gut wie alle Kambodschaner mit denen wir zu tun hatten wahnsinnig freundlich und zuvorkommend waren sowie unerwartet gut Englisch sprachen.

Nun hieß es schon beinahe wieder Abschied nehmen von Lisa - so schnell können zweieinhalb Wochen vergehen! Wir fuhren also zurück nach Phnom Penh, wo wir einen wunderbaren letzen Abend zu dritt verbrachten und am nächsten Tag flog Lisa nachmittags über Bangkok zurück nach Europa.

Für uns ging und geht die Reise zum Glück noch ein bisschen weiter: Wieder zu zweit, blieben wir noch eine

Nacht in der Hauptstadt, bevor es uns gen Norden und in Richtung Laos zog. Dazu in Bälde mehr...

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After all our Indian endeavours we enjoyed almost a week of familiar Bangkok. We relaxed and took everything at a slower pace, getting ready for a reunion with our good friend Lisa, who flew in from Germany to join us traveling for a bit. And so we could show her around Bangkok over Chinese New Year - which meant sharing all the sights with loads of Chinese visitors as well. It seemed as if hundreds of big tourist groups headed to Bangkok and Angkor Wat from China throughout these days.

During the three days of Lisa’s Bangkok visit we spent our time mostly at the big Wats, in Banglamphu, around Siam Square and at the huge weekend market. And then we were off to Siem Reap in Cambodia with a ‘quick’ 8-hour bus trip over the land border. Here we spent three nights, which gave us the opportunity to get to know the lovely city centre with all its busy restaurants, cafes and spas. Obviously we also took a day to explore the incredible ruins of nearby Angkor Wat - alongside the aforementioned Chinese groups. Check out the photo posts to see our highlights...

And on we went on our journey through Cambodia, our next stop being two nights in the capital Phnom Penh, which we also enjoyed very much. Our hotel was located at the riverfront, where we had good access to drinking and feeding hotspots ;-). The compulsory visit of the genocide museum situated in an old school building that was turned into a political prison was terribly depressing and informative at the same time. Nevertheless, it was a very important trip to understand the history of Cambodia... Thanks to a brilliant audio guide, we got a very good insight in Pol Pot’a cruel regime.

After Phnom Penh we took a bus south to get to Sihanoukville at the sea. Our hotel was at Otres Beach and there we spent three days regenerating under the sun and palm trees by day and with some proper drinks by night. Our only ‘outing’ was a visit to ‘Otres market’, where all the arty and hip expats and Cambodians from the region have a festival-like thing every Saturday - love music, street food and small vendor stalls in the utter heat.

Recharged and full of sun (on the inside and the outside) we left for the charming and tranquil small town of Kampot. We stayed there for two nights and had a big scooter tour into the mountains nearby which was kind of surreal as you can find an unfinished alien-like park/resort setting. Back in town we had a sunset boat tour including mosquitoes, fireflies and being stuck aground in the mud for a bit (how fitting for this blog!). Kampot itself is a very enjoyable town full of nice restaurants, cafes and shops with loads of very friendly Cambodians and expats alike - just as friendly as everybody all over the country, actually.

After a last night out with Lisa in Phnom Penh we had to say goodbye to her as she left for Europe. We spent another night and then our journey continued: just the two of us heading up north and thereby getting closer to Laos. But that’s for another day to tell...