From the moment I read, In the Shadow of the Banyon, Cambodia was on my bucket list. If you have not read it, I highly recommend picking it up. If you are planning a trip to Cambodia, DEFINITELY read it before you go! Every person you encounter in Cambodia was affected by the Cambodian genocide in some way, so having some knowledge of it before traveling there is recommended. Ok, I will get off my soapbox now.

Cambodia is overlooked by most people traveling to Southeast Asia. If you are traveling anywhere in the area, I would highly recommend making a pitstop! We tagged three nights in Siem Reap onto a 2+ week trip to SE Asia. Here are five reasons why you should plan a trip to Cambodia.

1

The most obvious, Angkor Wat. It is the largest religious monument in the world and it is breathtaking, literally (seriously, the stairs are so steep). I won’t bore you with the history surrounding Angkor Wat. If you plan a trip, read up on it before you go. It is fascinating, even if you are not a history “nerd” like my husband calls me.

2

The Park Hyatt in Siem Reap. One of the best hotels I have ever stayed at in my life. The spa is exquisite, the pool is surreal, the food is delicious, and it is walking distance from pub street. Cannot say enough good things about this hotel.

3

Monkeys. Everywhere. Enough said.

4

Art galleries. There is actually an unexpectedly amazing art gallery scene in Siem Reap.

5

Khmer Cuisine. I was iffy on this before we went. I am not a very adventurous eater, especially in a place like Cambodia where most places do not have an electric refrigerator. For that reason, we stuck to five star restaurants, and I was amazed with the food. It has aspects of Thai and Vietnamese food, with a surprising nod to the French. Most of our favorite meals were in the major hotels, Le Connaisseur was delish, but if you are feeling adventurous, take a walk down Pub Street and pop into a small, local restaurant.