Joanna James
From jewel-like untouched islands and jungle adventures to striking remnants of ancient empires and immersive community experiences, there are multiple reasons why Cambodia is the idyllic family-friendly getaway. Here are some key push factors to visit this traditionally contemporary destination.
Regardless of whether you’re backpacking with a bestie, escaping on a romantic getaway, and looking to entice family members of different ages, Cambodia effortlessly carries a unique blend of old-world dreaminess and top-notch amenities. The young at heart can enjoy a Tarzan moment by swinging on the sturdy lianas or plunging into majestic waterfalls, possibly stumbling upon rocks engraved with epic battles from glory days and picturesque towns like Battambang, Kep, and Kampot proffer a variety of allurements for every type of wanderlust. Children and teenagers have a range of exciting past-times to get lost in, from jaunty rickshaw tours and intimate butterfly sanctuaries to pottery and crafts-making as well as state-of-the-art edutainment centres and water parks.
Whether you’re a passionate beach lounger or prefer water-based adventures, the necklace of islets clasping the Cambodian coast is full of gorgeous pristine seascapes of turquoise and ivory with plenty of budget-friendly amenities. Koh Rong is the most iconic tropical haven with its gigantic inflatable ocean ‘bouncer’ called the Blob Jump, a forested adventure park where you can trapeze over a literal jungle gym and marvel at the silvery galaxies of bioluminescent plankton at night-time. Island hopping isn’t the only enticement for nature lovers, from the rainforest-clad Cardamom Mountains and vast national parks to stunning wetlands and breathtaking plantations, there is plenty of beauty to blow you away!
From scenic bamboo train rides and quad biking across dreamy settings to trippy artists enclaves and touring the pulsing maze of Phnom Penh, sampling its luxurious shopping and dining as well as its colourful night markets, every brand of traveller will have something to look forward to. If you’re on the hunt for plush apartments in Phnom Penh sporting top-notch fittings and a prime location, look no further than Somerset Norodom Phnom Penh.
There is no better way to add value to your trip than getting to know people from diverse backgrounds and giving back to vulnerable communities. Cambodia is known for its generous smiles and gentle natures, and whether you’re sampling pungently creamy durian or flavourful Khmer cuisine for the first time or visiting quaint bamboo-thatched villages, you’ll never lack meaningful companionship. Along with lunching with natives during lush paddy fields, cycling around ancient townships, or hopping on a traditional ox cart, you can also support deserving causes. For instance, NGOs like Phare Ponleu Selpak are dedicated to training young boys and girls from impoverished backgrounds in diverse life skills, and a visit to the Phnom Tao Wildlife Rescue Centre for endangered and trafficked animals is a fulfilling treat. Last but not least, mine detection centres are worth a visit, as a reminder of the heroic sacrifices of Cambodian citizens.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a pas...
