I’ve just returned from an incredible week in Cambodia, and even though I’ve been before, this trip really opened my eyes to how much the country has to offer. Most people think it’s all about the temples – and yes, the Angkor ruins are extraordinary – but there’s so much more here. From jungle adventures and local experiences to amazing food and one of the dreamiest beaches I’ve seen in Asia, it’s the perfect mix of discovery and downtime.
Of course, no visit to Cambodia would be complete without exploring the temples of Angkor…
You might not think you’re a ‘temple person’ but trust me – Angkor will change your mind. These aren’t just old ruins; this is the heart of the ancient Khmer Empire, one of Southeast Asia’s most remarkable civilisations. At its peak in the 12th century, King Jayavarman VII built jaw-dropping sites like Angkor Thom and the Bayon, with its iconic stone faces. And of course, there’s Angkor Wat – the largest religious monument in the world. The empire eventually faded through war, shifting trade and natural decline, but the temples remain, and they’re absolutely magical.
Traditionally, guests would explore the temples by car and driver, but we did something a bit different – e-bikes – and I wouldn’t recommend anything else now! Over the Covid years, Cambodia invested in better roads and cycle paths, and the result is a clean, quiet network of shady trails that snake through the jungle and alongside the temples. You can literally cycle through ancient stone gates and glide past moss-covered ruins – it’s cool, breezy and feels like something out of a movie. We visited Ta Prohm (the Tomb Raider one!), Angkor Thom and Bayon by bike, ending with a foot massage and delicious Khmer lunch at Sala Kdei, a traditional wooden house tucked within the Angkor park. This ‘Hidden Trails’ e-bike tour was the perfect intro – and a great way to kick off a temple visit. Another day, you can add in a visit to Angkor Wat, or go further afield to Beng Mealea or Banteay Srei.
But there’s more to Siem Reap than temples. You can zipline through the treetops, visit an ethical elephant sanctuary, quad bike at sunset through golden rice fields, or visit Tonlé Sap Lake and its fascinating floating villages. We popped into the Apopo Hero Rats Centre, where you can meet the trained ‘mine-sniffing’ rats helping clear Cambodia’s landmines (my boys would love this) and we also visited Satcha, a brilliant handcraft centre showcasing local artisans at work.
The food scene is fantastic too. Siem Reap is full of really high-quality restaurants, from cool cafés to fine dining with a Cambodian twist. We can share our favourites (and book them for you – it’s definitely worth reserving ahead as the best spots fill up fast).
And if you’re travelling with kids? Siem Reap is a total playground. The temples become Indiana Jones-style adventures, and with all the other fun – quad bikes, elephants, zip wiring, circus, hot air ballooning, Hero Rats – you can easily fill your days and still have time to relax by the pool. I’ve been to Siem Reap a few times now – once with my husband pre-kids (an unforgettable trip), and now having been back, I know my boys would absolutely love it.
For somewhere to stay, you’re spoilt for choice. My two favourites? Zannier Phum Baitang, a dreamy collection of stilted Khmer villas set among rice paddies and tropical gardens – one of my all-time favourite hotels in Asia. Or Shinta Mani, which is bang in the heart of town and perfect if you want to walk to dinner. It has a gorgeous pool and that laid-back, boutique vibe we love.
After all that exploring, the only logical thing to do? Hit the beach. And Cambodia’s islands are, in a word, wow.
We ended our trip at The Royal Sands Koh Rong, and honestly, it was one of the best beaches I’ve ever seen. White, powder-soft sand. Crystal-clear turquoise sea. Even at night, it impressed us – the water is full of bioluminescent plankton, so you get this magical underwater sparkle if you swim after dark. The villas are simple but luxurious, dotted along the shore with outdoor showers and huge daybeds. There’s a spa, two lovely restaurants, and a feeling of complete escape. This is barefoot luxury done exactly right.
Here are some examples of how you could create an itinerary, however these are purely a suggestion.
A Couple’s Temple-to-Beach Itinerary
Or a Family Adventure – Safari + Beach
Cambodia really is the ultimate temple-and-beach holiday, and I’m already plotting how to take the boys next time. If you fancy your own temple safari, drop us a line – we’ll tailor it exactly to suit you.
