Classic Cambodia

Itinerary

Days 1-2 Phnom Penh

Cambodia's capital is a friendly riverside city with loads of Khmer charm and faded French-colonial elegance. Wander through the serene Royal Palace with its spectacular Silver Pagoda, a stark contrast to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. Delve deeper into Khmer history at the National Museum, hunt for silver and local crafts in the Russian market or take a sunset stroll along Sisowath Quay. Indulging in a strong coffee is a Phnom Penh experience not to be missed, and there are also some cracking good classic Khmer arts and dance performances happening most of the time.

Days 3-6 Siem Reap/Angkor Wat

Fly to Siem Reap, gateway to South-East Asia's most amazing archaeological site, the temples at Angkor. Built for King Suryavarman II between the 9th and 13th centuries when the Khmer Empire dominated South-East Asia, the temples were believed to represent the cosmic world and were set in perfect balance, symmetry and composition. Enjoy a guided introduction to the history and mythology of the Angkor empire, strolling among the impressive ruins. Hindu epics come to life in the sandstone bas-reliefs of Angkor Wat and the intricate architecture afford spectacular photo opportunities. Ease away any temple-fatigue with a massage back in town and travel further afield to visit pretty Banteay Srei, the best preserved of all the temples. Catching a sunrise or sunset at the Angkor Wat complex is a sublime experience not to be missed. Tuck into a sumptuous feast of Khmer cuisine to end this classic adventure.