Introduction to Cambodia (Khmer)

Cambodian Greeting

Cambodia Map

 Cambodia is in the heart of the land once known as Indochina, bordered by Thailand to the northwest, Laos to the north and Vietnam to the east. It is a fascinating place, which despite its tiny size and its large powerful neighbors, has managed to remain uniquely Khmer. Our cultural traditions pre-date those of Thailand, and unlike Vietnam, which has had dominant Chinese influence; its dominant influences originate from the Indian subcontinent.

 Modern-day Cambodia is the successor-state of the mighty Khmer empire, which during t he Angkorian period (9^th to 14^th centuries) was the cultural heartland of South-East Asia. It ruled over much of what are now Vietnam, Laos and Thailand, and its legacy is one of the wonders of the world. The ruins of Angkor are in a category of their own: there is no other historical site in South-East Asia that matches their grandeur of this Ancient Complex. The traveler’s first glimpse leaves one bewildered.

Angkor Wat, which represents the full flowering of Khmer genius, is a breathtaking experience, matched only by sights such as the place of Lhasa or the Forbidden City of Beijing. Cambodia is increasingly becoming the travel destination of choice, and increasing investment allows for all of the dimensions of the travelers needs to be met in a fashion unique to this flourishing country. The land borders with Thailand are now open to foreigners and there are many direct flights between Siem Reap and original destinations. Cambodia is now well and truly back on the travel map of South-East Asia. With the serene and mystifying temples of Angkor, Cambodia has something to offer that none of its neighbors can rival. There are the unspoiled beaches, coral, reefs and seaside paradise with white sand beaches and the warm blue seas of the Gulf of Thailand and national parks that are just starting to see visitors. The meandering Mekong River lures curious visitors to boat trips through Cambodia, Laos and China. Its mighty waters also provide a habitat for some of the last remaining freshwater dolphins in Asia. The northeast of the country is home to wild and mountainous landscap4s, and the gateway to Cambodia’s ethnic minorities and much of the country’s diminishing wildlife and forest.  

Despite a difficult history, we have come through the experience with warm smiles and hospitality that are the unique charm of Khmer society. Cambodia’s tourism industry is thriving, and there is an atmosphere of genuine enthusiasm and warmth towards the foreign visitor. Nobody comes away from Cambodia without a measure of admiration and affection for the inhabitants of this beautiful and distinct country.