When most people think of Cambodia, they think of Angkor Wat — and rightfully so. It’s one of the world’s great wonders, and for many, the highlight of their trip.
But me? I skipped it.
Not because I don’t respect its history—I absolutely do. But I wanted to see a different Cambodia. One that moves a little slower, feels a little more local.
Where I Went (and Why It Mattered)
- Phnom Penh: The capital, gritty and real. Full of tough stories and living history.
- Kampot: A peaceful riverside town with French colonial charm and pepper farms that go way beyond “just seasoning.”
- Kep: A sleepy coastal town where I spent quiet afternoons with crab, sea breezes, and no schedule.
- Battambang: Underrated, artsy, historic, and one of my favorite surprises of the trip.
I didn’t chase the tourist trail—I followed the local rhythm. Morning markets, roadside snacks, slow buses, and conversations with strangers. It made all the difference.
Dollars or Riel? Both.
Cambodia uses two currencies—the Cambodian Riel and the US Dollar. Sounds convenient until you find yourself doing quick math every time you pay for a tuk-tuk or iced coffee.
What Stood Out
Cambodia isn’t loud or showy. It’s layered.
It made me think, made me listen, and reminded me that sometimes the most meaningful parts of a trip aren’t the ones you post right away.
This country has been through so much, yet there’s beauty everywhere—in the food, the stories, the resilience of its people.
Want to See Cambodia Differently?
If you’re curious about Cambodia beyond the postcards—beyond temples and tour buses—I’d love to share what I found.
The quiet corners, the flavors, and the honest moments that made this journey unforgettable.