Cambodia (Kingdom of Cambodia) located in Southeast Asia, is a Buddhist country with a population of 17 million. This country often gets forgotten by travellers. Most people visit Angkor Wat however, there is so much more to this beautiful land. The culture is unique and the Khmer people are some of the friendliest in the world. Here are some things not to miss when travelling to Cambodia.

Khmer New Year

Cambodian New Year (or Khmer New Year) is a three-day public holiday in the country which, usually falls on the 13th or 14th of April. The New Year marks the end of the harvesting season, when farmers enjoy the fruits of their labour before the rainy season begins. It is a time for family and friends to come together and celebrate with food and traditional games. Water is a big part of the celebrations too. It is a symbolic practise to wash bad actions away. People throwing water over each other is seen as a deed that will bring longevity, good luck, happiness and prosperity in life.

In April 2022, I had my first experience of Khmer New Year. I didn't know much about it at first, so I was in for a shock. Over the three-day period, the streets of Siem Reap were crazy. Everywhere I walked people were squirting each other with water guns. Traffic around the city came to a crawl, and there were pick-up trucks full of people throwing water at anyone on the streets. The atmosphere in Siem Reap was buzzing. In the centre of town, there were stages for live performances and stalls selling alcohol and water guns. It was one of my favourite experiences I have ever had abroad.

Top three tips

1. Make sure you have a waterproof bag for your personal belongings.

2. Buy a water gun weeks before the Khmer New Year to save money (no more than 10-15 US dollars for a water gun).

3. Be vigilant, there will be pickpockets in the crowds.
   
   

Farmhouse Resort & Spa

Located in the countryside about 65 km north of Phnom Penh, the Farmhouse is surrounded by paddy fields and rolling hills. This five-star resort isn't a typical retreat. Apart from the usual things you expect at a resort, the Farmhouse offers more. It is a training hotel and part of the holistic social organisation called Smiling Geck. Smiling Geck has a handful of projects on site which helps the local rural community. They have a school (300 children attend), agricultural farms and a carpentry workshop. Guess can have a 1 hour guided tour of the grounds. The Farmhouse Resort also offers other tours around the local area. The textile factory tour gives an insight into what life is like for cheap labours in Cambodia. The Farmhouse Resort is a hidden gem and a place that not many tourists know.

The Islands

When it comes to tropical islands, Cambodia doesn't spring to mind. However, in the Gulf of Thailand, you will find pristine beaches and unspoiled nature. Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem are the most popular islands to visit. Koh Rong is the biggest out of the two. There are many different activities to do like, jet-skiing. I recommend hiring a scooter and exploring the island. Koh Rong Sanloem is much smaller but more beautiful. This island is a perfect weekend away for couples looking for peace and quiet. The interior is covered in a jungle which is home to many animal species. Some secluded beaches are difficult to get to as there aren't any roads on the island. However, it is worth the effort. The One Resort is the best place to stay, with a pool situated right on the beach in the middle of Saracen Bay. But if you want to experience a Cambodia island that is untouched then, Kaoh Tonsay is ideal. You won't find any resorts or activities, just the locals living their lives. The Gulf of Thailand has dozens of islands owned by Thailand and Vietnam. But Cambodia has some of the best.