As one of Vietnam’s close “neighbors”, Cambodia is also known for many famous tourist destinations. If you are planning to travel to Cambodia on your own, save the useful information in the following article.
1. What documents do you need to travel to Cambodia on your own?
Cambodia is a country in Southeast Asia, so when you visit this country, you will be exempted from visas by the host country. However, to come here, you need personal documents such as a passport valid for at least 6 months, citizen identification card, etc.
2. The ideal time to travel to Cambodia
Cambodia has two distinct seasons: the rainy season and the dry season, the rainy season falls from May to October and the dry season is from November to April. Therefore, if you want to have the most interesting and comfortable experiences when coming to Cambodia, it must be the dry season, sunny and cool. In particular, from mid-November, Cambodia also organizes water splashing or boat racing festivals so you can "admire" the culture of this country.
In addition, you can also travel independently to Cambodia in April to experience the unique traditional New Year Chool Chnam Thmay of this country.
Although the dry season in Cambodia is between November and March, you can travel to Cambodia at any time you want.
3. Instructions on means of transportation when traveling to Cambodia
Learn how to travel when traveling in Cambodia right here:
3.1 Travel from Vietnam to Cambodia
Currently, when traveling to Cambodia, you can travel by 2 means: bus and plane:
- Passenger car: This is a suitable means of transport for those departing from the southern provinces of Vietnam. When traveling by passenger car, you can enjoy the scenery along the way at a very affordable price. Bus companies to Cambodia that you can refer to are Phuong Trang, Hue Nghia, Sapaco, Mai Linh Express, Mekong Express... with prices from 110,000 VND.
- Airplane: With this means of transport, you can book direct flights from Vietnam to Cambodia with airlines such as Vietnam Airline, Vietjet,... with prices from 2,000,000 VND.
Note: The above prices are for reference only because they may change depending on many different factors such as time, bus/airplane company,...
3.2 Means of transport when travelling in Cambodia
When coming to Cambodia, you can choose from a variety of means of transport such as motorbike taxis, tuk tuks, cyclos, taxis, etc. However, there is a tip when choosing between two types of transport such as tuk tuks and motorbike taxis: you need to ask carefully about the price and bargain appropriately to avoid the case of the price being too high.
Tuk tuk is one of the most popular means of transport in Cambodia.
4. Revealing the 5 most famous hotels to stay at when traveling to Cambodia on your own
In addition to being concerned about means of transport, when traveling to Cambodia on your own, many of you wonder where to stay? Below are some ideal suggestions you cannot miss:
4.1 Xamat Hotel & Casino
Xamat Hotel & Casino is one of the first places you can consider when traveling on your own in Cambodia if you want to find a quiet place to relax and want to experience the most top-notch services in Xa Mat.
Xamat Hotel & Casino is not just a place to stay, but also a place that brings the most luxurious and convenient experience. From the exquisitely designed rooms to the dedicated service of the staff, every element contributes to creating the maximum comfort and satisfaction for customers.
The space of Xamat Hotel & Casino is extremely luxurious and modern.
Room types at Xamat Hotel & Casino include:
- Junior Suite: Enjoy your vacation in a Junior Suite with a spacious room with a living area with a large screen TV, smart sofa, modern refrigerator, bedroom area, separate dining and working area.
- Executive Suite: Executive rooms have an area of 100m2 with a modern style with a bed (King Bed), large screen TV, spacious living room with luxury sofa and romantic dining area, suitable for couples and families on vacation.
In addition to providing a variety of rooms and full amenities, Xamat Hotel & Casino also impresses many visitors with many entertainment activities such as Casino with a variety of games that will definitely bring visitors exciting and extremely interesting moments. Not only that, Xamat Hotel & Casino also has a system of high-class restaurants, swimming pools, gyms, ... helping customers comfortably enjoy great services to create memorable memories during their journey.
Address: National Road No 72, Trapaing Phlong Commune, Ponhea Krek District, Tbong Khmum Province, Cambodia-VN Border.
Directions: To get to Xamat Hotel & Casino, you can travel from Phnom Penh airport and take a taxi as indicated on the map. Alternatively, you can also use the shuttle service of Xamat Hotel & Casino if you book a room here.
The bedrooms at Xamat Hotel & Casino are spacious, comfortable and fully equipped.
4.2 Sokha Angkor Resort
Sokha Angkor Resort is a stopover that you can consider if you plan to visit Cambodia, specifically in Siem Reap to enjoy relaxation and rest. The resort is not only famous for its professional service but also located near many attractive local restaurants, giving visitors the opportunity to explore rich cuisine. In addition, Sokha Angkor Resort also offers a variety of rooms with sophisticated design, fully equipped with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, minibars and other necessary equipment, ensuring maximum comfort for all visitors.
Address: National Road No. 6 and Sivatha Street Junction, Siem Reap, Campuchia.
4.3 Mary Beach Hotel and Resort
Mary Beach Hotel and Resort is one of the luxury resorts located in Sihanoukville, Cambodia, featuring luxurious space and natural scenery for visitors to explore.
The hotel offers a variety of rooms with modern design, sophisticated interiors and sea or garden views. Each room is fully equipped with amenities such as flat-screen TV, minibar, air conditioning, and private balcony area for visitors to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Address: Otres 2, Sangkat Buon, Mittakpheap, Preah Sihanouk, Campuchia.
Each room at Mary Beach Hotel and Resort is fully equipped with amenities.
4.4 King Rock Boutique Hotel
King Rock Boutique Hotel is a great choice for romantic getaways or honeymoons for couples. Here, you can enjoy luxurious spaces and wonderful nights to make your loving memories more beautiful.
Highly appreciated for its luxury and class, King Rock Boutique Hotel not only helps you relax but also gives you the opportunity to enjoy top-notch services, making your vacation a memorable experience. A special highlight at the hotel is the variety of spa treatments, helping you recharge and relax both body and soul.
Address: Wat Damnak, Salar Kamreuk, Krong Siem Reap, Siem Reap, Campuchia.
4.5 Granferte Phnom Penh
Granferte Phnom Penh is a hotel in the heart of Phnom Penh, Cambodia. With a luxurious and convenient design, the hotel will bring visitors a comfortable and classy stay, suitable for both business trips and relaxing vacations.
The hotel offers a variety of sophisticatedly designed bedrooms with modern interiors and beautiful views of the city. Each room is equipped with high-class amenities such as flat-screen TVs, minibars, air conditioning and convenient working spaces, ensuring satisfaction for all visitors. In addition, Granferte Phnom Penh also has many other amenities including a gym, a relaxing spa, ... to make your vacation more enjoyable and perfect.
Address: #67, Street 331 & 570, Sangkat Beungkok2, Khan Toulkok.
Granferte Phnom Penh Hotel offers a variety of rooms for visitors to choose from.
5. Suggested tourist destinations to visit in Cambodia
Here are some interesting places to visit that you cannot miss if you come to Cambodia:
5.1 Angkor Wat Temple Relics
Angkor Wat Temple is one of the seven wonders of the world, the most important architectural work of Khmer civilization. In addition, Angkor Wat Temple Relics are also considered a national symbol and a world cultural heritage recognized by UNESCO. This work stands out with its massive architecture, sophisticatedly carved reliefs telling the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata.
When coming here, visitors can watch the beautiful sunrise, explore every corner and learn more about the profound religious meanings of this work.
Location: Located in Siem Reap province, northwest Cambodia, about 6 km from the city center.
Angkor Wat Temple Complex is one of the seven wonders of the world recognized by UNESCO.
5.2 Beng Mealea Temple
Beng Mealea Temple, also known as the “forgotten temple”, has a wild, mysterious beauty with ruins covered by trees, creating the feeling of being lost in an adventure movie. Coming here, visitors can freely explore the corridors, nooks and crannies and enjoy being an explorer when going through small paths leading to unique ruined walls.
Location: About 70km east of Siem Reap city, Beng Mealea is surrounded by a dense tropical forest.
5.3 Koh Rong Island
Koh Rong is an island known as the "island paradise" of Cambodia with pristine natural scenery, fine white sand beaches and turquoise water. In addition, another interesting point when traveling here is that you will have to cross lush green forests to reach the beach. Coming here, visitors can experience relaxing activities such as playing on the beach, participating in coral diving, watching bioluminescent creatures in the water at night, or enjoying fresh seafood.
Location: Located about 25 km off the coast of Sihanoukville province, with 43 km of coastline and more than 23 beaches.
Koh Rong Island has many beaches, visitors can freely immerse themselves in nature.
5.4 Tonle Sap Lake
Tonle Sap Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, with a rich ecosystem and a unique community of people living on floating houses. The lake plays an important role in the lives of millions of Cambodians. Taking a boat trip on the lake, you will be free to explore floating villages such as Kampong Phluk or Chong Khneas and learn about local culture through the daily lives of the people.
Location: Located in the center of Cambodia, Tonle Sap Lake stretches across many provinces, including Siem Reap and Battambang.
5.5 Capital Phnom Penh
If you travel to Cambodia, you cannot miss the capital Phnom Penh - the economic, political and cultural center of Cambodia. The city is famous for its historical and cultural relics such as the Silver Pagoda, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, ... and has a beauty that blends modernity and tradition. Here, visitors can visit historical buildings, enjoy street food at the night market or stroll along the Mekong River to feel the dynamic but peaceful pace of life of the city.
Location: Located at the confluence of the Mekong, Tonle Sap and Bassac rivers, Phnom Penh is the economic, political and cultural center of Cambodia.
The capital Phnom Penh is one of the places not to be missed when traveling to Cambodia.
5.6 Royal Palace of Cambodia
The Royal Palace of Cambodia is a prominent symbol of the capital Phnom Penh and the official residence of the Cambodian Royal Family. Built in the 19th century, this building is not only the center of power but also the cultural and historical pride of Cambodia.
When visiting the Royal Palace, visitors will admire the beautiful traditional Khmer architecture and stroll around the carefully tended gardens. In addition, you will discover the ceremonies and events here that bring deep cultural experiences and respect for Cambodian traditions.
Location: The Royal Palace is located in the center of Phnom Penh, on the banks of the Tonle Sap River.
5.7 Siem Reap
Siem Reap is a famous tourist city in Cambodia, considered the gateway to the majestic Angkor relic complex. With a harmonious combination of ancient and modern culture, Siem Reap is an ideal place to explore Khmer history, art and culture. When coming here, in addition to visiting the majestic Angkor Wat temple, you can also stroll around the ancient Bayon temple with mysterious stone faces or explore the old forest covering Ta Prohm temple.
Location: Siem Reap is located in northwestern Cambodia, about 320 km from the capital Phnom Penh. This city is easily accessible by air, road and water. This is also where Siem Reap International Airport is located, convenient for international tourists.
Besides Angkor Wat, you can also stroll around the ancient Bayon temple when coming to Siem Reap.
5.8 Kep Beach City
Kep is a peaceful coastal city in Cambodia, famous for its pristine beaches and fresh seafood. Once a high-end resort during the French colonial period, Kep still retains its quiet and attractive beauty for those who want to relax and experience local culture.
In Kep, visitors can relax at Kep Beach, explore Kep National Park with its jungle trails or enjoy the famous crab at the Crab Market. The nearby Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island) is also an ideal destination for diving and enjoying the wild nature.
Location: Kep is located in southern Cambodia, about 170 km from the capital Phnom Penh. With its coastal location and close to the Vietnamese border, it is easily accessible by road from Phnom Penh or neighboring provinces.
6. Discover Cambodian specialties
Here are some Cambodian specialties you should try when visiting this country:
6.1 Samlor Korko (Curry Fish Soup)
This is a traditional soup, usually made from fish or meat, with vegetables such as green papaya, squash, luffa and eggplant. The soup is seasoned with fish sauce and mugwort, creating a rich and distinctive flavor. This is also known as the "national dish" of Cambodia that you cannot miss.
Curry fish soup is one of the specialties in Cambodia.
6.2 Nom Banh Chok (Khmer style noodles)
Nom Banh Chok is characterized by soft and chewy rice noodles served with green curry fish broth, combined with raw vegetables such as bean sprouts, cucumbers, banana flowers and herbs. This is one of the popular breakfast dishes of Cambodian people.
6.3 Bai Sach Chrouk (Grilled meat rice)
Bai Sach Chrouk, also known as Cambodian-style grilled meat rice, is a popular dish of this country. When you come here, you can easily find street vendors selling Bai Sach Chrouk every early morning on all the streets of Cambodia.
Bai Sach Chrouk consists of white rice served with grilled pork marinated in coconut milk and garlic. This dish is often served with pickles and fish sauce.
Enjoy Bai Sach Chrouk with its distinctive flavor in Cambodia.
6.4 Kari Sach Moan (Red Curry Chicken)
Cambodian red curry is milder than Thai curry, made from local red chili peppers, making the dish rich but still retaining its elegant taste. This dish is made from coconut milk, turmeric and traditional spices such as cinnamon, star anise, etc. This dish is often served during festivals or family events in Cambodia.
6.5 Nhoam Krauch Thlong (Cambodian Pomelo Salad)
Nhoam Krauch Thlong is made from refreshing pomelo, often mixed with shrimp, chicken or pork, with herbs, roasted peanuts and sweet and sour fish sauce. This specialty dish has a fresh flavor, a unique balance of sweet, sour and salty.
6.6 Mi Kola (Cambodian Kola Noodles)
Mi Kola is a typical mixed noodle dish of the Kola community in Cambodia. The dish is characterized by being made from rice noodles, raw vegetables, bean sprouts, special sauce and often adding boiled eggs or pork. This is a unique combination of Chinese and Khmer flavors that you should not miss when traveling to Cambodia.
Mi Kola is a unique combination of Chinese and Khmer cuisine.
7. Some notes when traveling to Cambodia on your own
Here are some notes you should know when planning to travel to Cambodia on your own:
- Vietnamese citizens are exempt from visas when entering Cambodia for 30 days.
- To connect to the Internet easily, you can buy a SIM card at stores for about 5 USD.
- You should exchange in advance in Vietnam or at reputable money exchange counters in Cambodia (in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap).
- When visiting historical sites, you should wear modest clothing, avoid wearing revealing clothes.
- Avoid pointing or touching others.
- Maintain a polite and friendly attitude, do not speak loudly, run, or joke around in temples and pagodas.
- Do not pat children on the head because Cambodians consider this a sacred place.
- Avoid giving items or money with your left hand because this is considered unclean.
- When buying goods at the market, you should ask for the price and bargain first.
- When entering a temple, do not sit cross-legged; instead, keep your legs neatly to one side.
- The traditional greeting “Sompiah” is done by clasping the hands together in front of the chest and bowing the head.
Hopefully, the information about independent travel experiences in Cambodia above can be helpful to you. With careful preparation and a willingness to experience, Cambodia will definitely bring you an exciting independent journey. Let each destination, each dish and each encounter be unforgettable memories on the journey to explore this neighboring country.
