Breakaway Destination Guides (International)

Once the heart of a magnificent kingdom that stretched from Vietnam through Thailand, Cambodia is home to a true world wonder. The jungle-tangled ruins of Angkor and its complex of Hindu and Buddhist temples, palaces, and sanctuaries that, in its day, dwarfed any city in western civilization.

Having survived centuries of war and strife, the land and its people are once again at peace and no tourist to the region should miss a chance to explore its historic relics and lush green countryside, home to unspoiled nature and unforgettable encounters.

angkoronetour.com - Siem Reap

Dara Rann is a fantastic driver and guide, with excellent English language skills and a great sense of humor. He has completed his formal 'guide' training with the local tourist authority, so is very knowledgeable about the history of the Angkor temples and the history of Cambodia.

Royal Palace and 'Silver Pagoda' - Marking the approach to the Royal Palace along Sothearos Blvd the high yellow crenellated wall and spired Chanchhaya Pavilion stand distinctively against the riverfront skyline. Inside the Palace grounds street sounds are silenced by the high walls and the royal buildings sit like ornate islands rising from the manicured gardens.

National Museum - The distinctive rust-red National Museum next to the Royal Palace was dedicated by King Sisowath in 1920. Over 5000 objects are on display including Angkorian era statues, lingas and other artifacts, most notably the legendary statue of the 'Leper King'.

Russian Market (Psah Toul Tom Poung) - This market became the foreigner's market during the 1980's when most of the foreigners in Cambodia were Russians, hence the name 'Russian Market'.

Night Market (Phsar Reatrey) - Phnom Penh's new Night Market on the riverfront is aimed squarely at visitors and tourists, offering a wide and varied selection of Cambodian handicrafts silks, art, curios and souvenirs.

Dance and Shadow Puppets - Sovanna Phum Art Association also offers workshops in traditional Khmer arts such as classical dance, drum, circus and shadow puppet performance.

River Cruises - Short river cruises and sunset cruises along the Phnom Penh riverfront are easy to arrange and offer an interesting view of the city.

Choeung Ek Memorial (The Killing Fields) - Many of the Cambodians who perished under the Khmer Rouge regime ended up dumped in one of the dozens of "killing fields" that can be found scattered across the country.

Help Me Get it Right

  About the Author