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Phnom Penh is regarded by many as the most beautiful of all the French-built cities in Indochina. Its location too is important as it sits where the Mekong, Bassac and Tonle Sap rivers converge. At one time a bustling commercial hub during the French occupation, today it has re-established itself as the political and financial center of the country. Its rich historical past can be traced to the Khmer and French influence evident in the ornate Khmer-style temples and the grand colonial buildings.

In the middle of the 19th century the French colonized the country as part of Indochina, which also included Vietnam and Laos. It was not until 1953, nearly 100 years later that Cambodia achieved independence when King Norodom Sihanouk proclaimed himself Head of State. The 1970's saw the country's darkest period. In 1970 General Lon Nol successfully staged a "coup d'etat" and ousted the King. Then in 1975, following a bitter civil war, Nol was deposed by the fanatical Khmer Rouge, led by the infamous Pol Pot. For 4 terrible years the country reverted back to "Year Zero" as thousands of the country's intellectuals and over one million Cambodians died. In 1979 the regime was deposed, with the help of the Vietnamese Army. Today however, both Siem Reap and Phnom Penh are most definitely open for business and are firmly established on the tourist map.

Seasons to Visit: The ideal months to be in Cambodia are December and January, when humidity is bearable, temperatures are cooler and it's unlikely to rain. From February onwards it starts getting pretty hot, and April is unbearably so. The wet season (from May to October), though very soggy, can be a good time to visit Angkor, as the moats will be full and the foliage lush - but steer clear of the north east regions during those months, as the going gets pretty tough when the tracks are waterlogged. The country's biggest festival, Bon Om Tuk, is held in early November, and is well worth catching.

Entry Requirements: Visas for Cambodia can be obtained on arrival at Pochentong and Siem Reap International airports and some other border points. The current price is $20 (US Dollars) for a one-month tourist visa. A tourist visa can be extended for one extra month. A Business visa costs $ 25 (US Dollars) for one month and can be renewed indefinitely. A fine of $5 (US Dollars) per day is charged for overstaying. Passports should have three-month validity beyond intended length of stay.

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Dress: Most Cambodians dress up casually except when they are attending formal events. It is common to see men and women using Krama, a Long, Narrow checked cotton cloth round their neck. The krama is just like a piece of cloth. Lightweight, loose fitting, cotton clothing is recommended and long-sleeved items should be included for protection from mosquitoes and the sun.

Food/Restaurants: Cambodia is well known in the region for its Prahok, a strong, fermented fish paste used in a variety of traditional dishes. Similarly, salad and fruit served at these establishments are safe. Cambodia food is closely related to the cuisines of neighboring Thailand and Laos and, to a lesser extent, Vietnam, but there are some distinct local dishes. Curries, stir tried vegetable, rice, noodles and soups are staples of the Khmer diet. Rice is the principal staple in Cambodia and the Battambang region is the country's rice bowl. Most Cambodian dishes are cooked in a wok, known locally as a chhnang khteak.

Shopping: There are a wide variety of items available for purchase in Cambodia. The country was once well-known for its superior silk weaving, metal work and woodcarving. After decades of neglect, many of these arts are being revived. Visitors can find silver items, jewelry, gems, colorful cloth for sarong and hats (variegated silks), wood carving, paper maché masks, stone copies of ancient Khmer art, brass and bronze figurines and oil paintings in the different markets and shops on main avenues. The traditional clothing for both men and women is the krama, a long, narrow checked silk or cotton cloth available in most markets and shops. Jewelry is generally not up to international standards for design and workmanship and buyers should use caution when purchasing gold and gems. The export of antiques is subject to approval of the Ministry of Culture. Bargaining is essential for all souvenirs shopping, if travellers are to obtain reasonable prices. Reductions of up to 20 percent are possible.

Transportation: The majority of travellers to Cambodia fly into Pochentong International Airport in Phnom Penh, though some visitors choose to fly directly to Siem Reap from Bangkok. A growing number are also arriving overland. It's possible have access into Cambodia by land from neighboring countries, Vietnam and Thailand (recently from Laos is not official yet).

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Visitors can be reached Cambodia by waterway from neighboring countries and the world. Cambodia have the international seaport Sihanoukville and the Mekong river port Phnom Penh. These are two main gateways to Cambodia by waterway, which become popular. Cruise ship can be possible on the Mekong river from Vietnam to Phnom Penh capital city, and connect to upper Mekong closed to Laos or link it with Tonle Sap river and Lake to Siem Reap Angkor, the world wonder of Cambodia. By this route, visitors can enjoy the Mekong's views and discovery the new area of Cambodia with combine together nature, culture and life stiles of the people. Sihanoukville the international seaport gateway have experiences for years to receive many cruise ships from the world, such as Japanese cruise ship named "Peace Boat" which hundreds of visitors have visited. Visitors' accesses by these ways are required to have an entry visa for Cambodia in advance.

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Health risks: Malaria is widespread in Cambodia but in the main areas of interest to tourists, including Phnom Penh and the Angkor temple complex, the risk of contracting malaria is low. Dengue is also widespread. Visitors should consult a doctor about inoculations before travelling

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