Classic Cambodia

Start your morning temple exploration by adventure Jeep to the most illustrious of the Small Circuit Temples, Ta Prohm. Built in the middle of 12th to early 13th centuries during the reign of Jayavarman VII, Ta Prohm is unique in that it remains largely overgrown by jungle. With many parts crumbling to the ground, it is one of the most picturesque Angkor temples. Next, visit another temple complex built during the reign of Jayavarman VII, Preah Khan. While Ta Prohm was built to honour the king’s mother, Preah Khan was built for his father. Although the Angelina Jolie film was shot at the former temple, Preah Khan is less-visited and more unrestored, and therefore offers more of a “Tomb Raider” experience. Return to Siem Reap for a midday break to freshen up before stepping out for touring activities in the afternoon. Departing around 3pm, head into the ancient city of Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Great Khmer Empire under the reign of Jayavarman VII. This city is surrounded by an 8m-high wall, drawing a perfect square. Pass over the city moat causeway that is flanked on either side by a row of 54 gods and demons, each holding a sacred naga snake, and through a towering entry gate decorated with three-headed elephants and capped with four smiling faces of the Buddha. Continue to Bayon temple in the exact center of the city. This 12th century masterpiece is a study in grandeur and is well-known for its 52 towers with enigmatic faces looking out over the vast provinces of the Great Khmer Empire. The nearby Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King are also must-visits as they are both known for their intricate and unique carvings. Back to your hotel in the late afternoon. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy the day at leisure, perhaps with an optional activity, such as diving, snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and island-hopping boat trips. The islands are moored like ships, all green and verdant, with tumbling jungle and white beaches. This is what southern Thailand was like half a century ago – a scattering of pristine islands, a few thatched villages, fishing skiffs bobbing at the end of wooden piers – Supplemental charges apply. Overnight on Koh Krabey or Koh Russey.

Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy the day at leisure, perhaps participating in various optional activities, such as a Cooking Class, which introduces the art of preparing Khmer dishes with local ingredients. Although not as prolific as Thai or Vietnamese cuisine, Khmer food can still hold its own against the world’s most flavoursome. Loosen your belt and get stuck into this comprehensive travelling tour, gobbling up everything from desiccated crickets in countryside villages to fragrant fish curries on deserted islands. You may also want ot do a signature treatment at the resort’s spa. Supplemental charges apply. Overnight on Koh Krabey or Koh Russey.

This morning you will take a fascinating tour to explore the culinary delights of Cambodia. Enjoy a walking tour through the aisles of the frsh market as the guide explains the different fruits, herbs and vegetables and how they are used in Khmer cuisine. The walking tour will last about 2 hours before continuing to a local restaurant which uses many of the ingredients seen at the market. Various dishes are ready cooked and French-style baguettes (num pang) and the tasty nom banh chok can be ordered. After lunch you will have a little time to browse through the Russian Market, the best place in the city for wood and stone carvings, jewellery, clothes and Cambodian silk souvenirs, before gaining insight into Cambodia’s recent dark history on a visit to the remarkable Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, housed in the former school that was taken over by the Khmer Rouge and used as its main detention and torture center named ‘S-21’. Further visit the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. The audio headset guide provided is available in 15 different languages and gives some harrowing but informative stories from survivors and liberators of the camp. A grim, but important visit that will allow you to dig below the surface and understand Cambodia better. Late afternoon head to the riverside area of Phnom Penh, a pleasant French style promenade that is great for people viewing. In the early evening (and morning) various activities take place include exercise classes, Khmer dancing and plenty of snacking on local food. You can participate in a Khmer dance class which is a lot of fun for all! From here you can either be taken back to your hotel or left to explore this bustling area independently and have dinner at one of the many great restaurants on the riverfront. Overnight in Phnom Penh.