While the spectre of its most famous temple, the Angkor Wat, looms over the peripheral vision of every person in their 30's and 40's that visits the country, Cambodia is so much more than just one temple, albeit a grand one at that. Laden with picturesque villages that hug the swirling waters of the Mekong River it’s easy to get caught up in its tide and take a further exploratory step towards its hidden wonders and discover a world that is surprisingly cosmopolitan. Colonial architecture, coffee shops and delightful cafes – a legacy left behind by the French – and the nightlife in some of its cities can hold a candle to any of its bigger neighbours. On the flip side, a culture rife with many ethnic groups, age-old customs and religions touched by Indo-Chinese and Vietnamese influence adds to it a uniquely Asian flavour and speaks of a country happy to wear its diversity like a comfortable blanket. Scenes of its tragic history - not too long ago - twine itself inevitably in the consciousness of visitors as much as its hidden temples that gnaw at the very trees that shroud them. But far from being despondent by its past, Cambodia has risen and set its sights firmly towards the sun. There are many, countless reasons why Cambodia is a place that needs to be visited, but if there’s only one single reason to choose from, it has to be its people – warm, open, friendly and ever willing to break out in a wide grin! 

Best time to visit: is between November and April, when it sees very little rain. During this time you'll see clear blue skies making it a great time to enjoy a relaxing getaway on the southern coast.

Currency: Cambodian Riel

Weather and Average temperature: Cambodia has a tropical climate, shifting between monsoon and dry season. The average summer temperature is 35C (95F), while winter averages at 21C (70F).

National Language: Khmer

Top Dishes to try:  Char kroeung sach ko: lemongrass beef, Nom banh chok: rice noodles with fish gravy, Twa ko: grilled sausage,  Fish amok: fish and coconut curry, Samlor machu: sour chicken soup