You would be mistaken for believing thatthis was all there was to see in this beautifuland fascinating country, a land nowemerging from its troubled past. The capital,Phnom Penh, retains a small-town feel,with its atmospheric riverfront, busymarkets and streets teeming with scooters.Beyond the capital and Angkor Wat'snearest town, Siem Reap, there are anumber of attractive, somnolent townsbequeathed by the French colonialists. Head north and east to discover minorityvillages, animist cemeteries and waterfalls, or south for tropical waters and mountains. Wherever you go inCambodia, the warmth and hospitality ofthe people make a visit to this country anincredibly rewarding experience.As the pre-dawn mists lift from the jungles of Cambodia, ancient templescome slowly to light; crumbling, brokendown over centuries of invasion by thecreeper trees that climb and wind their wayover the ruins. One of the most amazingarchaeological sites in the world, the templesof Angkor lie across a vast area of northernCambodia in various states of ruin. 26Cambodia

Audley in CambodiaOur knowledge of Cambodia is unparalleledand in a country where any local can callthemselves a 'guide', we use a hand-pickedgroup of the best English-speaking guideswho are knowledgeable, professional andexperienced. The temples of Angkor are the main draw to the country, and there are direct flight connections from Siem Reap,the nearest town, to many internationalairports throughout Southeast Asia, so it iseasy to 'add on' a visit to Angkor to anyjourney through the region. We often suggest combining the templeswith the capital of Phnom Penh, a city withsuperb restaurants and an interesting mix of French colonial villas and new Khmerarchitecture. It is also now possible to visitCambodia as a stand alone destination.There is much to see in a two or even threeweek itinerary, and the road network isimproving, making it easier to get to themore remote regions. Venture further afieldto get under the skin of this enchantingcountry, to the attractive south coast and the remote northeast.AccommodationAccommodation in Cambodia varies greatly,from basic guesthouses to superb luxuryhotels, charming locally-run boutiqueproperties to functional provincial hotels.With new hotels opening all the time, we areable to recommend a variety of options tosuit all tastes and budgets. The choices insome of the remote areas are more limited,but you can still find beautiful swimmingpools and comfortable beds in some of themost surprising locations, and everywhereyou go you will be welcomed with genuineCambodian hospitality.Find out more For suggested itineraries and practicalinformation about travel in Cambodia, pleasesee pages 38-39.www.audleytravel.comInteractive maps and features, further suggested itineraries,accommodation, climate informationand articles written by our specialists.Discuss your plans with our Cambodiaspecialists 01993 838 160?Temples of AngkorReclaimed by the jungle forhundreds of years, thesemagnificent temples still retaintheir lost world charm.The CardamomMountainsOne of the most bio-diverseareas in Southeast Asia, thelandscape is abundant withmangrove forests, meanderingrivers and gushing waterfalls.21Phnom PenhThis atmospheric city isimmersed in history, from itscrumbling French colonialbuildings to the infamous 'Killing Fields'.Tonle Sap LakeThis protected biosphere ishome to a number offascinating floating villages and a huge variety of birdlife.43Mondulkiri ProvinceSpectacular scenery with rollinghills and pristine forests, this areais also home to over half ofCambodia's elephant population.Ratanakiri ProvinceVisit remote minority villagesand ancient burial sites and swimin volcanic crater lakes.KepSoak up the atmosphere of this sleepy coastal town andsample the wonderful seafood.756Cambodia271234567Diverse architectureThe mixture of quaint Frenchcolonial town houses, concreteart-deco buildings with touchesof Russian communist influencesare all visual reflections ofCambodia's colourful history.The peopleResilient, smiling, and hospitable,the people of Cambodia are asmuch a part of your experienceas the destination itself.Cham fishing boat, KampotSangker river boat childrenNun at Angkor WatSunset over the Mekong, Kratie