History profoundly shapes any nation, but this is perhaps most true of Cambodia. Cambodia's colorful story is a page turner in itself, of warring kingdoms, dark ages and finally protection that eventually led to independence - but the harrowing tale doesn't end there. Today, Cambodia offers a beautiful backdrop for tourists looking to uncover the hidden secrets and treasures of a once glorious, if not troubled kingdom.

Landscape and Climate

Cambodia is a tropical destination of picturesque rainforests and mountainous terrain as well as some stunning southern beaches. The area experiences heavy monsoons through the months of May to October, with hot humid temperatures of up to 35 degrees Celsius. The 181,035 sq kilometers of land includes the prominent lacustrine plain, where much of the country's rice cultivation takes place. Just inland from the coast is the Cardamom Mountain range, which is home to a number of exotic wildlife species, although deforestation within the region has put many of them under threat. The Mekong River system provides farmers with much needed water and is also home to some of the country’s last freshwater dolphins.

History

The emerging modern Cambodia serves as a reminder of the former glory of the Khmer empire that maintained control over much of region during the glory days of the Angkor period. After a long series of wars with neighboring kingdoms, the region plunged into the Dark Ages from the early 1400s as wars continued to erupt with the nearby Vietnamese and Thai kingdoms. Eventually in 1863, King Norodom sought protection from Cambodia's neighbors by enlisting the help of the French, thereby becoming a part of the French Indochina protectorate until it gained independence in 1953. However, the region continued to suffer a tumultuous history as the Vietnam War erupted and rebel forces arose. Genocide and social sculpting became a force as the Khmer Rouge faction seized control in 1975 and war continued with Vietnam. By 1991, an official cease fire and peace treaty was signed and the rebuilding of Cambodia commenced.

Getting There, Around and Enjoying Your Stay

Cambodia is accessible via the nearby nations, so most travelers will arrive through other major cities such as via cheap flights to Bangkok or Ho Chi Minh City that continue onward to Phnom Penh, the most popular gateway into Cambodia. Alternatively, water entry across the Mekong River between Cambodia and Vietnam is possible and overland connections are becoming more prominent with bus services operating between Cambodia and Vietnam or Thailand.

Cambodia's many country towns and villages are still relatively poor and the conditions of the roads and motorways leave much to be desired. However, transportation within Cambodia is easily accomplished via boat along the many river waterways. Bus and mini bus services are also available or for a more daring adventure - tourists can catch a ride on a lorry - a motorcycle powered bamboo train.

Culture and Cuisine

Remnants of Cambodia's turbulent history can be found in all aspects of its modern culture, while agricultural traditions hold fast in the Cambodian country side. The magnificent, historic Angkor temples near Siem Reap are obviously a must see. Bohn Om Teuk, the Festival of Boat Racing, takes place at the end of the rainy season and is one of the many cultural celebrations in the area, where local sports and activities play an important part. Foodies will appreciate the simple tastes of many Cambodian dishes that include soups, noodles and tropical fruits. Along with a staple diet of rice and fish, Cambodians enjoy a good baguette, a cultural remnant left over from its days as a French protectorate.

Travel to Cambodia - Fast Facts

Area: 181,035 sq km
Capital: Phnom Penh
Population: 14.8 million
Language: Khmer
Currency: Riel
Economy: GDP: $28.4 billion

Did you Know?

Cambodia's old railway still operates, although passenger services have long been discontinued. With many bridges down and tracks in dire need of repair, trains average a speed of 20 km/h over the ancient system. Plans are underway to re-haul the transportation network and incorporate the lines into a proposed Tran-Asian Railway linking Singapore to China.

Paige Green writes for Student Flights, Australia's leading online destination for cheap flights worldwide