Our travel destinations in February

Majestic history: Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, is located in Cambodia and is a symbol of national pride. Originally built in the 12th century as a Hindu temple by King Suryavarman II, it later became a center of Buddhism. The temple is a masterpiece of Khmer architecture and represents the pinnacle of the Cambodian kingdom.

Architectural brilliance: The Angkor Wat complex is impressive: a massive stone monument surrounded by a wide moat that forms a square 1.5 kilometers on a side. The central temple structure consists of three levels, each level with its own gallery. The temple walls are decorated with detailed reliefs depicting Hindu myths and historical scenes. The five central towers symbolize the peaks of the mythical Mount Meru, the center of the universe in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology.

Cultural significance: Angkor Wat is not only an archaeological wonder, but also an important religious center. Thousands of pilgrims and tourists visit the temple every year, especially at sunrise, which is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. The temple appears on the national flag of Cambodia and is a central element of Cambodian identity and cultural heritage.

Sihanoukville: Sihanoukville, also known as Kampong Som, is a port city and popular beach destination in Cambodia. Situated on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand, the city is a gateway to some of the country's most beautiful islands and offers a mix of lively atmosphere and relaxed beach flair.

Beaches and islands: The city is famous for its stunning beaches such as Ochheuteal Beach, Serendipity Beach and Otres Beach. These beaches are ideal for sunbathing, swimming and various water sports. Nearby are also picturesque islands such as Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, which invite you to relax with their pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Nightlife and cuisine: Sihanoukville is also known for its vibrant nightlife with a variety of bars, clubs and restaurants. The city offers an excellent culinary scene, from traditional Cambodian dishes to international cuisine. Fresh seafood is particularly popular here.

Development and tourism: In recent years, Sihanoukville has undergone rapid development, driven by tourism and investment. This has led to an upswing in the hotel and hospitality industry, but also to challenges in terms of infrastructure and sustainability.

Kampot: Kampot, a picturesque town in southern Cambodia, is known for its tranquil atmosphere and colonial architecture. Situated on the Kampot River, the town exudes a relaxed way of life that attracts visitors from all over the world. With its well-preserved French colonial buildings and traditional Khmer houses, Kampot offers a unique insight into Cambodian history and culture.

Famous pepper plantations: Kampot is world famous for its high-quality pepper, which is considered to be one of the best in the world. The surrounding pepper plantations are a must-see for visitors. They offer fascinating tours where you can learn more about the cultivation and processing of Kampot pepper. These plantations contribute significantly to the rural charm and economic development of the region.

Natural beauty and activities: The natural beauty of the region around Kampot is impressive. The nearby Bokor National Park offers spectacular views, waterfalls and hiking trails. The Kampot River is ideal for boat trips to enjoy the picturesque scenery. The more adventurous can try their hand at kayaking and stand-up paddling.

Gastronomy and culture: Kampot's dining scene reflects a mix of local Khmer dishes and international cuisine. Visitors can relax and enjoy the local cuisine in the numerous cafés and restaurants along the river. Regular cultural events and markets offer insights into the daily life and traditions of the locals.

Discovering Kratie: Kratie, a charming small town in Cambodia, lies on the banks of the mighty Mekong River. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and colonial architecture, Kratie is a gem off the beaten tourist track. The town serves as a gateway to exploring Cambodia's rural areas and offers authentic insights into the daily lives of the locals.

Natural wonders and Irrawaddy dolphins: The highlight of Kratie is watching the rare Irrawaddy dolphins. Just a few kilometers north of the city is a section of the Mekong River that is home to this endangered species. Visitors can take boat tours to see the dolphins in their natural habitat, an unforgettable nature experience.

Cultural and historical insights: In addition to nature, Kratie also offers cultural attractions. The town has well-preserved examples of French colonial architecture, and the central marketplace is a vibrant meeting place. Nearby are historic temples such as Wat Rokakandal, which impresses with its fine wood carvings.

Experience rural Cambodia: A stay in Kratie makes it possible to experience rural Cambodia. Visitors can ride through the surrounding villages by bicycle or motorcycle, see traditional Khmer houses and get to know the local way of life. The sunset over the Mekong River, seen from the waterfront, is a perfect end to a day in Kratie.

Historical significance of Preah Vihear: Preah Vihear, an ancient temple in northern Cambodia, is a masterpiece of Khmer architecture. Built during the Khmer Empire, between the 9th and 11th centuries, this temple was originally used to worship the Hindu god Shiva. Its unique location on a 525 meter high cliff offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding plain and jungle.

Architectural features: The temple complex extends over several levels and terraces, connected by an ingenious system of stairs and pavilions. The precise stonework and the detailed reliefs, which show both Hindu and Buddhist influences, are evidence of the high level of craftsmanship of the Khmer.

A place of conflict and peace: Preah Vihear has long been the subject of territorial disputes between Cambodia and Thailand. In 1962, the International Court of Justice in The Hague confirmed that the temple belonged to Cambodia. Despite its tense history, the temple is now a symbol of peace and cooperation between the two countries.

UNESCO World Heritage Site: In 2008, Preah Vihear was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This recognition underlines the cultural and historical significance of the temple and contributes to its preservation and the protection of the extraordinary archaeological site.

Koh Rong: Koh Rong, Cambodia's second largest island, is located in the Gulf of Thailand and is a true paradise. Known for its pristine beaches and crystal clear waters, the island is a popular destination for travelers seeking relaxation and natural beauty.

Nature and beaches: The island is characterized by its stunning beaches, including Long Beach, Sok San Beach and Lazy Beach. These beaches offer perfect conditions for swimming and snorkeling in the warm, clear waters. The dense jungle in the interior of the island is ideal for hiking and offers the opportunity to explore the rich flora and fauna.

Activities and recreation: In addition to the beach experiences, Koh Rong offers opportunities for kayaking, diving and fishing. In the evening, visitors can marvel at the phenomenon of glowing plankton that makes the sea sparkle in the dark. The island also has a number of bars and restaurants serving fresh seafood and local specialties.

Sustainable tourism: In recent times, Koh Rong has focused on sustainable tourism to preserve its natural beauty. Efforts are being made to minimize the environmental impact and support the local community.

Historical significance of the Killing Fields: The Killing Fields are a series of sites in Cambodia that serve as silent witnesses to one of the darkest periods in the country's history. During the reign of the Khmer Rouge under Pol Pot from 1975 to 1979, it is estimated that over one million people were murdered and buried in mass graves here. Today, these fields are a symbol of the genocide and brutality of the regime.

Choeung Ek Genocide Center: The most famous of these fields is Choeung Ek, near Phnom Penh. Today, this site serves as a memorial and museum. Visitors can see the mass graves and the central monument, a stupa filled with more than 8,000 human skulls. The exhibitions provide an insight into the atrocities and suffering of the victims.

Significance for Cambodia and the world: The Killing Fields are a memorial to the dangers of totalitarian systems and a reminder of the importance of human rights and justice. Visiting these sites offers not only a historical lesson, but also an emotional experience that encourages reflection on the importance of peace and tolerance in the world. They represent the resilience and reconstruction of a people who survived one of the worst tragedies of the 20th century.