Newspapers and the web give us endless lists of the 1000 things to do before you die. Well here's one thats high on my list - Cambodia, a country racked with conflict in the 20th century, but its history in the 10th and 11th century is what we all need to see.
Where to go - Siem Reap is the nearest town to the Khmer temple complex of Angkor. It used to be a sleepy countryside town and even amongst all the new international hotels it still hasn't lost this charm. The main focus is now clearly on tourism and the little town is growing rapidly - a 3 to 4 day trip to see the wonderful temples the guide books do recommend. Angkor Wat is the key element, but there is so much more to see, not only in Siem Reap.
The capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia, Phnom Penh, is located at the confluence of three rivers - the Mekong, the Bassac and Tonle Sap. The city is divided into three sections - the north, an attractive residential area; the south or the French part of the city with its ministries, banks and colonial houses; and the centre or the heart with its narrow lanes, markets, foods stalls and shops.
Over the past few years, the city has undergone tremendous changes - businesses are springing up constantly and tourism is once again booming. Cambodia has one of the most liberal investment laws to further boost business, however, it has also managed to retain its charm and character - cyclers that weave through traffic with ease, broad boulevards, old colonial buildings, parks and green spaces that reminds one of the country's French heritage, and above all its people who always have a smile for you.
There are of course the sights we may be reluctant to see - the infamous Killing Fields of modern history, and the fact that a great percentage of the population is under 30. Visit one of the orphanages and see the great work being done by foreign NGO's and the fact that the Cambodian culture and dance is being taught to the children - a truly moving experience.
As for accommodation, both Siem Reap and Phnom Penh can offer a wide range of fine modern and locally run hotels, there's something there for all budgets - from the good 3 star to the 5 star excellence of Raffles hotels. For golfers Siem Reap can now offer 2 championship golf courses.
Don't delay go soon!