We visited an amazing community-based ecotourism project in the Cardamom Mountains called Chi Phat, and it was one of the highlights of our year of travel.
What was a stronghold of illegal poaching and logging has now been transformed into a thriving conservation and tourism project. Local guides, once poachers, lead jungle treks to mountains, grasslands, and waterfalls, and show you a side of Cambodia few have ever seen.
We even slept under the stars in hammocks in the middle of the jungle, and highly, highly recommend it to anyone looking for a unique wildlife experience. Added to this, the picturesque settings ranging from super remote to humming with activity are all as beautiful as one could ever imagine beauty to be.
Some areas of Vietnam are virtually untainted by anyone but the original, local communities, giving travellers a real taste of the true and authentic spirit of this country. Beaches are also beautiful and in abundance, as are resplendent jungles and roaming countryside explorations. Think roadside cafes aplenty, offering cheap drinks and an addictive vibe, live entertainment, bustling streets with loads of friendly people going somewhere to have a good time.
Nha Trang is more your beach party type of ambiance, keeping travellers on their dancing feet. Be prepared to go on a rollercoaster of contrasting environments. Vietnam constantly shifts from peaceful seaside village to overwhelming cityscapes packed with millions of scooters and never-ending bustle.
Try to visit at least 3 different areas in Vietnam to experience everything the country has to offer and give you some reprieve from the hectic cities. Vietnam has a fantastic sleeper bus network. Our other recommendations are to hike through the traditional Sapa region of northern Vietnam and visit historic Hoi An. Anyone can fall in love with Vietnam. The country caters to everyone from broke backpackers to families, couples, retirees and those wanting to stay in luxury.
The country is extremely safe and the locals are very friendly. We would recommend visiting Vietnam to everyone we know! It was the first place I visited in Asia, and remains my favourite. Make sure you do some sort of tour that introduces you to the local people, especially in the villages and countryside. Learning a few Vietnamese words before you go is a great way to bond.
Vietnamese is one of the best cuisines in the world. The views are incredible, and the journey through the villages is amazing. Cambodia is well known for a number of quality dishes, including lak, which is beef, stir-fried in a lime sauce and served with egg and fried potatoes. Angkok draft beer is found all over Cambodia and is always served icy cold.
I would suggest having breakfast at one of the food stalls in Central Market also known as Psar Thmei. They have a variety of food to choose from such as Khmer noodles, desserts, and grilled seafood among others. Take a visit visit to the Killing Fields and Toul Sleng Museum for a glimpse of history, followed by a tour with Khmer Architecture to get to know the city better through its buildings. Even so, the impression is that Vietnamese cities offer more alternatives in most regards.
Neither Vietnam nor Cambodia lack great activities in the countryside. The only difference is that those in Vietnam are more oriented toward tourists. Popular activities in Vietnam come down to mountain treks, paddy fields hikes and river boating. Get close to elephant. In Cambodia, on the other hand, you can join some rare activities.
In the northern regions of the country, you can spot Asian elephants. Furthermore, taking an excursion in dense jungle is an option, too. A captivating ecotourism project allows you to explore Cardamom Mountains.
A trek through the rainforest may reveal some rare flora and fauna there. Verdict : For tourist-friendly activities, book a ticket to Vietnam. For taking part in one of a kind activities, Cambodia is your destination. There are famous worth-visiting attractions during Vietnam and Cambodia tour. Some of the world's most stunning structures await you in the Angkor Archeological Park. The Angkor Wat is the world's largest temple complex.
Although remaining inconclusive, it might be a mausoleum of an illustrious Khmer emperor, too. The adjacent Silver Pagoda conveys mythological stories and houses quite a stunning Buddha statue. Halong Bay. Photogenic Halong Bay in Vietnam consists of countless limestone islands shaped by the wind and water. The Sapa region, celebrated for its mountains, rice fields and villages, boasts picturesque scenery. Finally, the Thien Mu is the tallest pagoda in Vietnam.
It features 7 stories that are 21 meters 69 feet tall, dominating over the Perfume river and verdant surroundings. Verdict : In the light of these facts, we could conclude that Cambodia beats Vietnam among travelers interested in culture. If beautiful landscapes and enchanting countryside are more to your liking, choose Vietnam over Cambodia. With the coastline over km almost mi long, Vietnam has much to offer to beach addicts.
Verdant greenery and white sand make quite a photogenic contrast against blue sky. Secret coves and pure waters are perfect settings for diving and exploring. Along the way, you will come across many fine beaches visited by countless people. Furthermore, great seaside resorts you can choose from are omnipresent. Check for the best beach resorts in Vietnam.
Phu Quoc. Compared to the Vietnamese coast, the Cambodian coastline is around 8 times shorter. Yet, mangroves, sandy beaches, tranquil islands and magnificent sunsets leave no one indifferent.
You can stay in mainland towns and enjoy shopping and entertainment. Or you can set off to visit less crowded islands of the nearby archipelago. Either way, gold- and white-sand beaches fringed by tropical vegetation and snorkeling will amaze you. Verdict : Even though Cambodia has gorgeous seaside, Vietnam wins this contest.
It is home to many endangered species, such as tigers, sun bears, and leopards. Worry not, you are very unlikely to run into one if you choose to visit! The coolest way to travel Vietnam is on a motorcycle. The idea is to buy yourself a bike in Ho Chi Minh City in the south and ride it all the way up to Hanoi or vice versa. You will not miss a single vista that way! Cambodia has many elephant sanctuaries. By visiting one of them, you support elephant conservation and get to see some friendly giants while you are at it.
The animals are not exploited and tourists may not ride them. For those passionate about saving the elephants, some organizations offer volunteering positions. The Mekong is one of the longest Asian rivers and in the south of Vietnam, its delta becomes a maze of swamps, smaller rivers, and islands. But they are missing out: it is a place of immense history where everyone can learn something about the local culture.
Do not miss out on taking a ride on the quirky bamboo train, depicted in the photograph above. History buffs should not miss Hue, located in central Vietnam. This architectural jewel used to be the capital in times when Vietnam was a kingdom. Sadly, some of the historic sites were damaged during the Vietnam War. There is also a cool abandoned water-park that tourists can visit. While there, make sure to try some of their traditional dishes, such as fish amok and lap Khmer.
The food is not as spicy as Thai. Vietnamese coffee is a definite gourmet highlight. It is strong, refreshing and tasty. You can get it with sweetened condensed milk — it is a treat!
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