{"id":101758,"date":"2017-09-29T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2017-09-29T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/travelstartblg.wpenginepowered.com\/3-must-see-places-southeast-asia\/"},"modified":"2025-11-04T13:54:32","modified_gmt":"2025-11-04T13:54:32","slug":"3-must-see-places-southeast-asia","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.travelstart.co.za\/blog\/3-must-see-places-southeast-asia\/","title":{"rendered":"3 Must-See Places in Southeast Asia"},"content":{"rendered":"

With its affordability, incredibly delicious food and sublime landscapes, South Africans are veering more and more towards exploring the beauty that is Southeast Asia.<\/p>\n

Whether you\u2019re going for two weeks or two months, you\u2019ll learn a lot about the people, the culture, and about yourself. We\u2019ve narrowed down three remarkable countries within Southeast Asia to add to your travel bucket list!<\/p>\n

Cambodia<\/strong><\/h2>\n

An often-overlooked destination is Cambodia – a land of quivering red sunsets peeking through the dramatic silhouettes of its ancient temples. This country\u2019s beauty lies in its unapologetic simplicity.<\/p>\n

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Cambodia\u2019s history is embedded in its people and its landscapes, and is a truly fascinating country. If you\u2019re considering visiting the two major cities of Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, start south and leave Siem Reap for last. While Phnom Penh<\/a> is the capital, the city is very raw and unrefined, making for a very humbling experience. The city is a real backpacker\u2019s hub. You can find just about anything you like at the colourful markets scattered around town. For an introspective look at the country\u2019s war-torn past, tours of the Killing Fields<\/strong> and Tuol Sleng Prison are a must. Be prepared for an emotional experience that will leave you feeling quite overwhelmed.<\/p>\n

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The best beaches<\/strong> in Cambodia are on the islands of Koh Rong<\/strong> and Koh Kong, and along the fringes of\u00a0Sihanoukville.<\/strong> Stretch out along the white sandy beaches, where we hear the scuba diving is pretty amazing!<\/p>\n

Siem Reap<\/a> is, hands down, one of our favourite cities. Very different from its southern counterpart, life is a lot more easygoing and the locals are extremely friendly. By day, you can hire a bicycle for just $2 and explore the streets and temples at your own pace. Crack open an Angkor beer along the way as you take in the scenery. The famous Angkor Wat<\/strong>\u00a0Temple<\/strong> is really why you\u2019re here, so make the most of your day and start early. Nothing quite beats watching the sun rise above the majestic temples \u2013 it’s an awesome sight beyond words. A day pass will cost you $37 and you can aim to see the three main complexes of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm. Do take a guide if it\u2019s your first time through the temples, and dress respectably. You\u2019ll be exhausted after a day of temple-trekking, so we suggest a relaxing foot massage before heading off to explore the evening markets along Pub Street<\/strong>. For the best street food, wander around the Old Market<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

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image: pamelamondaca<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Recommended Eateries:<\/strong> The Blue Pumpkin, The Red Piano Restaurant.<\/em><\/p>\n

Flights to Cambodia<\/a> are more affordable between May and October. South African passport holders can get a visa on arrival for US$35, valid for 30 days.<\/p>\n

Travel Tips in Cambodia:<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n