Cambodia

Many describe a Cambodian train holiday as more of an adventure than a vacation, and it is easy to see why when you read about the incredible sights you can witness when you travel there.

A Cambodia train holiday is incomplete without a visit to the capital, Phnom Penh. Once known as the 'Pearl of Asia' owing to the fact that it was considered the most attractive French-built city on the Indochina Peninsula, there are some awe-inspiring sights to see such as the Royal Palace, home to the king of Cambodia, the Silver Pagoda and the National Museum where you can learn about the country's compelling history.

Also on a Cambodian train holiday you will undoubtedly visit Angkor Wat, meaning 'City Temple'. Truly an impressive sight, the 12^th century religious complex has been compared to the likes of Machu Picchu and Petra, and occupies an area so vast that spending a full day there is almost not enough. This fine example of Khmer architecture is something that Cambodia is mightily proud of, so proud in fact that it features on their national flag. This is definitely a sight not to be missed during a Cambodia train holiday.

The gateway to Angkor Wat is the city of Siem Reap, and many tourists stay there purely to visit the temple. However there is so much more to discover, and if you do get chance to explore during a train holiday in Cambodia, make sure you include the glorious Colonial and Chinese style architecture in the Old French Quarter.

Another landmark worth visiting is the astonishing Russian market in the centre of the city. A treasure trove of traditional Cambodian gifts, fake-branded clothing and souvenirs, this enormous marketplace is made up of labyrinthine streets and alleys and is a feast for the eyes and ears, offering a myriad of smells, sights and sounds unique to the Cambodian capital. The national museum of Cambodia is also found in Phnom Penh and offers a comprehensive and detailed exploration of this turbulent and diverse country's history.