Cambodia Family Holiday with Teenagers- 8 Days

This morning, we embark on a cyclo (bicycle rickshaw) tour to discover some historic landmarks along the riverfront. Following this, you'll have free time to explore at your own pace. In the afternoon, we'll travel by remork (local tuk-tuk) and boat to a Mekong Island, where you can observe the local way of life centered around silk weaving, agriculture, and aquaculture. Our day concludes with a scenic boat cruise, offering a stunning sunset view at the confluence of the Tonle Bassac, Tonle Sap, and the Mekong Rivers.

Today, we travel by private bus through the picturesque countryside to Battambang, a journey of approximately 4.5 to 5 hours. Along the way, we'll make a stop to observe local pottery-making. Battambang, Cambodia's second-largest city, is a charming riverside town with hints of French sophistication, warm Khmer hospitality, and well-preserved colonial architecture. After checking into your accommodation, we'll take a remork ride to a local family's home for a delicious home-cooked Cambodian dinner and an insightful discussion about life in Cambodia.

Enjoy a half-day bike ride through the scenic countryside surrounding Battambang. Along the route, we'll visit local rural industries, including those producing sticky rice cooked in bamboo, rice paper, dried bananas (similar to roll-ups), and fish paste. The ride is easy and ideal for exploring the tranquil countryside. Helmets, smaller bikes, and a bike attachment known as a “tag along” are available for children, and a remork (local tuk-tuk) is provided for those who prefer not to bike. The total riding distance is 25 km (15 miles). In the afternoon, you have the option to experience the Bamboo Train, a charming and popular attraction. Originally used for transporting goods and people, this wooden and bamboo carriage, powered by a small engine, travels at a maximum speed of about 15 km/h and can be quickly disassembled to allow passing vehicles. Your accommodation in Battambang is a conveniently located family-style hotel.

After breakfast today, we'll check out of our hotel and travel to Siem Reap by private minivan. Along the way, we'll stop at Angkor Silk Farm, where you can witness the entire process of silk production—from cultivating food for the silk worms and breeding them to extracting and spinning the silk, traditional dyeing, and weaving. Angkor Silk Farm is part of the Artisans D’Angkor, a non-profit organization dedicated to revitalizing Cambodian arts and creating job opportunities in underserved rural areas. Siem Reap, the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Angkor Archaeological Park located about 7 kilometers away, also offers plenty to explore. The town boasts vibrant day and night markets, Khmer massage and spa services, a variety of excellent cafes and restaurants, and even fish massages!

Today, explore the beautiful Banteay Srey, also known as the "Citadel of the women". This small temple showcases some of the most exquisite classical Khmer art, intricately carved into its pinkish sandstone walls. Additionally, consider a visit to the Landmine Museum, established in 1997 by Aki Ra, a former child soldier. The museum's mission is to educate visitors about Cambodia's history with landmines and to inspire action towards positive change. Enjoy lunch at Bong Thom homestay before heading to the Banteay Srei Butterfly Centre. Here, witness a vibrant live display of Cambodia's diverse butterfly species. Local families participate in sustainable butterfly farming, emphasizing forest conservation and environmental stewardship. In the evening, after dinner, experience Phare, the Cambodian Circus. Originating from disadvantaged backgrounds, these performers have gained international acclaim for their artistic prowess. Like a Cambodian version of Cirque Du Soleil, their performances blend theatre, music, dance, acrobatics, juggling, aerial acts, and contortion, showcasing modern Khmer stories.

Today marks the day of departure, and no specific activities are scheduled. If you’re still interested in exploring, your three-day temple pass grants you the opportunity to revisit Angkor Archaeological Park at your leisure. Your guide can assist you in arranging a remork or car for your trip. If you have some extra time, consider booking a Khmer Cooking Class, visiting Tonle Sap Lake – a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, enjoying high tea at the Raffles Hotel, or simply unwinding by the hotel pool.