Cambodia Real Food Adventure 9 Days

Embark on a captivating morning cyclo tour through the lively streets of Phnom Penh, immersing yourself in the city's vibrant atmosphere. Discover the architectural beauty of Psar Thmei, the Central Market, and delight your taste buds with delectable street food, including sticky rice and spiced fried crickets. Return to the hotel to refresh and check out before confronting Cambodia's history at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a solemn reminder of the Khmer Rouge era. Continue to the haunting Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, a testament to the tragic legacy of that time. Journey southward by private vehicle to Kampot, a charming town known for its world-famous pepper and captivating colonial heritage (approximately 3 hours). Arrive in Kampot by evening and indulge in the local delicacy, durian, if you're feeling adventurous. Enjoy some leisure time strolling along the riverside, admiring the French colonial architecture, or savoring a cup of coffee while taking in the scenic beauty of the Bokor Mountain Range. Accommodation: Hotel

Indulge in a delicious breakfast before embarking on a countryside tour, where you'll savor the flavors of locally-grown seasonal fruits like durian, rambutan, lychee, and more. Discover the renowned Kampot Pepper Project, a testament to Cambodia's rich pepper heritage. Witness the remarkable regeneration of Kampot pepper, nearly lost during the Khmer Rouge era. Continue to the vibrant Kep Crab markets, where fresh crabs are kept in floating pots in the warm waters of the Gulf of Thailand. Delight in a mouthwatering lunch of perfectly cooked fresh crab, enjoyed on a pier overlooking the ocean. Take a leisurely stroll along Kep beach and explore the remnants of the town's once-glorious oceanfront buildings, bearing witness to its haunting history. Alternatively, relax on a hammock or take a refreshing swim in the South China Sea. Accommodation: Hotel

Start your day early and witness the bustling activity at the fishing port as the boats arrive with their daily catch. Enjoy a breakfast featuring delectable dishes of crab, prawns, or squid cooked with Kampot green peppercorns and served with rice. Alternatively, savor the flavors of Kampot's delectable baguettes, a legacy of French colonization, at a local wood-fired oven. After breakfast, return to Phnom Penh (approximately 3.5 hours). Immerse yourself in the culinary world of Khmer cuisine as you join a passionate chef for a guided market tour. Learn about the essential ingredients of Khmer cooking and participate in a hands-on cooking class, mastering dishes such as Samlor Machou Yuon (sour "Vietnamese" soup with fresh fish and tamarind) or Bok Svay (pounded green mango salad with dried fish or prawn). Indulge in a delightful dinner, savoring the fruits of your culinary creations. Accommodation: Hotel

Embark on a comfortable private bus journey to Battambang (approximately 6-7 hours), a charming riverside city known for its preserved colonial architecture, friendly locals, and artistic statues adorning the streets. Experience the authentic essence of Cambodia as you explore this less crowded and traffic-free destination. Enjoy your free afternoon by engaging in recommended activities suggested by your knowledgeable leader. Consider joining a local food enthusiast for a home-cooked meal, indulging in the flavors of traditional Cambodian dishes like amok, Khmer curry, and spicy fried chicken with homemade rice noodles. Accommodation: Hotel

Embark on a leisurely bicycle ride through picturesque countryside, pedaling along shady roads that wind through local villages. Along the way, witness the traditional production of rice paper, fruit drying, prahok (fish paste) making, and rice wine production. Don't miss out on the opportunity to savor the finest Kralan (sticky rice in bamboo) from the best stall in the district. Later, travel by private bus to the historic city of Banteay Chhmar, also known as the Citadel of the Cat (approximately 3-4 hours). Despite the slower journey on some unsealed roads, this remote community is worth the visit. Marvel at the 9th-century temple ruins, reminiscent of the famous Bayon, featuring intricate face towers and surrounded by an impressive 9-kilometer wall. Immerse yourself in genuine Cambodian hospitality as you stay with a local family in a traditional Khmer wooden-stilted house. As the day concludes, delight in a memorable torch-lit traditional Khmer dinner on the temple grounds. During the rainy season, the dinner will be held at a local Community Center. Accommodation: Homestay

Awaken early to begin your morning temple exploration. Fuel up with a traditional Khmer breakfast before immersing yourself in the vibrant village food market. Accompanied by local hosts, handpick fresh ingredients such as vegetables, meat, and aromatic herbs to create a delectable lunch. Engage in cooking alongside the community hosts, gaining valuable culinary insights. Indulge in a satisfying feast with your fellow travelers. Afterward, embark on a private vehicle journey to Siem Reap (approximately 4 hours). Siem Reap serves as the gateway to Angkor and is a highly sought-after destination for travelers in Cambodia and Southeast Asia. Take a leisurely stroll through the town center to soak in the lively ambiance, abundant with cafes, bars, restaurants, and street food vendors catering to diverse palates. In the evening, embark on a motor remork tour to uncover the hidden gems of Siem Reap's local street food scene. Delight in mouthwatering treats like barbecued corn, skewered meats, Khmer Fried Chicken, green mango with chili and salt, and delectable desserts such as fruit shakes and baked puddings. Accommodation: Hotel

Embark on a full-day temple exploration led by your knowledgeable local guide, immersing yourself in the awe-inspiring Angkor complex. Marvel at the architectural wonders that date back to the powerful Khmer empire of the 9th to 13th centuries. Delve into the mystical world of Angkor Wat, encounter the enigmatic smiling faces at Bayon, and wander through the enchanting jungle-clad Ta Prohm. These temples, designed with perfect balance and adorned with intricate carvings, offer breathtaking sights and unparalleled photographic opportunities. In the evening, indulge in a farewell dinner at a plant-based restaurant showcasing contemporary Khmer cuisine. Relish in dishes like mushroom lok lak or rice noodle soup, made with fresh ingredients sourced from their own gardens. Accommodation: Hotel

Your Real Food Adventure concludes today. There are no scheduled activities, and you are free to depart at your convenience. If you wish to further explore the wonders of the Angkor complex, kindly consult your tour leader regarding extending your access pass.