Intro to Cambodia: Phnom Penh, Battambang and Angkor Wat

Transfer and two-night stay in the old French quarter. The hotel's name, Sangkum, stands for spirit: it refers to the golden age of Cambodia, which ranges from independence to the deposition of Norodom Sihanouk. The rooms are pristine and well equipped with a laidback charm. In the enclosed garden, sip a cocktail by the pool, surrounded by tropical plants. At the restaurant, the staff are classically trained in French cuisine, and combine these skills to create beautifully updated local cuisine.
Included in the itinerary- Architectural walk. Despite the damage of the recent past, the capital has a rich architectural heritage. Going by rickshaw from one building to another reveals not only traditional or colonial architecture, but also that of the Sangkum period (Chaktomouk Hall, Vann Molyvann, 1961) and spectacular contemporary achievements (Vattanac Capital Tower, TFP Farrells, 2012-2014).

Already included in the itinerary - Phnom Penh with a private guide. There is nothing your guide doesn't know about Phnom Penh. He knows the pavements, the palaces, the trendy bars, the art galleries, markets, gyms, restaurants, pagodas, churches... and of course, he knows the Cambodians! So there's no need to set a schedule in advance. You'll make contact, exchange some ideas, wishes, interests and follow them. Along the way, you'll see beyond what the ordinary traveller sees

Included in the itinerary- Authentic Battambang. From the large market (1936) to colonial quayside houses, the French influence is clear and well preserved, as is the Khmer influence. Battambang is also a university city and a hub for trade with Thailand. To discover the area's ancient side, you'll go to Piem Ek to see Wat Ek Phnom, where an 11th-century Hindu temple is flanked by a recent pagoda and a large, white Buddha. Visit the site with a guide.

Transfer to Siem Reap for a four-night stay in a sleek and luxurious hotel which is situated in its own lush gardens. But, unlike many others, it doesn't try to be rustic, it boasts a comforting urban ambiance. The hotel's layout is pleasant, the angled pool is lovely, and the spaces are neat. The treatments offered by the spa are perfect. Sokkhak Resort does not go overboard with making everything picture-perfect, and that's a good thing.

Already included in the itinerary - First of all, you'll make your way to the site of the ancient Isvarapura located 12 miles north-east of Angkor; there you will find the Banteay Srei temple, a shrine dedicated to Shiva. This is a beautiful, well-preserved pink sandstone temple from the 10th century, adorned with a lot of art. Then you'll travel east of Angkor Thom to see the Ta Prohm temple, a 12th-century Buddhist school. Its beauty lies in the invasion of the sprawling roots of false hemp trees, and it is in the same state that it was in when the sacred area was discovered by the first archaeologists.

Included in the itinerary- A culinary tuk-tuk ride. Back in the vehicle, you'll tour the night markets and the local street food market. The dishes made at the table and on a brazier are astonishingly well-balanced and delicious. From meat, fish and shellfish to vegetables and fruits, all regional produce is prepared in front of customers. Besides, Cambodians are big consumers of insects; from beetles to tarantulas, give entomophagy a try! You'll stop and have dinner at the most appetising stall. Evening with a guide.