The images of Cambodia run deeper than the temples of the Angkor Complex and the rushing waters of the Mekong River. The country is brimming with unique flavors known commonly to the locals but often overlooked by visitors. On this custom tailored tour you will find traditional tastes of the Cambodian countryside and exceptional chefs who have taken cultural flavors to a premium level. Experience both the marvels of Cambodia’s history and the splendid evolution of the country’s magnificent and...
Customizable Itinerary
Day 1
Introduction to Flavor
Welcome to Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia and the Pearl of Asia. The city maintains its connection to the country’s history through its display of ancient and contemporary artifacts, and its endless supply of captivating restaurants. The Tonle Sap and Mekong Rivers sweep past the cityscape. The French architecture spans the riverbanks. The Sisowath Quay is lively and stunning, adding a fabulous walking culture to the banks of the rivers’ junction. Your private transfer meets you at the airport and takes you to your hotel.
After you check-in the day is filled with spectacular images of the city. In the afternoon you can sit in Romdeng, a restaurant that provides the underprivileged youth of the city a chance to learn the restaurant industry. The restaurant is situated in a classic French Colonial building but the woodcarvings, tables, and chairs were all built in Cambodia. Your first taste of traditional Cambodian cuisine gives you an introduction to the flavors and ingredients unique to the country. These young master chefs create a delicious crispy duck spring roll that is flakey and rich, and accompanied by a persimmon sauce. If you feel adventurous you could even try the distinctive crispy tarantula with black pepper and lime sauce.
After lunch you will visit the National Museum where images of Angkor are displayed in the structural design as much as within the museum itself. The complex was inaugurated in 1920 and preserves traditional Cambodian arts and crafts. A vast collection of artifacts takes you on a journey through the country’s dense history, including those made from bronze, wood, ceramic, and stone. A 13th century Bayon style stone statue is on display. The statue’s face is accentuated with a light smile, representing compassion, knowledge, and peacefulness.
What's Included:
Day 2
The Markets of History
Day 3
A Touch of French
Day 4
The Impression of the Land
Day 5
The Largest Ancient City
Day 6
The Spices of Sunrise
Day 7
A Taste of a Different Home
Day 8
The Lingering Joys of Cambodia
Trip Highlights
- Visit the remarkably preserved Khmer temple of Angkor Wat
- Enjoy the unique flavors and techniques of a traditional Khmer cooking class
- Indulge in the cultural cuisine of the Siem Reap Night Market
- Experience the luxurious tastes and French influence on the cuisine in Battambang
- Witness the tremendous bas-relief carvings of Banteay Srei
- Discover the hidden jungle ruins of Banteay Chhmar
- Find the confluence of spices and essences that make Cambodian cuisine truly unique amongst Southeast Asian flavors
Detailed Description
When you think of Southeast Asian cuisine you may think of Thailand or Vietnam. However, Cambodia pushes against the flavors of its neighboring countries to create tremendously tasty dishes within the traditions of the Khmer, and evolving into something completely unique and fascinating. Revel in the flavors of the central markets and the restaurants that are changing the face of Cambodian cuisine on this 8-day gastronomy discovery. Visit ancient ruins and the contemporary history of the country to better understand the movement from the traditional to the avant-garde, the familiar to the “out of this world.” This is more than an adventure; it is a culinary journey.
Your journey begins with your arrival in Phnom Penh. The capital city is filled with traditional restaurants in various neighborhoods, including the trendy French Colonial district on the riverbanks near the Sisowath Quay. Traverse the Silver Pagoda and the National Museum. Dine at the exceptional Romdeng Restaurant, where underprivileged children create the menu and the dishes. The following day you will experience the troubled contemporary history of the city at the Tuol Sleng Prison and Choeung Ek Memorial sights.
The night allows you to explore the central market and let the tastes of the local cuisine linger on your palette. The next day you will journey to Battambang, exploring the countryside along the way. The French Colonial architecture brings a charm to the second largest city in the country. In the evening you can enjoy a meal at the celebrated Jaan Bai Restaurant. From Battambang you will venture to Banteay Chhmar, a temple complex overtaken by the surrounding jungle.
In Siem Reap you will spend your time discovering the ancient Angkor Complex, including Angkor Banteay Srei, along with sampling the delicacies of the city. The Night Market is filled with splendid traditional dishes and Cuisine Wat Damnak boasts a chef recently declared one of the best chefs in all of Asia. After a half-day tour of Tonle Sap Lake you will partake in a half-day cooking class at a nearby village. Explore the techniques and flavors of the locals, from villagers to chefs, and let the majesty remain as you make your way home.
For more itinerary options, browse the Cambodia vacations or read the reviews for Cambodia travel agents.
Starting Price
$2,400 per person (excluding international flights)
Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.
What's Included
- Accommodations
- In-country transportation
- Some or all activities and tours
- Expert trip planning
- 24x7 support during your trip
Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.
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