by Debra Corbeil

Created on: April 21, 2009

Cambodia. Known as The Heart of Darkness, it is one of the most heavily land mined countries in the world. With its history of genocide and war, it is not the first place that people think of traveling to when planning a vacation. However Cambodia is a country that has a lot to offer the adventurous traveler. Less crowded than Thailand, its neighbor to the west, it has everything a tourist could want. Temples, beaches, jungle, culture and nightlife; it will keep you busy for weeks on end.

Entering Cambodia by bus from Thailand, you will instantly feel the difference between the two countries. The smooth paved tarmac from Bangkok gives way to bumpy dirt roads with giant potholes. You suddenly feel as though you are in the Wild West of South East Asia.

The rough ride is worth the bruises though. Once you arrive at Seam Reap to see the countries main attraction, Angkor Wat you will forget all about your suffering. Built in the 12 century by the Khmer Empire it has endured centuries of rain and war.

Mother nature has almost swallowed it up as trees and vegetation grow right through some of the temples floors and walls. Great efforts have been made in restoration over the years and many temples have been restored to their original grandeur. The Main Temple of Angkor Wat is in pristine condition and is a breathtaking sight to see. Its three main towers jut into the air as high as 66 meters (215 ft) from its 1 square km base.

The fascinating temple of Ta Prom has been left in its original state with vines and roots twisting through the complex as trees rise through its roof.

One can spend days exploring the temples of Angkor. 108 buildings cover 500 acres of land. You can hire a tuk tuk or rent a bicycle to move you through the grounds with ease and take you to the outer temples. Whether you walk up to the top of the main temple of Angkor Wat, take a hot air balloon ride over the ruins or sit high on Bakheng Hill to watch sunset over the complex, you will be mesmerized by its scope and beauty.

Once you have had your fill of temples, it is time to head to the country's capitol Phnom Penh. Take a stroll along the waterfront of the Mekong River and check out the grand Royal Palace. Try some fried insects at the Central Market or head over to street 51 to party the night away at The Heart of Darkness Bar.

The most compelling and profoundly moving sight in Phnom Pen is the Toul Sleng Museum. Not for the faint of heart, this former school building is a reminder of just how cruel

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