Cambodia
Cambodia is a country located in the southern portion of the Indochina peninsula in Southeast Asia. It is bordered by Thailand to the northwest, Laos to the northeast, Vietnam to the east, and the Gulf of Thailand to the southwest. The official religion is Theravada Buddhism, which is practiced by approximately 95% of the population.
Cambodia's rich history spans over 2,000 years. The Khmer Empire, the largest and most powerful empire in Southeast Asia, once occupied present-day Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. After the empire's decline in the 13th century, Cambodia was ruled by various feudal lords until the French colonized the country in the mid-19th century. Cambodia gained independence from France in 1953.
The main reasons to visit Cambodia are to see the Angkor Wat temple complex, to experience the country's rich history and culture, and to enjoy its beautiful beaches.
Cambodia's cuisine is similar to that of its neighboring countries, Thailand and Vietnam. Largely based on rice, with seafood, tropical fruits, fish sauce, soy sauce, and vegetables being common ingredients. Dishes such as Cambodian curry, amok, and lok lak are popular.