What Cambodia lacks in size, it more than makes up for in natural beauty. The Temples of Angkor and paradisiacal beaches are reason enough to visit Cambodia, but are by no means the only ones.
Tonle Sap, a freshwater lake afloat with fishing villages and Cambidia's Bokor National Park, with its waterfalls and stunning views, are rightly ranked as some of Asia’s highlights. The Kulen Mountains boast ingenious riverbed carvings, while the capital, Phnom Penh, is home to the fascinating Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda.
A common sight in South East Asia, the River Mekong is no less spectacular when it reaches Cambodia, and is at the centre of a spectacular water festival in November. Wherever you go, you’ll encounter delicately fragranced cooking and the friendly ebullience of the Cambodian people.
Travel to a stunning part of the world and volunteer at a school that is part of an incredible floating village. From Monday to Friday give the teachers much needed help and visit the wonder that is Angkor Wat in your spare time, watching the sun rise will take your breath away.
Give orphans in Siem Reap the care and attention they deserve in this stunning part of the world. Help the children with tuition during the week and see the amazing temples of Angkor and much more in your free time.
Be a role model to children who were born into poverty. Draw up lesson plans, teach English, crafts and health education and help maintain the classrooms. Your presence and encouragement will help them towards brighter futures.
Pass on the basic skills many people take for granted, and make a difference to young lives. Give lessons to children and help local staff develop their leadership skills so they can benefit future generations.
Janet Horsley had an incredible time on her tailor-made gap year, blazing a trail through Africa, Asia, Australia and Latin America, read her story here.
