Travel Joyfully in Kampong Cham 2016

Travel Joyfully in Kampong Cham 2016 with mr.hotsia

Returning once again with a travel experience in the neighboring land ofKampong Chama province along the Mekong River in Cambodia. This time Imr.hotsiahad the opportunity to revisit in early 2016 after Cambodia divided the province into Kampong Cham and Tboung Khmum in 2013. This visit allowed me to see the changes and the riverside community life that still retains its traditional charm blended perfectly with a touch of modernity.

Mekong Riverside: Beautiful Views and Chill Atmosphere

Kampong Cham town is located along the Mekong River, a major river flowing through several countries in the region. Today, the Mekong riverside has been developed into a beautiful recreational area with flood protection dikes and smooth walkways along the riverbank. There are fountains and decorative statues enhancing the scenery. Locals and some tourists stroll and relax; some ride bicycles leisurely to enjoy the town’s atmosphere. This made me think of the Kampong Cham lifestyle gradually adapting while welcoming tourists.

Many new Khmer massage shops have opened to accommodate the increasing number of tourists. Several riverside hotels are available, especially in this zone near the bus station and night market, ideal for those who want to stroll and taste local food by the river.Read more about accommodations in Kampong Cham

Stroll through the Morning and Night Markets, Experience Community Life

One of the charms I love about Kampong Cham is walking through both the morning and night markets. Here you can find a variety of fresh and dried goods including very fresh fish from the Mekong River. Khmer fruit smoothies are sold at almost every corner of the market. Durian smoothies mixed with coconut milk and seasonal fruits are refreshing drinks that I always enjoy every time I visit.Click to read about durian smoothies

The night market is livelier with made-to-order dishes, curry rice, grilled chicken, papaya salad, fried chicken, and Khmer stir-fried noodles at affordable prices. There are also international riverside restaurants serving tourists who want to try something new.Check out Khmer food details in Kampong Cham

The market also offers traditional Khmer sweets called “Farang Kudi Chin,” baked treats requiring skillful top and bottom heat baking. Unfortunately, I couldn’t take photos this time, but the impression from previous visits remains vivid.Read about Farang Kudi Chin sweets in Kampong Cham market

Unique Food to Try – Giant Spider Rice

During my visit, locals favored eating “Bing” or what Thais call “Bueng,” giant spiders or tarantulas that were laying eggs. I saw them fried with garlic and sold for about 30 Thai Baht each. The crispiness and spicy-salty flavor were a novel experience for an adventurous eater like me.mr.hotsiaIt’s an experience not to be missed, and of course, I have a video to show. For those who want a challenge, give it a try.

Kampong Cham Style Massage – Relax After Touring

After walking until tired, I didn’t miss trying Khmer massage. A massage shop at the corner leading to the night market offered good service at reasonable prices, about 100-200 Baht per hour. The massage focused on deep muscle relaxation but was not too painful. I also tried sitting for a Khmer-style hair wash at a hair salon near the market, another experience I really liked because it gave me a real feel of local life.

Travel and Convenience

Getting to Kampong Cham is not difficult. I chose to use Sorya bus service, a major bus company in Cambodia, with routes from Siem Reap and Phnom Penh to Kampong Cham, which is less than two hours away. The trip is quick and very convenient, especially for those who want to travel unhurriedly and enjoy the scenery along the way.

Relax by the Mekong River – Mariya Hotel

For my accommodation this time, I chose Mariya Hotel, located right by the Mekong River. The rooms have Wi-Fi and are affordable, starting at just 13 USD. However, some rooms may have minor issues with mosquitoes and slight water pooling in the bathroom, so check before staying. Nevertheless, the location is excellent, close to the night market and bus station, perfect for travelers wanting to fully experience Kampong Cham’s atmosphere.Read hotel reviews in Kampong Cham

Travel Experiences in Kampong Cham with mr.hotsia

Every time Imr.hotsiavisit Kampong Cham, I see that it still retains the warm riverside community vibe, with vibrant fresh markets full of life, local food and traditional sweets to try, a bustling riverside street in the evening, and relaxing Khmer massages that greatly relieve fatigue.
If you are looking for a destination not far from Phnom Penh but full of local culture and Mekong riverside charm, Kampong Cham is the answer I want you to experience yourself.Read detailed travel guide to Kampong ChamAnd if you love authentic Khmer food mixed with real local lifestyle, don’t forget to visit the night and morning markets to complete your experience.

Recommended Video Clips

• Big Fish of the Mekong River in Kampong Cham– Watch the lifestyle and food from the Mekong River
• Kampong Cham Fried Instant Noodles– A simple dish of Kampong Cham locals
• Eating Kampong Cham Fried Instant Noodles– Local food with bold flavors