Find an unspoilt corner of Asia in Cambodia

Cambodia, full of beautiful countryside and rich with history, still feels unspoiled compared to some of its neighbours, says Ruth Jackson.

Forget fire-safety instructions, my favourite hotel in the world had a sign hanging on the door telling me to check explosives in at reception. The hotel was in Siem Reap in Cambodia. I loved it because it was so far removed from anywhere I'd stayed before. In the six years since, accommodation in Cambodia has become far less rough and ready, with several luxury boutique hotels now available (see below). But the country, with its beautiful countryside and strong sense of identity, still feels unspoiled compared to some of its south-east Asian neighbours.

The capital city, Phnom Penh, has plenty of sights to keep you entertained for two or three days. Start with a walk up Wat Phnom; at 88ft, it is the city's only hill and it offers a great view of the capital. Then visit the Royal Palace to see the famous Silver Pagoda, which gets its name from the 5,000 silver tiles that carpet the floor. You can then go on to pick up some silver of your own at the city's markets. Here you can buy quality silver goods for a fraction of their Western prices the Russian market is particularly good for bargain hunters.

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Ruth Jackson-Kirby

Ruth Jackson-Kirby is a freelance personal finance journalist with 17 years’ experience, writing about everything from savings accounts and credit cards to pensions, property and pet insurance.

Ruth started her career at MoneyWeek after graduating with an MA from the University of St Andrews, and she continues to contribute regular articles to our personal finance section. After leaving MoneyWeek she went on to become deputy editor of Moneywise before becoming a freelance journalist.

Ruth writes regularly for national publications including The Sunday Times, The Times, The Mail on Sunday and Good Housekeeping, among many other titles both online and offline.