What is travelling in Cambodia really like?
We met Alex on the rooftop of The Place Hostel in Battambang. He had already been travelling for seven months, including one month exploring Cambodia.
We asked him about his experience, the surprises he found along the way, and why he chose to travel through Cambodia despite hearing negative stereotypes about the country.
Here’s what he shared.
What 3 words best describe your trip in Cambodia so far?
“Freedom, raw, and unpredictable.”
Three simple words, but they say a lot about travelling without knowing exactly what each day will bring.
What has been the biggest surprise for you in Cambodia?
“The biggest surprise has been how genuinely warm and welcoming the local people are, which completely shattered the exaggerated myths about safety.”
For Alex, meeting local people has been one of the highlights of his Cambodia travel experience.
Beyond the famous temples and tourist attractions, it was the everyday interactions with people that made the country stand out.
You heard that Cambodia was dangerous. Why did you still decide to visit?
“Yes, I definitely heard that before coming here. However, I prefer to see things with my own eyes rather than trusting stereotypes. Real life here is so much more vibrant and safe than what people say online.”
Like many travellers, Alex had heard different opinions about Cambodia before arriving.
But instead of letting those opinions decide for him, he chose to experience the country himself.
Sometimes, travelling is about discovering what a place is actually like rather than relying only on what you’ve heard.
What unplanned spot ended up changing your whole trip?
“Honestly, stumbling into local hidden spots and small neighborhoods—which are never on the typical tourist maps—has completely shifted my perspective and made the trip so much more authentic.”
This is one of the best things about travelling in Cambodia: sometimes the places you don’t plan to visit become the ones you remember most.
A small neighborhood, a local street, a quiet café, or a place you discover by chance can give you a completely different perspective on the country.
You don’t always need a perfect itinerary.
Sometimes, getting a little lost is part of the experience.
Why choose to stay in a hostel instead of a traditional hotel?
“I prefer hostels because they are perfect for meeting new people and building real connections. Plus, it’s a much more budget-friendly way to travel, which lets me stay on the road longer.”
For backpackers, hostels can be more than just a place to sleep.
They can be a place to meet fellow travellers, exchange stories, find travel companions, and make connections along the way.
And for someone who has been travelling for seven months, keeping the budget under control can make a big difference.
Pictures by Alex
Instagram @dayx.alex
Thank you, Elise 🙂