Family Trip with Kids: What Worked
We almost didn't bring the kids to Cambodia. Everything we read online made it seem too "rough" for family travel. We couldn't have been more wrong. Our 6-year-old daughter and 9-year-old son had the trip of their lives.
We based ourselves in Siem Reap for a week, choosing a family-friendly hotel with a pool (essential for afternoon meltdowns). The kids were fascinated by Angkor Wat — we turned it into a treasure hunt, searching for specific carvings and hidden details. Our guide was amazing with children, telling stories of ancient kings and battles that kept them enthralled.
We kept temple visits to mornings only (7 AM - 11 AM) before the heat became unbearable. Afternoons were pool time, which the kids needed for recharging. We found that two temples per morning was the sweet spot — any more and everyone got cranky.
The food was easier than expected. Both kids loved fried rice, spring rolls, and fruit shakes. Most restaurants in tourist areas have kid-friendly options. Our son became obsessed with fresh coconuts — he had at least two per day.
Koh Rong for the final four days was pure family bliss. The kids spent hours in the shallow, warm water. We stayed at a family resort with a beach right outside our room. Snorkeling was a hit — even our 6-year-old spotted clownfish and sea stars.
The biggest challenge was the heat. We carried water constantly, applied sunscreen religiously, and planned around the hottest hours. The kids adapted faster than we did, honestly. They also loved the tuk-tuks — every ride was an adventure for them.
Trip Highlights
- ✦Kids' faces when they first saw Angkor Wat
- ✦Snorkeling with clownfish at Koh Rong
- ✦Temple treasure hunt — finding hidden carvings
- ✦Fresh coconut obsession — our son's daily ritual
Tips from The Johnson Family
- 1.Choose hotels with pools — afternoon swimming is essential for kids
- 2.Limit temple visits to 2 per morning — quality over quantity
- 3.Hire a kid-friendly guide at Angkor — they make history come alive
- 4.Pack light, breathable clothing — cotton is king in Cambodia's heat
- 5.Bring kids' sunscreen and insect repellent from home — hard to find good brands locally
- 6.Fresh coconuts are the perfect healthy snack — kids love them
- 7.Koh Rong is perfect for families — shallow water, no traffic, relaxed vibe
- 8.Tuk-tuks are exciting for kids but bring a scarf for dust on longer rides
More Traveler Stories
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Solo Travel in Cambodia as a Woman
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Off the Beaten Path: Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri
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