Cambodia is a country of incredible history, but some of it is simply horrific. If you are to have any understanding of this place, you will need to visit Tuol Sleng or S21. You may leave the building weeping at the thought of the fate of all those faces staring out of the fading black-and-white photographs, but you will come away with a greater understanding of Cambodia. Equally you can follow that with a trip to Choeung Ek, the Killing Fields where the terrified victims of S21 met an undeserved oblivion. If you are with younger children, then of course these places should be skipped. With older children, it’s a tough call and should be handled carefully, because it is all very real.

Today’s apsara dancers typically study at the Royal University of Fine Arts. From an early age, they learn over 1,500 intricate positions, many of which employ precise finger and wrist movements that require subtlety and grace.
Performances on special occasions by the Royal Ballet feature dancers in elaborate silk costumes and golden tiaras or masks, accompanied by scared music by a live band. A choir contributes dialogue from epic tales, such as the Cambodian version of Hindu Ramayana, the Reamker.
Many hotels and restaurants, particularly in Siem Reap, organize apsara performances of varying quality, typically including set dinners.