A Cultural Family Adventure in Kampot, Cambodia

A Day of Exploration and Discovery in Kampot

Today was a day of venturing into the heart of Kampot, exploring its natural wonders and savoring its culinary delights. It’s days like these that remind me why I love sharing my heritage and culture with Hans and Lara, creating memories that will last a lifetime. While Dresden holds a special place in my heart, there’s nothing quite like returning to Cambodia and sharing its beauty with my family.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Phum Krang Garden. The restaurant was nestled in a lush, green setting that immediately put us at ease. We sat at a table overlooking the gardens, the gentle morning breeze rustling through the trees. I ordered the traditional Khmer breakfast, a flavorful rice porridge with herbs and spices, while Hans opted for something more familiar – eggs and toast. Lara, ever adventurous, tried a bit of both. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our day of exploration.

Discover Phum Krang Garden: A serene restaurant in Kampot offering authentic Cambodian cuisine amidst lush gardens.
After breakfast, we set off for the Kampong Trach Water Cave. The drive itself was an adventure, winding through rural roads that offered glimpses of Cambodian life. As we approached the cave, the landscape transformed into a maze of limestone mountains, a testament to the power of nature.

The best discoveries happen when you venture off the beaten path.

Exploring the Kampong Trach Water Cave was like stepping into another world. The main chamber featured a stunning pool of crystal-clear water, reflecting the sunlight in an ethereal blue glow. Ancient Buddhist shrines and statues were thoughtfully placed throughout the cave system, creating a unique fusion of nature and spirituality. Lara was particularly fascinated by the statues, asking endless questions about their history and significance. Hans, ever the photographer, captured the magical light and shadows within the cave. As someone who has explored caves across Southeast Asia, I must say this one was pretty special.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kampong Trach Water Cave, a hidden gem in Cambodia with stunning limestone formations and tranquil waters.
Next on our itinerary was the Green Cathedral, a three-kilometer stretch of inland waterway. We rented kayaks from a local guesthouse and set off to paddle through the serene waters. The waterway was lined with lush greenery, forming a natural tunnel overhead. The experience was incredibly peaceful, the only sounds being the gentle splash of our paddles and the occasional bird call. It was a welcome escape from the midday heat, the cool shade providing a refreshing respite.
Lara, initially hesitant, quickly grew confident in her kayaking skills, paddling alongside Hans with enthusiasm. I trailed behind, soaking in the tranquility of the surroundings. The Green Cathedral truly lived up to its name, the vaulted ceiling of branches creating a sense of reverence and awe.

Discover Kampot's Green Cathedral: Kayak through a stunning natural tunnel of lush greenery for a serene and unforgettable experience.
For lunch, we decided to try DEVA Vegan Cafe, a charming spot known for its healthy and delicious vegan cuisine. As a librarian specializing in Southeast Asian history and culture, I appreciate businesses that promote healthy living and sustainable practices. We ordered a variety of vegan tapas, each dish bursting with fresh, local flavors. Lara, surprisingly, enjoyed the vegan spring rolls, declaring them even better than the ones we make at home. It was a delightful meal that left us feeling energized and ready for the afternoon’s activities.

Discover the essence of healthy eating at DEVA Vegan Cafe – where traditional Cambodian flavors meet modern vegan cuisine in Krong Kampot.
Our final stop for the day was Tiny Kampot Pillows, a local shop that sells handmade crafts. I wanted to find a small souvenir to remind us of our time in Kampot. The shop was filled with colorful pillows of all shapes and sizes. Lara immediately gravitated towards a small, elephant-shaped pillow, while Hans admired the intricate designs of the larger cushions. I ended up purchasing a set of small, square pillows with traditional Khmer patterns, perfect for adding a touch of Cambodian flair to our home in Dresden.

Explore Tiny Kampot Pillows in Krong Kampot for unique handmade souvenirs that reflect the beauty and artistry of Cambodian culture.
As the sun began to set, we made our way to Kampot Seafood & Pepper for a cooking class. This was an experience I had been particularly looking forward to, as I wanted to learn how to prepare authentic Khmer dishes using the famous Kampot pepper. The class was small and intimate, with a friendly and knowledgeable chef who guided us through each step of the cooking process.
We chose to make fish amok, a creamy coconut curry, and lok lak, a stir-fried beef dish. The aroma of the Kampot pepper filled the air as we chopped vegetables and mixed spices. Lara, surprisingly adept in the kitchen, helped me with the stirring and seasoning. Hans, meanwhile, took notes and asked questions, eager to recreate the dishes back home.
Once the cooking was complete, we sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor. The fish amok was rich and flavorful, the coconut curry perfectly balanced with the subtle heat of the Kampot pepper. The lok lak was equally delicious, the beef tender and juicy. It was a truly memorable meal, shared with my family in the heart of Kampot.
As we drove back to our guesthouse, I reflected on the day’s adventures. We had explored caves, paddled through serene waterways, and savored authentic Khmer flavors. More importantly, we had created lasting memories as a family, strengthening our bond and deepening our appreciation for Cambodian culture. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Wat Samathi Pagoda and Butterfly Tours, Kampot. I am excited to see what new adventures await us in this charming town.
Traveling is more than seeing sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.
I am so grateful for this opportunity to share my heritage with my family. As a librarian specializing in Southeast Asian history and culture, I believe it is essential to preserve and promote cultural understanding. This trip to Kampot is not just a vacation; it is a chance to connect with my roots and share them with the people I love most.