7-Day Cambodia itinerary for first timers

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The Best 7-Day Cambodia itinerary for first timers

Cambodia carries a history that stretches back over a thousand years. As the core of the mighty Khmer Empire, which created the iconic Angkor, this small nation has a wealth of treasures to uncover. While it’s compact by Indochina’s standards, an in-depth travel would take at least a month or a bit more. Recent improvements in the road network have made previously hard-to-reach destinations more accessible. If you don’t have a month to spare, here’s an idea for a fantastic week-long itinerary to experience the highlights of Cambodia.

Why visit Cambodia?

Cambodia is a destination that deserves a good visit on every traveler’s itinerary, offering far more than just the renowned Angkor Wat (though it undeniably lives up to its reputation).

Siem Reap boasts street foods, like fish amok curry and flavorful noodles, alongside lively night markets filled with local art and crafts. Phnom Penh impresses with landmarks such as the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, but it’s the quieter moments—like watching tai chi unfold by the Mekong at sunrise—that leave a lasting impression. What truly makes Cambodia unforgettable, however, is its people. Despite their country’s upset recent history, they radiate warmth, hospitality, and a deep cultural richness that’s impossible to ignore. Learn about people of Cambodia

One-week in Cambodia itinerary

This example itinerary packs in top & must-see attractions along with key historical stops to provide cultural experiences. It wraps up with a visit to some of Cambodia’s most stunning beaches. If a week feels too short, don’t miss our top itineraries on Cambodia tours packages

Day 1: Arrive in Phnom Penh

Anyway, if Thai silk sounds too expensive, you may consider purchasing smaller items crafted from Thai silk, such as ties, handkerchiefs, or purses. Numerous establishments, including Queen Thai Silk, Narai Phand, and Jim Thompson Outlet, provide a range of Thai silk products within Thailand.

After Silk, now it’s time to buy Traditional Thai clothing – a popular item from Thailand, showcase the country’s rich heritage and unique fashion style.

Referred to as “Chut Thai,” this attire is available in a diverse array of styles, colours, and patterns, facilitating the selection of items that align with individual preferences. Such a gift offers a unique cultural experience and is particularly suitable for individuals who value the aesthetic and elegance of traditional garments. It is especially considerate for those who have an interest in travel or cultural events, as it provides an opportunity to engage with Thai culture and traditions.

Moreover, traditional Thai clothing adds refinement and sophistication to any wardrobe, making it a distinguished choice for special occasions.

A good tips if you buying a Traditional Thai clothing tends to be formal and may not be appropriate for everyday wear. However, it can be an exquisite and unique addition to your wardrobe or serve as a decorative element in your home.

Thai Silver & Jewelry

Buying jewelry represents an excellent gift choice in Thailand. Tourists frequently opt for silver jewelry due to its variation and better price, with items such as a set of ten bracelets priced around 100 Baht. Historically, Thai silver designs were relatively simple; however, contemporary manufacturers now focus on both design and quality, providing products that are both cost-effective and high-quality.

Thai silver is known by its high gloss and resistance to tarnishing, even with prolonged use. To ensure the acquisition of high-quality items, it is recommended to shop at reputable market, or within shopping centers. Visiting Siam Paragon, Emporium Shopping Mall, Lin Jewelers, or SJ International Jewelry offers the opportunity to get yourself a Thai silver jewelry that balances affordability with quality.

Discover Thailand in the way that suits you best. See the highlights on a Classic Tour, immerse yourself on a Discovery Tour, enjoy comfort and style on a Deluxe Tour, or explore your own way on a Private Tour or Independent itinerary. check out Thailand Private Tours

Handicrafts souvenirs [Handmade bags & Purse]

Thailand is acclaimed as the kingdom of silk, brocade, and all sorts of handmade goods, available through numerous merchants from across the world. Handmade bags in Thailand exhibit unique, durable, and visually striking colours. Furthermore, their designs are varied, comes in different shape, size and colors as well as carry-on purse, rendering them highly in demand as what to buy from thailand.

For those interested in purchasing handmade bags in Thailand, prominent establishments such as Sop Moei Arts and Studio Naenna in Chiang Mai offer a varied selection.

Naraya is a well-known and popular local designer fashion brand in Thailand, recognized for its wide range of bags in various shapes and styles for daily use, including options for pregnant women and mothers with young babies.

Tribal handicrafts & Thai arts

Still not sure what to buy from Thailand, what souvenir to choose from or where to go, then, consider exploring Thai tribal handicrafts. Tourists often favour items such as paper umbrellas, woven baskets, bamboo products and pottery. These handicrafts are available at commercial centres and airports, but visiting night markets can offer more variety in better prices. Thai handicrafts are created with meticulous attention to detail, leaving a significant impression on visitors.

In Bangkok, wood and copper craftsmanship are also quite popular. Markets offers a range of statues, carvings, artworks and masks in various sizes and forms. The prices of these items fluctuate according to the materials employed and the intricacy of the craftsmanship.

Handmade Soaps

Thailand provides a diverse selection of high-quality beauty spa products, including handmade soaps, lotions, and essential oils. Thai Handmade soaps are well-suited for those who value self-care and relaxation and want something back home from the land of the smile.

These items are particularly appealing to those who prefer natural and organic products and enjoy a luxurious spa experience. Furthermore, they make considerate gifts for individuals with sensitive skin who seek gentle and soothing products.

Locals advices to look for products made from natural ingredients and free of harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances. Many Thai spas and beauty brands use traditional recipes and methods, resulting in products that are kinder to the skin and more environmentally friendly.

Ya Dom - Thai nasal inhaler

It’s quite true that “Thai can’t live without this nasal inhaler” – Ya Dom, is a naturally crafted herbal medicine.

Thai people commonly use Ya Dom nasal inhalers for rhinitis. You can choose between Poy Sian or Peppermint. The inhalers contain 100% herbal ingredients, making them very safe for long-term use.

The small size of the product ensures convenience for packaging and carrying. A very good choice of something useful to buy from Thailand as a gifts for elders in the family.

Spa products

Go Thai and buy skincare products made in Thailand. Many visitors prefer spa products from Thailand because they are naturally crafted and often feature subtle aromas reminiscent of fruits like mango and coconut.

Additionally, Thailand boasts several renowned cosmetic brands, including Nars, Srichand Powder, and Oriental Princess, which are popular on social media platforms. To ensure the best quality and competitive prices, it is advised to purchase spa products at showrooms or Duty-Free shops at the airport.

Takabb [Anti coughing medicine from Thailand]

A locally thai made, Takabb anti-coughing pill formulated with natural herbal ingredients, is suitable for both children and adults. It provides swift relief and its actually a must-take medicine if you’re coughing.

People assert that taking the pill stops coughing immediately. The pill, which contains a blend of Thai natural herbs, has a herbal flavour and is suitable for both adults and children aged three and above.

Visitors frequently purchase Takabb Anti-Cough pills either as gifts for relatives or for their own use. To use the pill effectively, place 2 to 4 tablets in your mouth each time and take them 3 to 4 times per day.

Thai version of “Tiger Balm”

Another healthy and beauty thing to buy from thailand – Tiger Balm Red is a proven, safe and effective herbal ointment which helps soothe sore and aching muscles.

Aw Chu Kin was created Thai version of Tiger Balm using traditional methods, and it was utilized by Chinese royalty. Estimates indicate that approximately one-third of the global population has used Tiger Balm over the past century.

Tiger Balm provides effective relief for osteoarthritis pain, sneezing, and nasal congestion. Presently, Tiger Balm is distributed in more than 100 countries, including Thailand. Notably, public figures such as Lady Gaga and Gwyneth Paltrow also endorse this product.

Home decor items & souvenirs to buy from Thailand

Elephant themed & Woden home decors

The best places to shop for home-decors and elephant themes items would be the street market, Khao San RD and Chiang Mai night bazaar. Bringing home decor items from Thailand offers an excellent way to infuse Thai culture and sophistication into any living space. Traditional Thai home decor features intricate craftsmanship and utilizes natural materials, such as wood.

These items make thoughtful gifts for tourist who appreciate interior design and wish to add a touch Thai style in their home.

Moreover, purchasing Thai home decor supports local artisans and small businesses in Thailand. By choosing handmade decor, you not only introduce a piece of Thai culture into your friend but also contribute to the local economy and help preserve traditional Thai craftsmanship.

Elephants themes items are also symbols of Thailand, appear in a variety of decor items. Options range from wooden carvings to decorative pillows, ensuring ample choices.

An elephant-themed item serves as a great gift for someone who loves elephants or is dedicated to wildlife conservation. It also makes a meaningful present for someone who has visited Thailand and cherishes memories.

Consider gifts such as elephant-shaped jewelry, hand-carved elephant figurines, or scarves and bags featuring elephant prints.

Thai Spices & Foods to buy from Thailand

Thailand is celebrated for its exquisite cuisine, tourists could bring a taste of this culinary tradition home through a selection of Thai spices.

A blend of Thai Spices

A bend of Thai spice serve as exceptional gifts for individuals who appreciate cooking or are keen to explore new flavours. Additionally, Thai spice blends provide memorable souvenirs from a visit to Thailand.

Individuals with a preference for bold and spicy flavours will particularly value Thai spice blends. Ingredients such as lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves are easily available. Thai spices not only enhance culinary experiences but also offer medicinal benefits. Numerous herbs and spices employed in Thai cuisine have traditional applications in Thai medicine for treating various ailments and promoting overall health.

For example, lemongrass possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in the treatment of digestive issues and fever. Turmeric is reputed for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and is used to address skin conditions, joint pain, and digestive problems.

Dried fruits

Thailand offers a wide variety of fresh tropic fruits. When ripe, Thai people dry these fruits to extend their shelf life. Dried fruits from Thailand are exceptionally delicious and draw many tourists.

Producers carefully select the ingredients for dried fruits, ensuring they are fresh, hygienic, and retain their natural flavor and nutrients. The drying process removes moisture from the fruits, preserving them without the use of chemicals. Thai dried fruits come from a diverse range of options, including durian, jackfruit, bananas, and potatoes.

Original Thai tea

Thai iced tea offers a delicious and refreshing drink, available in loose-leaf form to buy as a gift or daily use back in home. You can choose from a variety of flavours, including traditional Thai tea and Thai milk tea.

Thai tea, recognized for its sweet, creamy flavour and bright orange colour, remains a popular tea-drink anywhere in Thailand. Combines a blend of tea leaves, spices, and condensed milk, creating its unique taste creamy texture drink it hot or iced, and it is commonly served in restaurants and street stalls.

You can buy Thai tea in pre-packed tea bags or tea-leaf, making it easy to bring home and share with friends and family.

Thai tea makes an excellent gift for tea lovers or those interested in trying new, unique thing coming from Thailand. It is ideal for anyone who appreciates the flavours and aromas of herbal teas.

Additionally, it makes a thoughtful gift for someone interested in health and wellness, as it has antioxidant properties and potential health benefits. Thai tea comes in both tea-leaf and tea bag in a box. Loose leaf tea tends to be more flavorful, while tea bags are easier if you and to buy them as a souvenir from Thailand.

Thai Snacks

Could be a best gift for foodies, specially for those who love trang new flavors. Best to buy all sort of Thai snacks from local market, just about anywhere in Thailand. however, Bangkok’s china town would be an ideal place.

Some popular Thai snacks to buy including those crispy fried shrimp chips, spicy and tangy Tom Yum-flavoured potato chips, rice crackers, coconut chips, and sweet, chewy mango sticky rice snacks.

In addition, tamarind, jackfruit, and cashew nuts are among the must-buy things in Thailand.

Souvenirs to buy at Thailand’s airports

Thai airports, specially, the Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Duty-free Shops are lovely places to do last-minute shopping before flying back home. Almost everything you can find in Thailand is also available at the airports. Another advantage of shopping at Bangkok’s airports are the numerous tax-free stores offering Thai souvenirs and local popular products at an affordable prices.

FAQ: Best Things to buy in Thailand

What makes shopping in Thailand unique?

Popular, cost effective souvenirs, locally products with special attention to detail and excellent customer service (for higher cost things to buy), make shopping in Thailand a pleasant experience.