Discover why BBC Travel, Lonely Planet, and Condé Nast Traveller named Cambodia as the World’s Top Travel Pick for 2026. SAM INSPIRE gives insightful travel updates from local knowledge and perspectives.
For years, Cambodia has been a cherished secret for those seeking ancient wonders. But as we move into 2026, the secret is out. From the newsrooms of the BBC Travel to the prestigious editors at Lonely Planet and Condé Nast Traveler, the global travel press is making one thing clear: Cambodia is the “Must-Visit” destination of the year.
At SAM INSPIRE, we aren’t just watching this trend—we are helping to build it. Here is why the international media is buzzing about Cambodia for 2026 and how we can help you experience it.
1. The Global Headlines: Who is Talking About Cambodia?
The 2026 travel forecasts are in, and Cambodia is featured prominently across the world’s most influential media platforms:
- BBC Travel: Named the 20 Best Places to Travel in 2026, with a special focus on the urban renaissance of Phnom Penh.
- Lonely Planet: Has included Siem Reap in its definitive Best in Travel 2026 List, ranking it as a top global destination for its cultural depth and new green infrastructure.
- Condé Nast Traveler: Recently ranked Phnom Penh as one of the Top 10 Best Big Cities in the World in their Readers’ Choice Awards, praising its world-class culinary scene and historical grandeur.
- National Geographic: Continues to champion Cambodia’s off-the-beaten-path heritage, specifically highlighting the UNESCO-listed Koh Ker temple complex as a serene alternative to the more famous ruins.
2. The New “50-50” River & Road Experience
In 2026, the journey between our two major hubs—Siem Reap and Phnom Penh—has been revolutionized. Sam-Inspire is proud to showcase the newly reintroduced 80-seat Cambodia River Express boat.
This is not just a transfer; it is a “50-50” Adventure:
- 4 Hours by Water: Board a modern, high-speed 80-seat express boat from Phnom Penh to the hidden gem of Kampong Leng. You’ll cruise along untouched stretches of the Tonle Sap River, witnessing floating villages and local life that few tourists ever see.
- 4 Hours by Road: Complete the journey to Siem Reap via a comfortable coach, watching the stunning Cambodian countryside unfold.
One of the most frequent questions we get at SAM INSPIRE travel planning team is: “How do we get from the capital to the temples without missing the soul of the country?”
In 2026, we have the perfect answer. We are steering our guests away from the airport runways and back to the water with the new 80-seat Cambodia River Express. This “50-50” journey is the ultimate way to travel. You spend four hours gliding along the Tonle Sap River in a modern, air-conditioned boat, watching floating villages, fishing communities and river life drift by. Then, you transition to a comfortable coach for a scenic drive through the heart of the countryside. It turns a “travel day” into a highlight of the trip.
At Sam Inspire, we can seamlessly integrate this nostalgic yet modern river travel into your itinerary, ensuring your travel days are filled with wonder.
3. Island Paradise: Koh Rong & Koh Rong Sanloem
Beyond the temples and cities, 2026 is the year of the Cambodian coast. We invite you to discover an Island Paradise Adventure on the pristine islands of the south:
- Koh Rong: Perfect for those seeking high-end luxury eco-resorts, white sand beaches, and vibrant sunset energy. Check our article on “Company Retreat to Island Beaches on Koh Rong”
- Koh Rong Sanloem: The ultimate slow travel escape. Think turquoise waters, no-shoes-required serenity, and the magical experience of swimming with bio-luminescent plankton at night. Check our article on “Catch, Cook, & Coastal Bliss: The Ultimate Private Boat Trip with Mr. Khai“
While the media loves our cities, we know that every great adventure needs a moment of pure serenity. That’s why we’ve expanded our Island Paradise Adventures to the southern coast.
For 2026, the trend is slow travel, and there is nowhere better to do it than Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem. Whether you want the barefoot luxury of a private eco-villa or the simple joy of swimming with bioluminescent plankton under a velvet sky, these islands are Cambodia’s best-kept secret. At Sam Inspire, we don’t just book a room; we curate the experience—from private boat charters to sunset events on the sand.
Sam Inspire specializes in curated island escapes, from private boat charters and snorkeling expeditions to exclusive beachside events and retreats.
4. Why Plan Your 2026 Journey with Sam Inspire?
As the international press highlights the “Best of Cambodia,” these destinations are becoming more popular than ever. Sam Inspire.com provides the local expertise and high-touch service needed to stay ahead of the crowds:
- Bespoke Travel & Events: Whether you are planning a bucket-list family holiday or a major corporate incentive event in Phnom Penh, we provide personalized service and flawless execution.
- New Infrastructure Expertise: With the opening of the Techo International Airport KTI and the Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport SAI, we ensure your arrivals and departures are handled with VIP care.
- Authentic & Sustainable: We align with the global shift toward responsible travel, ensuring your visit supports local communities and protects the beautiful landscapes of the Kingdom.
Is Cambodia Safe to Travel in 2026?
Safety is a top priority for any traveler. The short answer is yes—the major tourist hubs of Cambodia are open, vibrant, and welcoming. While you may see news regarding border tensions with Thailand, these are localized to specific remote areas. The primary travel zones—Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and the southern islands—remain completely unaffected and are operating normally. As with any international city, we recommend staying aware of your belongings in crowded areas, but the overall atmosphere is one of warmth and hospitality.
By partnering with an established local expert like Sam Inspire, you gain the peace of mind that comes with real-time local knowledge, secure transportation, and 24/7 support. Read our article about “Is Angkor Wat Safe to Visit Now?” and watch our founder, Sam giving an overall updates of the situation in Cambodia in this 2026 here:
Start Your Journey Today
The international media has spoken: 2026 is the year of Cambodia. Don’t just read about it—experience it with the experts.
Visit us at www.sam-inspire.com to start planning your 2026 adventure. Let us turn these world-class recommendations into your reality.
