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[here_now]

So I keep changing my mind between Cambodia and Vietnam..I'm planning my 9 day vacation..and I can't seem to make up my mind!
Everytime I read on Cambodia, I say that's it...and then I read something on Vietnam and say the same! ..aaggh..

They both seem amazing..I have a feeling Cambodia is more raw and real though...(which is positive).and its history is also more appealing to me....but Vietnam has long intrigued me (too many books and movies...which I'm not sure are all that representative of Vietnam today)..

anyways, I'm really undecided... do you guys have any suggestions for three female travellers, is one safer than the other (I'm not talking landmines..more personal safety)..maybe that'll help in the decision-making process..

Any insight/advice/blabber is more than appreciated

[saint57]

Nine days is about perfect to visit Saigon (HCMC) and the surrounding areas. You need more than nine days to really appreciate Cambodia.

[cameron.mayo]

Its a tough one. 9 days just isn't enough. You could at least get a sample and then return next time and spend a few months in the region. I never went to VN but heard alot of scam/ripp off stories, which can happen anywhere, but day in day out that can be kinda draining and it turned me off a bit. Cambodia was unlike any country I've been to. The feel and atmosphere is so unique. To me, a day maybe 2 is enough in Angkor, then PP, S'ville, maybe an outa province...

Good luck!

[saint57]

When I went to Cambodia for a short time I hated it cause of all the landmine victims around the tourist spots. I went back for about three weeks and loved it.

[here_now]

Thank you very much guys,..
I've actually also heard about Vietnam's scams, and to be honest it would annoy me more than children or others solliciting you into buying souvenirs in Cambodia (am actually used to that)...
I would love to leave Cambodia until I have more time to explore it properly but I have to leave Asia right after I finish my contract...and don't know when I'd actually come back.....
maybe getting a taste of it even for a short period is better than nothing (?)..
hmm...

One more thing, is PP as dangerous as it is claimed to be? are we talking bag snatching "dangerous" or knife-to-throat robberies here?

[Welshguy]

Hi

Yes it can be dangerous. You should not wander around after dark on foot at all in my book. By and large if you use your head you will minimize risk but you cant make it go away. Most people are fine and have a good experience. You are probably more likely to get into trouble as one of those sad sex tourist types because you will probably be drawn to the sort of places where not particularly nice people hang out.

Have a go at it, nine days isnt really enough to get the cambodian thing down pat but you can have a few days at the wat and party up a little in P.P and maybe a little side trip somewhere. Never actually been to Vietnam so cant compare.

Take care
W

[cameron.mayo]

http://www.khmer440.com/
is a good resource if you haven't already scene it.

[marklatham]

I was 12 days in cambo and did siem riep,PP,kampot and snookyville.
It was rushed but fantastic,the people are marvellous.

[kuberkat]

I visited both and consider Cambodia among my most meaningful destinations ever, but was very indifferent to Vietnam. Does depend on where you are now, though: Vietnam was too similar to the culture I was living in, very restrictive.

[Proffeshnial Teachman]

Vietnam is safer, and everyone should visit the place at least once in their life to enhance their life skills and to marvel at how so many people can fit onto one small stretch of road at one time. It's very cheap, so good for gifts.

Cambodia is magical somehow, unforgettable. It needs more than 9 days to really soak up all the experiences, both good and bad......