Explore the latest Cambodia travel news 2025: new airports, luxury resorts, UNESCO gastronomy cities, and rising destinations beyond Angkor.

For decades, Cambodia has been synonymous with the mystical temples of Angkor Wat and timeless traditions along the Mekong. But in 2025, the Kingdom is reinventing itself with bold developments, new attractions, and innovative trends that will redefine the visitor experience. From the opening of the state-of-the-art Techo International Airport to the recognition of Battambang as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, Cambodia travel news this year is full of opportunities for explorers, foodies, and culture enthusiasts alike.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler returning to discover new sides of the country, here’s everything you need to know about Cambodia’s tourism highlights in 2025.

1. Techo International Airport: Cambodia’s New Gateway

One of the biggest stories in Cambodia travel news is the highly anticipated opening of Techo International Airport in Phnom Penh. Scheduled to fully launch by September 2025, this mega-infrastructure project is designed to handle 13 million passengers annually in its first phase, with expansion plans to accommodate up to 50 million in the future.

This airport isn’t just bigger—it’s smarter and greener. Built with sustainability at its core, travelers can expect solar-powered facilities, vertical gardens, and botanical zones that create a refreshing atmosphere upon arrival. For international visitors, this means smoother connections, modern conveniences, and faster access to the heart of Cambodia.

With Techo International Airport taking center stage, Phnom Penh is set to emerge not just as a transit hub, but as a destination worth exploring in its own right.

2. New Beachfront Luxury: TUI BLUE Resort in Sihanoukville

If white sand beaches and gentle waves are calling your name, Cambodia travel news has something special in store. In May 2025, TUI BLUE Resort officially opened in Sihanoukville, marking the European travel giant’s first-ever hotel in Cambodia.

The resort combines affordable luxury with a focus on wellness. Guests can indulge in yoga sessions, enjoy live music evenings, or simply relax by the pools while taking in ocean views. Positioned on one of Cambodia’s quieter stretches of coastline, the property offers both relaxation and opportunities for adventure, from island hopping to snorkeling.

Sihanoukville, often seen as the country’s “beach capital,” is now back in the spotlight with this addition, promising travelers a new reason to explore Cambodia’s coastlines beyond Kep and Kampot.

3. Cambodia–China Tourism Year 2025

Another headline in Cambodia travel news is the Cambodia–China Tourism Year 2025. This collaborative initiative was launched with a grand ceremony at Phnom Penh’s Chaktomuk Theater, signaling a strengthened cultural and tourism relationship between the two nations.

Throughout the year, visitors can expect festivals, art exhibitions, cultural exchange programs, and travel promotions that celebrate both Cambodian and Chinese traditions. For international travelers, this means more vibrant events on the calendar, new reasons to plan a trip, and opportunities to immerse yourself in cultural festivities.

This initiative also reflects Cambodia’s strategy to attract diverse markets and expand beyond its traditional visitor base.

4. Bleisure Tourism: Blending Work and Play

A growing global trend is making waves in Cambodia, and it’s being highlighted in Cambodia travel news: bleisure travel. This blend of business and leisure is booming, with Cambodia seeing a 34% increase in 2024 and expecting another 23% rise in 2025.

More business travelers are extending their trips to include leisure experiences—from temple visits in Siem Reap to spa retreats in Sihanoukville. Cities like Phnom Penh are responding with modern co-working spaces, conference facilities, and lifestyle hotels designed to meet the needs of this new wave of travelers.

For digital nomads and business professionals, Cambodia is becoming not just a place to close deals, but also to unwind in tropical surroundings.

5. Battambang Becomes UNESCO City of Gastronomy

Foodies, take note: one of the most exciting pieces of Cambodia travel news is that Battambang has been officially recognized by UNESCO as a Creative City of Gastronomy.

This accolade acknowledges the region’s unique culinary heritage, blending traditional Khmer recipes with French colonial influences and fresh local produce. Visitors can wander through bustling street markets, sample authentic Cambodian dishes like amok and num banh chok, or join hands-on cooking classes with local chefs.

For travelers eager to explore beyond Angkor Wat, Battambang now offers a new culinary reason to visit. Add this charming riverside town to your Cambodia private tours and taste the future of Cambodian food tourism.

6. Koh Norea: Phnom Penh’s Futuristic Riverside Mini-City

Cambodia’s capital is evolving fast, and one of the most futuristic developments making headlines in Cambodia travel news is Koh Norea. This ambitious project is transforming a Mekong island into a modern mini-city complete with luxury hotels, marinas, eco-friendly parks, and sleek infrastructure.

The first phase is scheduled for completion in 2025, making it an exciting new area for both residents and tourists. Imagine staying at a riverside hotel with views of Phnom Penh’s skyline, enjoying waterfront dining, or sailing from a modern marina—Koh Norea promises to change the face of Cambodia’s tourism and hospitality landscape.

7. A New Landmark: St. Joseph’s Pro-Cathedral

Architecture and culture lovers will also find something new in 2025. St. Joseph’s Pro-Cathedral, opening in early 2025 in Phnom Penh, is a unique landmark blending Khmer temple aesthetics with Western ecclesiastical design.

Built with sandstone and teak, and adorned with intricate carvings, this cathedral is both a spiritual and cultural destination. Its opening reflects Cambodia’s diversity and adds another layer to the country’s rich architectural heritage.

Travelers interested in religious tourism or simply curious about Cambodia’s fusion of cultures will find this site a fascinating addition.

8. Tourism Figures and Growth in 2025

No Cambodia travel news would be complete without a look at the numbers.

• In 2024, Cambodia welcomed 6.7 million international tourists, showing a strong rebound.
• From January to May 2025 alone, foreign arrivals hit 2.95 million (an 11.7% increase year-on-year), while domestic tourism surged by 50% with 13.17 million locals traveling within the country.
• A notable trend: only 15.3% of international visitors went to Angkor in 2024, down from 41.8% in 2018. This signals both a challenge and an opportunity—Cambodia is actively diversifying its tourism offerings beyond Angkor.

From secondary destinations to cultural events, the tourism industry is pushing for more balanced, year-round travel experiences across the nation.

9. Why Cambodia in 2025 Is Unmissable

When you put all these stories together, Cambodia travel news in 2025 paints a picture of a country entering a dynamic new era. Here’s why travelers should take notice:

• Easier Access: New airports and infrastructure make traveling in and out of Cambodia more convenient than ever.
• More Variety: From Battambang’s food scene to Koh Norea’s futuristic riverside city, travelers now have more choices beyond traditional tourist spots.
• Cultural Vibrancy: With Cambodia–China Tourism Year and new religious and culinary landmarks, cultural tourism is flourishing.
• Traveler-Friendly Trends: Bleisure travel opportunities, wellness-focused resorts, and UNESCO recognition all add depth to the visitor experience.

Conclusion: Cambodia’s Bright Tourism Future

The year 2025 is shaping up to be transformative for Cambodia’s travel industry. With major infrastructure projects, culinary recognition, cultural celebrations, and modern developments, the country is proving it has much more to offer than its already world-famous Angkor Wat.

For travelers searching for something new, authentic, and exciting, keeping up with Cambodia travel news is the key to unlocking unforgettable journeys. From beach retreats and futuristic cities to food adventures and spiritual landmarks, Cambodia is a destination where tradition meets innovation—and where every visitor can find their own story.