If you're comfortable on a scooter, renting one in town is a great way to explore Preah Monivong Bokor National Park at your own pace — but go in with your eyes open. The road is genuinely challenging: sharp bends stack up one after another, monkeys dart across the tarmac without warning, and thick fog can roll in and cut your visibility down to almost nothing. Ride cautiously and don't rush. If you'd rather not deal with all that, hiring a tuk-tuk or arranging a scooter through your hostel are both solid, stress-free alternatives. Whatever you do, take some time to learn a little about local culture before you set off — there are numerous temples along the route, and a few simple rules go a long way. Always remove your shoes before entering, never point your feet toward a Buddha image, and when you're sitting inside a temple, let the locals take the spots closer to the front. A respectful attitude will be noticed and genuinely appreciated.

If you can ride a scooter, renting one is your best option for getting here. The road is straightforward and easy to navigate, so even if you're relatively new to riding, you'll have no trouble. Once you arrive, take your cue from the locals — grab an iced coffee, a firm favourite among residents, and simply soak up the atmosphere.

Stop into The Kampot Pepper Shop for a crash course in one of the world's most prized — and priciest — peppers. The knowledgeable staff are happy to walk you through what makes Kampot pepper so special and will often let you taste a few varieties. They can also give you practical advice on what you're allowed to pack in your luggage and what you'll need to leave behind.

Book well in advance — classes here fill up fast, so aim to reserve your spot at least two weeks ahead. You can find contact details directly on their website. After visiting the pepper shop, this is the perfect next step: you'll learn how to cook with those prized Kampot peppercorns and, with any luck, recreate the recipes back home once your trip is over.

If you're looking for a local tattoo parlour to take home a permanent souvenir of your trip, this place comes highly recommended — I even went under the needle here myself. The owners are warm and welcoming, walk-ins are perfectly fine, and prices sit comfortably in the mid-range.