Cambodia - Siem Reap
Famed for its archeological temples, Siem Reap, meaning the 'Defeat of Siam', is one of the world's premier travel destinations in Asia today. The awe-inspiring Angkor Temples, including the largest religious monument in the world - Angkor Wat, is the main draw card. Indochina travel Cambodia
The Angkor Temples tell the story of the rise and fall of the Khmer Empire and civilisation. A designated UN Heritage Site consisting of hundreds of structures with some dating back over 500 years, the Angkor Temples span 300km across northwest Cambodia and are a must visit.
However, Siem Reap is not all about temples. No visit to Cambodia is complete without attending at least one traditional performance. As Siem Reap's popularity flourishes, the Cambodian people have created a vibrant tourism mecca with a range of authentic local cuisine and cultural experiences. Tours in Cambodia
The culinary delights of Cambodian dishes are a combination of influences from the Khmer people, French colonialism and Asian culture.
1. Go temple hopping
There’s no right or wrong way, but there’s a way to visit them to avoid the crowds. Start with Angkor Wat at sunrise, landing a spot either just outside of the temple, or inside by the famous lake so that you can snap that iconic reflection photo.
Go temple hopping.
2. Visit temples off the main grid
Those looking to explore more temples, but have no time to spare, should go to the 10th century temple Banteay Srei. For the more adventurous you can take a one-hour ride outside of town to Beng Mealea, which takes on a quiet beauty with the surrounding jungle.
3. Visit the floating village
Those that want to marvel at the fisherman way of life will want to visit Tonle Sap Lake. This is Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, but the real treat is seeing how the fisherman live. Wooden houses are built on long, sturdy stilts to avoid getting soaked by the flooding that makes this area so perfect for fishing.
Visit the floating village.
4. Explore Pub Street
Siem Reap’s Pub Street is full of life at all times of the day. Café Central comes highly recommended for daytime coffee gossiping. By night, neon lights guide the way to a frenetic mix of Khmer and Western restaurants, like Red Piano, which serves ones of the best Khmer curries in town. And we can’t forget about playfully named Angkor What- Bar for drinks and fun that last late into the night.
