Angkor Wat & Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap is the beacon of tourism for the Kingdom of Cambodia. Over a million visitors come in each year to this province, and for a good reason. It is the home of the Angkor Wat, known as the world's biggest religious building and one of the most marvelous ancient architectures designed and built by man in history. This "xth Wonder of the World" has become a magnet for tourists and backpackers from all corners of the planet and a definite must-go when in Cambodia.

Once you descend from the amazing temples, you can be out to explore the actual little town of Siem Reap. Be greeted with friendly and hospitable people, enjoy delicious food, shop around the night markets and experience the night life at "Pub Street".

In Siem Reap, there is an abundance of hotels and guests rooms around, that in every other building there is one you could see! It's a money's worth in Cambodia and Siem Reap is of no exception especially with hotels. Most of these backpacker style hostels are situated in the famous Pub Street. 

What to Do

• Discover the temples of Angkor Wat. This is the main reason why millions of tourists flock to Siem Reap - the chance to explore one of the most famous archeological sites not just in South East Asia, but in the world. Because of this, you are never alone wandering on the thousands of temples in the park! Experience the rich history of the Khmer empire and marvel at the ancient structures that make you curious how they were able to construct them when technology before wasn't the same as today. To get to the Angkor area, you would need a pass that gives you access for 1-day (US$ 20), 3-day (US$40) or 7-day (US$60). You may tag along an expert tour guide for a better understanding of the temples at a separate arrangement of fees. The best time to visit is in the early morning where the sun slowly reveals the mystical temple of Angkor Wat.

• Visit a village on water. On our recent trip, we did not have enough time to go there, but according to our guide, Kampong Phluk Floating Village is one attraction that gives you an in-depth look of life within the lake. Imagine a scene of houses, stores, churches and other buildings floating around with boats as the usual mode of transport. They say it takes about an hour of travel to the village from Siem Reap, with negotiable rates.

• Shop around at the Center Market. Bargain here, bargain there, bargain everywhere. In a market filled with souvenir items and ideal backpacker stuff, it is interesting to note that the vendors are actually nicer to you when you negotiate for good deals on the things you buy. You might not want to haggle too much because it is simply disrespectful.

• Party party at Pub Street. The lights, the bars, the restaurants. Everything you would ask for in a typical night life, Pub Street in Siem Reap has them all. Drink you way around with the 50 cent Angkor Draft Beer and take advantage of the small town that is surprisingly alive at night when the temples of Angkor Wat are asleep.

 Where to Go Next

• Phnom Penh. Take a bus to the capital where you can get to learn more about Cambodia's history and enjoy the fun-loving, hospitable people just like in Siem Reap.

•  Other Provinces in Cambodia. There are other places worth checking out in Cambodia, like Sihanoukville and Battambang, where backpacking becomes even more fun. Reviews on these places will come as soon as we have set foot there someday.

• Thailand. You may take the bus and head straight to Bangkok or some other places in the country which you find interesting to visit and explore.