Lots to eat, see and do at Siem Reap in Cambodia
There are colourful markets, interesting temples, a crocodile farm and a surprising number of quality restaurants, bars and spas (of the respectable sort).
The prosperous town of Siem Reap, which is on the doorstep of Cambodia’s most famous attraction Angkor Wat, is only two hours away by direct flight from Kuala Lumpur.
Siem Reap can be translated as “defeat of Siam (Thailand)”. That’s not very tactful – not surprising the two neighbours are at loggerheads over a disputed border. It would be like London naming its landmarks after victories over the French like Waterloo or Trafalgar.
Despite its war-filled history and more recent tragedies, the Cambodians are very friendly and hospitable, and Siem Reap is well worth visiting for a few days.
It’s easy to walk around, the traffic is fairly light, there are colourful markets, interesting temples, a crocodile farm and a surprising number of quality restaurants, bars and spas (of the respectable sort).
The town is heaving with foreign tourists from all over the world who come to see Angkor Wat.
Many are well-heeled and there are plenty of upmarket hotels to accommodate them but there are also backpackers, gap-year students and more thrifty travellers.
Steung Siem Reap Hotel is very comfortable and offers excellent value at about USD30 (approximately RM122) per night including breakfast for two.
And it is in the heart of the old town with the Old Market, Pub Street and stacks of restaurants at your doorstep.
Siem Reap is definitely recommended for a visit. By the way the airport is clean, modern, efficient and hassle-free, and obtaining a Cambodian visa online is easy.
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This article first appeared on thriftytraveller.wordpress.com