Why I Want To Keep Going Back To Siem Reap

Travelling to the ruins of Angkor area is like stepping into a time machine. You get teleported to another era, straight to the kingdom of the Khmer Empire. Siem Reap is a town has a little something for everyone and that’s the reason why I want to keep going back to Siem Reap. Its rich and vibrant culture paired with scrumptious Cambodian delicacies makes it an ideal getaway. Situated to the northwest of Cambodia, Siem Reap is the gateway to the ruins of Angkor Temples. However, it has a lot more to offer than just the ancient temples. The highly famed nightlife of this town makes a trip Siem Reap all the more alluring.

During my recent trip to Cambodia, I couldn’t help but notice, the town which had once been a backpackers’ paradise, is now mix of all kinds of travelers visiting Siem Reap from across the globe. A province that was initially equipped with very few facilities and basic infrastructure is now a home to multiple luxury resorts in Siem Reap and first class amenities. From budgeted inns to 5 star hotels offering staff friendly services, making your trip a memorable one. My experience of visiting Siem Reap was extremely delightful, thanks to my stay at the Tresor d’Angkor Suite, one of the best boutique hotels in Siem Reap. The best part about this tropical resort is its proximity to Angkor Wat as well as Siem Reap International Airport.

Whether you seek an adventurous journey or a relaxed vacation, Siem Reap fits all bills. The temples of Angkor Wat attracts most tourist. However, there are various hidden secrets within the town, which once discovered, will give you memories to treasure forever. One of the most exciting things I experienced here was the exotic varieties of food. After spending the entire day walking around and exploring the temples, you must hit the Angkor Night Market where you can munch on a variety of crunchy bugs offered at various stalls. Also, at Phsar Chas, the Old Market, you can try the authentic Cambodian cuisine like the crispy fried tarantulas and octopus meat.

Another interesting thing you can try here is the special fish massage. What better way to relax your weary feet than a rejuvenating foot spa with tiny fish that nibble dead skin from your toes? A lot of shops at the market offer spas and reflexology treatments at a cost as low as $1. After pampering yourself with a great meal and a relaxing spa, when you’re ready to step into your party shoes, hit the Pub Street, Siem Reap’s party hub. To get the quintessential Cambodian nightlife experience, a visit to the Pub Street is highly recommended.

All the restaurants in Siem Reap here offer reasonably priced local food as well as international cuisine. The highlight of my night at the Pub Street was bar hopping. Starting with the Red Piano, where I tried some delicious cocktails, I visited another pub called Miss Wong. It was a classy cocktail bar that almost transported me back to 1930’s Shanghai. Post that and as recommended by the friendly staff at Tresor d’Angkor Suite, I headed to Blue Pumpkin for a scoop of Siem Reap’s best ice cream. I must say, it did not disappoint me!

But if you’re someone who would opt to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the crowd, you can try the more subtle and traditional nightlife options. You can visit restaurants which offer Khmer dance shows where women perform the ancient art of ‘Apsara Dance’, as depicted on the walls of Angkor’s temples. You can opt for a dinner and performance combo offered at any of the local hotels and restaurants. My experience at Por Cuisine was exceptional as not only the food was delicious, also the performance by the Apsara Dancers was exquisite.

Frankly speaking, the list of reasons why I want to keep going back to Siem Reap is extensive. But if you really wish to wander off to a place with dreamy scapes offering you a glimpse into the past, witness historic monuments and meet a sweet clan of tourist loving people and all of this at a shoe string budget, Siem Reap is just the place!