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Siem Reap, Cambodia

 

Travel is about exploring - the people, the culture, the countries way of living. Siem Reap, Cambodia's second largest city, is certainly a place that touches so many of what we like to call the travel senses; rich in history and culture.

 

 

Cambodians have a sense of calm and friendliness about them. Whilst the countrys wealth is low, tourism has brought a positive purpose and economy, it certainly hasn't diminished or cheapened what is essentially the heart of Cambodia (just a warning, the road rules may say otherwise - it's like playing a game of frogger).

Don't be afraid to step off the tourist tracks, discover the local Khmer food and most definitely the coffee; a cold, sweet and intensely strong beverage. 

The weather is HOT so get out and about early and by afternoon make sure you are back by the pool. When the sun settles venture back out exploring the many open air night markets. Book a romantic dinner, we suggest get a little trip out to one of the lodges or resorts; Sala Lodges a 10 min tuk-tuk ride and you are surrounded by lush green gardens and open air restaurant serving local and international flavours.   

 

Here are a few of our favourite Siem Reap secrets: 

 

KANDAL VILLAGE

This French quarter village in Siem Reap is a buzz with development and new boutique shops. Londoners, Australians and French have made this quaint quarter their home. Trunkh, a designer store of old wares and screen printed art. The Hive Cafe owned by an Australian serves fresh local produce and brings a little of home with a slice of Pavlova on the menu. The Little Red Fox Espresso cafe is the coffee spot and be sure to get the carrot cake. Massages are abound in Siem Reap but Frangipani Spa is all about experience so for the little extra to what you pay on the street, you get the full day spa treatment in style - including their signature butterfly blue tea. At first not so desirable but add a dash of fresh lemon and it magically becomes refreshing and sweet, and what was once a blue tea is now lavender!

LUXURY BOUTIQUE STYLE

Creating a bit of a buzz among aficionados of boutique digs, Viroth’s Hotel is a chic, petite and intimate base for a romantic stay in Siem Reap. Minimalist in style but big on design, this relaxed contemporary hotel offers day spa, outdoor dining and a saltwater pool, order those endless cocktails by the pool the staff are amazing at making you feel nothing is a bother.  

Only a few rooms here make it intimate and personal. Each of the artfully lit rooms has its own balcony or terrace that looks out over the pool. The hotel is located just across the river from the bustling Old Market; the staff can arrange a tuk-tuk there or a short 10 min stroll. For dinner of Khmer and Western dishes, walk the two blocks to Viroth’s Restaurant, which the hotel’s French owner opened on a moat-enclosed patio.
www.viroth-hotel.com

ANGKOR WAT

Discover one of the man made wonders of the world, Angkor Wat. Its beauty and state of preservation, is unrivaled. Angkor Wat is located about six kilometers north of Siem Reap. If feeling a little adventurous but like to do it in a bit of style - Grasshopper tours offer personal bike tours through the National Park visiting a number of temples. Starting at sunrise at Angkor Wat a glorious breakfast spread follows then head off on your bikes riding through the local jungle, over damns and along temple walls. Each leg you are greeted by your chef with refreshments and delights to keep you going through the day.
www.grasshopperadventures.com   

FOOD TOUR

Listed by the New York Times as one of the best things to do in Siem Reap - Scottish chef, Steve runs with his partner a food tour through the city. This guy is passionate about his food and the country - you certainly will get a taste of everything local and visit some local family farms. Offering morning and evening tours, it is incredible, not just about the food you also get a true sense of local life. It's a tasting journey of Khmer cuisine from savory noodle dishes, fresh seafood, tempting sweets, and street food.
www.siemreapfoodtours.com

 


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