Tourism of Siem Reap
Siem Reap in Cambodia is a paragon of historic glory and timeless grandeur; proudly being the gateway to one of the most astonishing architectures in world history- Angkor Wat. Although the main reason to stay in Siem Reap is to get yourself ready to explore several ancient temples, the city itself comes with a surprise package of historical and modern blends.
With a population of about 8500 people, Siem Reap is mostly seen as a launching point for visiting the Angkor Archaeological Park and other temple ruins by tourists. One of their own kind, megastructures like these can’t be found anywhere else. The mysterious architectural techniques used to construct the temples still amaze the explorers. The town of Khmers has faced a tough time in the recent past, but despite that, the locals are very warm, welcoming and friendly. Other than admiring the historical sites such as Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, etc.; you can take a stroll around the city, make your way to the Pub Street, explore the local markets, or engage in adventurous activities for an instant adrenaline rush. Indulge into the fine dining experiences with cuisines from all over the world, buy some inexpensive souvenirs for your loved ones, talk to the locals, and take a lot of pictures – there’s too much to perform in the town of historical heritage swiftly emerging as a bustling tourist place.
HOW EXACTLY TO Reach Siem Reap
You can property directly at Siem Reap AIRPORT TERMINAL from certain Airfields, and also a few major nearby-towns. You may also trip a cross-border bus to enter Cambodia from Laos, Thailand or Vietnam; after that heading towards Siem Reap bus station. There are no rail solutions available for Siem Reap.
Langauge of Siem Reap
Khmer has popularly spoken vocabulary in Siem Reap, but because of emerging massive tourism, locals have been able to learn a decent degree of English to connect to the vacationers. When you visit a need to refuse a shopkeeper or tuk-tuk driver, say “At-tay”(no thanks) politely in order to avoid any hassle.
Background of Siem Reap
If folklores should be believed, Siem Reap got its name from King Ang Chan, who took over Siam (Siem in Khmer) victoriously; the fight becoming fought in Siem Reap. The literal which means of Siem Reap is definitely reported to be ‘Defeat over Siam’. Cambodia has already established an awful tug of wars previously several times, the consequence of which really is poverty – struck country today striving for an improved long term. Siem Reap began to develop when French obtained Angkor in 1907, however, the civil battle in 1975 delivered the prestigious glory of Angkor behind the curtain. If that had not been enough, the Khmer Rouge Regime worsened the circumstances. However, following the loss of life of Pol Pot (innovator of Khmer Rouge) in 1998, Siem Reap offers been revived and today is usually emerging as a buzzing tourist place.
Nightlife in Siem Reap
Pub Road and Pub Road Alley certainly are a must to check out if you’re searching for an incredible nightlife in Siem Reap. A few of them are designed in an exceedingly unique method, which immediately compels visitors to obtain inside. A few of the thrilling pubs and pubs around Pub Road are – Angkor What? (being truly a favorite among backpackers), Asana Bar (set up in a normal wooden Khmer home), Miss Wong Cocktail Bar (Influenced from Shanghai) and Mezze Lounge and Nighttime club (in addition they provide a salsa instructor to provide basic teaching lessons on Sunday).
Buying in Things Siem Reap
The Old Marketplace or Psar Chaa has become the well-known markets in Siem Reap, to purchase nearly everything- from Khmer scarves and other clothing to jewelry and touristy-souvenirs. Angkor Night time Market can be another great spot to spend 2 – 3 hours during the night exploring and purchasing inexpensive stuff. Also, search for Artisans d’Angkor to get some gorgeous handicrafts and get yourself a sneak peek of an adjoining workshop crafting masterpieces. Remember, almost always there is a scope obtaining the prices decreased for anything- so don’t hesitate in showing your bargaining skills everywhere you go.
Currency in Siem Reap
Although Riel is the official currency in Cambodia, US Dollars are majorly accepted everywhere in Siem Reap. Some local currency should be carried to pay for amounts of less than 1 USD. Credit cards are accepted at several places with some additional charges.
Exchanging Money in Siem Reap
There are plenty of banks and ATMs available in the city allowing cash withdrawals through Debit and Credit cards. Currency exchange is possible at almost every bank, but you might get better exchange rates at local shops for money-changing.
Daily Budget for Siem Reap
For meals, transportation and a beer or two, a budget traveler can manage with USD 25 – 30. Some shopping and expensive dining can add up this charge to be USD 60, while a luxurious day spent in Siem Reap might cost you USD 100 (or more).
The religion of Siem Reap
Theravada Buddhism is followed by 95 % of people in Cambodia
Siem Reap Customs
Dress modestly during the daytime to avoid the scorching heat and chances of any remarks by locals; though it’s quite okay to use revealing clothing while likely to the Pub road in evening hours. Strictly good dressing-up can be mandatory when you go to any temple. Cover your knees and shoulders, particularly if you intend to obtain to the very best of Angkor Wat. People generally greet within the original Cambodian method (Som Pas) – bowing together with your became a member of hands nearer to the chin. Showing affection to your partner in public won’t please the sexually conservative locals. It can be a great gesture to tip for good service or meal, though tipping is not common in Siem Reap.
Restaurants and Local Food in Siem Reap
Although the Cambodian cuisine is not as fascinating as the other ones bordering the country, Khmer food is definitely a must-try. The traditional Khmer dishes Amok (a steam-cooked fish curry) and Lok lak (stir-fried beef) are the most popular ones (Try them at ‘Khmer Kitchen’). The unbelievable prices for delicious food in the city are definitely going to amaze you. There are a number of restaurants offering international cuisines, so if Khmer taste doesn’t please your buds, you’ve got a lot of other options!
What is the optimum time to go to Siem Reap?
December and January may be the best period to go to Siem Reap. The elements is dried out and cool of these months because of the winter weather. Additionally it is enough time for different festivals and celebrations, like the Huge Puppet Parade in February. They are the peak a few months and discover numerous vacationers. If you would like to miss the crowds, you can program your go to between June to October, which also offers you the chance to witness the glory of historic temples with the blankets of green hues all over the ruins. Summertime (April & May) can be an absolute no-no! Summers are unbearably scorching in Cambodia.