Page 460 - River cruises

Cambodia, Siem Reap

oday, we had early morning coach transfer to Siem Reap. Refreshments were provided and we stopped at
TKampong Thom along the way. Arrived at Siem Reap mid-afternoon.
iem Reap is the town around which the Angkor monuments are situated. Modern Siem Reap is about 45minutes
Sfrom the Tonle Sap and the port facilities there are very poor - dusty and disorganised!
he modern town is not very attractive and with the increased popularity of Angkor as a destination over the past
Tfew years literally hundreds of new hotels have opened. It is a big mess with congested traffic and even pollution.
Such are the benefits of mass tourism.
owever, the temple complexes are so vast and varied that it is quite easy to lose the package tour groups and do
Hyour own thing. Explored with discernment, and good planning, many a magical moment is still to be had. (e.g.
Avoid the sunrise from Angkor Wat as this is what most tourists will be doing). Look to exploring some of the
complexes like Rolous that are further away and less busy. Although very busy, Angkor remains one of the most
important architectural sites on the planet and is an absolute must!.
e were too tired and hot, in the humidity to go to Angkor Wat, just relaxed in our room and then found a local
Wfood outlet (Cambodian Buffet!!) for dinner .

Our hotel interior Siem Reap