Exploring Siem Reap is an exotic experience. It’s smaller and more relaxed than Phnom Penh, and the merchants are entertaining and friendly. Siem Reap is buzzing with tourists – many French. The weather is hot and humid, but not unbearable. Noon to mid-afternoon isn’t an ideal time for walking. December through February, the driest months, is the best time to visit.
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“Angkor Archaeological Park contains the magnificent remains of different capitals of the Khmer Empire, from the 9th to the 15th century.”
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Architecture
I saw spectacular architecture – Chinese, Cambodian, French Colonial – and lush tropical gardens. It’s difficult finding a good vantage point for photos, since the huge old buildings are spread out over flat streets. Restoration is in process throughout the small town. If you follow Siem Reap River, you can’t get lost, but somehow I did…
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“Dozens of Hindu-Buddhist temple complexes and hundreds of smaller structures were once swallowed by the jungle.”
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Wat Damnak
Wat Damnak is the largest pagoda in Siem Reap. During King Sisowath’s reign it was a palace. Today, Buddhist Monks live in the pagoda, a “cultural hub” and “major landmark” on the eastern side of Siem Reap River.
Locals and Vendors
I chatted with locals. One was keen to practice his English and told me about his life in the countryside near the Vietnam border. I stopped at a pharmacy for allergy medicine, and the pharmacist was fun and outgoing. We talked chit-chat, and he gave me sightseeing pointers.
Looking for a shirt, I met a merchant, his wife, and their three children in the market. When you buy clothing in the market and want to try something on, you have to do it right there on the spot, with someone holding a cloth around you while you change – at first it seemed awkward. Now I think it’s funny – no one looks anyway.
Major Areas
There are five major areas in Siem Reap:
- Taphul Village – west of the Old French Quarter
- French Quarter – city center close to Angkor Wat
- Wat Bo – east near main streets
- Old Market – south of the city center
- Wat Damnak Pagoda – southeast near Angkor Night Market
Tonight I go via tuk-tuk for a sunset trip to some of the major temples. Later my hotel, Soria Moria, is having a live Apsara dance performance.
