Siem Reap, There is More to See Than Just Angkor Wat
There is no doubt that tourists flock to Siem Reap, Cambodia for the plain reason that it houses one of the greatest temples on earth; Angkor Wat. Built in the 12th century by the Khmer Empire, it has caught the publics interest and it is wowing travelers from around the world.
This majestic complex consists of hundreds of temples covering 500 acres of land. It wasn’t long ago that you could walk through these ruins without seeing another person for hours. Where once it was abandoned and looted of precious pieces, it is now a thriving attraction receiving over a half a million visitors a year. With admission being $20 per day it is a real deal by western standards.
It is an awesome sight to see the temples swallowed up by vines and trees. Almost reclaimed by the jungle, Angkor Wat was saved in the nick of time. The main temple of Angkor Wat is one of the best preserved temple and the most famous image of the temples. It is a massive structure spanning 1.6 km and reaching 66 meters into the sky.
There are two must see temples at Angkor Wat. Ta Prom and Angkor Tom. Each is unique in different way. Ta Prom is a great display on how much the jungle really overtook the complex with trees and vines growing all over it. Angkor Tom is impressive to see the dozens of demons and gods lining the path leading up to the temple.
One can spend days exploring the temples of Angkor. Whether you walk up to the top of the main temple of Angkor Wat, take a hot air balloon ride over the ruins, examine the intricate carvings on its walls, or sit high on Bakheng Hill to watch sunset over the complex, you will be mesmerized by its scope and beauty.
The main town near Angkor Wat is Siem Reap. It is being restored nicely as tourist flock to the area and you can take a walk to see the French Influence left behind by their occupation. Colonial buildings and baguettes are just a few things that will remind you of a little piece of France.
You will be quickly jolted back to reality once you pop into the Old Market; lines of stalls filled with everything you could possibly need, vie for your business. Live fish and fresh meat, fruit and herbs will ignite your senses. Tourists and locals mingle together and you can find all of the souvenirs that you need at a fraction the price of the other stores in town.
Another place to visit is the Cambodia Land Mine Museum. It is located just outside of town and it is a good history lesson into the struggles of the Cambodian people. The founder Aki Ra has been clearing mines for over 15 years and here you will find his collection of many of the bombs that he has cleared himself. It has started to attract so many visitors, that there is actually plans to build a larger museum in the works.
It is estimated that there are four to six million unexploded land mines in the country and it is sadly estimated that 40,000 people are living as amputees. The Land Mine Museum has become a must see destination for tourists and government officials alike.
Siem Reap has everything a tourist needs. A tropical destination, it can be enjoyed any way you want. Stay in world-class hotels and relax by the pool, eat in fine dining rooms and splurge on a massage. Others may choose to stay in small guest houses and munch on street meat while mingling with the local people. You can shop at craft stores and silk boutiques or barter in the local markets.
Take a day to go out to see the countryside. The largest fresh water lake in all of South East Asia is located close to Siem Reap and you can visit one of several silk farms. Hire a taxi or a tuk tuk and enjoy the natural setting. See oxen pull carts and watch people work in the rice paddy fields. You will feel as if you have stepped back in time watching life slowly unfold before your eyes.
If you are looking for something different for our next trip abroad. Put Cambodia on your list. It will be the most exciting and interesting vacation you have ever had in your life.
Deb Corbeil and Dave Bouskill are an Adventure Couple from Canada. Together they have visited over 35 countries on 5 continents. Each new adventure takes them to remote corners of the world where they paddle, hike and trek their way around the globe. Visit their website theplanetd.com for new tips and information on exciting destinations around the world. For photos of their travels visit picturetheplanet
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