Visit Siem Reap Cambodia
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.
Situated on 500 acres of land, it now attracts over a half a million tourists each year. A few short years ago it was completely abandoned and many people hadn’t even heard of this great ruin. Bandits were stealing statues and artifacts and the jungle was overtaking the complex. It has undergone massive restoration and it is open and ready for viewing at $20 per person.
Mother nature has done her work well reclaiming the land once ruled by a great empire. The jungle had almost swallowed up the temples of Angkor, until great efforts were made in restoration. In recent years many temples have been restored to their original grandeur. The Main Temple of Angkor Wat is well preserved and a breathtaking sight. Its five main towers jut into the air as high as 66 meters (215 ft) from its 1.6 km (1 mile) long base.
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.
Many people spend several days at Angkor Wat. An interesting way to see the ruins is to try to see them from above. You can hire a hot air balloon for a birds eye view or you can climb up Bakhen Hill for sunset. This will give you a true sense of just how grand the ruins are.
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.
Cambodian tradition is alive and well however and nowhere will you see it more than in the Old Market. It is crowded and hot, but you will find a real bargain here and get a sense of the true Cambodia here. See live fish on display for this evenings dinner. Everything you could possible want is available, fresh fruit, clothing, souvenirs and household items. It is all there at the market.
If you have the time, a trip the the house of Aki Ra is a must. This man has been helping to clear the millions of landmines in Cambodia for over a decade. At his hut he has some of his decommissioned land mines on display that he gathered himself. It is a testimony to the work that he and so many others have done for this struggling country.
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.
It is well worth it to get out of town as well. The countryside makes you feel as though you have stepped back in time. Oxen pull wagons down the street and cows walk in the middle of the road. People dress in traditional clothing complete with conical hats. You can visit a silk farm to see how it is spun by traditional means or you can visit a nearby lake to bird watch. Ton Le Sp Lake is South Est Asia’s larges fresh water lake and you won’t be disappointed to visit it.
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.
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