Joanna James
While Angkor Wat is majestic and should be visited if you get the opportunity, there's a lot more Siem Reap holds. Here are some options you can consider.
The best way to truly understand a country and its history is to visit a museum. This is where history is captured most authentically, allowing you to truly experience a deep dive into the years before! The Angkor National Museum has preserved several artefacts such as the Angkorian artefacts and does more than a splendid job explaining art and culture from the Khmer era. If you're someone that's truly interested in finding out the history behind Cambodia, check the museum out!
A taste of culture and local life is exactly what Angkor Night Market provides you with. Most of the vendors in the market start setting up at 5 pm, and this is the ideal time to visit. You're sure to find plenty of items such as handicrafts, jewellery and much more. This market began in 2007, as a manner of preserving Khmer handicrafts and supporting the local communities. Not too far from many a luxury hotel in Siem Reap, the likes of Anantara Angkor Resort, don't miss this unique display of local crafts.
Although the term floating village sounds rather peculiar... it's exactly what it is! When you visit, one of the first things you'll notice is the houses on stilts which house many locals. When you're here, also take a trip to Tonle Sap Lake, revered as Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake, 2 hours from Tonle Sap floating villages. While you're here, make the best use of time by having a sunset dinner by the lake, shop some souvenirs and stopping by crocodile farms.
No vacation is complete without exploring local cuisine and street food, and it is for this reason alone that must you venture out on a street food tour! Not only do you get to sample amazing food, but you are also exploring the city at the same time. This is your chance to go on an unforgettable gastronomic journey, learn all about Khmer cuisine and taste the best of snacks! Doing this with a local tour guide who can navigate their way through the winding lanes of the night market would be a more organised experience, but if you're up for the challenge, you can also opt to go on your own!
There is nothing quite like witnessing the scenery from above! For travellers craving adventure, check out the Cambodian jungles by whizzing through up to 10 zip lines and 4 sky bridges. This is the whole experience. Flight of Gibbon is extremely popular, although it tends to be slightly pricier in terms of Southeast Asian standards. Nevertheless, this is an experience you mustn't miss, especially if you like some adrenaline once in a while!
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