Joanna James
Although the Siem Reap area is quickly gaining a reputation as one of Asia's most inexpensive locations, it never hurts to save a little extra money when travelling. You'll be able to splurge a little more on the perfect hotel room or a once-in-a-lifetime trip, and yet have plenty of money left over to enjoy the rest of your life.
Sunset is the best free activity, and I don't simply mean watching the sun go down on Pub Street. The secret among the locals is that after 5:30 p.m. (or 5:20 p.m., if you're polite), you may enter Angkor Park without paying the entrance fee and enjoy the sunset without having to worry about crowds. You may see the park's sunset for free if you rent a bike as well as a tuk-tuk for both the evening & ride to one of the park's less-visited areas.
There are many lively markets in Siem Reap to explore, where you may mingle with the locals when they're out of their daily shopping. The Old Market is where the majority of tourists spend their time, but if you're looking for something a little more local, head out on route 6 to Psar Leu or Psar Samaki, as these are the areas where the locals live and work. In addition to being a terrific site to people-watch, it's also worth a visit if you're in the mood for some locally grown fruit, need some new fabric, or are looking for something else than the normal tourist trinkets. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for cultural immersion.
Alternatively, you can also check out the top restaurants in Siem Reap such as the fine establishments at the FCC Angkor for some replenishments.
Locals here in Siem Reap have another hidden gem in West Baray. To relax, soak up some local flavour, and go on an adventure without breaking the bank, head to the old reservoir in the city's northwest. After the rainy season ends in October and the lake levels rise, you may rent a hut on the shore, relax in a hammock while grilling dinner, and even dip your toes into the murky water.
Few solo travellers make it to Siem Reap's Royal Gardens. As the sun sets, it's a lot of fun to come here and witness the garden's 1,000 or so fruit bats (sometimes called Megabats!) fly out to spend the night.
Every first Sunday of the month, residents of Siem Reap get together for a 40-kilometre bike ride through the rural areas around the city. Don't bother registering in advance if you're interested in spending 7:30 of your morning in the company of locals and foreigners alike. Your own bicycle is welcome, but if you don't have one, you may rent one for $5 at the Grasshopper shop, where the ride will begin.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
