SIEM REAP HOTELS
ABOUT SIEM REAP HOTELS
Siem Reap hotels is made up of a diverse range of hotels that reflect the city’s unique blend of historical significance and modern hospitality. From luxurious resorts and charming boutique hotels or budget friendly hostels, there is something for every traveler. The exceptional quality of service and attention to details found in Siem Reap’s accommodations not only enhance the overall visitor experience but also contribute significantly to the region’s economic viability and cultural preservation. Whether one seeks indulgence, authenticity or affordability the hotels in Siem Reap are well equipped to meet the varied expectations of their guests.
Below list of choice Siem Reap hotels quoted in US Dollars.
ABOUT SIEM REAP
Siam Reap is located in northwestern Cambodia. It is the second largest city in Cambodia. The city is popular due to it’s proximity to the Angkor Wat ancient temple complex. The city has french colonial and Chinese style architecture in the French Quarter and the Old Market areas .
The history of Siem Reap goes back to the time of King An Chan (1516 – 1566) when his army successfully won the battle against the invading Siam army of Thai King Maha Chakkraphat in 1549. The village was then name Siem Reap which means “Defeat of Siam” in the Khmer language.
In 1901 the “French School of The Far East” (École française d’Extrême-Orient) took on the responsibility of clearing and restoring the Angkor ancient temples and the surrounding areas. This was the starting point of tourism to the ancient temple complexes near to Siem Reap. The city host tourist from the nearby ASEAN nations as well as from South Korea, China and Japan. Western tourist are mainly American, French and Australian.
Today Siem Reap has a population of about 220,000. The population ethnicity is made up of 95% ethnic Khmer and the remaining 5% made of up of ethnic Vietnamese, Chinese and Cham.
ATTRACTIONS IN SIEM REAP
- Angkor Wat (UNESCO World Heritage Site) is one of the largest religious monuments in the world. This ancient temple complex is the main attraction to the city. The temple complex was built in the 12th century by the Khmer Empire in addition to the many other temples and ruins in the area. Hot air balloon ride over Angkor Wat with a bird’s eye view of the ancient ruins and surrounding landscape is also available.
- Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple and Ta Prohm Temple.
- The Angkor National Museum and the Cambodia Landmine Museum has a vast collection of Cambodian history and cultural art effects.
- At sunset the vibrant night markets offers a collection of hand made souvenirs, handicrafts and traditional Cambodian goods for sale. Local style food and traditional cuisines are easily available here as well.
- Tonle Sap Lake (the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia) is located just a short drive from the city and is home to many floating villages. Here visitors can see the traditional stilt houses and experience life living on the water.
BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT SIEM REAP
The best time of the year to visit Siem Reap is from November to February (dry season). This period also has cool temperature (20C – 28C / 68F – 82F) making it ideal for exploring the temples. This period also happens to be the peak tourist season.
Major cultural and festival celebrations in Siem Reap are the Khmer New Year or Chaul Chnam Thmey (mid April), Pchum Ben or Ancestors’ Day (September), the Water Festival or Bon Om Touk (November), Magha Puja Day or the celebration of Bhuddah’s first sermon (February / March), Visak Bochea or Visak Day (May), Cambodia Beer Fest (January), Cambodian Living Arts for traditional Apsara dancing, shadow puppetry, e.t.c (held year round) and the Cambodia International Film Festival (early December).
SIEM REAP DOS AND DON’TS
DO
- Do visit all the ancient temple complexes
- Embrace local culture
- Enjoy the local cuisine
- Explore Siem Reap city
- Use local guides
DON’T
- Do not wonder into unmarked pathways or remote areas due to unexploded ordinance from previous wars.
- Do not touch the ancient monuments.
- Do not carry large amount of cash with you.
