If you are here, it’s probably because you want to visit the great ruins of Angkor Wat. Which you absolutely should because they are really just that specular! There’s a reason why over two million people visit this stunning UNESCO World Heritage site annually. But beyond Angkor Wat, the tiny town of Siem Reap packs in plenty of fun, entertainment and culture, that it’s worth it to spend a few extra days exploring. I fell completely in love with the Khmer people and this quaint little city! Here is all you need to know to make the most of your visit to Siem Reap!
~ What to Expect ~
Language: The official language of Cambodia is Khmer, but you will find that most people in Siem Reap speak pretty good English.
Currency: The local currency is the Cambodian Riel(KHR), but there’s really no need for you to carry it as most of Cambodia uses the US dollar(USD). In fact, when you go to use the ATMs, most of times it will dispense dollars and not Riels. It is not uncommon though to get change back in Riels so just treat those as if it was some loose pocket coins.
Transportation: A tuk-tuk of course! It is the absolute best way to get around and pretty cheap too. A ride in town should never be more than $2USD, so be sure to use those haggling skills! A lot hotels/hostels also offer free bikes to guest and when the weather is nice, it’s a really pleasant way to explore Siem Reap.
When you Arrive: Assuming you fly into Siem Reap International Airport, the first thing you will need to do is obtain a visa. The tourist visa is valid for 30days from date of entry. It’s a pretty straight forward process of filling out the paperwork and paying the $30USD fee. Be sure to have cash in USD and a passport picture handy to speed up the process. But if not, there is an ATM there and the picture only cost $2USD. Once you’re done with everything, there will be plenty of tuk-tuks outside waiting, ready to give you a lift into town. Most hotels/hostels will also arrange transportation for you at no additional charge if you let them know before hand.
~ What to Do & See ~
Angkor Wat: Obviously!!!! Let’s be honest, it’s really the only reason you came here, so go explore and take some Instagram worthy pics! Be sure to check out my post all about Angkor Wat!
Apsara Dancing: The ancient art of the apsara dance is a beautiful way to experience traditional Cambodian culture. There are several hotels in Siem Reap that do a dinner and show type package. But if you’re trying to save a few dollars, Temple Bar on Pub Street has nightly showing you can attend for FREE! You’re welcome 😉
Wat Preah Prom Rath: By far, this is the most interesting temple I’ve ever been to. I mean, just look at the pictures! Wat Preah Prom Rath is a very colorful temple and only about 500 years old. Entrance is free so it’s definitely worth a quick stroll.
Party on Pub Street: Pub Street reminded of me of classier version of Khao San road in Bangkok (no go-go bars here, sorry guys). Lively bars, nightclubs, endless foods options and EVERY TOURIST in Siem Reap will be here once the sun goes down. It’s a lot of fun! But save getting wasted for AFTER you visit the temples. Trust me!
Visit a Hair Salon: You can get your hair washed and braided for $1 dollar! So why not?! The girls that did my hair were really good and really fast about it too. It’s honestly the best way to keep your hair out of your face and still look cute AF at the temples 😉
Get Your Zen On: Yoga is so necessary after a full day of exploring! The hostel I stayed at, The Siem Reap Hostel offers regular yoga and pilates classes to hostel guest for $5USD. But there are a ton of other places around town just quick google search away.
Take a Cooking Class : A great way for you to learn something new and take home some of the Khmer culture when you leave. While I didn’t do this myself in Cambodia, I have done it in other countries and loved it. I really wanted to add this on here because of the couple I met at my hostel that had nothing but good things to say about their experience.
Shop Till you Drop in the Night Markets: Just like any town in Asia, Siem Reap has quite a few night markets worth a visit. You can find pretty much find anything you want from cheap t-shirts, tacky souvenirs, jewelry, handcrafted Khmer artwork and the of course the best part… FOOD! Speaking of food.
~ Where to Eat ~
Cambodian BBQ Restaurant: A popular option for tourist, as it is located on Pub Street, this was the first Cambodian meal of my life and it did not disappoint. I wasn’t that hungry so I got a banana blossom salad and it was sooooo good! I ended up coming back a few days later because I just had to have more. Their specialty though is meat, including exotic meats! Come here if you want to try some crocodile, snake, kangaroo or frog.
The Funky Flashpacker Hostel: I know what you’re thinking, some party hostel has the best food, really? The answer is YES! The atmosphere here is pretty awesome too. We found it because my friend Chris looked up restaurants on Trip Advisor and at the time this was number1. Crazy, I know! So of course, we had to try it, and it was bomb! First off, you can get food here 24hours a day. #winning. I was really impressed with the menu as they not only serve traditional Khmer foods but also a variety of international fares. The best part though is the assortment of vegetarian, gluten-free and dairy-free options they offer! Say what? I got the Lok Lak, a local favorite and it was the best I had in all of Cambodia.
Street Food: My absolute favorite way to discover new foods in Asia. It’s cheap, fun and full flavor! If you’re unsure or don’t want to go at it alone, there are multiple organized street food tours in Siem Reap that will guide you around to some of the best local eats in town. Don’t forget to try a fresh fruit shake! You will see them everywhere. My favorite was the passionfruit shake.
