rediscovery of cambodia
With Angkor among the world’s foremost ancient sites, the town of Siem Reap is being developed to service the growth of international tourism, with numerous accommodations at all levels, cafes, restaurants and related tourism services. Traditional food and handicrafts markets have now been joined by the hustle and bustle of tourism-related commerce, making Siem Reap a beehive of activity. There are still places where Siem Reap’s verdant charm remains, especially along the banks of the Siem Reap River where the architectural richness of the town is at its best. From traditional wooden houses to colonial-style buildings and pagodas, it offers a glimpse of a Siem Reap rapidly fading. While in Siem Reap, a visit to Wat Bo is rewarded with one of the most beautiful frescoes in Cambodia, representing the Reamker or Khmer version of the Ramayana, painted in the late 19th century.
Tonle Sap, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is South-east Asia’s largest freshwater lake and a unique geographical wonder for its flora and fauna, some part of which can be seen during a visit to the Prek Toal site. Where the Siem Reap River flows into the lake, a floating fishing village offers visitors a rewarding experience. During the monsoon season, the Tonle Sap Lake swells up to several times its normal size. The best view of the Tonle Sap Lake and the surrounding fishing villages as the sun goes down are from Phnom Krom. Due to its unusual location, the temple built here in 910AD has sustained considerable damage from wind and salt.
For guests wishing to explore places farther afield like Preah Vihear and its surrounds, close to the Thai border, customised helicopter tours can be arranged.