"Take a seat in Siem Reap" Khett Siem Reab by richiecdisc

Khett Siem Reab Travel Guide: 4,321 reviews and 12,574 photos

A nice place to relax in Siem Reap - Khett Siem Reab

Gateway cities get a bad reputation that is unfortunately well warranted in many instances. The traveler is stuck with having to spend time in a particular place in order to experience the true reason for their time and monetary expenditure, often incurring inflated accommodation and food prices for inferior quality to boot. In lesser developed countries this can also involve a fair amount of local pressure to spend money on various services and souvenirs. It all adds up to an unpleasant precognitive set that can influence the perception of what they came to see in the first place. If the trip was one of great distance in particular, they may return home feeling it was not worth the time and money involved to visit what now seems an over hyped sight. So, it’s important to keep this in mind when visiting remote and relatively new discoveries like Angkor Wat.

In this regard, Siem Reap is like a breath of fesh air. Accommodation is available in all price ranges and unless you come at the height of the tourist season, reservations seem unnecessary. A local market that is still very much a third world affair offers inexpensive food as well as a timeless glimpse into what makes Cambodia one of the most authentic of Southeast Asian destinations. Though there are a few pubs offering Western fare, the real plus is an assortment of alternative Asian cuisines for those tiring of what can be a repetitious Cambodian menu. These are certainly expensive by local standards but compared to prices back home, you’re not likely to complain. Though begging is prevalent, in general, the locals are a charming lot that have fun in their endeavor to part you with some of your funds.

Though not full of sights, there is enough to keep you busy on days you don’t venture into nearby Angkor. It’s a pleasant place to while away some hours along the river and contemplate your next move too. You may have come strictly to see Angkor Wat but you’ll find French Colonial-infused Siem Reap is a nice place to enjoy some creature comforts in between those early morning motto rides into the ruins.

Last visit to Khett Siem Reab: Feb 2004
Intro Updated Jun 20, 2005
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Reviews (15)

early morning light at Ta Phrom - Khett Siem Reab

oh, like you'll forget Angkor Wat Things to Do (4)

It is unlikely you’ll forget to check out Angkor Wat while in Siem Reap. In fact, you wouldn’t have come here in the... more travel advice

intricate Hindu carvings at Banteay Srei - Khett Siem Reab

worth the ride out there Off The Beaten Path (1)

Banteay Srei is not exactly an unknown as many travelers want to visit one of Angkor’s most intricate and different... more travel advice

a great boat trip not to be missed - Khett Siem Reab

Cambodia's most scenic boat trip Transportation (1)

The majority of travelers head to Cambodia from Thailand on their way to Vietnam or Laos, but we were coming the other... more travel advice

D towering over her "students" - Khett Siem Reab

one tall thin German girlfriend What to Pack (1)

Backpack is essential. It's tough going trying to get on and off small wooden boats with a bloody suitcase! Sandals are... more travel advice

Favorites (2)
See All that's when the fun starts
Nightlife (2)
See All free nuts anyone?
Tourist Traps (1)
don't give into the burger craving

Restaurants (2)
See All a little Indian
Hotels (1)
a real local guest house
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Comments (13)

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Gili_S Feb 27, 2011 at 3:02 AM

Good to know they have pho for breakfast, I just love it. "tall girlfriend" ha ha, mine will be giant lol ;-)
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sim1 Nov 3, 2009 at 12:17 PM

Tomorrow I'll be on the plane, so now doing some last minute reading before going here :-) Okay, I guess I have to give in and get up EARLY! oh my, hope I'll survive that, lol ;-)
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matcrazy1 Feb 26, 2006 at 6:26 AM

Beautidul page full of mysterious monks and amazing food!
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margieg1 Jan 8, 2006 at 11:54 PM

Hi! Headed to Siem Reap! After seeing your article fit this place into my trip! Thanks!
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Trekki Sep 21, 2005 at 11:10 AM

This looks like a good place to explore much more of Cambodia than only Angkor Wat - food possibilities look exciting - jamjam :-)
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tessy Jul 19, 2005 at 12:16 PM

hahaha, how amazing! D and the monks and the wonderful food!
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acemj Jul 7, 2005 at 5:31 PM

You gotta keep those monks away from your woman!! Great food tips as usual.
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jrs1234 Jun 26, 2005 at 12:44 PM

Great page Richie - brought back fond memories of my own trip there. Cheers!
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Bwana_Brown Jun 26, 2005 at 5:55 AM

Richie, a fantastic page with your usual very helpful and insightful tips for travellers! I like the relaxed sound of this place and your descriptions of the pho and Indian food are mouth-watering!!
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Wild_Orchid Jun 22, 2005 at 5:43 PM

a delightful page-I always enjoy your food tips! and monk tales. :)