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

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.