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

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

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)

Comments (13)

  • Gili_S's Profile Photo
    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 ;-)

  • sim1's Profile Photo
    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 ;-)

  • matcrazy1's Profile Photo
    Feb 26, 2006 at 6:26 AM

    Beautidul page full of mysterious monks and amazing food!

  • Jan 8, 2006 at 11:54 PM

    Hi! Headed to Siem Reap! After seeing your article fit this place into my trip! Thanks!

  • Trekki's Profile Photo
    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 :-)

  • tessy's Profile Photo
    Jul 19, 2005 at 12:16 PM

    hahaha, how amazing! D and the monks and the wonderful food!

  • acemj's Profile Photo
    Jul 7, 2005 at 5:31 PM

    You gotta keep those monks away from your woman!! Great food tips as usual.

  • jrs1234's Profile Photo
    Jun 26, 2005 at 12:44 PM

    Great page Richie - brought back fond memories of my own trip there. Cheers!

  • Bwana_Brown's Profile Photo
    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!!

  • Wild_Orchid's Profile Photo
    Jun 22, 2005 at 5:43 PM

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

richiecdisc

“fairy tales can come true...”

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