Siem Reap, Cambodia
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What's Hot
Sightseeing, Culture, Getting Around, Eating Out
Sightseeing, Culture, Getting Around, Eating Out
What's Not
Shopping, Partying, Weather, Things To Do
Shopping, Partying, Weather, Things To Do
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Siem Reap Reviews ( 50 reviews )
| Siem Reap Reviews |
by ilikeelep
| 25 Sep 2006 | 80% |
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I really liked Siem Reap it had a lot heart and a fgreat astsomphere without beeing to hectic.... Unless you wanted it to be! |
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by SharnaRaine
| 17 Jan 2007 | 80% |
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An expensive little city- featuring much wealth and desperate poverty simultaneously. A strip of resturants and bars can be found here that seem dedicated to the famous Khoa San Rd- which to stumble on in poverty stricken Cambodia is surreal to say the least. Getting to know the locals is hard, unless your guest house has freindly tuk tuk drivers- many are rude and openly make fun of you, while other chase you for your buisness. Unfortunatly the only place to feel at ease at times is in the western style bars, were there is a distinct lack of locals there relaxing or up for a conversation. This type of activity is simply beyond most Khmers means. Being unable to socialise with local people easily is one of the disappointing aspects of the city- as you dont always want to meet more travelers. But cleaner, and with more services than other smaller city\'s, Siem Reap is a beatiful city-but expect to pay more for it. |
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by tots1
| 23 Jan 2007 | 80% |
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Siem Reap, the city close to Angkwar Wat, looks like a city stopped in the 1920's or 1930's. It is beautiful and there are a lot of tourists and the prices are almost in US Dollars. Also, if you consider something expensive, there is always the posibility to bargain. |
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by martina8648
| 23 Oct 2006 | 100% |
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Siem Reap is simply a tourist city. It is nice and comfortable to stay there, shop or go out for dinner or to party. There is not so much culture left in the city: you will not really see how most of the Cambodian people live. So if you want to experience the real culture of Cambodia you have to visit Phnom Penh (the future of Cambodia) and you have to go into the poorer regions and to the villages. If you only stay in Siem Reap, e.g. you can do a bicycle tour to see the surroundings area - nature and villages - if you are interested. |
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by aussieemma
| 24 Dec 2006 | 40% |
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I'm afraid to say that this is one country I will not be returning to -- and I haven't thought that of any other country I've ever been to, which is saying a lot. Angkor is great (not to die for, but worth doing), some of the little villages are cute, and some of the people are genuine. But by the time I left Siem Reap I was beaten by the overall attitude of the people. Having been to Egypt, Morocco, Turkey, and several other third-world countries where the travellers are all thought to be millionaires, I am used to being seen as a walking ATM. But the Khmers seem to have an underlying hatred of us - the look on their face if you say something along the lines of "thanks but no" to their constant selling!! Not to mention the glares and muttering, with no attempt to hide it. Such naked anger...it quite shook me a few times. And with Cambodia being apparently the poorest BUT *most expensive* Asian country (US dollars), you blow your budget before the get go. Am glad to have seen Angkor (two days, tops...third day superfluous) but might not have bothered if I'd known all the hassles and expense I was in for. |
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by Nellso1808
| 25 Feb 2007 | 80% |
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Siem Reap is much different to what we thought. The restaurants in the Old Town could compete with any major city in the world. The only problem we had was at the temples where we found the children to be very aggressive and well versed in some very colourful language. Asde from that and the expense of a VISA and departure tax ($25 USD) we had a great time. |
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by canadian8167
| 23 Feb 2007 | 60% |
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This country is so dusty!!! Wearinbg glasses all day i still sufferd from ichy eyes. |
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by Sarahjim
| 18 Aug 2006 | 80% |
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Siem Reap is well worth the visit to see Angkor but I would reccommend to stay for a maximum of 3 days only. |
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by Flden
| 20 Jan 2007 | 60% |
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Everyone must see Angkor Wat! The city is expensively overpriced because of this tourist attraction. Outside of Angkor Wat there isn't much to see; but Angkor Wat is definitely worth seeing. |
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by LFCREDMEN
| 15 Jan 2007 | 80% |
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the trip to cambodia from bangkok is realy bad the road is really bumpy all the way from the border it takes about 12-14 hours without rain but its so worth it.the temples of angkor are just incredible and should not be missed. |
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by gpbaren
| 8 Nov 2006 | 40% |
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face it - everyone goes to Siem Reap for Angkor. Those who don't are statistically insignificant. As a result, there are lots of places selling tourist crap at tourist prices, which make SR just another touristy city built around Angkor. So break out your Tiger Beer T-shirt and your flip-flops, poseurs...heaven has arrived! |
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by panthera74
| 16 Aug 2006 | 100% |
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Siem Reap is a magnificent place. Whatever you do, just remember to bargain, bargain, bargain. These people may be poor but it doesn't give then the right to overcharge us. If you come across beggars, do take pity and buy them some food or at least have some sweets or chocolates for the kids. However, I do not condone giving cash. In any instance, always put a big smile on your face and you'll get a lot of smiles in return. |
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by Thecan2869
| 19 Nov 2006 | 100% |
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The Cooking is due to the temperatures - it is hot and hotter here especially from noon. The food 'cooking' is superb with meals as cheap as $2 for a main. The temples are sensational and 3 days is more than enough temples for anyone. Enjoy this amazing country and the peoples' fabulous smiles. |
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by moksha3190
| 3 Aug 2006 | 80% |
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Nice city, althouhg getting very touristy... Wonderful to get out into the Angkor temples. Shame you cannot rent a scooter, but Tuk Tuk drivers are excellent. |
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by Kcaldwe
| 11 Sep 2006 | 80% |
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I visited Siem Reap in SEP and was shocked at how different it was from Thailand. Things are much cheaper. There are more beggars but most of them probably really do need the money. Old Market is a must-see for souveniers but is also beggar heaven. Angkor Wat is the main attraction in Siem Reap, and very worth seeing(if you want a guide, Seng Daling is very knowledgable and speaks great english-sengdaling@yahoo.com). If you hate large groups of tourists, I recommend going in the low season (aug-sep, although there were still plenty of tour groups). They use US dollars, which is pretty handy. |
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by Kixik
| 25 Aug 2006 | 100% |
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Every Saturday evening, Dr. Beat Richner give his concert in the concert hall of Kantha Bopha Children's Hospital for free. That concert will make you have broad outlook for Cambodia. |
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by wuweiye
| 7 Sep 2006 | 80% |
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Must try the Vietnamese food in a small Vietnamese Restaurant opposit to Golden Temple Villa. |
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by thomas7447
| 22 Sep 2006 | 80% |
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A real must to go here and spend the evening. Very good atmosphere and good meal. Only be carefull that you do not drink to much and fall down from the higher level ;-) |
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by djaspersen
| 24 Dec 2006 | 100% |
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Highlights of Siem Reap are definitely in the sightseeing and Angkor Wat. Take your time getting a reliable, good tuk tuk or taxi driver--it will make a HUGE difference. If you get a good driver, you will get some insight into the personal sides of Cambodia and the effects of the recent history of the Khmer Rouge. There are also are also many ways to help the poverty problem other than giving money to beggers. Look around for restaurants, hotels, galleries, and NGOs that donate part or all of their profits to help the needy. If you are going out to Angkor Wat, there are dozens of locals selling things. The prices on these are just as good (sometimes better) then at the markets in town and you are really helping the community out there. Do your shopping there if you don't mind carrying a little extra weight in your back pack for the day! |
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by saumilshah
| 27 Dec 2006 | 100% |
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I have travelled 22 countries and many many lovely places all over the world. The temples of Angkor rate at the very top of all the fantastic things I have seen and experienced. My heart goes out to the little children in Cambodia. At first, they may seem to be annoying in trying to sell trinkets to tourists, but if you spend some time in talking to them, you will realise they are so genuine, sweet and heartfelt. Carry some little presents and candy for them, I am sure they will love you for it. |
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by dairygirlfru
| 20 Jan 2007 | 100% |
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Nice place, cambodia seems frindlier than thailand..the people more smiley. Of course the temples were as good as you'd imagine them to be. |
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by erinfr
| 19 Dec 2006 | 80% |
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siem reap is not just about angkor wat. it is a great place to chill. awesome little bars and some great restaurants. plan to stay here 2 days, but stayed for 6, and would have loved to stay longer. wasn't expecting much from this little town, but has more to offer than you realise. the people are fantastic too! - they are beautiful friendly! |
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by jessolso
| 19 Dec 2006 | 100% |
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Siem Reap holds one of the seven wonders of the world so definitely a great trip to make. The people are friendly, the food is great, and the sights are amazing. |
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by Angeldio
| 30 Jan 2007 | 100% |
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ITs a very safe city with no worries to walk around at night. The locals are very friendly. Shopping with budget can be done with persistent in slashing the prices, but also keep in mind that the few dollars may mean nothing to you but a lot to them. Getting around to the temples can be quite cheap with yourself getting a driver cum guide. |
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by maggiemc5144
| 22 Dec 2006 | 80% |
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Siem Reap is easy to get around, losts to do and there are some great resturants around. Time is require to get the most out of this place, but it is awesome. |
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by sufu
| 6 Feb 2007 | 80% |
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Siem Reap is a great mix of culture. Loads of tourists but if you get past that you will really enjoy it for what it is. Theres loads of places to drink and eat, and some simply stunning buildings. Besides Angkor Wat there isn't a whole heap to keep you here for a long time. |
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by jhpotte
| 14 Dec 2006 | 100% |
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Quaint little town in northern Cambodia that is basically the gateway to Ankor. Easy to get around town. Easy to hire a Tuk Tuk to visit the temples and other places within close driving distance of town. Cambodia is a great cultural look at SE Asia. |
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by cellardo7850
| 4 Jan 2007 | 100% |
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great to see the temples in siem reap, but you must go to phnom phen for a better experience with the cambodian people. less touristy than siem reap. when you are in siem reap you should see an aspara dance, really beautiful to watch and something different than a bar. |
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by Asia07trip
| 30 Jan 2007 | 80% |
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it was awesome to see Angkor and I love the town and people. They were all very friendly and helpful. |
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by becca2255
| 30 Mar 2007 | 80% |
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The USD adds up and you tend to wonder where all your money went after your trip. Despite the costliness, Siem Reap's offerings are well worth the extra dollars. |
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| 24 Mar 2007 | 20% |
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There is a very noticeable difference between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. The tourist dollars that Angkor Wat is bringing in are definitely benefitting Siem Reap in the form of improved roads and better hotels. It definitely is going to look like a resort town in a few years, which may not be a good thing for those looking for a less "touristy" location. However, more tourist dollars means more jobs for this poverty stricken country. So if the price of elevating the Cambodians' standard of living means the gentrification of Siem Reap, then I think the price is well worth it. |
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| 6 Apr 2007 | 100% |
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Siem Reap is a beautiful place with so much character. A perfect place to spend time in between visiting the temples. |
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by ppeini6135
| 27 Mar 2007 | 60% |
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Siem Reap is really hot and i mean hot in several ways. 1) The weather in Siem Reap is very hot. We were there in Mar which is not exactly the best time to go. The temperature in Mar during day can be as hot as 36C 2) The attractions and scenary are hot. It was totally awesome to see sunrise and sunset at Angkor Wat. 3) The food is hot and tangy. Relatively similar to Thai Food, Khmer cuisine is rich in flavour as it uses lots of spices, chilli and coconut milk. |
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by paul
| 18 Jun 2007 | 100% |
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We really liked Siem Reap. The main attraction here are the Angkor Wat temples just outside the town. The area is marked as a World Heritage Site so obviously well worth a visit. It's amazing walking around the temples....there is even a group of monkies which run around the area. We got a balloon ride above the temples...its restricted by a steel cable, but one balloon broke free a few years ago...good fun :-) |
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by gracebw2
| 26 Jun 2007 | 100% |
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Siem Reap is really a jumping point for Angkor Wat. But, that being said, it isn't a bad town in and of itself. There is a strip with many bars and restaurants which cater to the tourists. The food here isn't bad, and the beers are plentiful and cheap. After climbing around the temples all day, a nice cold Tiger beer is well needed. |
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| 17 Sep 2007 | 100% |
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The city near the Angkor temples is a lot of fun. And a good way to discover the modern Cambodia. Inhabitants are real fine people, always smiling and laughing. Don't forget to try the cambodian massages by blind people, it's a real great experience. |
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by kilfe
| 6 Nov 2007 | 100% |
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There is something for everyone here. Temples of Angkor, pizzas, good bars, markets, and lots of places to do volunteering work. |
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by minskyvegas
| 1 Nov 2007 | 60% |
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I believed this is the only place where you can find all these craving and no where else. Need to walk alot and climb alot over at AngKo Wat temple and others too. Is a worth seeing place to visit. |
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by Oswel6194
| 18 Nov 2007 | 80% |
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Siem Reap is an essential stop on any trip round southeast Asia. It would be mad not to take in this pleasant town with mind boggling archaeological remains if you are anywhere near. Say within 1000 Km. First off, I confess I\'m 3 times the age of the average backpacker but Siem Reap is a great place to visit - big enough for variety and small enough to find your way around easily on foot if you don\'t fancy a tuktuk. Stay at the Rosy, visit the Funky Monky, Warehouse, Le Grand Cafe for refreshment after breathtaking Ta Prohm, Banteay Srei, and of course Angkor Wat. |
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| 23 Nov 2007 | 100% |
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siem reap is one of the places to see before you die. the culture, the people, the place are beautiful. stunning ruins of the ancient world makes you wonder what it would have been like had such a world lived on. it\'s a wonderful experience! |
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by ahmgaafar
| 12 Nov 2007 | 60% |
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The Angkor temples are a must see, don\'t skip them if you\'re in SE Asia. |
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by ramzi8313
| 31 Jan 2008 | 100% |
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The Angkor ruins are stunning , a must see. Siem Reap being a city next tot he ruins is a great place to chill out, it\'s famous French quarters offer great places to stay |
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by Gibbsy
| 25 Jan 2008 | 140% |
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Excellent Hostel. The staff were very friendly and very helpful. Good food. The p`lace was very chilled out. Only 10 min walk into town and if you´re looking for somewhere quieter to stay it´s an ideal spot. |
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