Let's say you visit Siem Reap after a trip to neighboring Bangkok, a sequence of holiday travel that's likely the case for many a US tourist in Cambodia. The first thing you might notice is the stark contrast in body size between the citizens of the two countries: in Thailand, people are thinner than your average Westerner. In Cambodia, they look visibly thin - not sickly thin, but definitely more slender than their Thai counterparts. 

Their mitigated physique, sadly, is in part a lingering result of the the Khmer Rouge regime,* the rulers who starved their own people, tortured them, imprisoned them, and buried them en masse at The Killing Fields. It was only a little over a decade that their rule officially came to an end - and today, this agriculturally based nation has much more progress to be made before its residents are considered, on the whole, well fed.

And yet, the aforementioned lack of first-world plumpness is just the first thing you notice, if you notice it at all, and certainly not the only thing. A more substantial impression quickly follows, one of the exceeding optimism lit up on the faces of the locals who are more than happy to see you.

Yes, tourists and their vacation dollars are very welcomed in Siem Reap, evidenced by the high level of service you'll receive in any restaurant, cafe or hotel bar you visit - and there seems to be a new one every week. On that note, the hustle and bustle of this developing town is tempered by a quotidian, almost secular Buddhism. There's a harmony that pervades the busy streets of Siem Reap, an undeniable sense of calm present at even the most confusing intersection, that makes every visitor feel at ease - at least within a few hours post-arrival.

And lest we wax too poetic about the vibe of Siem Reap, let's not forget the reason why people have been visiting the area as tourists since the 1930's: Angkor Wat, and Angkor Thom, home to the aforementioned temples and a walled-in city that is truly awe-inspiring. 

The miles upon miles of ancient structures are here for you to wander about - it's a World Heritage Site so massive, it can take months to truly explore, though most visitors only spend a few days. Regardless for how long you spend, please do; Siam Reap and Angkor Wat are a trip of a lifetime, and we know you won't regret a visit.

xo,

your jauntsetter team

* Brought to you with backing from the US Government

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You can visit Siem Reap all year round, though the winter months of December through February are ideal, and March the last month comfortable enough for most vacationers to want to make a holiday in Cambodia. After that, April ushers in the extreme heat and humidity of spring and summer.

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Siam Reap is a quick one hour flight from Bangkok. There are multiple, affordable flights daily with Bangkok Air. 

You can also take a 10 hour public bus-ride from Bangkok for under $35 USD - just note that it's a long, bumpy ride - we've done it, and we wished we'd brought Dramamine. Also, don't fall for Kho Sahn Road (backpacker row of Bangkok) touts who try and sell private bus tickets to Siem Reap. The tickets are often overpriced and the ride will ironically take longer than the public bus. Instead, ask someone at your hotel to help you figure out how to buy regular tickets yourself.

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Some people complain of "temple fatigue" after a few days touring Angkor Wat, and for those who aren't passionate about archeology, a stay of three days would more than suffice. That said, there's plenty to do in this tourist-friendly town, including the sampling of Cambodian cuisine, dance, and affordable massages. 

Those up for really exploring the area could easily spend a week here and be entertained by spending the cooler mornings at the temples, and the afternoons sightseeing outside the temples - or at a hotel pool.

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Our Budget Pick: Sojourn Boutique 

The Sojourn Boutique is a 15 minute, $5 tuk tuk drive outside of "town" proper, but with room rates starting at just $80/night, the money you'll save on accommodations will dwarf any transportation expenses you might incur. And with spacious rooms (and villas), poolside cocktail service, and friendly staff, most guests enjoy having an oasis of peace and calm to return to after a day of touring the temples in the sun. 

Bonus: The hotel is involved in a few philanthropic efforts in neighboring villages, and the owners will be more than happy to fill you in on their efforts. 

Our Midrange Pick: Pavillon d'Orient

Conveniently located in town, the Pavillon d'Orient is known for its attentive staff and excellent service. Need recommendations for a restaurant? No problem. A driver to pick you up at the airport, or take you to Angkor Wat? Their pleasure. How about a complimentary tuk tuk ride? Done and done. But it's not just the amenities that are lovely - rooms, too, are spacious and quiet. Stay here if you want to be close to the action of Siem Reap but also desire a peaceful night's sleep - at not too steep of a price. 

A double room starts at $100/night. Make your booking here.

Also located in the city proper, La Residence is a small but luxurious hotel with interior gardens, a full service spa, and most importantly, supremely comfortable rooms. And while not cheap - a Twin or King room starts at $289/night - this classy accommodation choice will please anyone looking to splash out on a trip to Southeast Asia. That said, try calling up and negotiating your room price, especially if staying more than a few days. Managers have been known to lower prices substantially.

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Check back on our blog where we'll have all sorts of tips on the best way to see Angkor Wat, what restaurants are worth your while, and lots more on the best of Siem Reap.