CAMBODIA

TASTES OF CAMBODIA

Cambodia is attracting more and more tourists – primarily due to the temples near Siem Reap (Angkor Wat). Most of nationalities need tourist visa for Cambodia. But it is easy to get on on arrival. Either at land crossings from Thailand, Vietnam or Laos or at the airports. Avoiding long procedure it is advisable to get electronic visa in advance. It costs a little bit more (from around 37 USD) but it is worth the effort. Among several websites I had good experience with agency Go-Cambodia.

Before starting the trip don't forget to get medical insurance - CORIS served me well!

Siem Reap is an attractive town along the river. With plenty of restaurants, pubs, shops and hotels. I stayed in a quiet part where I found a small green oasis – Dream mango villa.

 

The friendly owner greets every guest with a free beer. Rooms are set in two buildings around an inviting swimming pool. All of them has got a small balcony. The interior decor is simple but attractive, with lots of bamboo around. Breakfast (including) is served in an open restaurant. The chef also prepares tasteful meals.

 
Visiting the temples: the most comfortable way is taking a taxi (car or tuk-tuk). Tempting alternative is renting a car, motorcycle or even bicycle. Be prepared for at least 30 km ride if you want to see some different Khmer temples. All visitors (except the locals) have to pay steep entrance fee (37 USD). Bicycle (from 2 USD per day) is a good alternative. Not too hard as the roads are flat and there are lots of trees, so the sun is not posing too much trouble. One can admire the temples even from the air. From the fixed air balloon which is available some hundred meters away from Angkor Wat (15 USD). - Angkor Balloon.

The views of area are spectacular!

There are some museums worth to visit in Siem Reap. Also the Silk factory and perhaps for a change exploring tastes of local food with a Cambodian chef. I had unforgettable experience with the cooking class – Country side cooking class. We visited the local market with an excellent English speaking guide Vuthy. Then we continued preparing different meals in an outdoor kitchen. We used fire wood which was another unique experience. And our chef Mrs Phat La was a great master and teacher even she doesn't speak English. Highlight of the class was the end - we had to eat what we cooked - and it was so good!

 

I attended similar one but with a different food in old town Battambang - Nary kitchen.

Cooking in Cambodia is real fun. And eating afterwords even more….

 Battambang used to be colonial town but there is not left much to see. The most interesting are two of the markets and some nice restaurants. And it is a good base for excursions - to some temples, caves, bamboo train...The works on normal rail but the simple cars are home made- of steal, bamboo and small motor attached. The ride is short but fun!