From now on, I shall be sharing travel insights and (most importantly) itineraries as I enjoy planning but know that there are many individuals who don’t share the enthusiasm. My first travel itinerary shall be about:

Siem Reap, Cambodia

The only word that encapsulates Siem Reap would be magical – yes, magical! The spirit of Siem Reap is inspiring so if you’re in a rut, visit this enchanting city ASAP; I truly felt the hope emitting from each person I met – mainly hope for a better future, regardless of the hard work that dream entails. Almost every Cambodian I met spoke English or tried to converse with me in order to improve their English but the pleasure was truly mine as I managed to have a glimpse of Khmer life. I will admit that this country is still suffering from the impact of the Khmer Rouge so don’t be surprised if you burst into tears while talking to a local because that person will definitely share heart-wrenching information about how a relative or friend lost a limb due to the unexploded ordnance or was attacked by the Khmer Rouge or is being underpaid a ridiculous amount. I could go on and on and on but I won’t, so here is what’s important:

Travel Itinerary

This travel itinerary is for 5 days, 4 nights

• First Day

Arrive / Check In

War Museum – $5 but guides are free + recommended

Angkor National Museum – $12 entrance fee

Explore Pub Street – we stumbled upon a beautiful temple (Preah Prohm Rath) while exploring then later learnt that the temple also has mausoleums so if that unnerves you, take note

Mahob Khmer Cuisine – more than reasonable fine dining; I’d recommend the Khmer beef on a volcanic hot stone

• Second Day

Angkor Archaeological Park – $20 for a day pass but the price will increase to $37 for a day pass in 2017; we spend over five hours walking (+ being transported in a tuk-tuk) to the main sights

2$ massage in Pub Street – worth every penny!

Pub Street – I’d recommend Angkor What? for drinks

• Third Day

Khmer Ceramics Fine Art Centre – we decided to go for a $20 pottery class that lasted for nearly two hours and while the class was an unexpected experience overseas, pottery is definitely therapeutic! The end product can be collected later or delivered to your hotel or hostel

The Happy Ranch Horse Farm – we did the two hour trail ride for $46; I’d recommend going for a trail ride before or during the sunset as the view from the rice field is stunning! Also, be  prepared to be constantly greeted with smiles 🙂

Bugs Café – if you’re interested to try unconventional food prepared by qualified chefs with conventional ingredients, then definitely visit Bugs Café for a unique dining experience. I’d recommend the ‘discovery platter’ (pictured below) as the meal is worth the price! How many creepy crawlies do you spot?

• Fourth Day

WA Gallery Concept Store + McDermott Gallery – both are located next to the F.C.C Hotel; I’d recommend bringing money if you’re interested in buying prints from McDermott Gallery or jewelry from WA

Explore Old Market

Koulen II Restaurant – we paid $10 for a buffet that also included a stellar live performance of the apsara dance (and six other types of traditional dance). However, the drinks aren’t included so take note!

• Fifth Day

Depart

“Wherever you go, go with all your heart.” Confucius