Sep/090
Visit Siem Reap Cambodia
By far, the most famous sight in all of Cambodia is Angkor Wat. Dating back 900 years, it has survived the Vietnam War and the Khmer Rouge Regime with little damage. Many tourists come to Cambodia for one reason and one reason only to see Angkor Wat and each year tourist numbers are increasing immensely.
This majestic complex consists of hundreds of temples covering 500 acres of land. It wasn't long ago that you could walk through these ruins without seeing another person for hours. Where once it was abandoned and looted of precious pieces, it is now a thriving attraction receiving over a half a million visitors a year. With admission being $20 per day it is a real deal by western standards.
Mother nature has done her work well reclaiming the land once ruled by a great empire. The jungle had almost swallowed up the temples of Angkor, until great efforts were made in restoration. In recent years many temples have been restored to their original grandeur. The Main Temple of Angkor Wat is well preserved and a breathtaking sight. Its five main towers jut into the air as high as 66 meters (215 ft) from its 1.6 km (1 mile) long base.
There are two must see temples at Angkor Wat. Ta Prom and Angkor Tom. Each is unique in different way. Ta Prom is a great display on how much the jungle really overtook the complex with trees and vines growing all over it. Angkor Tom is impressive to see the dozens of demons and gods lining the path leading up to the temple.
Many people spend several days at Angkor Wat. An interesting way to see the ruins is to try to see them from above. You can hire a hot air balloon for a birds eye view or you can climb up Bakhen Hill for sunset. This will give you a true sense of just how grand the ruins are.
The main town near Angkor Wat is Siem Reap. It is being restored nicely as tourist flock to the area and you can take a walk to see the French Influence left behind by their occupation. Colonial buildings and baguettes are just a few things that will remind you of a little piece of France.
For a different view, check out the old market. It will give you a real sense of life in Cambodia as vendors line the aisles with everything from live fish that they will clean before your very eyes, to fresh fruit. It is recommended to look for trinkets and souvenirs here instead of at the more expensive tourist stores.
Another place to visit is the Cambodia Land Mine Museum. It is located just outside of town and it is a good history lesson into the struggles of the Cambodian people. The founder Aki Ra has been clearing mines for over 15 years and here you will find his collection of many of the bombs that he has cleared himself. It has started to attract so many visitors, that there is actually plans to build a larger museum in the works.
In actual fact there are an estimated 6 million landmines posing a danger to the people of Cambodia. Already there are tens of thousands of victims ranging from amputees to deaths. This museum is a place that has helped to bring awareness to the plight of the country's people.
If you can only visit one area in Cambodia, Siem Reap is the place to go. It is building up to the point where you can find world class hotels or stay in a small guest house. You can eat street food at the market or enjoy an elegant meal at a fine restaurant.
Take a day to go out to see the countryside. The largest fresh water lake in all of South East Asia is located close to Siem Reap and you can visit one of several silk farms. Hire a taxi or a tuk tuk and enjoy the natural setting. See oxen pull carts and watch people work in the rice paddy fields. You will feel as if you have stepped back in time watching life slowly unfold before your eyes.
Whatever you desire, this exotic destination will excite and move you and leave you with fond memories for years to come
Deb Corbeil and Dave Bouskill are an Adventure Couple from Canada. Together they have visited over 35 countries on 5 continents. Every new adventure takes them to remote corners of the world where they paddle, hike and trek their way around the globe. Visit their website theplanetd.com for more tips and information on exciting destinations around the world. For photos of their travels click on picturetheplanet