Siem Reap is one of the world’s must-sees, renowned for being home to the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the incredibly mesmerising temple complex of Angkor Wat; attracting visitors to marvel at spectacular ancient Khmer monuments. The town of Siem Reap itself is a chic haven of relaxation, fine dining and is a lively hub of evening entertainment with a growing artsy scene.

Insights into Cambodia’s Club Escape

Socrates Alvarok is the General Manager of one of our wonderful Club Escapes, the beautifully stylish Anantara Angkor Resort & Spa and reveals his favourite Angkor Wat temple. “It has to be Ta Prohm for the atmosphere and to see nature intertwined with exquisite hand-crafted skills. Much of the Temple was uncovered from the jungle, creating a unique and beautiful combination of wood and stone.”

To add some real depth to your trip to Angkor Wat and enhance your experience, pay a visit to Angkor National Museum. The world-class collection of artefacts inspires cultural learning through art and history, with impressive multimedia technology exhibitions.

For quality souvenirs and sumptuous silks, the Artisans d’Angkor is focused on preserving traditional Khmer skills and showcases Cambodian crafts which echo Angkor’s heritage, as well as contemporary handmade clothing and decorative gifts and mementos. You can take a free guided tour of the workshops at Siem Reap, seeing up close the ancient talents of stone and wood carving; lacquering; painting; silver plating; and silk painting, living on through modern-day artisans.

Just less than 20 kilometres outside Siem Reap, Kampong Phluk is a fishing village on stilts, and a quiet location off the beaten tourist track. By the calm waters of Tonle Sap, Cambodia’s largest lake, stands an over-water village where time seems to have stood still across the floodplains.

Outside of Siem Reap, General Manager Socrates recommends soaking up some natural Cambodian tranquillity too. “A good day trip is to Mechrey Village, to the west of Siem Reap. It is set in the stunning Cambodian countryside which is best seen during the wet season. The rural greenery and serene rice field scenery is so removed from the hustle and bustle of Siem Reap.”

For the Anantara Angkor Resort & Spa General Manager this area is not just about the temples. “As long as you are prepared to explore you will discover that Cambodia has so much more to offer, such as incredible countryside, beautiful remote islands and a rich variety of wildlife.”

Have you ever visited Angkor Wat? What made this incredible place memorable to you?

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