Tracing Cambodias Roots

Our trip to Cambodia started at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, where we caught a short flight to Siem Reap. The flight is only 1 hour and the ticket prices are mostly really affordable. The airport is big, with a good selection of restaurants and cafeterias.

We landed at Siem Reap International Airport in the afternoon. The airport was small but charming, with a relaxed vibe that made everything feel easy. We grabbed our bags quickly and were greeted by friendly faces and tuk-tuk drivers waiting outside. It was our first time in Cambodia, and we were both so excited.

We finally arrived after an hour tuktuk drive to our hotel. This hotel/resort is 5 stars. The room was traditionally decorated and well equipped. The staff was friendly and helpful although not everyone spoke excellent English. The swimming was huge and clean and there was free breakfast included. The price per night was only $50.

We rented a scooter from Siem Reap scooter rental. The girl at the desk was very helpful and polite. The scooters were all in great condition with helmets also provided. The price for the scooter was $8 dollars per day, and depending on the longevity of your rental you might be eligible for a discount. You should also have $100 in cash or the equivalent of the local currency for a deposit that will be refunded once you return the scooter. Overall highly recommended.

We had dinner at Mahob Cuisine. The place was really nice and peaceful, with a garden and a wooden house that felt cozy. We tried some local dishes like beef lok lak and fish amok, they were super tasty. It was our first proper meal in Cambodia, and we loved it! Prices were also very affordable, truly value for money!

We visited Angkor Wat and it was absolutely stunning. Walking through the ancient stone paths and seeing the carvings up close felt surreal. The size of the temple and how well it’s kept left us speechless. We took our time exploring, taking photos, and just enjoying the peaceful feeling of the place. It was one of those moments we’ll never forget.

After Angkor Wat, we made our way to Angkor Thom. The entrance with the giant stone faces was so impressive—it felt like something out of a movie. We loved walking around and discovering all the hidden spots inside.

Malis in Siem Reap had a peaceful and elegant setting, with traditional decor that made the place feel special. The food was delicious, dishes like fish amok and Khmer curry were full of flavor and beautifully presented. Prices were a bit higher than average, around $10–$15 per dish, but it felt worth it for the quality. The service was excellent, friendly, attentive, and professional without being too much. Overall, it was a really smooth and enjoyable experience.

Banteay Srei was one of the most impressive temples we visited. The intricate carvings on the red sandstone were incredibly detailed and beautiful. The temple felt smaller and more intimate compared to others, which made it feel even more special. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Siem Reap, and we went there on our scooter, which made the ride fun and gave us a chance to see more of the countryside.

Preah Dak was a really interesting stop on our trip. It’s a small village that felt authentic and away from the usual tourist crowds. We rode there on our scooter, which was about a 20-minute drive from Siem Reap. The area was peaceful, with local markets and a glimpse of everyday life in Cambodia. It was nice to explore the village, see the traditional lifestyle, and interact with the friendly locals.

Prasat Beng Mealea was a stunning temple to visit. It felt like an adventure, with the ruins partly overrun by nature, giving it a mysterious, untouched feel. The temple, made of sandstone, was much quieter than Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, which made it even more special.

For dinner we went to restaurant Wat Damnak. It has a great atmosphere and amazing, charming, and friendly staff members. The dishes were fresh and delicious. The prices were also affordable. We recommend this place for lunch or dinner at least once throughout your trip!

Around a 40 minute drive by scooter, we arrived at Kampong Phluk. We took a boat tour through the floating village. The stilted houses rising from the water were amazing to see up close, and the local way of life felt so unique. We also cruised through the mangrove forests, which was peaceful and beautiful. It was a great way to get away from the usual tourist spots and experience something different.

The restaurant had a really cozy, traditional feel to it, with wooden furniture and a relaxed atmosphere. The menu offered a variety of local dishes, and everything we tried like the Khmer BBQ and grilled fish was full of flavour. The prices were reasonable, around $5–$10 depending on the dish, and the food was fresh and well-cooked.

Visiting the Angkor Silk Farm was a fascinating experience. Located about 16 kilometers west of Siem Reap in Puok District, the farm offers a comprehensive look into traditional Cambodian silk production. Upon arrival, we joined a free guided tour that walked us through the entire silk-making process, from cultivating mulberry trees and raising silkworms to extracting silk threads, dyeing them, and weaving the final products.

Phare, The Cambodian Circus, was an unforgettable highlight of our trip. The performers combined acrobatics, theater, and live music to tell compelling Cambodian stories. The energy and talent on display were captivating, making for a truly immersive experience. Tickets were reasonably priced, at $18 per person.

Phnom Sampov is about 3 hours from Siem Reap, near the city of Battambang. We went there as part of a small road trip using our scooter, which made the journey more fun and flexible. The road was smooth for the most part, and we passed through small towns and rice fields along the way. It was a long ride, but totally worth it for the views and the experience.

The restaurant had a modern yet cozy atmosphere, and the staff were welcoming. We shared dishes like the shiitake mushroom bao and a flavorful curry, each bursting with fresh, local ingredients. Prices were reasonable, with most dishes around $5.

Ek Phnom Temple, located about 11 kilometers north of Battambang, was a peaceful and unique spot to visit. The temple itself is a mix of a modern Buddhist pagoda and an ancient 11th-century Hindu temple. The place was quiet and relaxed we loved strolling around.

We hopped onto a small bamboo platform, powered by a motor, and sped along the tracks at a thrilling pace. The ride offered a unique perspective of the Cambodian countryside, passing through villages and lush landscapes. At the turnaround point, we had a chance to explore a local village, adding a cultural touch to the adventure. The entire journey was both exhilarating and immersive, making it a highlight of our trip. ​

The Lonely Tree Café in Battambang offers a memorable dining experience. Situated in the city center, the café features a cozy atmosphere with brick walls and elegant bamboo furniture. They serve a variety of dishes, including Khmer, Mediterranean, and Spanish cuisines, all prepared with fresh ingredients. Prices are reasonable, and the staff were helpful and polite.

Chong Khneas Floating Village was an interesting stop, but it felt a bit touristy. We took a boat ride through the village, seeing the stilted houses and people living on the water. It was cool to see how they adapt to the changing water levels, but the area was packed with other tourists, and there were a lot of souvenir shops. The floating market didn’t feel very authentic either, and we ended up seeing a crocodile farm, which didn’t sit right with us. It was still a unique experience.

Visiting the APOPO Visitor Center in Siem Reap was an eye-opening experience. We learned how African giant pouched rats, known as hero rats, are trained to detect landmines and unexploded ordnance, significantly enhancing safety in Cambodia. The guided tour included an educational video and a chance to interact with the rats, at the end of the tour we got the chance to hold the rats which we absolutely loved by other were a bit scared and hesitant. Nevertheless it was truly worth the $17 entrance ticket!

Pub Street in Siem Reap is the heart of the city's nightlife. As night falls, the street comes alive with neon lights, music, and a lively crowd. We strolled along the pedestrian-only street, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. We went from place to place, a pint of beer costed only $1. The were places that had pool tables which also held us entertained.

Situated between Pub Street and the riverside, the market was a bustling hub of activity. We navigated through narrow aisles lined with stalls selling everything from fresh produce and spices to handcrafted souvenirs. You can also find tee shirts, shoes, bags, sunglasses, and watches. It’s a good place to spend some time and money.

Socheata Restaurant in Siem Reap was a delightful find. We ordered traditional Khmer dishes, Fish Amok and Beef Lok Lak, each bursting with authentic flavors. The staff were warm and attentive, enhancing our dining experience. With most dishes priced around $4 to $5, it provided excellent value for money. The cozy atmosphere and genuine hospitality made it a place we'd happily return to.

Located along Pokambor Avenue near the city center, the temple grounds were serene and well-maintained. We admired the intricate architecture and colorful statues depicting Buddhist beliefs. It’s a nice place to spend some time and relax!

We found ourselves back at Siem Reap Airport, tired but full of memories. Sitting by the gate, we looked back on everything we had done, from ancient temples and quiet countryside rides to flavorful meals and warm local smiles. It felt like we had experienced a bit of everything Cambodia had to offer. This country is beautiful, filled with history, untouched nature, beautiful temples and amazing hospitality. We will sure be back!