What do you think of when Cambodia is mentioned? If your answer is the Angkor Wat and more temples in the picture, you are not entirely wrong. Let’s just say, there’s so much more to Cambodia than meets the eye. Siem Reap is Cambodia’s burgeoning capital, destined for great establishments and things.

With its own unique traditions, modern establishments, bar-filled streets, workshops and tours sprouting from every corner of the city, Siem Reap is one fine Southeast Asian gem to visit if you haven’t already.

Here are 23 Reasons Why Siem Reap should be the top of your bucket list.

#1 ANGKOR NATIONAL MUSEUM

Located a stone’s throw away from Angkor Wat is Angkor National Museum. For those who are keen on learning about the Khmer empire, the museum has a collection of images, relics and artifacts from the Khmer Kings, Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom.

#2 ANGKOR ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK

Behold, one of the most important archaeological sites in Asia. Possessing the most riveting remains of the Khmer empire, this UNESCO-declared site holds the most symbolic structures and religious stories of Cambodia.

Photo Credit: tripadvisor

#3 ANGKOR NIGHT MARKET

Situated near Sivatha Street, Angkor Night Market offers a wonderful assortment of handicrafts, souvenirs, apparels and accessories.

#4 ANGKOR WAT

A colossal Cambodian beauty and identified as one of the wonders of the world, Angkor Wat is a sight to behold. This attraction may be packed with tourists during the day, but that does not mean it wouldn’t be an enjoyable experience. The beguiling sight itself will be sure to leave you weak in the knees.

Photo Credit: hakstours

#5 BANTEAY SREI

Made almost entirely out of red sandstone, the details on the walls of Banteay Srei are intricately and meticulously carved. One of Angkor’s outstanding constructions and masterpieces, it is also a well-preserved Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva.

#6 BAYON

This mesmerising 12th-century temple is dedicated to Cambodia’s most renowned king, Jayavarman VII. Find out more about Cambodia’s rich history in the 12th century with carvings of everyday life all the way from the Khmer Empire on Bayon’s walls.

#7 COOKING CLASS

There is a plenty of countryside cooking classes at Siem Reap. Bring yourself to a Cambodian market for some local picks and learn how to prepare local Cambodian dishes and treats!

Photo Credit: hakstours

#8 FLOATING VILLAGES

The Tonle Lake floating village is definitely on every tourists’ itinerary. Expect gaudy sarongs, silk scarves, bamboo cutlery, wood carvings and souvenirs. Similar authentic floating villages are Kompong Khleang and Kompong Phluk, and they are located farther down Tonle’s shores.

#9 FOODIE TOUR ON A VESPA

Grab your helmets and zoom around on a Vespa. Join Cambodia Vespa at night to discover authentic Cambodian food at hidden locations. Sit back, relax and let your driver lead the way!

Photo Credit: flickr

#10 HAVE A DRINK AT ‘ANGKOR WHAT’

Angkor What is one of the best bars in Cambodia for a refreshing experience of Cambodian nightlife. If you are seeking a good night to party and find new friends, this bar at Pub Street should be where you should head to.

#11 HONEYBEES

A unique and fun experience, watch how rafter beekeeping has been practised since many hundreds of years ago. Take a once-in-a-lifetime chance to watch a Cambodian honey-hunter at work. A rare sight nowadays, tourists are flocking over to watch this diminishing practice.

Photo Credit: tripadvisor

#12 HORSE-RIDING

Horse farms in Siem Reap are normally located in rural areas of the city. Relax and unwind with trail rides around bucolic villages of Siem Reap on a horse and explore the countryside the traditional way!

Photo Credit: madmonkeyhostels

#13 HOT AIR BALLOON

Explore Siem Reap with style! Angkor Hot Air Balloon is the first and only hot air balloon flight company to offer trips around Siem Reap. You will get to marvel at picturesque cityscapes of Siem Reap and attain an unforgettable experience around the city.

#14 LANDMINE MUSEUM

How much do you know about landmines? Do you know there are approximately 5 million of them still in Cambodian grounds? Clearing landmines are vital to Cambodians, hence it is imperative that education on landmines are covered.

The landmine museum touches on the dangers of landmines and their origins. There are various types of landmines and it becomes pretty interesting once you’ve learned how to identify them!

#15 LES ARTISANS D’ ANGKOR

Are you fascinated by the Khmer Arts? 2 minutes away from Old Market and Pub Street is a charming site filled with meticulously designed Khmer handicraft. A guide will be of service to share stories of Khmer handicraft and bring you around if you require assistance.

Photo Credit: backstreetacademy

#16 ZIPLINE

Get on the extreme side and strap yourself on a zipline. Angkorzipline offers a brilliant way to traverse across the Cambodian rainforests. The journey along famous zipline courses is sure to be thrilling.

#17 PHARE, THE CAMBODIAN CIRCUS SHOW

If you are a fan of Cirque du Soleil, you won’t want to give Phare a miss! Animal lovers will also be relieved to note that no animals are used for the performance.

#18 PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR

For aspiring photographers who want to add on to their photo collections with photos of Siem Reap’s landscapes, opt for a photography tour! Professional photographers are also there to give you tips.

Photo Credit: indochinatravelpackages

#19 PSAH CHAS OLD MARKET

Psah Chas Old Market might have everything on your shopping list—paintings, notes, silverware, carvings and apparels. Bargaining is allowed.

#20 SENTEURS D’ANGKOR

With a wide collection of silk and carvings, the Senteurs d’Angkor carries a vast range of beauty products and spices made by Cambodians themselves.

Photo Credit: tripadvisor

#21 SRAH SRANG

Dubbed the ‘Royal Bathing Pool’, Srah Srang is surrounded by lush greenery and a serene and aesthetic spot for meditation and relaxation. Srah Srang is situated across the road from the east entrance of Banteay Kdei.

Photo Credit: latitudes

#22 STREET FOOD

Emerge from the bar-filled streets of Pub Street and locate the street food vendors for authentic Cambodian delicacies. The popular street food you will find at Siem Reap are pancakes, bananas, and noodles.

Photo Credit: angkortuktuk

#23 TUK-TUK RIDE

A Tuk-Tuk ride in Cambodia sure feels the same as taking a Tuk-Tuk ride down Bangkok’s bustling streets. It is a local transportation mode to experience while commuting from one place to another!

Read: 48 Hours in Phnom Penh, Cambodia – 12 Tips on What To See & Do.

Located in the Southern side of Phnom Penh city, Russian Market aka Psah Toul Tom Poung is a bustling bazaar that offers travellers spectacular glimpses of local Cambodians’ livelihoods, comprehensive variety of value-for-money souvenirs and endless photographic opportunities.

The Russian Market was extremely popular amongst the Russian expatriates in the 1980s, hence gaining its apt name. From processed fishes, motorcycle spare parts, knock-off merchandise to even nail parlours, you can find virtually every item and service available here.

When in Cambodia, Psah Toul Tom Poung is a must to visit.

Getting lost whilst navigating through the haphazard Russian Market is part of the package for first-timers, so put your guidebook down and simply let your senses lead you around!

//

The interesting thing about the Russian Market is that it is simultaneously local and touristy. Every section of the market is inherently different, and after a thorough exploration, the vastness will impress you.

Every item thinkable can be found at Russian Market (well, almost) and all you have to do is to look around and put your bargaining skills to test.

Fashion-centric shopaholics can congregate themselves in the narrow retail segment, where endless garment stalls lined up at both ends await.

//

While authenticity is evidently questionable, you will be surprised that originals from Calvin Klein and Gap etc are up for grabs too. They have been stitched in local Cambodian factories and somehow ended up in these messy piles.

If retail therapy is not your cup of tea, wander away from the commercial areas and venture into the gloomy mechanic shops. We were blown away by the sheer amount of motorcycle spare parts that were for sale and how these stores were actually thriving. We soon learned that the Khmer natives would actually purchase various individual parts to assemble a motorcycle.

Sure, you are unlikely to be purchasing any spare parts, but it is still worth a shot to explore.

//

Feeling peckish? Street food vendors are situated in the middle and outside of the market, where you can get your hands on delicious meals at unbelievably low prices.

Beyond clothing, food and spare parts, there are still heaps of stuff to browse through at the Russian Market. Visitors can allocate approximately 1-2 hours of their time to check out this vibrant attraction.

It is recommended that visitors visit in the early morning or late afternoon to escape from the unbearable heat.

Russian Market (Psah Toul Tom Poung)
Corner Street 163 and Street 444, Phnom Penh
Daily: 7am – 5pm

From visiting the Tuol Genocide Museum to sampling crickets, here are 12 Tips on What To See and Do with 48 Hours in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves traveling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.

No trip to Cambodia is complete until you try their national dish – Fish Amok. The exact presentation and texture of the complex delicacy vary across Cambodian regions, but key ingredients such as marinated fish, curry paste and aromatic spices remain present in all Fish Amok recipes.

Coming across the classic Fish Amok outside of Cambodia is extremely rare. The underrated exotic Cambodian cuisine was nearly exterminated altogether with countless of innocent victims under the Khmer Rouge era, but has since then made a comeback in its place of origin in the recent decades.

There are virtually no Cambodian restaurants in Singapore and eating the classic Fish Amok was only made possible on a recent trip to Cambodia; this delightful local Khmer dish has completed our experience to Cambodia.

Traditionally, a plethora of herbs are painstakingly pounded by hand to form a smooth herbal curry paste. Fortunately, the advancement and availability of technology has eased this tedious job for most Cambodian chefs. Today, the kroeung paste can be made easily by grinding chilli paste, chopped galangal, garlic cloves, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass stalks, shallot bulbs and tumeric powder altogether with the aid of a food processor.

However, there are many street vendors and rural families that still stick to the conventional method of pounding herbs due to their financial inability to afford electrical equipments.

Anyway, the resulting curry paste is then used to cook bite-size portion of catfishes (or other types of firm white fishes) alongside coconut milk and shrimp paste. The end result is a flavourful thickened curry fish mixture.

Portions of the final paste is then placed into bamboo leaf squares and topped with thick coconut cream, julienne red peppers and slices of thin kaffir lime leaves. Bowls of plain white rice are usually served on the side with the Fish Amok.

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves traveling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.

Armed with a handy weather-proof Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8, we boarded a plane with the Panasonic team and embarked on a weekend adventure around the capital of Cambodia.

Cambodia is just a 2-hour flight away, and the historically rich third-world city is a destination in Southeast Asia worth visiting. An exotic experience is almost guaranteed if you visit with an open mind; indeed, we had a great time immersing ourselves into the Khmer culture.

It was surely a fulfilling weekend and we had the special moments all photographed with the all new Lumix DMC-GX8 that shall serve us as happy memories.

From visiting the Tuol Genocide Museum to sampling crickets, here are 12 Tips on What To See and Do with 48 Hours in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

We could hardly believe that it has been only less than four decades since the Khmer Rouge took over The Pearl of Asia and turned the city upside down. Approximately 1.5 million innocent Cambodians have died and the end result is an imbalanced demographic. Today, Khmer youths, who are the descendants of survivors, make up the main population.

Over the past years, Phnom Penh has slowly but surely risen from the ashes and is such an underrated beautiful travel destination.

DAY ONE

#1 VISIT THE CENTRAL MARKET

The Central Market was constructed in 1935 and since then, it has been an iconic landmark of Phnom Penh. The busy bazaar sells a myriad of garments and miscellaneous lifestyle items where you can put your haggling tests to skill. Singaporeans sure love bargaining, yes?

And if you take a walk outside Phsar Thmei, the sea of motorbikes skilfully traversing through the hectic roads in opposite directions would probably leave you in awe. Those riding skills, really.

This exterior shot of The Central Market you see here was actually snapped while we were still inside the van. You bet we were really impressed by how the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8 could manage such clear pictures even when we were seated in a moving vehicle.

The Central Market is open daily from 5am to 5pm.

#2 SAMPLE INSECTS AT CAMBODIA’S FIRST MALL

Aeon Mall is the first shopping centre in Cambodia and is a spectacularly large complex stocked with familiar global brands. But it is not the retail stores that we are after – head straight to the basement where you get to feast on an amazing spread of Khmer delicacies! This is when we laid our eyes on insects that have been fried with chilli, herbs and salt.

These deep-fried crunchy insects are actually considered a staple food in the diets of Cambodians. Curious foodies who have always wanted to sample cocoon worms or fried crickets (yet daunted by potential hygiene factors of street food) should give them a go at the underground food section of Aeon Mall. Challenge accepted?

P.S. They really ain’t that bad.

132, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Daily: 9am – 10pm

#3 VISIT TUOL GENOCIDE MUSEUM

Tuol Genocide Museum was a detention camp for the Khmer Rouge where they captivated over 20,000 innocent civilians (women and children included) and tortured them to death. Only seven prisoners have survived the authoritarian regime’s Nazi-like inhumane prison. The museum displays brutal torment methods, crammed cells and portraits of victims.

No photography is allowed at Tuol Genocide Museum. Back then, this tragic site was known as Security Prison 21 aka S-21, which was actually a former local high school.

Caution: A trip to the Tuol Genocide Museum will leave visitors extremely heavy-hearted. Only those who truly want a better understanding of Cambodia’s violent history should visit.

The museum is open daily from 7am to 5.30pm.

#4 CHECK OUT THE ROYAL PALACE

Constructed over a century ago, the Royal Palace of Cambodia is an attraction that you must stop by at. The magnificent historical infrastructure – characterised by traditional Khmer and European architectural styles – is home to the Cambodian King to date. You can visit selective parts of the palace complex or wander around the park situated outside of the royal residence.

Despite being a touristy place of interest, the public outdoor park is actually a hangout spot for the locals too. Visits to The Royal Palace are best during the late afternoon, so that you can witness the clear blue skies transform into spellbindingly stunning shades of orange. When night approaches, the palace is lit up by mesmerising lights.

The palace is open daily from 8am to 5pm.

#5 EXPLORE THE SCENIC SISOWATH QUAY

Located just a stone’s throw away from The Royal Palace, the 3-kilometre long bustling waterfront is lined with bars, hotels, restaurants and whatnot. The scenic Sisowath Quay is akin to the Orchard Road of Singapore, but with an alarming rate of pickpockets. Be mindful of your personal belongings and avoid flaunting your wealth to avoid unnecessary attention.

The promenade running along the Tonle Sap River is frequented by both locals and tourists. Elderly natives are seen practising tai chi along the sleepy riverside walk in the morning, while foreigners flock to the bars in the evening for happy hour promotions. Getting a tuk tuk or finding a dinner venue along Sisowath Quay is not tough here.

#6 TRADITIONAL KHMER MASSAGE AT AMARA SPA

Pamper yourselves at Amara Spa where you call it a day with a relaxing massage. Depending on your preference, we actually thoroughly enjoyed the traditional Khmer full-body massage. Contrary to popular belief, the Khmer massage is inherently different from Thai massages. Only a little stretching is still involved and don’t worry, they are not back-breaking at all.

For starters, traditional Khmer massages are characterised by strong kneading strokes and will leave your body relaxed. Half the time, you will be lying on your stomach, while the other half will have you lying on your back. The idea is to have both the front and back of your body’s energy line massaged. Amara Spa’s 90-minute Traditional Khmer Massage costs only US$18.

Corner of Sisowath Quay & St.110 Phnom Penh
Daily: 11am – 11pm

DAY TWO

#7 ROAM AROUND RUSSIAN MARKET

The Russian Market, otherwise known as Phsar Tuol Tom Pong, is a definite must-visit. Organised in a haphazard fashion, you are bound to get lost inside. An interesting thing about the Russian Market is that it is simultaneously local and touristy. From household goods, spare parts, clothing to glorious food, you can buy virtually anything here.

A bulky professional DSLR would not have allowed us to capture the everyday life of the Khmer people discreetly – but we managed to do so with the lightweight Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8. The market was very gloomy but we actually succeeded in snapping clear vibrant photos whilst walking. The end result was desirable and we were completely sold by the camera.

The Russian Market is open daily from 7am to 5pm.

#8 ADMIRE HAK SENG KIM’S SCULPTURES

Venture away from the eastern side of Russian Market and you will come across an art store called Hak Seng Kim that sells incredibly colourful, antique-looking sculptures. The shopkeeper was most kind by permitting us to photograph the displayed objects. And because the camera works brilliantly in low light, we’ve got some pretty great photos taken here.

With a quick aperture and ISO tweak, we managed to achieve the depth of field between each sculpture and the intended bokeh effect is everything to love.

And even after a long day of exploration, the weight of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8 did not bother us – not one bit. It is indeed an ideal travel camera that is no hassle to bring around.

Hak Seng Kim is located at #114, Street 450, East Side Toul Tompong Market.

#9 HISTORICAL LESSON AT CHOEUNG EK

The Killing Fields of Choeung Ek are 15 kilometres away from Phnom Penh’s city centre. The massive graveyard is where thousands were executed brutally. While there are actually numerous killing fields around Phomn Penh, Choeung Ek is believed to be the largest. Around a third of the communal graves remain untouched and skeletal remnants of victims are visible.

An on-site Buddhist Stupa contains more than 5,000 human skulls and a memorial ceremony is held every 9th of May. This place serves as a haunting reminder that countless of innocent Cambodians have died from horrific deaths under the Khmer Rouge’s reign. It is hard not to be shaken after a trip here, hence kids and those who are unable to handle the brutality should avoid.

#10 CRUISE AROUND IN A BOAT

Several boat cruises are available and they serve as splendid alternatives to admire Phonm Penh’s skyline. These sunset riverboats usually include food and beverages onboard and it is an excellent way to meet new people.

Two recommended companies are Phocea Mekong Cruises and Memorable Cambodia Cruise. Both cruises depart from the easily accessible Sisovath Quay.

#11 DO NOT FORGET THE CAMBODIAN BEERS

Beer guzzlers will be elated to know that the beers sold in Phnom Penh are unbelievably cheap. You can easily get your hands on a draught beer at just US$1. Two famous beers to look out for – namely Ang Kor Beers and Cambodia Beers. The former is a full-bodied lager beer with a smooth pleasant aftertaste, while the latter is an aromatic thin-bodied pale lager. Excited much?

The above image of the Ang Kor beer was snapped in a dimly lit gastrobar. Frankly speaking, it was only a test shot – which explains the messiness and lack of styling, and oh, pardon the folded serviettes in the background. But what we are trying to imply is that the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8 works superbly well in extreme low lights. No graininess is visible despite the high ISO setting.

#12 END YOUR TRIP WITH A BLAST AT NOVA CLUB

If the party animal within you is itching to break out into epic dance moves, then head over to NOVA Club. Coined as one of city’s best nightlife destinations, the international nightclub is the go-to place for partygoers and the entertainment showbiz of Phnom Penh. Similar to other cosmopolitan cities’ party venues, bottle and table VIP services are available too upon request.

Having said that, travellers should still lower their overall expectations and try not to compare Cambodia to clubbing experiences in first-world cities. It is, after all, not a first world city.

Do note that a fancy dress code still applies – strictly no flip flops, shorts and tank tops are allowed. Ladies Night is on every Wednesday, and all ladies enjoy complimentary cocktails until midnight.

No. 19 Street 214, Ville De Phnom Penh, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Daily: 9pm – 4am

THE ONE EASY TRAVEL CAMERA YOU NEED

Capture your travel moments with the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8. It is retailing at S$1,699 (with standard lens kit) at leading authorized dealers, and comes in two classic colours.

This post is brought to you by Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8.