Siem Reap (Angkor)

We need some relaxation after Phnom Penh. On our way through Cambodia, we stop in Siem Reap. A small town right next to the temple city of Angkor. We decide to book a cozy hotel with a pool so we can relax by the water in addition to visiting the temples.

The city of Siem Reap is relatively small and probably the quietest city we have been to so far. Along the canal that runs through the city, there are street food stalls of all kinds and great restaurants. So we enjoy ourselves and appreciate the relaxed atmosphere.

We use our second day to visit some temples in the ancient city of Angkor. To visit all the sites, you need several days, but we decide to visit only the most important temples.

At its peak, the city covered an area of about 1,000 square kilometers, making it the largest city in the world. The city was founded around 800 and lost some importance around 1400 but was never completely abandoned. Today, only the temple complex remains.

To make the most of the day, we hire a tuk-tuk driver who picks us up at 5:00 am for $20 and takes us around the sites.

The first temple is Angkor Wat. The largest and best-preserved temple. There, we admire the sunrise and the architecture of the complex. It is hard to imagine that it was possible to build such structures, artificial lakes, and irrigation systems almost 1,000 years ago.

We like the Bayon Temple and the 'Tomb Raider' Temple the most. Both are in rather poor condition, which gives them a mysterious feel.

On this day, we see at least five larger temple complexes and several smaller ones. So we cover a considerable distance on foot and are glad to be able to jump in the pool when we return.

We take it easy for the remaining days in Siem Reap and enjoy the beautiful weather by the pool.