10 Useful Tips While Travelling in Siem Reap, Cambodia
During the last visit to Siem Reap, we spent a total of 7D6N there and it was an interesting yet mind blowing experience in the temple town. Here we are sharing some of the useful tips for those who are paying visit to the historical province soon.
1) Conversion rate
USD = 4000 Riels (Though Riels is the Cambodia's official currency, almost all souvenir shops and restaurants at Siem Reap town prefer US Dollars to Riels). Somehow we realized that the hypermarket inside Lucky Mall has a slightly higher exchange rate of 4200 Riels.
2) Torn note
However, the USD notes which are torn, dirty or damaged may be rejected here. Please check each note you have exchanged at the bank or money changer, especially the 100 USD note.
3) Temple hopping by bike!
Cycling to the Angkor temples from town is no big deal as we initially thought. We tried for two days and covered the Small Circle on the first day and sunrise at Angkor Wat on the third. Pros: you get to visit the preferred temples at your own pace, and this works well for traveller on budget. Plus you get a free workout while travelling. The hotel charges for a normal bike rental is 3 USD, mountain bike 5 USD, you can look for cheaper option (1 USD) at most of the bicycle shops in town, with some may require you to submit the passport.
4) Cycling precaution
While touring the temples with bicycle, it’s wise to carry your bag on shoulder rather than putting it on the basket. We were warned twice by the patrol guard that bag snatching incident is common in Angkor Park areas, especially before dawn when all tourists are heading to Angkor Wat for sunrise. On top of that, ensure that both the bicycle front and rear light and its bell are working.
1) Conversion rate
USD = 4000 Riels (Though Riels is the Cambodia's official currency, almost all souvenir shops and restaurants at Siem Reap town prefer US Dollars to Riels). Somehow we realized that the hypermarket inside Lucky Mall has a slightly higher exchange rate of 4200 Riels.
2) Torn note
However, the USD notes which are torn, dirty or damaged may be rejected here. Please check each note you have exchanged at the bank or money changer, especially the 100 USD note.
3) Temple hopping by bike!
Cycling to the Angkor temples from town is no big deal as we initially thought. We tried for two days and covered the Small Circle on the first day and sunrise at Angkor Wat on the third. Pros: you get to visit the preferred temples at your own pace, and this works well for traveller on budget. Plus you get a free workout while travelling. The hotel charges for a normal bike rental is 3 USD, mountain bike 5 USD, you can look for cheaper option (1 USD) at most of the bicycle shops in town, with some may require you to submit the passport.
4) Cycling precaution
While touring the temples with bicycle, it’s wise to carry your bag on shoulder rather than putting it on the basket. We were warned twice by the patrol guard that bag snatching incident is common in Angkor Park areas, especially before dawn when all tourists are heading to Angkor Wat for sunrise. On top of that, ensure that both the bicycle front and rear light and its bell are working.
5) Rainy season
It is the rainy season during May-December in Siem Reap. Never leave home without a poncho or umbrella. While cycling the Angkor Archaeological Park, always watch for the sky above and plan your temple tour and lunch spot ahead. My girlfriend and I had to make a stop at Sras Srang during our way back due to heavy rain, looking at the large pool once was reserved for the King and his consorts. We had some lovely cupcakes with drinks and the experience was simply amazing. The rain didn't last long and we were able to continue the journey after 30 minutes of waiting.
6) Kbal Spean
While visiting Kbal Spean,
remember to bring along your sunblock and mosquito repellent as you will be
spending some time in the forest areas. We hired the tuk-tuk for Kbal Spean and
Banteay Srei tour on the second day. It was a long ride and you have to hike
for another hour to the spot where “The River of a Thousand Lingas” is situated. Be
warned not to go off road as explosives from the past war might present. Both
places are worth a visit.
7) Tipping
You are always welcomed to give
small money tip to the tuk-tuk driver as a token of appreciation. We thanked
our driver by offering some tip for riding us through the heavy rain on the second
day. During the way back to hotel, he even offered us his raincoat to put on the
body to ensure we don’t get wet. We were moved by his act realizing the
challenging conditions the locals are facing in order to make a living,
especially in the low rainy season.
8) Dining
Western pubs and
restaurants along the Pub Street are definitely a must-try at Siem Reap. We visited
the famous Red Piano, Little Italy, Le Tigre de Papier restaurants (Pub Street
area) and had the best burger at Jungle Burger sports bar and bistro (Wat Bo
area). The food and beer served are great at decent prices.
9) Shopping
There are several markets
available in town and these are the best places to shop for the local street
snacks, clothings and souvenirs. To name a few, the Old Market, Angkor Night
Market and Art Centre Night Market has everything offered at good deals.
Bargaining is always welcomed.
10) Timing
During our visit to Angkor Wat, it was the first day in Lunar calendar (Full-moon day). We can still enter the temple but prohibited from entering into the central towers. There are 5 towers in the middle of Angkor Wat, where 4 towers located at each corner and the other one located in the middle. In normal day, one tower would be opened for public to climb up. We were told by a local guide on that day that the towers are closed for some praying ceremony.
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