www.theangkorguide.net

Trip along the Mekong River

2011-05-21T22:57:00.000-07:00

Our team has 8 people are deciding to visit north-eastern part of Cambodia along the Mekong River and as well Lao. The tour starts from 1st of May finish on 9th of May, we are passing by many provinces such as Kompong Thom, Kompong Cham, Kratie, Ratanakiri, Stung Treng and Champasak (Lao). Most of our members are tour guides in Angkor Archelogical Park because May is low season of tourist so that is the best month to travel in order to get better experience around Cambodia and other country.

1st Day (01 May 2011)
Tour start at 07:00 am and we had appointment to meet at Caltex service station and leave for Kratie, along the way to Kratie we pass by Kompong Thom and Kompong Cham, we stopped at Kompong Cham to visit Phnom Bros and Phnom Srei, two of this hills changed the custom of Cambodia which Cambodian women are asking men to get married, after victory of women.. It is hard to get to hilltop of Phnom Srei that we need to walk up the stair over 200 steps, we could see a beautiful landscape around the mountain and a small temple. But there are more shrines and Buddha images at Phnom Bros which you can enjoy the Buddhist study at this place. The journey begins to Kratie and we passed by many big farms on the way such as rubber, potato, cashew nut and many other plantations. Kratie is a charming town located along teh east bank of the Mekgon River, due to its good geographic situation Kratie is gateway to Cambodia's beautiful north east region and has good access from various places of the country. we are staying at Oudom Sambath Guesthouse and there are quite a few foreigners are staying in this province because there are many Irrawaddy dolphins along the Mekong river. The river front area is the focus of tourist activities and existing hotels guest houses and rsataurants. Overnight in Kratie

2nd Day (02 May 2011)
In the morning we are having breakfast at the guesthouse and then leave for Ratanakiri, and we stop at one village just 10 km from the centre of Kratie, most of the villagers are raising fishes and other vegetables, an organization is introducing a method and skill of breading fish. We met uncle and interviewed him about all the work related to fish production. After spending an hour at uncle home we started our journey to KAMPI DOLPHIN VIEWING SITE, it is a best place in Cambodia to see the rare Mekong River Dolphin, Kampi Dolphin is the most habitated Dolphins which was established in 1999 to welcome international and local tourists and for scientific researchers to study the Dolphin and rare fresh water mammals of the world. There are motor boat available to shuttle visitors out of the Mekong River to see olphin at clsoe quarters. The best time to see those is at Dry season early morning and later afternoon. At the site there are food, drinki, snack and souvenirs of the wooden dolphin carving sold by the local community. we hired big boat along the Mekong to see Dolphin with a promise to refund if we can't see Dolphin. We saw several dolphins came out of the water surface and there were lots of fun photographing Dolphin, my camera is good enough to capture their photo with lens (AF DX 75 - 300 mm).

Another long drive to Ratanakiri and spend overnight in this province, stay at Mean Mean Hotel located in the central area of Banlung (provincial town) just 2 min walk to restaurant and market street. Ratanakiri is a region rich in natural beauty and is home to several ethnic hill tribe minority groups. Tours able to visit local communities and experience firsthand the everyday life, traditions, customs and rituals of the indigenous people. Overnight in Ratanakiri.

3rd Day (03 May 2011)
In the morning we were heading to Voeun Sai, it is a pleasant little community of Chinese, Lao and Kreung villagers. Voeun Sai is also a home to Virachay National Park headquarters, although there is very little information available and it easier to organize trek into the park out of Ban Lung. Our destination to Kachon at the east part of Vouen Sai and we took a boat ride to see this village about one hour. It has an impressive Tompoun cemetery in the forest beyond the village, there is an admission to any visitor (one dollar each), photo are not allowed at the cemetery because they had a believe that you are taking their spirit away, it is like a curse to the villager. Family group are buried side by side in the forest and there are effigies of the deceased. Then a lengthy period of mourning is complete, villagers hold a big celebration and add two carved wooden likenesses of elephant tusks to the structures.
Later in the afternoon we head to Yeak Loam Lake which is one of the best attraction site in the heart of Ratanakiri. It is 800 meter diameter, 50 meters deep lake fills the brater of a centuries old, incative volcano. Today the area is serence, a haven ofr wildlife and visitors seeking solitude and is the latest tourist magnet to enthrall visitors while touring in the province.

A brief history of the Lake, the Cambodian term "Yeak Loam", translated into English means "surrounding by giant" the legend of lake recited goes as follows ":
In the ancient times, there was a very powerfll giant king who had the most attractive daughter. Both her hair and body emitted a fragrant aroma so the giant king named her "Neang Sok Kro Oob" which means "fragrant hair girl". When she grew up, a strong handsome man came to woo her. Their love for each other soon grew strong but this lovely couple was afraid that the giant king would eventually discover their secret love so they both decide to flee into the deep forest. Soon after the giant king learned of his daughter's situation and he was both deeply socked and distressed. First he expressed pity of his daughter. Then assembled a battalion of troops to search for his beloved daughter. His entire king dome and the jugnle were checked by gigantic army of soldiers but they could find no sign of her even as they finally reached the thick froest where a pond is located today.

The water is really clear with visibility of up to 5 meters which is a great place to take a dip early in the mrning or late in the afternoon. A camping night in the village and overnight in this place.

4th Day (4th May 2011)
At 06:30 watching a morning dance from the villagers then heading to Cha Ong Waterfall where we could have elephant ride into the forest, it is fun riding elephant. Get fresh up in the Cha Ong Waterfall. There is a long drive to Stung Treng and spend overnight in Stung Treng.

5th Day (5th May 2011)
Crossing the border to Lao and visit Papheng Waterfall and spend overnight in Dondet

ANGKOR WAT

2011-03-07T19:44:00.000-08:00

Angkor Wat is # 1 Review on Tripadvisor.com and one of the most famous temple inside Angkor Archeological Park.

The word "Angkor" is a derived Sanskrit, an ancient Indian language, of "Nagara" which means "City". Angkor Wat literally means "City turned into Buddhist Monastery". Regarded as the supreme masterpiece of Khmer architecture, the Temple of Angkor Wat was dedicated to the Hindu God Vishnu by King Suryavarman II, who reigned between AD 1131 and 1150. The Temple was constructed over a period of 30 years, and illustrates some of the most beautiful examples of Khmer and Hindu art.

Covering an area of about 81 hectares, the complex consists of five towers, which are presently shown on the Cambodian national flag. These towers are believed to represent the five peaks of Mount Meru, the Home of Gods and Center of the Hindu Universe. Angkor Wat features the longest continuous bas-relief in the world, which runs along the outer gallery walls, narrating stories from Hindu Mythology.

A moat and three galleries encircle the five central shrines. From the west one approaches the first outer gallery over a long bridge over the moat. The first gallery has square pillars on the outer side and a closed wall on the inner side. The ceiling between the pillars is decorated with lotus rosettes; the closed wall is decorated with dancing figures. On the outside the inner wall is decorated with pillared windows, apsaras (heavenly nymphs) and dancing male figures on prancing animals. Apsaras are found on the walls of all galleries. From the first gallery a long avenue leads to the second gallery. This is reached via a raised platform with lions on both sides of a staircase. The inner walls of the second gallery contain continuous narrative relief. The western wall shows scenes from the Mahabharata. The third gallery encloses the five shrines which are built on a raised terrace and are interconnected by galleries. Angkor Wat is undoubtedly the relics of the past Khmer Civilization.

Location : 7 km north of city centre, 7 km east of Siem Reap International Airport.
Time to visit : Early morning and Late afternoon (Sunrise and Sunset).
Direction : Main access to the west side make it the best time to see in the afternoon.
Visiting duration : Average 2 hours or longer depend on visitor interest.
What to see : Bas -relief on the first gallery, Beautiful Apsara dancer, Bakan with great view on the third level.
Dress code : More comfortable to wear light and short sleeve clothes, Bakan (3rd level) is restricted so please cover shoulder and stay at knee level. You will miss this part if you are wearing short.

Sunrise at Angkor is a magical landscape which should be missed.

How foreigner own property in Cambodia

2011-02-17T17:03:00.000-08:00

BUYING Real Estate in Cambodia...

What are the options?

Can foreigners buy Real Estate in Cambodia?

Yes, but with some restrictions...

Legislation passed at the beginning of April 2010 allows foreigners to own property in Cambodian buildings above the ground floor. This works well for apartments in condominiums or even older buildings in cities but not for a villa in a residential area except if you can manage to buy the upper floor.

The following options show how it is possible to buy almost anything.

Buying Real Property in Cambodia

Under Cambodian Land Law, foreign nationals cannot hold a 100% stake in real property within the Kingdom (except for the case above mentioned). However, legal mechanisms and documentation exist that allow foreigners to fully control the purchase, sale and use of real property in which they have invested, and benefit fully from any profits they make.

There are basically 5 Options for buying real estate and details of these follow.

Option 1: Forming a Company with a Cambodian Citizen

The safest method by which foreign nationals can purchase real property within Cambodia is to form a limited company in partnership with a Cambodian citizen. Any real property purchased for investment is then registered in the name of the company. The company must have a minimum 51% Cambodian shareholding. However, careful allocation of shares, and careful drafting of the rights attached to share certificates can ensure the foreigner’s full control of the company and its assets. Additional mortgage, security and Power of Attorney documents can also be created to accompany ownership documentation. Following this procedure ensures security for the foreigner’s investment.

Under this Option, the foreigner is expected to pay 100% of the purchase cost of real property plus any construction costs. If the real property is later sold, 100% of the sale price goes directly to the foreigner. This includes any profit accrued as a result of the property increasing in value. This issue should be detailed carefully in any company and/or sales documentation.

Of course the choice of your partners is of prime importance.

Option 2: Purchase plus long-term Rental

This method allows foreign nationals to purchase real property and register the Title Deed in the name of a Cambodian citizen. The foreigner and the Cambodian then enter into a long-term rental agreement by which the Cambodian citizen leases the property back to the foreigner. Lease periods can last up to 99 years.

The problem with this method, and why it has few takers, is the psychological attachment to freehold ‘ownership’. Most foreign investors expect full ‘ownership’ of something they buy. The principal of renting back property that has already been purchased is an anathema to most foreigners.

However, correct drafting of the terms of the property holding and lease arrangements make this a reasonably secure method of controlling real property in Cambodia. Under this method, the foreigner may sell the property at any time and keep 100% of the revenue from the sale. The Cambodian citizen is not permitted to disagree with or obstruct the sale. The foreigner retains the original copy of the new Title Deed as a security precaution: sale of real property is impossible without the original copy of the Title Deed.

Though the foreigner can sell the property at any time, the Cambodian citizen’s signature or thumbprint is generally required before any sale can take place. A good working relationship between both parties is therefore very important.

Option 3: Registering Real Property with a Cambodian Citizen

This method is very similar to Option 2 but requires 100% trust in the Cambodian citizen.

Foreign nationals have rights, under the Kingdom’s Statutes, to choose a Cambodian in whose name their Title Deed is registered. That is, a foreign national can purchase property and register the purchased property in the name of the Cambodian citizen.

Once the Title Deed is transferred to the Cambodian citizen, the foreigner retains possession of the new Title Deed. This is a security precaution that protects the foreigner’s interests by preventing the Cambodian citizen selling the land or property: sales are impossible without the Title Deed. Transferring the Cambodian’s rights to the foreigner via a Mortgage or Lease Agreement provides additional security for the foreigner’s investment.

Copies of the Title Deed and any Mortgage or Lease Agreements must be registered with the Department of Provincial Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction, as well as the appropriate District and central government departments that handle land registry. Most importantly, a copy of the Land Title and any Mortgage or Lease Agreements must be lodged with the Cadastral Land Registry Office.

The Cambodian citizen in whose name the Title is registered does not need to be resident in Cambodia. For example, the Title can be registered with a Cambodian citizen living in the USA or Australia. The Cambodian citizen must be able to prove Cambodian nationality.

Option 4: Marriage to a Cambodian National

Foreign buyers who are married to a Cambodian national can register real property using the name of their wife/husband on the Title Deed. It is also possible for a foreign national married to a Cambodian citizen and resident in the country for a long period to apply for Cambodian citizenship. In the event of citizenship being granted, Cambodian Law holds that land can be registered in the names of both parties. Neither partner can subsequently sell the land or property without mutual agreement.

In the event of divorce or separation, division of the land or property is dependent on the conditions under which divorce or separation takes place, and the decision of any court ruling or arbitration relating to the divorce. It is often source of conflict between the divorcees.

Option 5: Acquisition of Honorary Cambodian Citizenship

A foreigner may be granted honorary Cambodian citizenship if he or she donates a significant sum of money to the Royal Government of Cambodia for the purposes of benefiting the people of Cambodia. Foreigners who have made a special impact or rendered exceptional help to the Kingdom may also be granted this honor in recognition of their expertise or altruism.

One consequence of being granted honorary citizenship is that it becomes possible for a foreign national to acquire a 100% right of ownership over real property purchased within the Kingdom. This arrangement is recognized by the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction for the Kingdom of Cambodia, and by the Royal Government.

Honorary citizenship is recognized by the Royal Government of Cambodia as a legitimate means of purchasing real property within the Kingdom but it does not affect the foreigner’s original nationality or citizenship in any way.

TEMPLE FOR PARENTS

2010-12-31T03:25:00.000-08:00

I was born in one of family with 5 siblings, I am pretty lucky to be in this family and got helpful parents, they both are doing well to brought me up until today. They help me to get a better education, prepare my future plan and I don't have anything to do for them back and from time to time I and my siblings decided to build one temple for both of them in 2007 and just celebrate an inauguration of that Stupa in early of 2011, We pick a good date for this celebration on 01/01/2011. This ceremony was celebrated in a monastery not very far from the our home in the same village and we invite a few hundred guests for two days programs half afternoon on 1st Jan and half morning on 2nd Jan. Monks were invited from two different monasteries for this ceremony as well.

My parents are offering food to Monks.

She is burning incenses in front of Stupa.

Stupa is a mound-like structure containing Buddhist relics, typically the remains of Buddha, used by Buddhists as a place of worship.

Description and history

The stupa is the latest Buddhist religious monument and was originally only a simple mound of mud or clay to cover supposed relics of the Buddha (cetiya). After the parinirvana of the Buddha, his remains were cremated and the ashes divided and buried under eight stupas with two further stupas encasing the urn and the embers. Little is known about these early stupas, particularly since it has not been possible to identify the original ten monuments. However, some later stupas, such as at Sarnath and Sanchi, seem to be embellishments of earlier mounds.

In the third century BC, after his conversion to Buddhism, the emperor Asoka had the original stupas opened and the remains distributed among the several thousand stupas he had built. Nevertheless, the stupas at the eight places associated with the life of the Buddha continued to be of particular importance. Accordingly, the importance of a stupa changed from being a funerary monument to being an object of veneration. As a consequence their appearance changed also. Stupas were built in Sri Lanka soon after King Devanampiyatissa converted to Buddhism, the first stupa to be built was the Thuparamaya. Later on Sri Lanka went on to build many stupas over the years, some like the Jetavanarama in Anuradhapura being one of the tallest ancient structures in the world. Sri Lanka also boasts construction of stupas, which have used most advanced engineering techniques and knowledge, for example the use of 'lightning conductors' and 'special shelters (vatadage)', which is the reason they have been standing undamaged for thousands of years.^{[citation needed]}
Ghalegay hosts one of the biggest stupas at Mohallah Singardar in district Swat, Pakistan.^{[citation needed]}

They evolved into large hemispherical mounds with features such as the torana (gateway), the vedica (fence-like enclosure evolved from the vedic villages), the harmika (a square platform with railings on top of the stupa), chattrayashti (the parasol or canopy) and a circumambulatory around the stupa. From the third century BC onwards, stupas were incorporated into the hall of the chaitya-griha.

One such stupa was discovered at Sopara, an ancient port near Mumbai, and is believed to be one of the most ancient stupas in the world. The oldest known stupa is the Dhamek Stupa at Sarnath, India, while the tallest is the Phra Pathom Chedi in Nakhon Pathom, Thailand, at a height of 127 metres. The most elaborate stupa is the 8th century Borobudur monument in Java, Indonesia. The upper rounded terrace with rows of bell shaped stupas contained buddha images symbolizing Arupadhatu, the sphere of formlessness. The main stupa itself is empty, symbolizing complete perfection of enlightenment. The main stupa is only the crown part of the monument, while the base is pyramidal structure elaborate with galleries adorned with bas relief of scenes derived from Buddhist text depicted the life of Siddharta Gautama. Borobudur unique and significant architecture has been acknowledge by UNESCO as the largest buddhist monument in the world. According to Brahmi, kharoshti , Pali and Sanskrit edicts Ashoka the great founded 84,000 stupas all over the south Asia.

The stupa evolved into the pagoda as Buddhism spread to other Asian countries. The pagoda has varied forms that also include bellshaped and pyramidal ones. Today, in the Western context, there is no clear distinction between the stupa and the pagoda. But in general stupa is used for a Buddhist structure of India or south-east Asia, while pagoda refers to a building in east Asia which can be entered and which may be secular in purpose.

Symbolism

"The shape of the stupa represents the Buddha, crowned and sitting in meditation posture on a lion throne. His crown is the top of the spire; his head is the square at the spire's base; his body is the vase shape; his legs are the four steps of the lower terrace; and the base is his throne.

Five purified elements

Although not described in any Tibetan text on stupa symbolism, the stupa may represent the five purified elements:

The square base represents earth
The hemispherical dome/vase represents water
The conical spire represents fire
The upper lotus parasol and the crescent moon represents air
The sun and the dissolving point represents the element of space

Construction

To build a stupa, transmissions and ceremonies from a Buddhist teacher is necessary. Which kind of Stupa to be constructed in a certain area is decided together with the teacher assisting in the construction. Sometimes the type of stupa chosen is directly connected with events that have taken place in the area.

Treasury

All stupas contain a treasury filled with various objects. Small offerings called Tsa-Tsas fill a major part of the treasury. Creation of various types of Tsa-Tsas is a ceremony itself. Mantras written on paper are rolled into thin rolls, and put into these small clay stupas. Filling the treasury, one layer of Tsa-Tsas are placed, and the empty space between is filled with dry sand. On the new surface appearing, another layer is made, until the entire space of a treasury is full.

The number of Tsa-Tsas are dependent on the size of both the treasury and Tsa-Tsa, since it should be completely filled. For example, the Kalachakra stupa in southern Spain has approximately 14 000 Tsa-Tsas within.

Jewellery and other "precious" objects are also placed in the treasury. It is not necessary that the jewellery be expensive, since it is the symbolic value that is important, not the market price. It is believed that the more objects placed into the stupa, the stronger the energy of the Stupa will be.

Tree of Life

A very important element in every Stupa is the Tree of Life. It is a wooden pole covered with gems and thousands of mantras, and placed in the central channel of the stupa. It is placed here during a ceremony or initiation, where the participants hold colorful ribbons connected to the Tree of Life. Together the participants make their most positive and powerful wishes, which are stored in the Tree of Life. In this way the stupa is charged up, and will start to function.Benefits

Building a stupa is considered extremely beneficial, leaving very positive karmic imprints in the mind. Future benefits from this action will result in fortunate rebirths. Fortunate worldly benefits will be the result, such as being born into a rich family, having a beautiful body, a nice voice, and being attractive and bringing joy to others and having a long and happy life, in which one's wishes are fulfilled quickly. On the absolute level, one will also be able to reach enlightenment, the goal of Buddhism, quickly.

Destroying a stupa on the other hand, is considered an extremely negative deed, similar to killing. Such an action is explained to create massive negative karmic imprints, leading to massive future problems. It is said this action will leave the mind in a state of paranoia after death has occurred, leading to totally unfortunate rebirths.

VISA

2010-08-28T05:00:00.001-07:00

Most visitors to Cambodia require a one-month tourist visa (US$20), although some visitors enter on a one-month business visa (US$25). Most nationalities receive a one-month visa on arrival at Phnom Penh and Siem Reap airports, and at land borders. One passport-sized photo is required and you’ll be ‘fined’ US$1 if you don’t have one. While most people get the visa on arrival, if you're planning on entering at Ko Kong, it is worth considering getting your visa beforehand to avoid any "misunderstandings" at the crossing. Given how easy it is to get an E-Visa, and as they're valid at the Koh Kong crossing, the eVisa is really the way to go. It is also possible to arrange a visa through Cambodian embassies overseas or an online e-visa (US$25) through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (www.mfaic.gov.kh). Arranging a visa ahead of time can help prevent potential overcharging at some land crossings.

E-Visas are only valid for entry into Cambodia via the international airports at Phnom Penh and Siem Reap and via the land crossings at Ko Kong, Poipet and Bavet. You cannot use an eVisa to enter Cambodia at other crossings.

Those seeking work in Cambodia should opt for the business visa as, officially, it is easily extended for long periods and, unofficially, can be extended indefinitely, including multiple entries and exits. A tourist visa can be extended only once and only for one month, and does not allow for re-entry.

Travellers are sometimes overcharged when crossing at land borders with Thailand, as immigration officials demand payment in baht and round up the figure considerably. Arranging a visa in advance avoids this potential problem. Travellers planning a day trip to Prasat Preah Vihear from Thailand do not require visas, but may be asked to leave their passport on the Thai side of the border to ensure they don’t continue on into Cambodia.

Overstaying your visa currently costs a hefty US$5 a day.

Visa extensions

Visa extensions are issued by the large immigration office located directly across the road from Phnom Penh International Airport.

There are two ways of getting an extension (one official and one unofficial) and, unsurprisingly, the time and money involved differ greatly. Officially, a one-month extension costs US$35, three months US$65, six months US$125, and one year US$200; your passport will be held for 25 days and there will be more paperwork than a communist bureaucrat could dream up. This is fine for expats with an employer to make the arrangements, but those on their own really need to go unofficial. They don’t call it corruption in Cambodia but ‘under the table’, and you can have your passport back the next day for the inflated prices of US$45 for one month, US$80 for three months, US$165 for six months and US$265 for one year. Once you are one of the ‘unofficials’, it is pretty straightforward to extend the visa ad infinitum. Travel agencies and some motorbike rental shops in Phnom Penh can help with arrangements, sometimes at a discounted price.

Validity issues

The main issue facing tourists is that tourist visas can only be extended once. If you're looking at a longer stay in cambodia, get a business visa. It costs just $5 more, requires no extra paperwork, and can be extended for a far longer period.

Overstays

While it isn't a big deal to overstay a visa in Cambodia, it does get expensive quickly. The base fine is $6 per day of overstay. So if you overstay by five days, you'll be required to pay $30 on exit.

Things to watch out for

The main potential problem revolves around buying your visa at the border. Some immigration officers demand that you pay in baht, using a very poor exchange rate (and they pocket the difference). This is a particular problem at the Ko Kong crossing. The easiest way to avoid the problem is to get your visa in advance -- or don't use the Ko Kong crossing.

Departure tax

There is no departure tax if using a land crossing. However, if you're flying out of Phnom Penh or Siem Reap international airport, the departure tax is US$25 for international flights and $6 for domestic flights. You need to pay departure tax in US cash.

Border crossings

For the latest information on border crossings and to read traveller reports, please see our Cambodia border crossing page, or the exhaustive Border Crossings FAQ thread on the messageboard, which includes reports from travellers who have recently crossed.

More info click here to main site

HEALTH & SAFETY

2010-08-28T04:48:00.000-07:00

Before you go

Insurance

Make sure that you have adequate health insurance.

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Recommended vaccinations

Plan ahead for getting your vaccinations: some of them require more than one injection over a period of time, while others should not be given together. Note that some vaccinations should not be given during pregnancy or to people with allergies.

It is recommended that you seek medical advice at least six weeks before travel. Be aware that there is often a greater risk of disease during pregnancy and among children.

Record all vaccinations on an International Certificate of Vaccination, available from your doctor. It is a good idea to carry this as proof of your vaccinations when travelling in Cambodia.

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Required & recommended vaccinations

Vaccinations you may want to consider for a trip to Cambodia are listed here, but it is imperative that you discuss your needs with your doctor. For more details about the diseases themselves, see the individual entries later in this section.

Diphtheria and tetanus – vaccinations for these two diseases are usually combined. After an initial course of three injections (usually given in childhood), boosters are necessary every 10 years.

Hepatitis A – this vaccine provides long-term immunity after an initial injection and a booster at six to 12 months. Alternatively, an injection of gamma globulin can provide short-term protection against hepatitis A – two to six months, depending on the dose. It is reasonably effective and, unlike the vaccine, is protective immediately but, because it is a blood product, there are current concerns about its long-term safety. The hepatitis A vaccine is also available in a combined form with the hepatitis B vaccine – three injections over a six-month period are required.

Hepatitis B – travellers who should consider vaccination against hepatitis B include those on a long trip, as well as those visiting countries where there are high levels of hepatitis B infection (such as Cambodia), where blood transfusions may not be adequately screened or where sexual contact or needle sharing is a possibility. Vaccination involves three injections, with a booster at 12 months. More rapid courses are available if necessary.

Japanese B Encephalitis – consider vaccination against this disease if spending a month or longer in Cambodia, when making repeated trips or if visiting during an epidemic. It involves three injections over 30 days.

Polio – everyone should keep up-to-date with this vaccination, normally given in childhood. A booster every 10 years maintains immunity.

Rabies – vaccination should be considered by those spending a month or longer in Cambodia, especially if they are cycling, handling animals, caving or travelling to remote areas. It’s also recommended for children, as they may not report a bite. Vaccination involves having three injections over 21 to 28 days. Vaccinated people who are bitten or scratched by an animal will require two booster injections of vaccine; those not vaccinated require more.

Tuberculosis – the risk of travellers contracting TB is usually very low, unless you will be living with, or closely associated with, local people. Vaccination against TB (BCG vaccine) is recommended for children and young adults who will be living in high-risk areas, including Cambodia, for three months or more.

Typhoid – vaccination against typhoid may be required if you are travelling for more than a couple of weeks in Cambodia.

Yellow Fever – a yellow fever vaccine is now the only vaccine that is a legal requirement for entry into Cambodia when coming from an infected area. This refers to a direct flight from an infected area, but there are no direct flights from Africa or South America, the most likely places of infection.

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Dangers & annoyances

As memories of war grow ever more distant, Cambodia has become a much safer country in which to travel. Remembering the golden rule – stick to the marked paths in remote areas – means you’d be very unlucky to have any problems. But it doesn’t hurt to check on the latest situation before making a trip few other travellers undertake, particularly if travelling by motorcycle.

The Cambodia Daily (www.cambodiadaily.com) and the Phnom Penh Post (www.phnompenhpost.com) newspapers are both good sources for breaking news on Cambodia – check out their websites before you hit the road.

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Scams

There are fewer scams in Cambodia than neighbouring countries, but now that tourism is really taking off this might change. Most current scams are fairly harmless, involving a bit of commission here and there for taxi or moto drivers, particularly in Siem Reap. More annoying are the ‘cheap’ buses from Bangkok to Siem Reap, deservedly nicknamed the ‘The Scam Buses’ for using the wrong border crossings, driving slowly and selling passengers to guesthouses, but thankfully these are a dying breed.

There have been one or two reports of police set-ups in Phnom Penh involving planted drugs. This seems to be very rare, but if you fall victim to the ploy, it will require patience and persistence to sort out, inevitably involving embassies and the like. It may be best to pay them off before more police get involved at the local station, as the price will only rise when there are more people to pay off.

Cambodia is renowned for its precious stones, particularly the rubies and sapphires that are mined around the Pailin area in western Cambodia. However, there are lots of chemically treated copies around, as much of the high-quality stuff is snapped up by international buyers. The long and the short of it is: don’t buy unless you really know your stones.

On the subject of fakes, there is quite a lot of fake medication floating about the region. Safeguard yourself by only buying prescription drugs from reliable pharmacies or clinics. Similarly, there are a lot of dodgy recreational drugs around, some of which could seriously damage your health.

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In transit

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when blood clots form in the legs during plane flights, chiefly because of prolonged immobility. The longer the flight, the greater the risk. Though most blood clots are reabsorbed uneventfully, some may break off and travel through the blood vessels to the lungs, where they may cause life-threatening complications.

The chief symptom of DVT is swelling or pain of the foot, ankle, or calf, usually on just one side. When a blood clot travels to the lungs, it may cause chest pain and difficulty in breathing. Travellers with any of these symptoms should immediately seek medical attention.

To prevent the development of DVT on long flights, walk about the cabin, contract the leg muscles while sitting, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid alcohol.

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Jet lag & motion sickness

Jet lag is experienced when a person travels by air across more than three time zones. It occurs because many of the functions of the human body (such as temperature, pulse rate and emptying of the bladder and bowels) are regulated by internal 24-hour cycles. When we travel long distances rapidly, our bodies take time to adjust to the ‘new time’ of our destination, and we may experience fatigue, disorientation, insomnia, anxiety, impaired concentration and loss of appetite. These effects will usually be gone within three days of arrival, but to minimise the impact of jet lag:

rest for a couple of days prior to date of departure.

try to select flight schedules that minimise sleep deprivation; arriving late in the day means you can go to sleep soon after you arrive. For very long flights, try to organise a stopover.

avoid excessive eating (which bloats the stomach) and alcohol intake (which causes dehydration) during the flight. Instead, drink plenty of noncarbonated, nonalcoholic drinks such as fruit juice or water.

make yourself comfortable by wearing loose-fitting clothes and perhaps bringing an eye mask and earplugs to help you sleep.

on the flight, try to sleep at the appropriate time for the time zone to which you are travelling.

Eating lightly before and during a trip will reduce the chances of motion sickness. If you are prone to motion sickness, try to find a place that minimises movement – near the wing on aircraft, close to midships on boats, near the centre on buses. Fresh air usually helps; reading and cigarette smoke don’t. Ginger (available in capsule form) and peppermint (including mint-flavoured sweets) are natural preventatives of motion sickness.

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While you're there

Availability & cost of health care

Self-diagnosis and treatment of health problems can be risky, so you should always seek professional medical help. Although we do give drug dosages in this section, they are for emergency use only. Correct diagnosis is vital.

An embassy, consulate or five-star hotel can usually recommend a local doctor or clinic. Antibiotics should ideally be administered only under medical supervision. Take only the recommended dose at the prescribed intervals and use the whole course, even if the illness seems to be cured earlier. Stop immediately if there are any serious reactions and don’t use the antibiotic at all if you are unsure that you have the correct one. Some people are allergic to commonly prescribed antibiotics such as penicillin or sulpha drugs; carry this information (eg on a bracelet) when travelling.

The best clinics and hospitals in Cambodia are found in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. A consultation usually costs in the region of US$20 to US$40, plus medicine. Elsewhere, facilities are more basic, although a private clinic is usually preferable to a government hospital. For serious injuries or illnesses, seek treatment in Bangkok.

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Dengue

This viral disease is transmitted by mosquitoes and occurs mainly in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. There is only a small risk to travellers, except during epidemics, which are usually seasonal in Cambodia, during and just after the wet season.

Unlike the malaria mosquito, the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which transmits the dengue virus, is most active during the day and is found mainly in urban areas.

Signs and symptoms of dengue fever include a sudden onset of high fever, headache, joint and muscle pains (hence its old name, ‘breakbone fever’) and nausea and vomiting. A rash of small red spots appears three to four days after the onset of fever. Dengue is commonly mistaken for other infectious diseases, including influenza.

Seek medical attention if you think you may be infected. A blood test can diagnose infection, but there is no specific treatment for the disease. Aspirin should be avoided, as it increases the risk of haemorrhaging, but plenty of rest is advised. Recovery may be prolonged, with tiredness lasting for several weeks. Severe complications are rare in travellers but include dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF), which can be fatal without prompt medical treatment. DHF is thought to be a result of secondary infection due to a different strain (there are four major strains) and usually affects residents of the country rather than travellers.

There is no vaccine against dengue fever - the best prevention is to avoid mosquito bites at all times.

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Fungal infections

Fungal infections occur more commonly in hot weather and are usually on the scalp, between the toes (athlete’s foot) or fingers, in the groin and on the body (ringworm). Ringworm, a fungal infection, not a worm, is contracted from infected animals or other people. Moisture encourages these infections.

To prevent fungal infections wear loose, comfortable clothes, avoid artificial fibres, wash frequently and dry yourself carefully. If you do get an infection, wash the infected area at least daily with a disinfectant or medicated soap and water, and rinse and dry well. Apply an antifungal cream or powder like tolnaftate (Tinaderm). Try to expose the infected area to air or sunlight as much as possible. Wash all towels and underwear in hot water, change them often and let them dry in the sun.

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Hepatitis

Hepatitis is a general term for inflammation of the liver. It is a common disease worldwide. There are several different viruses that cause hepatitis, and they differ in the way that they are transmitted. The symptoms are similar in all forms of the illness, and include fever, chills, headache, fatigue, feelings of weakness and aches and pains, followed by loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, light-coloured faeces, jaundiced (yellow) skin and yellowing of the whites of the eyes. People who have had hepatitis should avoid alcohol for some time after the illness, as the liver needs time to recover.

Hepatitis A is transmitted by ingesting contaminated food or water. You should seek medical advice, but there is not much you can do apart from resting, drinking lots of fluids, eating lightly and avoiding fatty foods. Hepatitis E is transmitted in the same way as hepatitis A; it can be particularly serious in pregnant women.

There are almost 300 million chronic carriers of hepatitis B in the world. It is spread through contact with infected blood, blood products or body fluids; for example, through sexual contact, unsterilised needles, blood transfusions or contact with blood via small breaks in the skin. Other risk situations include shaving, tattooing or body piercing with contaminated equipment. The symptoms of hepatitis B may be more severe than type A and the disease can lead to long-term problems such as chronic liver damage, liver cancer or a long-term carrier state. Hepatitis C and D are spread in the same way as hepatitis B and can also lead to long-term complications.

There are vaccines against hepatitis A and B, but there are currently no vaccines against the other types of hepatitis. Following the basic rules about food and water (hepatitis A and E) and avoiding risk situations (hepatitis B, C and D) are important preventative measures.

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HIV/AIDS

Infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) may lead to acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), which is a fatal disease. Any exposure to blood, blood products or body fluids may put the individual at risk.

The disease is often transmitted through sexual contact or dirty needles, so vaccinations, acupuncture, tattooing and body piercing can be potentially as dangerous as intravenous drug use. HIV/AIDS can also be spread through infected-blood transfusions; although the blood centre in Phnom Penh does screen blood used for transfusions, it is unlikely to be done in many of the provinces.

If you do need an injection, ask to see the syringe unwrapped in front of you, or take a needle and syringe pack with you. Fear of HIV infection should never preclude any treatment for serious medical conditions.

According to WHO figures, Cambodian rates of infection are highest among sex workers. However, due to a concerted awareness campaign, HIV/AIDS infection rates have been steadily declining in the past decade from a high of around 5% of the population in the 1990s to about 1.6% today.

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Intestinal worms

These parasites are most common in rural Cambodia. The various worms have different ways of infecting people. Some may be ingested in food such as undercooked meat (eg tapeworms) and some enter through your skin (eg hookworms). Infestations may not show up for some time, and although they are generally not serious, if left untreated they may cause severe health problems later. Consider having a stool test when you return home to check for worms to determine the appropriate treatment.

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Japanese B encephalitis

This viral infection of the brain is transmitted by mosquitoes. Most cases occur among locals living in rural areas, as the virus exists in pigs and wading birds. Symptoms include fever, headache and alteration in consciousness. Hospitalisation is needed for correct diagnosis and treatment. There is a high mortality rate among those who have symptoms; of those who survive many are intellectually disabled.

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Malaria

This serious and potentially fatal disease is spread by mosquitoes. If you are travelling in endemic areas it is extremely important to avoid mosquito bites and to take tablets to prevent the disease developing if you become infected. There is no malaria in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and most other major urban areas in Cambodia, so visitors on short trips to the most popular places do not need to take medication. Malaria self-test kits are widely available in Cambodia, but are not that reliable.

Symptoms of malaria include fever, chills and sweating, headache, aching joints, diarrhoea and stomach pains, usually preceded by a vague feeling of ill health. Seek medical help immediately if malaria is suspected, as, without treatment, the disease can rapidly become more serious or even fatal.

If medical care is not available, malaria tablets can be used for treatment. You need to use a different malaria tablet to the one you were taking when you contracted the disease, as obviously the first type didn’t work. If travelling widely in rural areas of Cambodia, it is worth visiting a pharmacy to purchase a treatment dose – this will save you from complications in the event of an emergency. Antimalarials are available cheaply throughout Cambodia, although buy them from a reputable clinic to be sure they are not fakes.

Travellers are advised to prevent mosquito bites at all times. The main messages:

Wear light-coloured clothing.

Wear long trousers and long-sleeved shirts.

Use mosquito repellents containing the compound DEET on exposed areas (prolonged overuse of DEET may be harmful, especially to children, but its use is considered preferable to being bitten by disease-transmitting mosquitoes).

Avoid perfumes or aftershave.

Use a mosquito net impregnated with mosquito repellent (permethrin) – it may be worth taking your own.

Impregnate clothes with permethrin to effectively deter mosquitoes and other insects.

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Malaria medication

Antimalarial drugs do not prevent you from being infected but they kill the malaria parasites during their developmental stage, significantly reducing the risk of becoming very ill or dying. Expert advice on medication should be sought, as there are many factors to consider, including the area to be visited, the risk of exposure to malaria-carrying mosquitoes, the side effects of medication, your medical history and whether you are a child or an adult, and whether you’re pregnant. Travellers heading to isolated areas in Cambodia should carry a treatment dose of medication for use if symptoms occur. A new drug called Malarine, supplied and subsidised by the European Union (EU) and WHO, is cheaply available in pharmacies throughout Cambodia. A combination of artesunate and mefloquinine, it is undoubtedly the most effective malaria killer available in Cambodia today. See the English instructions for advice about the appropriate dosage.

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Schistosomiasis

Also known as bilharzia, this disease is transmitted by minute worms. They infect certain varieties of freshwater snails found in rivers, streams, lakes and, in particular, dams. The worms multiply and are eventually discharged into the water.

The worm enters through the skin and attaches itself to the intestines or bladder. The first symptom may be feeling generally unwell, or a tingling and sometimes a light rash around the area where the worm entered. Weeks later a high fever may develop. Once the disease is established, abdominal pain and blood in the urine are other signs. The infection often causes no symptoms until the disease is well established (several months to years after exposure), when damage to internal organs is irreversible.

The main method of preventing the disease is avoiding swimming or bathing in fresh water where bilharzia is present. Even deep water can be infected. If you do get wet, dry off quickly and dry your clothes as well.

A blood test is the most reliable way to diagnose the disease, but the test will not show positive until a number of weeks after exposure.

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Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Gonorrhoea, herpes and syphilis are among these infections. Sores, blisters or a rash around the genitals and discharges or pain when urinating are common symptoms. With some STIs, such as wart virus or chlamydia, symptoms may be less marked or not observed at all, especially in women. Syphilis symptoms eventually disappear completely, but the disease continues and can cause severe problems in later years. While abstinence from sexual contact is the only 100% effective prevention, using condoms is also effective. Reliable condoms are widely available throughout urban areas of Cambodia. Different STIs each require specific antibiotics. The treatment of gonorrhoea and syphilis is with antibiotics. There is no cure for herpes or HIV/AIDS.

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Typhoid

Typhoid fever is a dangerous gut infection caused by contaminated water and food. Medical help must be sought.

In its initial stages sufferers may feel they have a bad cold or flu on the way, as early symptoms are a headache, body aches and a fever that rises a little each day until it is around 40°C (104°F) or higher. The victim’s pulse is often slow relative to the degree of fever present – unlike a normal fever where the pulse increases. There may also be vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea or constipation.

In the second week the high fever and slow pulse continue, and a few pink spots may appear on the body; trembling, delirium, weakness, weight loss and dehydration may occur. Complications such as pneumonia, perforated bowel or meningitis may also present themselves.

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Traveller’s diarrhoea

Simple things like a change of water, food or climate can all cause a mild bout of diarrhoea, but a few rushed toilet trips with no other symptoms are not indicative of a major problem. Almost everyone gets a mild bout of the runs on a longer visit to Cambodia.

Dehydration is the main danger with diarrhoea, particularly in children or the elderly as dehydration can occur quite quickly. Under all circumstances fluid replacement is the most important thing to remember. Weak black tea with a little sugar, soda water, or soft drinks allowed to go flat and diluted 50% with clean water are all good. You need to drink at least the same volume of fluid that you are losing in bowel movements and vomiting. Urine is the best guide to the adequacy of replacement: if you have small amounts of concentrated urine, you need to drink more. Keep drinking small amounts often. Stick to a bland diet as you recover.

With severe diarrhoea, a rehydrating solution is preferable to replace lost minerals and salts. Commercially available oral rehydration salts are very useful; add them to boiled or bottled water. In an emergency you can make up a solution of six teaspoons of sugar and a half-teaspoon of salt to a litre of boiled or bottled water.

Gut-paralysing drugs such as Lomotil or Imodium can be used to bring relief from the symptoms of diarrhoea, although they do not actually cure the problem. Only use these drugs if you do not have access to toilets and must travel. For children under 12 years the use of Lomotil and Imodium is not recommended. Do not use these drugs if the person has a high fever or is severely dehydrated.

In certain situations antibiotics may be required: diarrhoea with blood or mucus (dysentery), any diarrhoea with fever, profuse watery diarrhoea, persistent diarrhoea not improving after 48 hours and severe diarrhoea. These suggest a more serious cause of diarrhoea, and gut-paralysing drugs should be avoided.

In these situations, a stool test may be necessary to diagnose what bug is causing the diarrhoea, so seek medical help urgently. Where this is not possible the recommended drugs for bacterial diarrhoea – the most likely cause of severe diarrhoea in travellers – are norfloxacin (400mg twice daily for three days) or ciprofloxacin (500mg twice daily for five days). These are not recommended for children or pregnant women. The drug of choice for children would be co-trimoxazole (Bactrim, Septrin or Resprim) with dosage dependent on weight. A five-day course of the drug is given. Ampicillin or amoxycillin may be given in pregnancy, but medical care is necessary.

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Amoebic dysentery & giardiasis

Two other causes of persistent diarrhoea in travellers are amoebic dysentery and giardiasis.

Amoebic dysentery, caused by the protozoan Entamoeba histolytica, is characterised by a gradual onset of low-grade diarrhoea, often with blood and mucus. Cramping abdominal pain and vomiting are less likely than in other types of diarrhoea, and fever may not be present. Amoebic dysentery will persist until treated and can recur and cause other health problems.

Giardiasis is caused by a common parasite, Giardia lamblia. Symptoms include stomach cramps, nausea, a bloated stomach, watery, foul-smelling diarrhoea and frequent gas. Giardiasis can appear several weeks after you have been exposed to the parasite. The symptoms may disappear for a few days and then return; this can go on for several weeks.

Seek medical advice if you think you have giardiasis or amoebic dysentery, but where this is not possible, tinidazole (Fasigyn) or metronidazole (Flagyl) are the recommended drugs to take, although the side effects of Flagyl are severe. Treatment is a 2g single dose of Fasigyn or 250mg of Flagyl three times daily for five to 10 days.

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Food

There is an old adage that says ‘If you can cook it, boil it or peel it you can eat it…otherwise forget it’. This is slightly extreme, but many travellers have found it is better to be safe than sorry. Vegetables and fruit should be washed with purified water or peeled where possible. Beware of ice cream that is sold in the street or anywhere it might have been melted and refrozen. Shellfish such as mussels, oysters and clams should be avoided, as should undercooked meat, particularly in the form of mince. Steaming does not make shellfish safe for eating.

If a place looks clean and well run, and the vendor also looks clean and healthy, then the food is probably safe. In general, places that are packed with travellers or locals will be fine, while empty restaurants might be empty for a reason. The food in busy restaurants is cooked and eaten quite quickly with little standing around and is probably not reheated.

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Heat exhaustion

Dehydration and salt deficiency can cause heat exhaustion. Take time to acclimatise to high temperatures, drink sufficient liquids and do not do anything too physically demanding.

Salt deficiency is characterised by fatigue, lethargy, headaches, giddiness and muscle cramps; salt tablets may help, but adding extra salt to your food is better.

Anhidrotic heat exhaustion is a rare form of heat exhaustion that is caused by an inability to sweat. It tends to affect people who have been in a hot climate for some time, rather than newcomers. It can progress to heatstroke. Treatment involves removal to a cooler climate or immediate cold showers and wet sheets.

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Heatstroke

This serious and occasionally fatal condition can occur if the body’s heat-regulating mechanism breaks down, causing the body temperature to rise to dangerous levels. Long, continuous periods of exposure to high temperatures and insufficient fluids can leave you vulnerable to heatstroke.

The symptoms: feeling unwell, not sweating very much (or at all) and a high body temperature (39°C to 41°C, or 102°F to 106°F). Where sweating has ceased, the skin becomes flushed and red. Severe, throbbing headaches and lack of coordination will also occur, and the sufferer may be confused or aggressive. Eventually the victim will become delirious or convulse. Hospitalisation is essential, but in the interim get victims out of the sun, remove their clothing, cover them with a wet sheet or towel and then fan continually. Give fluids if they are conscious.

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Insect bites & stings

Bedbugs live in various places, but particularly in dirty mattresses and bedding, and are evidenced by spots of blood on bedclothes or on the wall. Bedbugs leave itchy bites in neat rows. Calamine lotion or Stingose spray may help.

All lice cause itching and discomfort. They make themselves at home in your hair (head lice), your clothing (body lice) or in your pubic hair (crabs). You catch lice through direct contact with infected people or by sharing combs, clothing and the like. Powder or shampoo treatment will kill the lice, and infected clothing should be washed in very hot, soapy water and left to dry in the sun.

Bee and wasp stings are usually painful rather than dangerous. However, in people who are allergic to them, severe breathing difficulties may occur and urgent medical care is then required. Calamine lotion or Stingose spray will relieve itching, and ice packs will reduce the pain and swelling.

Avoid contact with jellyfish, which have stinging tentacles – seek local advice on the safest swimming waters. Dousing in vinegar will deactivate any stingers that have not ‘fired’. Calamine lotion, antihistamines and analgesics may reduce the reaction and relieve the pain.

Leeches may be present in damp rainforest conditions; they attach themselves to your skin to suck your blood. Trekkers often get them on their legs or in their boots. Salt or a lighted cigarette end will make them fall off. Do not pull them off, as the bite is then more likely to become infected. Clean and apply pressure if the point of attachment is bleeding. An insect repellent may keep them away, and walkers in leech-infested areas should consider having their boots and trousers impregnated with benzyl benzoate and dibutylphthalate (available from pharmacies in Cambodia).

Always check all over your body if you have been walking through a potentially tick-infested area, as ticks can cause skin infections and other more serious diseases. If a tick is found attached, press down around the tick’s head with tweezers, grab the head and gently pull upwards. Try to avoid pulling the rear of the body as this may squeeze the tick’s gut contents through the attached mouth parts into the skin, increasing the risk of infection and disease. Smearing chemicals on the tick will not make it let go and this is not recommended.

To minimise your chances of being bitten by a snake, always wear boots, socks and long trousers when walking through undergrowth where snakes may be present. Don’t put your hands into holes and crevices, and be careful if collecting firewood.

Snake bites in Cambodia do not cause instantaneous death, but unfortunately antivenins are not widely available in the country. Immediately wrap the victim's bitten limb tightly, as you would for a sprained ankle, and then attach a splint to immobilise the limb. Keep the victim still and seek medical attention, if possible with the dead snake for identification. However, do not attempt to catch the snake if there is any possibility of being bitten. Tourniquets and sucking out the poison are now comprehensively discredited.

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Prickly heat

Prickly heat is an itchy rash caused by excessive perspiration trapped under the skin. It usually strikes people who have just arrived in a hot climate. Keeping cool, bathing often, drying the skin and using a mild talcum or prickly heat powder, or resorting to the use of air-conditioning, may help.

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Sunburn

You can get sunburnt surprisingly quickly, even through cloud. Use a sunscreen, a hat, and a barrier cream for your nose and lips. Calamine lotion or Stingose are good for mild sunburn. Protect your eyes with good-quality sunglasses. Sunscreen is easily available in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville, but not elsewhere.

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Water

The number one rule is be careful of the water and ice, even though both are almost always factory-produced, a legacy of the French. If you don’t know for certain that the water is safe, assume the worst. Reputable brands of bottled water or soft drinks are generally fine, but you can’t safely drink tap water. Only use water from containers with a serrated seal. Tea and coffee are generally fine, as the water will have been boiled.

The simplest way of purifying water is to boil it thoroughly. Vigorous boiling should be satisfactory; however, at high altitude water boils at a lower temperature, so germs are less likely to be killed. Make sure you boil it for longer in these environments.

Consider purchasing a water filter for a long trip. Total filters take out all parasites, bacteria and viruses and make water safe to drink. They are often expensive, but can be more cost effective than buying bottled water. Simple filters (which can even be a nylon mesh bag) take out dirt and larger foreign bodies from the water so that chemical solutions work much more effectively; if the water is dirty, chemical solutions may not work at all. Chlorine tablets (Puritabs, Steritabs or other brands) will kill many pathogens, but not some parasites like giardia and amoebic cysts. Iodine is more effective in purifying water and is available in tablet form (such as Potable Aqua).

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Gynaecological problems

Antibiotic use, synthetic underwear, sweating and contraceptive pills can lead to fungal vaginal infections, especially when travelling in hot climates. Thrush (yeast infection or vaginal candidiasis) is characterised by a rash, itching and discharge. Nystatin, miconazole or clotrimazole pessaries or vaginal cream are the usual treatment. Maintaining good personal hygiene and wearing loose-fitting clothes and cotton underwear may help prevent these infections.

STIs are a major cause of vaginal problems. Symptoms include a smelly discharge, painful intercourse and sometimes a burning sensation when urinating. Medical attention should be sought and male sexual partners must also be treated. Besides abstinence, the best thing is to practise safe sex using condoms.

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Pregnancy

Most miscarriages occur during the first three months of pregnancy. Miscarriage is common and can occasionally lead to severe bleeding. The last three months of pregnancy should also be spent within reasonable distance of good medical care. A baby born as early as 24 weeks stands a chance of survival, but only in a good modern hospital such as Calmette in Phnom Penh. Pregnant women should avoid all unnecessary medication, although vaccinations and malarial prophylactics should still be taken where needed. Additional care should be taken to prevent illness and particular attention should be paid to diet and nutrition.

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MONEY & COST

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Costs

The cost of travelling in Cambodia covers the whole spectrum, from almost free to outrageously expensive, depending on taste and comfort. Penny- pinchers can survive on as little as US$10 per day, while budget travellers with an eye on enjoyment can live it up on US$25 a day. Midrange travellers can turn on the style with US$75 to US$100 a day, staying in smart places, dining well and travelling in comfort. At the top end, flash US$200 a day or more to live a life of luxury.

Accommodation starts from as little as US$2 to US$5 in popular destinations. Spending US$10 to US$20 will add to the amenities, such as air conditioning, satellite TV, fridge and hot water. Stepping up to US$50, you enter the world of three-star standards and charming boutique resorts. Forking out US$100 or more brings a five-star fling. Don’t be afraid to negotiate for a discount if it is low season or traffic is down.

While Cambodian cuisine may not be as well known as that of its neighbours Thailand and Vietnam, it can certainly compete with the best of them. Snack on the street or chow down in the market, with meals starting at just 1000r or so, or indulge in a banquet for a couple of bucks. Khmer restaurants are a step up in comfort, and a local meal will cost US$1 to US$2. Next are the sophisticated Khmer, Asian and international restaurants. Meals start from about US$3 at the cheaper places, rising to more like US$10 at the smarter ones, and US$50 or more is possible if you go wild with the wine list.

Domestic flights link Phnom Penh, Siem Reap. Fast boats link several popular destinations in Cambodia and the journey can be more scenic than by road. There is now a healthy selection of bus companies connecting towns and cities throughout Cambodia and prices are rock bottom. On the rougher roads, share taxis and pick-ups take the strain. Train travel is no longer possible, as passenger services have been suspended, but that could be seen as a blessing in disguise given that trains crawl along at an average speed of 20km/h. For ultimate flexibility, rent a car or 4WD and travel with a guide.

Visitors to Angkor (which is surely everybody coming to Cambodia) will have to factor in the cost of entrance fees, which are US$20 for one day, US$40 for three days and US$60 for one week. An additional expense is transport to get to, from and around the ruins; from US$2 for a bicycle, US$6 to US$8 for a moto (small motorcycle with driver), US$10 to US$15 for a remorque (trailer pulled by a bicycle or motorcycle) and US$25 to US$35 for a car.

Small budget, big budget, it doesn’t really matter; Cambodia is the place to be. Soak it up in the style that suits.

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Tipping

Tipping is not traditionally expected here, but in a country as poor as Cambodia, tips can go a long way. Salaries remain extremely low and service is often superb thanks to a Khmer commitment to hospitality. Hence a tip of just US$1 might be half a day’s wages for some. Many of the upmarket hotels levy a 10% service charge, but this doesn’t always make it to the staff. If you stay a couple of nights in the same hotel, try to remember to tip the staff that clean your room. Consider tipping drivers and guides, as the time they spend on the road means time away from home and family.

It is considered proper to make a small monetary donation at the end of a visit to a wat, especially if a monk has shown you around; most wats have contribution boxes for this purpose.

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Money

ATMs

There are now credit-card-compatible ATMs (Visa and MasterCard only) in most major cities including Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, Battambong and Kompong Cham. There are also ATMs at the Cham Yeam and Poipet borders if arriving from Thailand. Machines dispense US dollars. Large withdrawals of up to US$2000 are possible, providing your account can handle it. Stay alert when using them late at night. ANZ Royal Bank has the most extensive network, including ATMs at petrol stations and popular hotels, restaurants and shops, closely followed by Canadia Bank. Acleda Bank has the widest network of branches in the country, including all provincial capitals, and many have ATMs. However, these are not yet compatible with international credit cards, although rumours are that they will be upgraded soon.

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Cash

The US dollar remains king in Cambodia. Armed with enough cash, you won’t need to visit a bank at all because it is possible to change small amounts of dollars for riel at hotels, restaurants and markets. Hardened travellers argue that your trip ends up being slightly more expensive if you rely on US dollars rather than riel, but in reality there’s very little in it. However, it never hurts to support the local currency against the greenback. It is always handy to have about US$10 worth of riel kicking around, as it is good for motos, remorque-motos and markets. Pay for something cheap in US dollars and the change comes in riel. In remote areas of the north and northeast, locals only deal in riel or small dollar denominations.

The only other currency that can be useful is Thai baht, mainly in the west of the country. Prices in towns such as Koh Kong, Poipet and Sisophon are often quoted in baht, and even in Battambang it is as common as the dollar.

There are no banks at any of the land border crossings into Cambodia, meaning credit cards and travellers cheques are effectively useless on arrival, although there will likely be ATMs in Poipet in the near future. In the interests of making life as simple as possible, organise a supply of US dollars before arriving in Cambodia. Cash in other major currencies can be changed at banks or markets in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. However, most banks tend to offer a miserable rate for any nondollar transaction so it can be better to use moneychangers, which are found in and around every major market.

Western Union and MoneyGram are both represented in Cambodia for fast, if more expensive, money transfers. Western Union is represented by SBC and Acleda Bank, and MoneyGram is represented by Canadia Bank.

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Credit cards

Top-end hotels, airline offices and upmarket boutiques and restaurants generally accept most major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, JCB, sometimes American Express), but they usually pass the charges straight on to the customer, meaning an extra 3% on the bill.

Cash advances on credit cards are available in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, other provinces. Canadia Bank and Union Commercial Bank offer free cash advances, but most other banks advertise a minimum charge of US$5.

Several travel agents and hotels in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap arrange cash advances for about 5% commission; this can be particularly useful if you get caught short at the weekend.

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Travellers cheques

Acleda Bank now offers travellers cheque encashment at most branches, bringing financial freedom to far-flung provinces like Ratanakiri and Mondulkiri. It is best to have cheques in US dollars, though it is also possible to change euros at Acleda Bank and most major currencies at branches of Canadia Bank. Generally, you pay about 2% commission to change travellers cheques.

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CAMBODIA

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The Kingdom of Cambodia is one of the world's newest and most exciting travel Southeast Asia destinations. After years of isolation, Cambodia opened to tourists in the mid-1990s and tourists numbers have increased every year since - last year the country seeing near two million tourists. Cambodia’s primary tourist destinations - Angkor Wat and the other temples of Angkor near Siem Reap, the cultural attractions in the capital Phnom Penh, and the beaches of Sihanoukville - offer plenty of accommodations, restaurants and other tourist services. Other destinations such as the hill tribe areas of Ratanakiri and Mondulkiri, the remote temples of Preah Vihear and Banteay Chhmar, and quaint provincial capitals such as Battambang and Kampot, are just now being discovered by travelers, and all offer unique glimpses of ‘unspoiled’ Cambodia. There’s a magic about Cambodia that casts a spell on many who visit this charming yet confounding kingdom. Ascend to the realm of the gods at the mother of all temples, Angkor Wat, a spectacular fusion of symbolism, symmetry and spirituality. Descend into the hell of Tuol Sleng and come face to face with the Khmer Rouge and its killing machine. Welcome to the conundrum that is Cambodia: a country with a history both inspiring and depressing, an intoxicating place where the future is waiting to be shaped.

Cambodia is a land of superlatives. The ancient temples of Angkor Wat, Bayon and other ruins of the Khmer Empire rank amongst the world's grandest and most magnificent World Heritage Sites - easily in a class with Machu Picchu, the Pyramids of Egypt and Teotihuacan. But this magnificence stands in shocking contrast to the Killing Fields, Toul Sleng Genocide Museum and other remnants of Cambodia's more recent history - a time when Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge regime of the late 1970s committed some of the most horrifying atrocities of the 20th century. Yet, the Khmer people, who make up more than 95% of modern Cambodia's population, impress visitors as some of the friendliest, 'happiest' (sabai), and most gentle people they have ever met. The ubiquitous Khmer smile is legendary, as is traditional Khmer hospitality and openness. Cambodia is truly a land of light and dark, of wonder and of tragedy - awe-inspiring, heart wrenching and completely unique.

Cambodia is like the teen starlet who has just been discovered by an adoring public: everyone wants something from her but not everyone wants what is best for her. The government, long shunned by international big business, is keen to benefit from all these newfound opportunities. Contracts are being signed off like autographs and there are concerns for the long-term interests of the country.

Tourism has brought many benefits to Cambodia: it provides opportunity and employment for a new generation of Khmers, has helped to spark a rebirth of the traditional arts, and has given the country a renewed sense of pride and optimism as it recovers from the dark decades of war and genocide. However, not all tourism has been good for the country and there is the dark side of sex tourism, human exploitation and a casino culture. Cambodia is in a great position to benefit from the mistakes of other countries in the region and follow a sustainable road to tourism development. However, it may be that the government is more focused on the short-term gain that megabucks investments can provide. Can Cambodia be all things to all visitors? So far, so good, but a new era is about to begin and the beaches are the next battleground.

There are two faces to Cambodia: one shiny and happy, the other dark and complex. For every illegal eviction of city dwellers or land grab by a general, there will be a new NGO school offering better education, or a new clean-water initiative to improve the lives of the average villager. Such is the yin and yang of Cambodia, a country that inspires and confounds. Like an onion, the more layers you unravel, the more it makes you want to cry, but these are spontaneous tears, sometimes of sorrow, sometimes of joy.

Despite having the eighth wonder of the world in its backyard, Cambodia’s greatest treasure is its people. The Khmers have been to hell and back, struggling through years of bloodshed, poverty and political instability. Thanks to an unbreakable spirit and infectious optimism, they have prevailed with their smiles intact; no visitor comes away from Cambodia without a measure of admiration and affection for the inhabitants of this enigmatic kingdom.

Cambodia: beaches as beautiful as Thailand but without the tourist tide; wilds as remote as Laos but even less explored; cuisine as subtle as Vietnam but yet to be discovered; and temples that leave Burma and Indonesia in the shade. This is the heart of Southeast Asia, with everything the region has to offer packed into one bite-sized country. If you were only planning to spend a week in Cambodia, it’s time to think again.

Travel Alert:

Landmines are still a real danger in Cambodia, with up to six million live mines dotted around the countryside and near the border with Thailand. Stick to the beaten track - even at Angkor. Check Safe Travel for details.

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Visa

ANGKOR WAT TOUR GUIDE SERVICE

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Welcome valued guests!

My name is Ratanak Eath please called Nak, and my elder brother Sovann Eath, We are professional licensed tour guides who have been experienced as English speaking guides for many years. We are certified tour guides who were trained by Ministry of Tourism. Dear Valued guests if you are interested in touring Cambodia, Kingdom of Wonders, please contact us. We will show you around and provide you a great tour with memorable trips to Angkor.

I am not just a tour guide who can tell you about the history, I can also assist you at all times during your trip in my country, such as guiding you to temples, mountains or around the city. Especially, I can arrange transportation and hotels at your request.

Tour Guide Services

We are licensed Angkor tour guides who are fluent in English. We have been leading tourists through the Angkor temple sights and explaining to them the rich history of the ancient Khmer Empire for ten years. Becoming a licensed tour guide is a long and expensive process. Only certified guides are allowed to accompany tourists into the temples. If you wish to enjoy a thorough and informed explanation of the history, art, and architecture of ancient Angkor as you explore the Temples step-by-step, you must be accompanied by a licensed guide. Unlicensed guides are not allowed into the premises with tour groups.
For only US $25 a day we will be your reliable and informed guide to the mysteries of my ancestors' culture and empire.

Ratanak Eath The Freelance English speaking tour guide, who has been working for Sofitel Royal Angkor Hotel for five years, click HERE for review.

Sovann Eath, The Freelance English speaking tour guide, who has been working for Raffles Grand Hotel D'Angkor for ten years. Click HERE for review.

Hotels and Guesthouses :

Siem Reap is full of hotels and guesthouses; there is an option for all tastes and budgets. We have lavish, five-star hotels that provide excellent comfort and service as well as cozy, family-run guesthouses where you can stay for just a few dollars a night.
Having worked and lived in Siem Reap for many years, We have built a network of friends and colleagues and can secure for you rooms at prices far below the usual rate. Looking for a hotel with a spa and room service? We know just the place. Prefer simpler comforts and the chance to meet a local Khmer family while they prepare your breakfast? We know the perfect place to find that as well. Let us know you preferences when you email and We will take care of everything.

Borie Angkor Hotel (one of 5 star Hotels in Siem Reap)

Transportations :

There are many modes of transportation for your exploration of Angkor. Whether you prefer the comfort of an air-conditioned car, the excitement of a motorbike, or the pleasure of group ride in a motorized tuk-tuk tax, We can find the safest and most comfortable option for you.
Cars start at an additional US $30 for a full day in the Angkor temple complex, all petrol included, for a four seats. Vans with eight to fifteen seats cost US $45. Half-day rentals are available as well. We operate all of the vehicles myself. We can Pick-up and deposit to the Siem Reap Airport, Siem Reap bus station, and the Tonle Sap boat dock.

Toyota camry (max 3 pax)

Toyota 4WD Highlander (Max 4 pax)

Jonathan Clarke (HR manager in UK) used Ratanak's service in April 2010
He said :

My trip to Angkor was amazing - what you will see you will remember forever = sunrise and sunset are unforgettable. It was made even more special with an amazing guide. this is not as a tour as you many know it - it is a set pievce. Ratanak Eath tailors the time you have available to make the absolute most of it, he has a vast knowledge of the history and architecture of Angkor complex. He know how to avoid the crowds, he shows you the details that you would miss on your own. He take care of you- the best place to eat and drink when you need it.
He is honest, totally reliable and is excellent value for your money. He has Cambodian Ministry of Tourism license. If you need help planning a hotel before you arrive or a bus ticket when you leave, he will help you. He knows Siem Reap as a local would and all the information he share with you. You many get to Angkor once, so make sure you get the most from your trip with him.

Important Q and A for Cambodia

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1. Q: US$100 bill, does anyone have a suggestion as to how to convert them into smaller denominations? Is it true that ATM's in Cambodia dispense US currency?
A: Yes, the ATMs do dispense US$, you could also try to pay for your visa on arrival with a $100 bill, that will at least break one.
The other place to try is the banks, either ANZ or Canadia and your hotel may be able to help you out. It's hard to use such large bills on the street or in restaurants etc.
Do make sure that your bills are recent issue and in very good condition, ie no tears or rips and make sure you only accept pristine bills, you can get away with a slighty grubby 1$ but anything larger can be hard to use if it's damaged in any way.
The major money changers just love crisp new large denomination notes in USD, GBP or JPT and THB and are always very happy to change for smaller notes for you.
In the restaurants, if they cant change it they run over the road to a money changer for you.

2. Q : which currencies are using in Cambodia?

A : Bring US dollars, you can use them there and will get handed riel (the Cambodian currency) when you get small change. Save that for tipping, short tuk-tuk rides and buying inexpensive things like bottles of water, etc
Bring more smaller note (one dollar bill) with you and probably just change ten or twenty dollars to local currency (Riel) as you will need them for small purchase

3. Q : Do laundry services handwash only or are machines used too? when we send our clothes out to the laundry service (hotel or private), do we also include our underwear?

A : It is all hand-washed and air-dried. There are many laundry service are serving for you clothes wash, the several hotels are expensive and outside you probably can find cheaper one which cost US$2 per kilo average.
You can take everything (knickers included) to the laundry and the next day all beautifully folded/ironed (depending on the garment/fabric). Plenty of places offering a similar service.
Some places sew little pieces of wool onto your clothes to denote that they are yours. Some places also count the items out after they have weighted them.

4. Q : Money Changers & Funds Transfers?

A : Money changers in Cambodia fall broadly in to several tiers.

Firstly, the top ten or so who deal in bullion, precious stones and international currency exchanges and transfers as well as intra-Cambodia money transfers and run in parallel to the established banks. These top tier money lenders serve a very valuable function in a country where the vast majority of individuals and small businesses do not have bank accounts but still need, on occasions, to send or receive money.

Second tier money changers are those licenced as money changers and that is their sole function.

The third tier money changers are those that just operate as small scale money changers as part of another principle business such as a pharmacy or gold vendor or on the street in tourist areas such as Siem Reap.

In Phnom Penh, diagonally across from the Singapore International School in Charles De Gaul Boulevard, is to be found a cluster of leading money changers and all with their premises next door to each other. Each of these establishments displays the Buy and Sell rates for KHR to USD and, sometimes other currencies. The largest and most influential of these well established tier one money changers is that of Ly Hour (pronounced Hor). Ly Hour also, conveniently for tourists, operated a money changing service in Monivong Boulevard.

Funds Transfer within Cambodia: Whilst many of the lesser money changers can and will transfer funds within Cambodia for you I am a firm believer in using the major money changers for this as their documentation and service network throughout Cambodia is superior. For example, on my most recent trip, a need arose for a swift transfer of US$200. to a recipient in the provinces. So, off to Ly Hour and in to the back of the shop, not the street front counter, and sit down on one of the stools and wait your turn. The transfer details and requirements are entered to a serial numbered twin-copy form as you explain your requirement. One copy is given to you as your receipt and the other retained in house. The onus is then on you to phone the intended beneficiary and tell them them the phone number in their town that is set out on your form as well as the serial number of the receipt given to you. The cost of this service was only KHR 7,000. and I was phoned back by the recipient about forty minutes later to advise that they had the cash in-hand. The only requirement for a beneficiary is that they either have or can be contacted through a mobile phone/HP to be advised of the contact phone number to call and the official receipt serial number. The system works flawlessly as does the Australian, Sydney, Pisey Tem Money Transfer service between AU and KH in either direction.

In conclusion, the large money changers usually give a better rate of exchange for large denomination notes in fine condition than for small, mixed denomination notes.

5. Q : How much is Visa? What is requirement? Which country will allow/not allow to apply? How is visa work on arrival?

A : You need to apply a Visa to entry the country for $20 (tourist) or $25 (business) and a passport photo.
All nationalities require a visa or an ASEAN or other exemption from visa which, in reality, is a stamp in a current passport (or Diplomatic Laiser Passer) on entering and leaving Cambodia for those ASEAN countries with reciprocal agreements with Cambodia.

Only those with Philippine, Lao, Singapore and Malaysian passports do not require a visa. (All of the above are granted a 30-day stay in the country with the exception of the 15-day stay for Philippine passport holders.)

Visas WILL NOT be granted to the following passport holders on arrival;

Afghanistan, Algeria, Bangladesh, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka and Sudan. These passport holders must arrange for their visas in advance and must also hold a sponsor letter with them upon arrival.

Applying visa on arrival is easy and not very complicated as you keep walking in line and they are processing them for you. You should be given a visa form and a customs form when checks in, or when on board the plane, you should fill these in and then on arrival at Siem reap or Phnom Penh, passengers will be directed to the Visa on arrival desks, where you will hand over her passport, forms, photo and payment proceed along the line and by the time you reaches the end, the passport will be returned with the visa attached. Then you just proceeds through immigration and customs and you will be out into baggage reclaim. The whole proceed should take no more than 15mins.

6. Q : How much is the Angkor Wat pass, how does one get it, and how is it used?

A : The Angor Wat pass can be purchased at the toll booth en route to Ankor Wat. You will have your photo taken for the pass.

A one-day pass is $20, a 3-day pass is $40 (good for one week*) and a 7-day pass is $60 (good for one month*). *You must specify that you want to use the pass for this time period upon purchase, or you will only be able to use it for the consecutive days after purchase.

If you purchase your pass at 5:00pm, your pass will not be activated until the next day, allowing you into the complex to get a free sunset.

You must have your pass on you at all times, as they will check them at the entrance to the temples. It is also a good idea to bring a plastic carrying case in case it rains.

Temple hours: The Angkor Wat complex opens at 5:00am and closes at 6:00pm. Banteay Srie closes at 5:00pm, and Kbal Spean closes at 3:00pm, so plan your itinerary carefully. Passes are not required for the following, however there is a toll levied-

Phnom Kulen ($20), Koh Ker ($10), Beng Melea ($5).

7. Q : Is a visitor required to have a guide?

A . No, a guide for the Angkor Area is not required, and it is an entirely up to the visitor to decide if he/she needs one or not. A guide will definitely enrich your experience and can offer you detailed cultural and historical information, but many prefer to go without a guide. An English-speaking guide will generally charge $25 per day (more for other languages). They can arrange drivers as well, from tuk-tuks to cars to mini-vans. Prices will range from an additional $15-$60 for transportation

8. Q : Should a visitor take malaria medications? What else should one look out for?

A : This is a personal choice. While malaria really isn't a problem in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, there are malaria moquitoes around the Thai-Cambodia border area. Unfortunately, the malaria parasites in that area have recently become increasingly resistant to the usually highly-effective artemisinin based drugs. There is also dengue fever to worry about, so it is recommended to wear a good DEET-based mosquito repellent when you are outside, and re-apply periodically. Long pants and long-sleeved shirts are also good to prevent bites. At any market, you can also pick up mosquito coils to burn if you happen to like sitting outside at dusk, when the mosquitoes are out.

Vaccines: If you will be spending more than a couple of weeks traveling in Cambodia, it is a good idea to get a hepatitis A & B shot, as well as to update your tetanus shot. If you will be spending a good deal of time in rural areas on farms, working with livestock or in areas with rice paddies, you may want to look into getting a Japanese encephalitis vaccine. See the CDC homepage for detailed information on these diseases.

9. Q : Can I buy "women's products" in Cambodia?

A : Sanitary products for women are available in Phnom Penh at large markets and also in Siem Reap at some of the mini-marts. In Asia, pads are favored over tampons, so you may not find much of a selection. If you have a favorite brand (or size), it is recommended you bring them with you from home. Many female travelers opt for a Mooncup (or Divacup) so they don't have to worry about bringing these items with them.

10. Q : What should one bring to give to the kids?

A : bringing things to hand out at random is never a good idea, as it just encourages begging. Purchasing items from street children just encourages them to stay on the streets, missing school and missing out on an education. If you wish to help out children in Cambodia, arrange to visit a school or an orphanage, and bring supplies directly to them. You can buy school supplies and toys at the local market. Not only will this benefit the local business but you will be able to purchase the items cheaply and won't have to fill your suitcase with items from home. If you will be visiting the home of a local person, bring them some household items (soap, shampoo,cooking oil, salt, soup base, etc) which will be more useful than a decorative object.

11. Q : What kind of currency is used?

A : While the currency in Cambodia is the riel, dollars are widely accepted. You will usually get your change in riel. Small bills ($1) are good to have around for tipping, as is spare riel. Smaller bills are preferred for shopping at local markets, as a lot of vendors will not be able to change anything greater than a $20.

There are ATMs in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap which dispense dollars, and credit cards are accepted at a lot of hotels, higher-end restaurants, travel agencies and souvenir shops. There are numerous money changers as well. The vendors will usually expect the customer to pay the 3% bank fee for using a credit card.

Just a quick note : Make sure your dollars are not torn or old or discolored. Shops, restaurants, hotels and airport will not accept these bills. As much as possible, keep them looking new.

12. Q : What's the departure tax for flying out of Cambodia?

A. $25 for international, $6 for domestic flights. Payable at the airport upon departure, cash and visa accepted.

13. Q : How does one get a Cambodian visa?

A. First, make sure your passport will not expire within six months. Visas are available on arrival at the airport in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh for $20 (bring one passport-sized photo). You will get the application forms to fill out on the plane. Visas are also available at the land border crossings from Thailand, Vietnam and Laos. One-month visas are available at Cambodian embassies.

The e-visa is also available on this site Cambodian Visa

and costs $25 for a 30-day visa. You simply fill out the form, download a photo and process your payment by credit card. It takes from 24 hours to 3 days to process the visa, which you will print out and attach 2 copies to your passport.

14. Q: What kind of clothing is suitable?

A. People should wear whatever they are most comfortable in, but a fair amout of modesty should be exercised. It can be extremely hot and humid and while some are comfortable in loose-fitting cotton, others feel better in quick-drying synthetics. Garments made from "wicking" materials are available at outdoor/ adventurewear stores. This special fabric absorbs perspiration and dries while it is on your body. These items also launder easily, dry very quickly and do not wrinkle.

A hat is also recommended to keep the hot sun off your face, as is a good sunscreen (mosquito repellent goes over the sunscreen). While hiking boots would be too hot in the tropical climes, walking shoes/sneakers are good but sturdy hiking sandals ( those made by Teva, Keens, Chaco, Merril, etc) are ideal. Opt for a thin cargo pant or capri-length pant instead of jeans, which are too hot for the tropics. A definite no-no in Asia is showing too much skin. Women, keep it modest with the cleavage, showing a bare midriff or wearing short shorts. Swimwear is acceptable on the beach (you will notice the locals swimming in shorts and T-shirts!) but cover up when heading into town.

Cambodia can get quite chilly late at night or inthe early monring in the cool months (December, January) and it is a good idea to bring a fleece jacket. It's also good to have this for bus travel as sometimes the A/C can get downright cold.

When visiting active temples in Phnom Penh women should cover their shoulders. It is required for women to wear a long-sleeved blouse in order to enter the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh. Those who are not dressed respectably will be turned away.

MAJOR ATTRACTIONS

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Inside Angkor Archeological Park

Temples http://theangkorguide.com

Bayon (giant faces) -

Ta Prohm (trees/Tomb Raider movie)

Angkor Watt (most famous and most crowded)-

Elephant wall and King Lepar
**to see any of the above you will enter the SouthGate, Angkor Thom (walled city that contains the above temples).

Banteay Srei (small, but detailed/well preserved) comes with a drive out to the country side (see wooden houses, rice paddies, etc.), a whole day, but combined with other temples. Stop along the way, and purchase sugar cane candy from the locals.

Phnom Bakheng

Inside Siem Reap city

Angkor National Museum

Cambodia Cultural Village

War Museum : The war museum is located outside - in an open field. You can walk freely or have a guide. I recommend the guide. He will walk through each exhibit and explain how the machine/weapon was used against the Cambodian people, describing the horrifying terrors of the Khmer Rouge and the Pol Pot Regime. The mine display was especially memorable to me. My husband enjoyed the ability to freely handle the machine guns and jumping into the tanks on display. Yes, this is a museum - but the equipment is open for contact (which suprised us very much). It's outside - and hot, so bring sunscreen and bug repellant.

Artisan D'Angkor : A wood and stone carving workshop sponsored by the UN located in the middle of Siem Reap. Tour was not as good as the silk farm - although this tour is more popular because it's in the city. You will see children making stone carvings. Good place to buy stone carvings vs. off the street as it supports the program. Bring your credit card. Plan ahead and make sure you have room in your suitcase. The store will provide you a certificate of "unauthenticity" in the event custom stop you for taking a stone carving.

Les Chantiers Ecoles Silk Farm (Artisians d'Angkor) : Located 16KM west of Siem Reap - an amazing hand silk production tour. A must do. It's almost like going back in time - where you will see the silk worms being harvested, silk spun, dyed, and weaved. This program is sponsored by the UN to teach young women a craft as a means of livelihood. Bring your credit card and buy 100% handmade silk items to support the program. Small silk items start from $5 - and up to $100 plus for some items. The best silk I've ever seen in the world.

Markets : There are 2 major markets: a) Central and b) Old Market (Psar Chaa). Central Market does not attract as many tourists so it's about 50% cheaper. It's also much cleaner, as it does not have a major food market like the Old Market does where small business owners are selling their veggies, meats, and household items. Not much to buy unless you are interested in Thai silk pillow cases ($1.50 USD); average quality silk scarves ($1.50); tourist shirts with Gap labels ($1.00 USD - quality of shirt was very high, I think it is Gap); NorthFace backpacks (not sure if it's real); and Cambodian Wedding Music CD ($3.00).

Concert at Children Hospital

Outside of Angkor Archelogical Park

Floating Village

Beng Melea

Phnom Kulen

Koh Ker

Preah Vihear

SUGGESTED ITINERARIES

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Half day tour in Angkor temples

Morning tour or afternoon tour (4 hours)

Option A:
Visit Rolous Group with three main temples such as Preah Ko, Bakong and Lolei

Option B:
Visit Floating village by taking a cruise boat 45 min along Siem Reap River to Tonle Sap lake

Option C:
Visit Angkor Wat for sunrise and continue to Bayon temple

Option D:
Visit Angkor Wat and climb up Phnom Bakheng for sunset and great landscape view of Angkor Wat.

Option E:
Visit small circuit tour ( Ta Prohm temple, Banteay Kdei, Ta Keo, and Prasat Kravan)

Option F:
Visit Grand circuit tour ( Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Som, East Mebon and Pre Rup)

Option G:
Visit Banteay Srie temple and Banteay Samre.

1 day tour in Angkor temples

Morning start @ 07H30 – 08H00

Visit the city of Angkor Thom comprised of the Bayon Temple, Baphoun, Elephant Terrace and The Terrace of the Leper King.

Enter the city of Angkor Thom through the monumental south gate, Avenue of gods and asuras lining the bridge across the structure moat.

The Bayon or state temple of Javavarman 7 is one of the most enigmatic and powerful religious constructions in the world. It is a unique mass of “face tower” which creat a stone mountain of ascending peaks. There were originally 54 towers of which is 37 are still standing today. Most are carved with four faces on each cardinal point. The central has many more.

Ta Prohm or Tomb Raider Temple was built in the 12^th century by Jayavarman 7 as a royal monastery. It was dedicated to the King’s mother. This temple was chosen to be left in its natural state as an example of how most of Angkor looked, upon its rediscovery in the 19^th century. Shrouded in jungle, the temple of Ta Prohm ethereal in aspect and conjures up a romantic aura with gigantic roots and branches intimately with the stones and probing walls to form a natural roof above the manmade structures.

Afternoon Start @ 14H30 – 15H00

Angkor wat & Sunset at Phnom Bakheng. Built between the 9^th and 14^th centuries, the temple of Angkor are among the grandest monuments ever constructed. The entire complex covers approximately 164 square miles with over 200 temples. Among the 30 temples that are accessible today, the most famous is Angkor Wat, the largest religious building in the world. Conceived by Suryavarman 2 in the early 12^th century, Angkor wat took an estimated 37 years to build. Unlike most other Khmer temples, it faces west , the most likely reason being that the temple was dedicated to Vishnu, who is sometimes associated with the west.

Phnom Bakheng Hill is for sunset, late 9^th century was the state temple of the first capital of Angkor. The view from the top is magnificent, particularly of Angkor wat to the south east and is the most popular spot for visitor at sunset.

2 days tour in Angkor temples

Day one

Morning start @ 07H30 – 08H00

Visit the city of Angkor Thom comprised of the Bayon Temple, Baphoun, Elephant Terrace and The Terrace of the Leper King.

Enter the city of Angkor Thom through the monumental south gate, Avenue of gods and asuras lining the bridge across the structure moat.

Baphoun is the vast temple near the center of Angkor Thom. It’s under France’s restoration project, it is possible to access the entrance gate and the elevated walkway entrance and there is a huge reclining Buddha on the west side of the temple.

The Elephant Terrace is the heart of Angkor Thom and looks out over the Royal Square. It marks the entrance to the Royal Palace and the focal point for the royal receptions. The carvings of elephants along its wall give its modern name.

Terrace of Leper King This massive terrace is named after the 15^th century sculpture that was discovered on top of it. It probably dates back to the reign of Javavarman 7 and has been restored in the manner which allows visitors to explore the earliest to most recent addition by actually entering the internal layers of the structure.

Afternoon Start @ 14H30 – 15H00

Day two

Morning start @ 07H30-08H00

Leave for jewel of Angkor, Banteay Srie, known as the “citadel of the women” or “Citadel of Beautiful” presumably referring to its size and delicacy of its decoration.

Unlike the major sites of Angkor, Banteay Srie was not a Royal Temple. It was built not by kings, but by Brahmin priests. Often described in terms as the jewel of Khmer art, Banteay Srie is a temple of great beauty and compares with little else in Angkor. Its miniature scale almost always surprises visitors and the near total decoration of its surfaces is exceptional.

Banteay Samre is the one of the most complete complexes at Angkor and restored using the archaeological method. The method entails complete deconstruction of the building, numbering of its component part and then painstaking reconstruction.

Afternoon start @ 14H30-15H00

Preah Khan built in the 12^th century was one of Javavarman 7’s largest projects dedicated to his father. Preah Khan was much more than a temple with over 1,000 teachers it appears also to have been a Buddhist university as well as a considerable city. Preah Khan is located on the western edge of its own long Baray, the Jayatakata, and the terraced landing stage at the end of the temples W-E axis access to the lake with a moat surrounding the city.

Neak Pean is collected of five ponds in the middle of reservoir Jayatakata, The man-made 70m square pond surrounded by four smaller ponds.

3 days tour in Angkor temples

Day one

Morning start @ 07H30-08H00

Visit Rolous Group with three major temples such as Preah Ko, Bakong, and Lolei

Preah Ko appears with six towers displaying set on a platform, all beautifully preserved carvings.

Bakong one of the most impressive member of Rolous Group, sitting at the center of the first Angkorian capital, lintel carvings, particularly on the outer towers are in very good shape.

Lolei on an island temple built in the middle of a now dry Baray, it consist of 4 brick towers on a double platform.

Afternoon Start @ 14H30 – 15H00

Leave for jewel of Angkor, Banteay Srie, known as the “citadel of the women” or “Citadel of Beautiful” presumably referring to its size and delicacy of its decoration.

Day two

Morning start @ 05H00-05H30

Sun rise at Angkor wat Built between the 9^th and 14^th centuries, the temple of Angkor are among the grandest monuments ever constructed. The entire complex covers approximately 164 square miles with over 200 temples. Among the 30 temples that are accessible today, the most famous is Angkor Wat, the largest religious building in the world. Conceived by Suryavarman 2 in the early 12^th century, Angkor wat took an estimated 37 years to build. Unlike most other Khmer temples, it faces west , the most likely reason being that the temple was dedicated to Vishnu, who is sometimes associated with the west.

Afternoon Start @ 14H30 – 15H00

Day 3

Morning start @ 07H30 – 08H00

Visit the city of Angkor Thom comprised of the Bayon Temple, Baphoun, Elephant Terrace and The Terrace of the Leper King.

Enter the city of Angkor Thom through the monumental south gate, Avenue of gods and asuras lining the bridge across the structure moat.

Afternoon start @ 14H30-15H00

Neak Pean is collected of five ponds in the middle of reservoir Jayatakata, The man-made 70m square pond surrounded by four smaller ponds.

Ta som is a small monastic complex, face tower Gopuras many of the carvings which show and uncommon individually. A huge tree grows from the top of the eastern Gopura. It is destroying the gate, but it is a photo classic. Best photographed in the afternoon.

End of service.

Major Attraction of Angkor complex

Angkor Wat Temple

Angkor Thom

Ta Prohm Temple

Banteay Srie Temple

Beng Melea Temple

Tonle Sap (Great Lake)

WHAT & WHERE TO BUY

2010-07-17T07:40:00.000-07:00

What to Buy

Hand-woven Cambodian silks, stone and woodcarvings, statues and castings, contemporary Cambodian art, Cambodian handicrafts and traditional musical instruments, temple rubbings, silver betel containers, colored gems and basketry are among the most popular souvenirs. The most useful and one of the cheapest souvenirs that you can buy is a traditional checkered Cambodian scarf (krama). If you don’t mind looking like a tourist, wear it around your neck like the locals to keep the intense tropical sun off the back of your neck.

Cambodian Silks

Cambodian silks are prized by silk collectors the world over. Most of the silk available in Cambodia is hand-loomed using the traditional ikat method of dying the threads and looming in the patterns. Both raw and fine silks are available in the form of bolts, sarongs, clothing and various handicrafts. Many of the pieces available are potential collector’s items. A fascinating way to learn about Cambodian silk is to visit the National Silk Center where visitors can witness start-to-finish silk creation - growing and harvesting mulberry (food for the silk worms), the breeding process and life cycle of the silk worm, collection of cocoons, separation and spinning the silk, the dying process and the creation of beautiful silk weavings on wooden, multi-harness hand looms. Cambodian silk is available at silk shops and boutiques across town, many specializing in silk creations such as tailored Asian and Euro-Asian fashions, pillows, blankets, purses and other decor and accessories. To learn more about Cambodian silk check the bookstore for ‘Traditional Textiles of Cambodia’ by Gillian Green.

Statues and carvings

Statues and carvings of traditional subjects, often copies of Angkorian era works as well as Buddhas and various Hindu gods and personages, are available in stone, wood and brass. Statues make for relatively heavy, bulky souvenirs but are still very popular because of their beauty and artistic value. The replica of an Angkorian era bust of Jayavarman VII with its graceful lines and peaceful smile is truly captivating and is perhaps the most popular piece. Statues and carvings are available at the Old Market and most souvenir shops, though it pays to shop around for the best price and quality. Highly-recommended is a stop at one of the local workshops such as Artisans D’Angkor to see craftsman producing wood and stone carvings. At Artisans d’Angkor visitors can observe artisans making traditional wood and stone carvings and lacquerwares following traditional techniques. Of special interest is the traditional polychromy finishing technique that is being practiced in the workshops. Polychromy imparts a unique patina to stone and wood pieces. Free tours available. See the Artisans d Angkor listing. Silver betel containers Silver betel containers are popular, traditional souvenirs. These pounded silver containers are often shaped like animals, fruits and vegetables, and were originally used in ceremonial and everyday life to hold dried betel nut. (Betel is a type of palm nut that is chewed as a mild stimulant.) In the traditional market, betel looks like coin shaped, dark red plugs. You may see people, particularly older women from rural areas, with teeth stained deep red from years of chewing betel. Nowadays, silver betel containers are made primarily for sale as souvenirs but are still hand crafted using traditional techniques and styles. And in comparison to statues and carvings, they are comparatively light weight and transportable.

‘Temple rubbings’

‘Temple rubbings’ are for sale everywhere in Siem Reap - the temples, the souvenir shops and the Old Market - but are, in fact, neither actual rubbings nor from the temples. They are in fact made from a heavy paper that is moistened then molded over recreations of original and imagined Angkorian-era temple carvings. Nevertheless, these rubbings are distinctive, light weight, transportable, inexpensive and uniquely Cambodian souvenirs.

Gems

Gems are a tempting souvenir. Western Cambodia, particularly in the area of Pailin, is a fertile source of colored stones. The markets in Siem Reap are full of jewelers specializing in Cambodian sapphires and rubies. Know something about gems and/or know the jeweler before spending much money.

Where to shop

Phsar Chas (the ‘Old Market’) is one of Siem Reap’s largest traditional covered markets and offers the largest selection of souvenirs under one roof in town. In fact, this market is really a ‘must visit’ in itself for the unique, colorful, local shopping experience. Of all the local markets, the Old Market offers the widest variety of souvenirs as well as the best selection of handicrafts and curios, including such items as traditional silverwork, silks, baskets, statuary, carvings and traditional musical instruments. See the Old Market area map. Also check out the just opened Angkor Night Market off Sivatha. The new night market promises an interesting after hours shopping venue.

Individual little boutiques, art and photo galleries are scattered across the town, though there is a concentration of places in the Old Market area. The boutiques tend to offer higher quality, more unique and sophisticated selections of items than the Old Market - some focusing on Cambodian silks and tailoring, others on high quality handicrafts, NGO-based crafts, Asian-inspired photographic and artistic creations or specialty items such as local candles, spices and teas. Perhaps most interestingly, a new generation of Cambodian artists is making its mark and contemporary Cambodian art is coming to the fore after decades of silence.

Angkor Cookies-Madamsachiko

Specializing in edible souvenirs, especially the locally made confection, ‘Angkor Cookies.’ Available in small and large quantities. Angkor Cookies also offers a selection of Cambodian teas, coffees, palm sugar, chocolate, pepper and other locally produced products. Fully air-conditioned. Attached to Café Puka Puka serving shaved ice, fruit shakes and juices, tea and coffee in comfortable a/c. Open 9:30AM - 7PM.

Road to Angkor Wat, opposite Sofitel Hotel

Angkor Shopping Center

Two expansive floors of a/c shopping. The main focus is on gems and jewelry, offering a huge selection of gems. Custom orders welcome. Goldsmith always on site. Also offering a wide selection of Cambodia souvenirs including silks and silk clothing, stone, wood, marble and jade statues and carvings, Cambodian silver and foods. The Joan Yen Lau Restaurant on the third floor of the Shopping Center offers Hong Kong style Chinese cuisine and a full bar.

Visa/MC/JCB/AMEX

Opposite the Royal Gardens

Artisans D’Angkor

Renowned woodworking, stone carving, gilding and silk painting workshops. Free tours of the classes and workshops offer a glimpse into the unique skills of the artisans who were trained in the techniques and styles of classic Cambodian artistry. Retail shop features wood and stone carvings, lacquer wares and silk items from Artisans d’Angkor. Open 7:30AM - 6:30PM.

Visa/MC/JCB/AMEX

100m off Sivatha, near the Old Market area

Artisans d’Angkor at National Silk Center

Set aside a couple of hours to visit the National Silk Center. The silk farm is a fascinating farm/workshop where you can see the entire silk creation process including growing the food for the silk worms (mulberry bushes), breeding the worms, silk extraction, spinning and refinement, traditional ikat dying, pattern creation, and looming. It’s a very interesting and educational tour well worth the time to drive out to the silk farm. Retail silk/souvenir shop from Artisans d’Angkor. Open 8:00AM - 5:30PM (workshops close at 5:00PM)

Visa/MC/JCB/AMEX

Rte #6, 16km west of town

Asia Craft Centre (ACC)

Unique showroom of Cambodian, Southeast Asian and South Asian traditional crafts and products. A good selection of quality handicrafts including silks and silk products - shawls, ties, table cloths and sets. Lacquerware and inlayed marble paintings. Wide selection of high quality handmade south Asian rugs, primarily from Kashmir. Silk looming and stone carving on-site. Special orders welcome. 9AM-8PM Visa/MC/JCB/AMEX

#0216, Road to Angkor Wat

D’mouj International Co.

High quality carpet and handicraft shop specializing in South Asian crafts, particularly handmade silk carpets, wall-hangings and embroidered scarves from Kashmir. Other crafts and objects of art also available. Everything in the shop is handmade. Comfortable a/c shopping. Attentive, professional service and assistance. Custom orders and wholesale enquires welcome. Shipping. Carpets shipped for free. Road to Angkor Wat

Visa/MC/JCB/AMEX

Institute for Khmer Traditional Textile (IKTT)

The Institute for Khmer Traditional Textiles (IKTT)is a non-profit Cambodian organization established in 1996, working in close collaboration with international aid agencies and NGOs. IKTT works to restore and preserve traditions of Cambodian textiles and to reinvigorate a local textile industry. The IKTT workshop and retail shop on Phnom Krom road just south of town center is open to visitors, where you can observe weavers in training, creating fine Cambodian silks on traditional looms and dying methods. Fine Cambodian silks are for sale in the retail shop where there is also an interesting display of hand made traditional loom parts. Phnom Krom Road just south of town

Kokoon

Boutique, next to Blue Pumpkin, offers a wide range of local crafts : delicatessen corner (teas, spices, honey), fragrant oil, incense, original table-art (tea sets, coffee spoon, table set, plaited bamboo trays), jewelry and copper objects. Also shawls, kramas and a silk blanket collections. Kokoon has used the famous Phnom Srok silk to create a 100% Kokoon, 100% Khmer silk collection. Old Market area.

Visa/MC/JCB/AMEX

McDermott Gallery

Fine art photography of Angkor and Asia by John McDermott and other international photographers. A cool, relaxing atmosphere and comfortable chairs make this upscale gallery a pleasant place to browse. Limited edition photographs, reproductions, posters and cards for sale. Two locations. The original gallery, showing John McDermott’s images of Angkor, is at the FCC, along the riverfront. McDermott Gallery 2 is located in the Old Market area on The Passage and exhibits work by several international photographers. Open 10:00AM - 10:00PM. Annex) Old Market area Gallery) Pokambor, just south of Rte. #6

Visa/MC/AMEX

Mekong Quilts

A non-profit organization that aims to provide rewarding employment for women in rural areas. Mekong Quilts offer a wide range of quality handmade quilts, home accessories, gifts and decorations. All the profits are cycled through the NGO, Mekong Plus, providing scholarships, health initiatives, etc. in remote villages in Svay Rieng. Sivatha Blvd.

Obriot Gallery

Obriot Gallery presents contemporary art inspired by Buddhist spirituality - selection of exclusive home decor designs such as Zen embroidered silk panel, ambiance stupa lamps and silver monk pendants. The gallery is also a studio of the artist and interior designer, Jean-Pierre Obriot.

Visa/MC/JCB/AMEX

Sivatha Blvd., opposite Lucky Mall

Pich Reamker Shop

Unique gallery and shop offering authentic masks and headwear used in traditional Cambodian dance, drama and theatre. If you have attended a traditional Cambodia performance, you have probably seen some of these mask in use in one of the dance dramas drawn from the Reamker (the Khmer version of the classic Indian Ramayana). The colorful mask offered by Pich Reamker are very high-quality, absolutely authentic, created using traditional techniques, hand painted, each a unique work of art in itself.

Rajana

NGO-based souvenir and handicraft shop. The Rajana shop has a wide variety of items including silk products, silk paintings, silver jewelry, bamboo crafts, handicrafts, cards, drawings, iron works, hilltribe crafts and even local coffees, spices and condiments. “The Rajana Association is an income generation and skills training project that produces Fair Trade products using traditional Cambodian skills with contemporary designs.” Old Market area.

Visa/MC/JCB/AMEX

Rehab Craft

Rehab Craft Cambodia is a non-profit NGO that aims to create opportunities and enhance the living standard of people with disabilities through the production and marketing of quality handicrafts including silk, silver and wood products - silk bags, clothes, soft furnishings, silver jewelry, wood, statues. All earnings are re-invested in training and employment programs.

Old Market area , Pokombor Av.

Sao Mao

Stylish Euro-Asian boutique with a variety of quality silks and silk creations, garments, art objects, silver jewelry and decor, tableware, unique coconut crafts, and curios. Cambodian coffee. Some spices and teas. Old Market area

Visa/MC/JCB/AMEX

Senteurs d’Angkor

Created in 1999, Senteurs d'Angkor pays special attention to quality, originality and authenticity of its products: statues, marbles, antiques, brass, copper and an important place dedicated to silk (kramas and bolts by meter). Also Senteurs d'Angkor manufactures his own range of products such as delicatessen (savory spices, flavored teas, rice brandy, coffee…) and scents (natural soap, oil, tiger balm…). Senteurs d'Angkor products can be identified by their original packaging, handmade from sugarpalm leaves. Opposite the Old Market.

Visa/MC/JCB/AMEX

Senteurs d’Angkor Workshop

The doors of the workshop are now open to the public. Passing through the different workshops, you will observe the manufacture of natural soaps made from coconut oil, of moisturizing creams and of subtly scented balms and candles. Observe the different steps in the treatment of spices, of their combinations to make the traditional curry or amok, and of the creation of flavored coffees and teas. See the coloring of sugar palm leaves and their weaving to produce lovely boxes made from natural fibers, called smoks. Learn to identify various exotic plants and flowers: lemongrass, chili, pepper plant, bougainvillea, frangipani tree, hibiscus, jasmine and more. 7.30AM to 5.30PM, everyday. Free visit. Visa/MC/JCB

Airport Road (Route #6)

Traditional Markets (Phsar) and Souvenir Markets

Angkor Night Market

Siem Reap’s original night market, located in the heart of town. The Angkor Night Market opens in the mid-afternoon, stays open until at least midnight, harbors more than 100 thatch roofed shops and stalls offering souvenirs, handicrafts, clothes, Asian and international food, drinks, books, DVDs, electronics, jewelry, art and there’s even a travel agent. The shopping atmosphere is peaceful and relaxed and the welcoming Island Bar at the back of the Market provides a nice place to relax and chill over some very reasonably priced drinks and snacks. Off Sivatha Blvd.

The Museum Mall

The new Museum Mall next to the Angkor Nation Museum is a shopping mall geared to the visitor, harboring dozens of shops, restaurants, stores and tourist facilities under one comfortably air-conditioned roof. Combine with a visit to the Angkor National Museum. Open 10AM - 8PM.

Next to the Angkor National Museum

Tel: 063-966616

New Angkor Market

Well established traditional style covered market on Airport Road within easy walking distance of many of the Airport Road hotels. Primarily an local market with some souvenir and silk vendors at the front. A good place to get a look at an authentic local market and do a little souvenir shopping as well. Stalls at the front have souvenirs and handicrafts, DVDs, currency exchange and there is even a convenience store. It’s much more local further back, with fruits and vegetables, butchers, clothing, seamstresses and local salons.

‘Airport Road’ (Route #6)

Noon Night Market

The Noon Night Market is located in the center of town within easy walking distance of the Old Market area and Pub Street. Look for the lighted signs. Open noon till late. Dozens of stalls and shops offering a complete selection of Cambodian souvenirs, Khmer art, silks, handicrafts, massage and more. Al fresco bar and Khmer food restaurant at the back of the market both offering reasonably priced food and drinks and a welcoming atmosphere. Free wifi at the restaurants. ATM in market..

Old Market area, just off Sivatha Blvd.

Phsar Chas (Old Market)

The Old Market (Phsar Chas) and the Old Market area are 'must sees' when visiting Siem Reap. Of the various traditional markets in the Siem Reap area, the Old Market is the most popular with tourists and visitors, offering the greatest selection of souvenirs and curios of any of the traditional markets. And the area around the Old Market is burgeoning with shops, galleries, restaurants, bars, massage and more. The Old Market is located on the river at the south end of the Old French Quarter. During the day and into the early evening the south side of the market near the river is alive with souvenir and silk vendors hawking a wide variety of Cambodian handicrafts, textiles, statues and curios. The Old Market is also a good place to pick up post cards, tee-shirts and other small items if you haven't already bought them from the vendors at the temples. The north half of the market caters primarily to the locals, vending fruit, vegetables, meats, clothes, appliances and such. A number of inexpensive food stalls line the northern edge, serving local fare in interesting though sometimes hygienically challenged conditions. The Old Market closes at sunset, but many of the souvenir vendors in south section of the market stay open past 8PM.

While the Old Market offers the greatest variety of souvenirs, the streets in the area around the market harbor several little galleries and boutiques, each with its own particular style, collection, art or specialty. The boutiques and galleries often offer higher quality, more select items, as well as more comfortable, often air-conditioned shopping venues. Other conveniences in the Old Market area include dozens of restaurants and pubs, especially along Pub Street, several travel agents and Internet shops, a couple of bookstores and several roving booksellers, convenience stores, banks and ATMs, and several reflexology/massage shops.

After the sun goes down, the focus shifts a block or two east of the Old Market to 'Pub Street,' so named for the numerous and varied restaurants and pubs that line the street from one end to the other. You can always find Khmer, Thai, French, Vietnamese, Indian, Italian and a variety of other international foods on at the 'Pub Street' restaurants. Most of the bars are open all day but don’t really get going until around 5PM as people return from the temples and come to take advantage of the various happy hour deals. In the later evening the street is blocked to motor traffic, allowing pedestrians to stroll easily. It's then that Pub Street really comes alive as the restaurants move their tables to the curbside and the bars crank up the music. The whole 'Pub Street' area is the center of nightlife in Siem Reap these days with most places staying open until at least midnight and few until near dawn. 'Pub Street Alley,' running parallel about a half of a block over, offers a somewhat different atmosphere - a quaint, shaded, tranquil retreat from the Pub Street crowds. The alley is a narrow lane lined with little galleries, shops, bars, cafés and Khmer restaurants. See Old Market for more.

Phsar Leu Thom Thmey (Big, New, Upper Market)

Phsar Leu is the main traditional market for the locals - an expansive market building full of vendors and stalls hawking everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to motorcycle parts, clothing and rice by the bushel. Not a good place to shop for souvenirs but a great place to see a bit of real Cambodia. The old Phsar Leu was torn down a few years ago and a new market building constructed and renamed ‘Phsar Leu Thom Thmey’ (Big, New Upper Market). Opens and closes with the sun. Busiest in the morning. Route #6, east of town center.

PHNOM KULEN

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Phnom Kulen (Lyecee Mountain) lying between three provinces at Northwestern part of Cambodia (Siem Reap, Preah Vihea, and Oddor Meanchey), A holy place for Buddhist destination.

FLOATING VILLAGE

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Day trips on the Tonle Sap Lake fall into two categories, so be careful what you're signing up for. First, take the 1 1/2-hour tours out of the boat ferry jetty, Chong Khneas. These trips sound like fun, you can go with a driver and guide out onto the Tonle Sap. You do glimpse a bit of river life, the net-twirling fishermen, floating schools, and the commercial boat traffic on the Tonle Sap's main inlet, but once out on the water of the lake you get a quick ride among ethnic Vietnamese, Khmer houseboats, and fisherman, then stop at a large tourist-trap barge with crocodile pits, small fish farms, perhaps an aquarium with some sickly looking turtles, snakes, and fish choking on dirty water. It's all about the $1 (£0.55) Coke or souvenirs you might buy. Not worth the trip, so be sure to avoid rides to just Chong Khneas.

The best day trips are one of the many full-day options that take you to far-flung floating villages like Kampong Phluk in canoes among low mangrove or to a lush bird sanctuary, called Preak Toal. Following these routes with the larger tour operators comes with a hefty price tag for Cambodia, from $80 (£44) or so per day, but it's worth it.

All services are consolidated through the same providers so you get the same trip wherever you buy it. Be sure and specify the exact sights you want to see and any inclusions you'd like, such as lunch. One unique find are the folks at OSMOSE whose main focus is conservation but who run fine tours as well.

These trips are best in rainy season because the mangrove swamps are dried up at other times. The birds at the bird sanctuary are best viewed from December to April. The Tonle Sap basin is lush and green when the water recedes in the dry season, but the water is so low that getting around on the lake, which drops from 12m (39 ft.) down to 4m (13 ft.) in depth, and falls to a third of its rainy-season size, is quite difficult.

If you're connecting onward with Siem Reap or Battambang by boat, you'll get a glimpse of life along the aquatic byways of Cambodia. The road heading south to the lake follows the Siem Reap River and gives you a glimpse into communities of precarious stilt houses that look ready to totter any second, and farmers herding groups of domesticated ducks along canals. Getting to the boat, you'll follow a long dirt causeway lined with shanty houses and elbow among trucks overloaded with minnows and small fish caught in the lake, squishing and leaking and bouncing precariously. Once out on the open water on the speedboat to or from Phnom Penh, it's just hot sun and blue water -- not an especially picturesque ride, but fun when the water is high in the rainy season.

Floating house along Tonle Sap at Chong Kneas.

Floating Village at Kompong Kleang

Beng Melea temple

2010-06-30T23:15:00.004-07:00

ruly the temple aficionado's temple, Beng Melea is where to go if the Angkor temples seem tame, if you are longing to go "Tomb Raider" and clamber around the crumbling stones of an undiscovered (work with me here) jungle temple that has been claimed back by the jungle. Squint or use your imagination and you can feel like Indiana Jones. The kids will love it. Beng Melea is 60km (37 miles) east of Siem Reap and often arranged as a day trip after a stop at the Roluos Group. The road is paved and smooth until just after the Roluos Group where you turn north at the town of Dom Dek, which has a local market that's worth a stop. The temple has three gallery walls and a moat at entry. No one has ever found the Sanskrit inscription on the temple, but Angkor Wat's builder, Suryavarman supposedly put it up in the 12th century. The interior temple area is a big, fun pile of rubble, great for trouncing around. The area has just been cleared of mines, and the temple, long a secret enclave for temple buffs, is now attracting more visitors. There was a film recently produced on the temple site, and the filmmakers have left their handy ramps, making it a bit easier to get around. The east entrance is closed because of the many rocks fallen here, but enter just to the right of this main entrance and look for the relief images of the god of fire over the first door as you approach the gallery by the first ramp, then an image of a three-headed elephant born of the mythical churning of the ocean of milk Hindu creation legend. A small library is inside this first gallery area. From here, plunge into the temple center. The platform path takes you through a covered, dark gallery. Between sections, you'll have to do some clambering and rock hopping.

Warning: Be careful of the slippery moss. The path exits the opposite (west) side of the temple, and from there you can either wend your way back through, following a different course to the rocks, or walk around the outside. Get here as early in the morning as you can and you'll have the place to yourself. The ride is one hour by car at a cost of about $65 (£28) with a driver,. North of Beng Melea is Koh Ker, another popular off-the-map temple.

Beng Melea Temple

Andianna Jone Temple of Doom

Banteay Srie Temple

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True temple buffs won't want to miss this distinct complex. Some 32km (24 miles) north of the main temples, the 10th-century buildings of Banteay Srei are done in a style unique to the high spires of Angkor. The collection of low walls surrounds low-rise peaked structures of deep red sandstone. It is the only building to have been built with pink sandstone, a high quality mineral that can withstand tougher elements. As such, the carvings and bas reliefs on this temple are some of the most intricate, best preserved carvings you'll find in Angor. Translated as "The Citadel of Women," it has relief carvings on the squat central buildings and intricate tellings of ancient Hindu tales. Walking through the temple, there's a real feeling of "work in progress." Some of the doorways flanking the central pathway were originally framed in wood and have weakened with age. As such, the sandstone pediments that once stood on top crashed to the ground and broke into large pieces. They've since been reassembled and lie at the foot of the doorways like some ancient jigsaw puzzle. After the first gate and walkway, you'll come to a small entrance way that has a square pedestal with a round piece in the middle that used to hold a linga (it was stolen some years ago). Look at the frame of the square. It isn't smooth and straight, as you would expect, but completely warped and oddly worn away. The Khmer Rouge used to sharpen their knives here. The hallmarks of the temple are the three temples, the middle one is dedicated to Shiva and it is flanked by temples honoring Vishnu and Brahma. I highly recommend you go with a guide who can explain the finer details of temple inscriptions.
Tip: The colors are best before 10am and after 2pm, but there are fewer visitors in the afternoon.

Angkor Thom

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The temple name means "the great city" in Khmer and is famed for its fantastic 45m (148-ft.) central temple, Bayon and nearby Baphuon. The vast area of Angkor Thom, over a mile on one side, is dotted with many temples and features; don't miss the elaborate reliefs on the Bayon's first floor gallery or of the Terrace of the Leper King and the Terrace of Elephants. The Angkor Thom Gates, particularly the south gate, are good examples of the angelic carving of the Jayavarman head, a motif you will find throughout the temple sites. The bridge spanning the moat before the south entrance is lined with the gods and monsters said to have been in competition to churn the proverbial sea of milk that would cause creation of the world. The line of statues with the gate in the background is a classic Angkor scene.

The Bayon is the very centerpiece of the larger Angkor Thom city, and with its classic carved faces is one of the best loved of the Angkor temples. Bayon is a Buddhist temple built under the reign of prolific Jayavarman VII (1190 A.D.), but the temple was built atop a previous Hindu site and adheres to Hindu cosmology and, with its central tower depicting Meru and its oceanic moat, can be read as a metaphor for the natural world. The Bayon is famous for its huge stone faces, usually set in groups of four around a central prang, or tower, and each face indicating an ordinal direction on the compass. The curious smiling faces are done in deep relief at Bayon -- and also in different forms at the entrance gates to Angkor Thom, at Ta Prom, and Banteay Kdei -- and the image is the enigmatic Mona Lisa of Southeast Asia, at once recognizable as an image of compassion and equanimity, the face is also said to depict Jayavarman VII, the temple's very builder and benefactor, himself. You approach the Bayon along a forested area at the city center, cool and misty, where streams of light come through in visible rays and the drone of cicadas is deafening (you might even see some monkeys). Elephant trekkers also line the road to the temple.

The three-level Bayon is nearly square. The first level is surrounded by an intricate bas relief gallery depicting stories of Khmer conquests and battles, as well as daily life and ritual among the early Khmers. A good guide can lead you to the juicy bits of the fun story, and you can spend a good bit of time sorting out the details for yourself too (kids love it). Look for the unique pairs of Apsara dancers on columns near the gallery (Apsaras usually dance alone). On the South Wall, find three tiers depicting Khmer battles with the Cham from 1177 to 1181, a battle that took place on the waters of the Tonle Sap Lake in boats -- look for the grisly images of crocodiles eating the carcasses of the fallen. Also note the Chinese figure with beard, top knot, and lance on a horse. Khmer soldiers ride elephants and have short hair, a spear, and a magic string for invincible fighting; they also carry shields and banners. A good guide can point out details like a lady crouching and getting burned on a fire, a man handing a turtle to a chef, as well as a scene of a cock fight and soldiers sacrificing a buffalo to ensure good luck in battle. There's a real sense of humanity to these images.

The second level has some Apsara reliefs and porticos with lingum, but the third level is the most interesting, the place where you can get up close with the many Apsara Faces thought to resemble a serene Jayavarman. Each of the 54 small towers is adorned with a face, or a number of faces, and you can have a ball with your zoom lens. There are a number of porticos with small lingum statues, and elderly matrons sell incense sticks and a chance to make merit by making an offering. The large central tower, or Prang, is 25m (82 ft.) in diameter with 16 small coves for meditation of kings and high priests. In 1933, French archaeologist George Groslier excavated the main prang only to find a massive statue of Jayavarman hidden underneath. The statue, called Jaya Bot Mohania, is a seated Jayavarman with a seven-headed naga snake looming over him; it is now on display at a small temple near the Victory Gate (just east of the Bayon).

One of the greatest views of the many faces of the Bayon is from the ground at the northern end of the temples, just before a large snack, refreshment, and shopping area. Stop here on your way to the Baphuon (reviewed below) by foot.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

Angkor Wat

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The symbol of Cambodia, the five spires of the main temple of Angkor are known the world over. In fact, this is the most resplendent of the Angkor sites, one certainly not to miss even in the most perfunctory of tours.

Built under the reign of Suryavarman II in the 12th century, this temple, along with Bayon and Baphuon, is the very pinnacle of Khmer architecture. From base to tip of the highest tower, it's 213m (669 ft.) of awe-inspiring stone in the definitive, elaborate Khmer style. The temple moat is 1.5x1.3km (1x3/4 miles) around, and some 90m (295 ft.) wide, crossed by a causeway with long naga statues on each side as railings from the west; in fact Angkor is the only temple entered from the west (all others from the east). Angkor Wat is also the only Angkor monument that is a mausoleum -- all others are temples or monasteries. Angkor's main temple is dedicated to Vishnu.

Approaching the temple, you'll first cross the causeway over the main moat -- restored in the 1960s by the French. Enter the compound across the first gallery, the Majestic Gallery, with some carvings and Brahma statuary, then pass into the large, grassy courtyard housing the main temple. This next causeway is flanked on either side by two small library buildings as well as two small ponds. (Hint: Hop off the causeway and take a photo of the temple reflected in the pond on the left.)

An outdoor staircase sits at the approach to the main temple. From there, you'll enter the richest area of statuary, galleries, and bas reliefs. The famous bas reliefs encircling the temple on the first level (south side) depict the mythical "Churning of the Ocean of Milk," a legend in which Hindu deities stir vast oceans in order to extract the elixir of immortality. This churning produced the Apsaras, Hindu celestial dancers, who can be seen on many temples. Other reliefs surrounding the base of the main temple show Khmer wars and corner towers depict Hindu fables.

The most measured and studied of all the sites, Angkor Wat is the subject of much speculation: It's thought to represent Mount Meru, home of Hindu gods and a land of creation and destruction. Researchers measuring the site in hat, ancient Khmer units of measure, deduce that the symmetry of the building corresponds with the timeline of the Hindu ages, as a map or calendar of the universe, if you will. The approach from the main road crosses the baray (reservoir) and is an ascending progression of three levels to the inner sanctum. The T-shirt hawkers are relentless, and the tricky steps and temple height are a challenge to those with vertigo, but the short trip is awe-inspiring and the views from the top are breathtaking.

It's a fair walk up to the second level, a flat open space that overlooks the main temple square, the famed Angkor prangs or parapets on each corner. From here, it's a steep climb (use the staircase with roped handrail on the south side of the temple) up to the third and final level. There are four large courtyards surrounded by galleries, and balcony overlooks from the base of the prangs at each corner. These high perches are great spots for watching the sunset over Bakeng Hill (though lately, the guards try to get more folks down earlier and earlier).

Angkor Wat is the first temple you pass when entering the temple complex, but depending on your guide, you might save it for the evening and head directly to nearby Angkor Thom.

Angkor Wat review

First : Normally, people always recommend that sunrise and sunset are muse-see activities by visiting Angkor Wat. By comparing with two, sunrise absolutely can't be missed. Rays of light raised behind of Angkor Watt make the whole temple covering with a spectacular and mysterious atmosphere.

However we are late for 30 mins so that we only catch the last thread of light. It is highly suggested you should arrive no later than 5am during the rainy reason in order to completely experience this astonishing moment.

Second : If you time your visit to the temples of Angkor well, you will first come upon the magnificent Angkor Wat at sunset. This is so for two reasons: first, the red hues of the sun add to the dramatic effect the already enthralling temple emanates and second, if you purchase your ticket to the ruins very late in the afternoon, they allow you to enter that day for free and start the pass the following day. Of course, the drawback is everyone else in that small universe is doing the exact same thing. That said, I was surprised that once you got into the compound itself, it was far less of a zoo than I had anticipated. Even at the reflective pool where everyone goes to get the classic Angkor Wat photo, there were no more than forty well-spaced people angling for their shots. That’s not too bad for a mid-12th century architecturally stunning masterpiece with five beehive-like towers of sixty-five meters standing sentry. Though the first view is perhaps the most awe-inspiring, it is only after closer inspection that the full impact of its many intricacies sets in. I would imagine an awful feeling of regret sets in for those that chose to buy a mere one day pass as it is readily apparent that you need a few hours to even scratch the surface of the investigation possible.

Third : There were signs of conservation and restoration all around within Angkor. 40 temples are accessible to visitors, and many of them are benefiting from our pilgrimages and international interest. Joint efforts between the Royal Cambodian Government and international organisations providing technical training, assistance and overall financial and skills support, are in place. The ICC monitors progress of all projects, and the primary goal is to enable the Cambodians to acquire the local expertise, both administrative and craft acquisition to be self contained in this important maintenance feat. Students from the University of Fine Arts at Phmon Penh are included in those involved in basic training on several of the sites. There are also a small army of local workers, who keep the jungle at bay, and do general site maintenance.

TA PROHM TEMPLE

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The jungle foliage still has its hold on this dynamic temple, which was left a ruinous state when early archaeologists freed the temples from the jungle. Ta Prohm is a favorite for many; in fact, those very ruinous vines appeal to most. As large around as oak trees, the Khmer Spoong tree is something like a banyan tree, and it's often encased in the wandering tendrils of the charay, a thick vine. The powerful Spoong and the charay vines cleave massive stones in two or give way and grow over the top of temple ramparts. It's quite dynamic, and there are a few popular photo spots where the collision of temple and vine are most impressive. Sadly, Ta Prohm was looted quite heavily in recent years, and many of its stone reliquaries are lost. The temple was originally built in 1186 by Jayavarman VII as a monastery dedicated to the king's mother and spiritual teacher. There are 39 towers connected by numerous galleries. The exterior wall of the compound is 1kmx600m (1/2 milex1,969 ft.), and entrance gates have the classic Jayavarman face. Most visitors enter from the west gate -- and some drivers will come and pick you up on the other side. A line of small open-air eateries is just outside the main entrance to Ta Prohm, popular places for a snack or lunch.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

HISTORY OF ANGKOR

2010-05-05T22:00:00.000-07:00

Historical information on the temples of Angkor Park originates from various sources, including writings, epigraphs, iconography, archaeology, ethnology, and language. And is only partially documented, in turn leaving us with an incomplete picture of a past which today is mainly corroborated by historical events, of which the most reliable evidence is to be found in it monuments. Based on that evidences, it is possible to trace Cambodia’s history from the first mention by the Chinese in the 1st century of the Funan Kingdom, up to the rise and fall of Chenla form the 6th to the 8th century, all the way through the glorious reign of the Khmer from the 9th to the 13th century, and to the subsequent decline of that splendid civilization in the 15th. The story of Angkor leaves us with a felling of humility and admiration as we wonder at he creative genius and artistic flair of the that highly gifted and culturally advanced civilization.

Angkorian Period (9th - 15th century)

802AD: The beginning

Jayavarman II was the first king of the Angkorian era, through his origins are recorded in history that borders on legend. He is reputed to have been a Khmer prince, returned to Cambodia around 790 AD after a lengthy, perhaps forced stay in the royal court in java. Regardless of his origin, he was a warrior who, upon returning to Cambodia, subdued enough of the competing Khmer states to declare a sovereign and unified Kambuja under a single ruler. He made this declaration in 802 AD in ceremony on Kulen Mountain (Phnom Kulen) north of Siem Reap, where he held a ‘god king’ rite that solidified his ‘universal kingship’ through the establishment of a royal linga-worshiping cult. The linga-cult would remain central to Angkorian kingship, religion, art and architecture for centuries to come.

(River with 1000 Linga, Phnom Kulen)

Roluos: The first capital

After 802AD, Jayavarman II continued to pacify rebellious areas and enlarge his kingdom. Before 802AD, he had briefly based himself at pre-Angkorian settlement near the modern town of Roluos (13Km southeast of Siem Reap), which he named Hariharalaya in honor of the combined gods of Shiva and Vishnu. He reigned from Hariharalaya until his death in 850AD. Thirthy years after jayavarman II’s death, king Indravarman I constructed the temple of Preah Ko, the first major of Roluos Group, in honor of Jayavarman II. He then constructed Bakong , which was the first grand project to follow the temple-mountain architectural formula. When visiting these temple, note the deep, rich, detailed artistic style in the carvings that were characteristic of the period.

Indravarman III also built the first large Baray (water reservoir), thereby establishing two more defining marks of Angkorian kingship - In additional to the linga-cult, the construction of the temple monuments and grand water projects became part of kingly tradition.

Bakong - In the Rolous Group which served as the early Khmer capital before the mover to Angkor

The move to Angkor

Indravarman III’s son, king Yasovarman I, carried on the tradition of his father, building the East Baray as well as the last major temple of the Roluos Group (Lolie), and the first majortemple in the Angkor area (Phnom Bakheng). Upon completing Phnom Bakhengin 893AD, he moved his capital to the newly named Yasothearapura in the Angkor era. The move may have been sparked by

Phnom Bakheng - The first monument to be built at Angkor upon moving the capital from Roulous

Yasovarman I’s violent confrontation with brothr for the throne, which left the Royal Palace at Roluos in ashes. With one exception, the capital would reside in the Angkor erea for the next 500 years.

Koh Ker : A brief Interruption

The exception took place in 928AD when, for reasons that remain unclear, there was a disruption in the royal succession. King Jayavarman VI moved the capital 100 Km north of Angkor to Koh Ker, where it remained for 20 years. When the capital returned to Angkor, it centered not at Phnom Bakheng as it had before, but further east at the new state temple of Pre Rup (961AD).

Apogee: The Khmer Empire at Angkor

The great temples of the Angkor era were built by his successors to house their royal lingas, the phallic emblems of the Hindu god Shiva. The kings of Angkor ruled over much of the South East Asian mainland until the early 15th century. Their capital was the centre of a network of reservoirs and canals that controlled the supply of water for rice-farming and enabled the people to produce a surplus of wealth to finance wars and monumental construction. One king, Jayavarman VII, built hospitals and rest houses during the 12th and early 13th centuries along the roads that crisscrossed his kingdom.

Angkor wat - One of the larger monument built on earth

Under Suryavarman II in the early of 12th century, the empire was at its political/territorial apex. Appropriate to the greatness of the times, SuryavarmanII produced Angkor most spectacular architectural creation, Angkor Wat, as well as other monuments such as Thomanon, Banteay Samre and Beng Melea. Angkor Wat was constructed as Suryavarman II's state temple and perhaps as his funerary temple.

In 1177 the usurper was killed in one of the worst defeat suffered by Chams. Champa launched a sneak attack on Angkor by entering along Tonle Sap Lake just south of the capital city. The south wall bas-relief on Bayon displays a naval battle, but it is unclear whether it is a depiction of the battle of 1177 or some other battle.

Jayavarman VII: The great monument buider

The cham controlled Angkor for four years until the legendary Khmer King Jayavarman VII mounted a series of counter attacks over a period of several years. He drover the cham from Cambodia in 1181 . After the Cham defeated, Jayavarman VII was declared king and started his religion Mahayana Buddhism the state religion, and immediately began Angkor's most prolific period of monument building.

Angkor Thom - (great city) One of the last capital of Angkor.

CAMBODIA SUPPORT

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Dear all Donors:

When you arrive in Cambodia it is immediately apparent that the people are struggling. Some are struggling to get started. Some are struggling to survive. Everywhere there are opportunities to help.

Our goal is to locate and serve the many children and people in Cambodia who live in the poorest rural villages and do not attend school and lack of supplies such as clean water, sanitary. We provide services and opportunities to develop the students’ capacities and their family’s economic situations in order to improve their living conditions and future prospects. School in Cambodia is “free” during primary school, in hopes that children will at least learn basic reading and writing and the literacy rate will be improved. The problem is that most impoverished children do not have the approximately $60 a year it costs to procure uniforms, shoes and their school supplies.

The Orphanages Centers

There are many orphanage centers in Cambodia, there are may reasons about their ophan because of war, deceases, divorce, irresponsibility of their care to children. I proudly supported one of local orphanage centre name PACDOC run by a man name Boran who used to be a former soldier during Cambodia civil war.

Ratanak Eath and Toun Boran director of PACDOC

Toun Boran is a local Cambodian who was moved to action by his compassion for the orphaned, homeless and street children, and those whose parents for whatever reason were unable to care for them. There were many such children in his own neighbourhood. There is widespread poverty in Cambodia, and Boran decided he wanted to provide a safe home for as many of these children as he could. PACDOC offers children aged 3 to 20 years a home where they are loved and cared for, and where they receive three good meals each day. Their lifestyle is simple but healthy and their food basic but nutritious. Currently all the children eat, sleep and have their out-of -school classes in a simple, open-air building. All those of school age attend government classes six days a week. They also have an English lesson given by a Cambodian volunteer who travels from Siem Reap in his free time.

Although PACDOC is called an orphanage, many of the children have either one or two living parents; PACDOC’s aim is to provide food, shelter, education and a safe home to any local child living in extreme poverty. Sometimes children are able to return to live with their parents, but for most of the children PACDOC will be their home until they are ready to make their own way in the wider community. There are 60children and ten adult carers, who do every kind of work involved with the parenting and care of a growing family. There are five women and five men, and besides this team of carers there are several young men who act as helpers and who teach the children Englsh and Khmer in classes held out of school hours. in the absence of volunteers And, of course, there are Toun Boran and his wife, Kim Oung.

Known for warm, beguiling smiles, smiles that have weathered great hardship, Khmer people are very friendly, approachable, and helpful. Anyway, if you feel like helping we greatly appreciate it and think you will be very happy when you receive the picture and name of the child you have helped to have a better chance at life.

How to help
The main source of funding is provided by generosity of tourists traveling throught Siem Reap. Donations are greatly needed and appreciated at this time, food, books, clothing, educational supplies toys, and financial contributions can all be made to the orphanage.

Wish list

Food, Rice, Mosquito nets, Books, Office Supplies, Blankets, School supplies, Pillows, Medical supplies, Mats, Clothes, Shoes etc...

Other activities

English is secondary language, it is useful for us to communicate with each other esp to foriegners, those students have an opportunity for studying foreign language on part time. All student are taught by voluntary teacher with good communication in a friendly way in the classroom.

Computer courses are one of many short courses in the first project taught by the volunteer teachers include with Ms word, Ms Excel, Ms, Powerpoint, Ms Access and Internet with E-mail etc... They are divided into term, three month term which is taught one hour per day from Monday to Friday (5 days a week and six month term)

Every cent of every dollar will be spent on this work. I ask, on behalf of Boran and his children and from my heart to yours, please give as generously as you are able.

Thanks and God bless you.

Read more review here about this orphanage from previous donors

Clean Water Program - Clean water Fund

Approximately 85% of the people in Cambodia do not have access to safe drinking water and sanitation. Many depend on rain water and water holes contaminated with waterborne diseases. About 11,000 children die every year due to these conditions.

And that where I come in!

Clean Water Program is a public benefit corporation and is not organized for private gain of any person. It is organized under my charitable purposes. Its specific purpose are to provide water well, sanitary waste disposal and other public infrastructure for inhabitants of Cambodians and others.

Pedro and Luz had been to Cambodia on March 2010 in a flavor of cultural tour of Angkor, It was fortunate to be their tour guide in Angkor area for 2 days. They were Mexican whom live and work in USA, somewhere next to the border between US and Mexico. They sold a camera Nikon D80 to me with the exchange of one well project to someone who really need it. My friend and I had been around the countryside and saw two families who have a small well for using every day. It was not enough for them using it, so I had decided to spend that money building new well for them. One family with 4 children, and another with a little baby (just married).

It was our wish to return to do a small story on the people who have received them and to further understand what it means to provide clean water to the people of Cambodia who have lost so much during the years of Pol Pot. In preparing to return, I had the good fortune to cross paths with Ratanak Eath Foundation. Although we did not meet until we arrived in Siem Reap, Ratanak provided us with so much information, structure, and assistance in setting up our There were so many details that seamlessly put into place for us, it is hard to share them all. He supported us from the moment we arrived until our departure.

We have truly left our hearts there. The quality of our experience was so enhanced by their warmth, knowledge, and energy.

SAMPEAH OR SALUTATION

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The bending low of one’s head to a person or thing in the form of a bow as a sign of obeisance or as a respectful attitude has survived to the present day. Sampeah is a form of greeting and respect, of better yet, mutual salutation or recognition, which is very essential in Khmer society. The Khmer pay respect to parents, Lord Buddha, monks, king and queen, teachers, uncles, aunts, older individuals and persons higher in rank.
Khmer etiquette implicitly requires that a junior in age or rank initiates a sampeah as a sign of respect to a senior accompanied at the same time with a slight bow. A person sitting on a chair before a high personage bends his head a little and holds his hand in a budding lotus shape, the fingers may clasped of the hands held one upon the other.

SAMPEAH MANNER

The Khmer sign of salutation or mutual recognition is to raise both hands, join palm to palm, lightly touching the body somewhere between the face and chest. The higher the hands are raised, the greater is the respect and courtesy conveyed.
The raising of the hands to normal position after sampeah are never done with a swift movement but rather in a graceful manner in a slow motion. The upper parts of the arms remain close to the sides of the body, without the elbow extended. The hands, joined palm to palm, are both held far out from the body in an erect position, but bent slightly inward.
It should be noted that the placing of one’s hand in a budding lotus position of sampeah is never higher than the forehead. In the ordinary way of life, a sampeah in such a manner is done mostly by a prisoner, who is asking for shelter or relief, of a beggar asking for alms.

SAMPEAH POSSITION

1. Chest level
2. Mouth level
3. Nose level
4. Eyebrow level
5. Above eyebrow level

 People of equal age or rank ought to sampeah each other by placing the budding lotus hands at the chest level.
 A younger person or lower in rank ought to sampeah an older or higher in rank by placing the budding lotus hands at the mouth level.
 Children and grandchildren or student sampeah their parents and grandparents or teachers by placing the budding lotus hands at the nose level.
 The commoners thvay bangkum (sampeah) a king, a monk, or a sacred object by placing the budding hand lotus hand at the eyebrow level.
 Prayers to the Lord Buddha or Gods ought to assume the sampeah posture by placing the budding lotus hands above the eyebrow level.

Temples of Angkor

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Angkor Guide

As the religious, cultural, and administrative center of a prosperous and sophisticated kingdom, Angkor grew to be one of the world’s largest cities in the late 12th century (when it was known as Angkor Thom), comprising an estimated one million residents. Angkor’s kings erected magnificent temple complexes and constructed an intricate network of canals, moats, and Barays (reservoirs). Today Angkor is recognized as one of the world’s most valuable cultural sites and as a national symbol of Cambodia. In 1992 Angkor was designated a World Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The site covers some 400 sq km (200 sq mi).

Today Angkor is recognized as one of the world’s most valuable cultural sites.

The name Angkor is derived from the Sanskrit word nagara (meaning “city”) and is pronounced Nokor or Angkor in Khmer and Angkor in English. The state temple of the first city of Angkor was Phnom Bakheng, a temple on a hill whose structure symbolizes the mountain that stands at the center of the world according to Hindu cosmology. Successive kings built temples devoted to various Hindu and Buddhist deities, and, as Angkor expanded, new population centers grew up around the temples that served as social, economic, religious, and political centers. Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, Preah Khan, and the temples within Angkor Thom are the main temple complexes at Angkor. To the north, east, and west of these central structures lie three vast Barays, linked by canals throughout the central zone. The temples and Barays of this central area make up Angkor National Park, which was established in 1925 by the French, who had administrative jurisdiction over Cambodia at that time. The park includes more than 40 monuments open to visitors.

ANGKOR ENTRANCE FEES/ HOW LONG TO STAY

Tickets are only available at the main entrance, situated on the road to Angkor Wat:

1 day pass costs $ 20,

3 days pass cost $ 40 (can visit 3 days or times in one week period)

7 days pass costs $ 60 (can visit 7 days or times in one month period)

Free for children under 12 years old, if he is nearly 12 please kindly bring his passport to sure the ticket controller. The fee must be paid in US dollars, Cambodian Riel, Thai Baht or Euro. Credit cards are not accepted for payment, but there is a bank counter at the ticket sales booths, where visitors can get a cash advance on their credit card.

Visiting hours are 5:00AM - 05:30PM. But Kbal Spean closes at 3:00PM. You must always carry your ticket. It will be checked upon each park entrance and at major temples.

A regular admission ticket is not allowed to visit Phnom Kulen ( USD 20 ), Koh Ker ( USD 10 ) and Beng Mealea ( USD 5 ), because there is a separate entrance fee.

A one-day visit allows you to see the highlights of the most famous temples but very little more. Three days is sufficient to visit all of the major temples once, a few of the minor ones and have a little extra time at your favorites. Seven days is enough time to really explore some of your favorite ruins and visit many of the minor structures as well.

WHAT TO BRING

Wear light, airy, covering clothing to protect yourself from the sun and mosquitoes. The sun can be intense so bring a hat, sunglasses and perhaps sunscreen. Consider buying a traditional Khmer scarf (krama) to keep the sun off your neck. Carry a raincoat during the wet season, though you will probably only need it in the afternoon. You should have mosquito repellent for sunrise and sunset hours. Wear practical shoes for climbing narrow steps and walking on uneven surfaces. For serious temple explorers, a flashlight, notebook and compass can come in handy. Books, refreshments, trinkets, postcards and film are available from small vendors throughout the temple complex.

TRANSPORTATION TO AND AROUND TEMPLES

The temples are too far apart to make foot travel practical (though some hearty visitors are hiking it anyway). Transportation options include: two-person motorcycle trailers (‘moto-romauk’) car taxis, motorcycle taxi (‘motodup’); bicycles. Transportation to the temples is usually hired by the day. Prices go up for distant temples (e.g. Banteay Srey, Phnom Kulen, Kbal Spean, Koh Ker, Beng Melea). Ratanak Eath can arrange transportation for you.

Tourists are no longer allowed to rent motorcycles or cars, or drive a vehicle in Siem Reap. And other ways of getting around the temples…

Wat Preah Prom Rath

2010-04-10T04:57:00.000-07:00

Wat Preah Prohm Rath

one of the oldest monastery in Siem Reap in term of running time, has a history approximately 500 years. The King Ang Chan, who dedicated this monastery to Preah Ang Chang-Han Hoy and to the spirits of Ta Pom Yeay Rat. This temple was also established for propagate the Dhama (the Buddha teaching), and to provide lodging for monks., as many of them who came to Siem Reap who did not has lodging at that time.
It was built in late 15th and early of 16th century, situated on the land of the rich family of Ta Pum Yeay Rath. According to spoken source, we are told that this monastery was a sacred residence of Preah Ang Chang-Han Hoy who was a revered monk living in 13th and 14th century. It was believed that every class of Khmer people came to worship him, especially king Ang Chan who came to pray for the victory as the kingdom was unstable.
When the kingdom became stable, the rich family mentioned above provided its sacred land to king Ang Chan to establish monastery, thus became Ta Pum Yeay Rath Monastery. Then in the 1940s, under the most venerable monk, the former abbot of the monastery, it was renamed as Wat Preah Prom Rath as it is now.

Master Monk names (Tang Ton)

who was in charged of leading this monastery for many years, he with his eldest brother (monk too) was in charge of taking care of this monastery and it seems lot of progress compare to other monasteries in Siem Reap. But it is not a biggest monastery in the area who has nearly 20 monks stay and study here.

Monk Tang Toem

is an elder brother, who is in charge of the monastery construction. He works really hard almost everyday to collect donations from the generous people and use that money to support the whole monastery, he could remove your bad luck by pouring blessing water and be an astrologer too. Ask for him when you get into Wat Preah Prom Rath.

Preah Ang Chan-han Hoy

Please note the monastery is a holy place where all Buddha Dhama and Sangha are staying, respect them by remove your hat or cap, women not allow to touch the monks, not to sexy, cover your shoulder, pant under knees.

New Monastery

2010-03-31T23:26:00.000-07:00

There is a monastery which is already been built and ready for serving to the villagers and other worshipers for religious cult. It is not very far from my hometown, walking distance from my parents home, this monastery names Preah Trapang ( The Sacred Pond). According to the hearsay many people believe about one old pond next to the monastery is very sacred and it is really poor monastery with not many supporters. During the big ceremony they went to the pond and prepare a shrine in front of the it and praying for some dices, spoons, forks, cooking pots, and other uses which is really impressive they could use those for a few days. When the ceremony finished they threw those back to the water and they were gone. Okay now back to the modern day at the end of March the master monks and other priests had prepare a big ceremony to show about the completion of the this new building.The main monastery is very important which is the symbol of the whole pagoda, the Buddhist monks are praying there, it is quite colorful and look like pain with gold. Inside with paintings of the Buddha biography and big statue of the Buddha too.

These people are traveling to the monastery with a big truck for the ceremony of the new monastery, it would be less people during the day when it is getting dark more people are coming so it is really crowded after 6 o'clock in the evening.
The offerings that they offer to the monastery usually money, study materials such as books, pencils, pens, reading books and other beauty products such as powder, mirror, comb etc...

They burn incenses and walk around the monastery and put the money in each of the holes that covered with saffron robes. The picture you saw is in the central hole of the monastery which full of the offerings. After all they wish to have better life in next reincarnation with knowledge, prosperity and beauty.
The birds caught by a hunters and being sold to the worshipers whom want to earn the merit by freeing the birds, it cost 2000 Riels for one bird free. Those birds are swallows and sparrows live in the wild area. You usually can find these bird sellers around the sacred shrine location.

PHOTOS GALLERY

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Sunrise At Angkor Wat.

Victoria Gate of Angkor Thom.

Ratanak Tour

2010-02-11T03:18:00.001-08:00

The Angkor Guide Service

- Tour guide service

- Transportation arrangement

- Hotel reservation

- Photography guide

- Tourist information

Introduction to Cambodia

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Cambodia is a well-known country in Southeast Asia, steeped in history and rich in culture. It has a sad history of conflict and loss, making it one of the world's poorest countries. With tourism, It has managed to survive its economic trials. The number of tourists increases by the day, and word continued to spread of Cambodia's safe surroundings. Any history enthusiast knows that visiting the world wonder Angkor Wat is a must, if but once in his or her lifetime.

Contributing to the development of Cambodia's tourism, Tourism sites of Cambodia not only details the tourist destinations for the entire country, but also some other basic information about Cambodia. The site include information about Angkor in each site, beautiful photos of many sites in Angkor Archeological Park and some other related and practical important information. However, this site is written primarily for guide to Angkor, it will be of interest to anyone visit Angkor.

www.theangkorguide.net

Trip along the Mekong River

ANGKOR WAT

How foreigner own property in Cambodia

TEMPLE FOR PARENTS

Description and history

Symbolism

Construction

Tree of Life

VISA

Visa extensions

Validity issues

Overstays

Things to watch out for

Departure tax

Border crossings

HEALTH & SAFETY

Before you go

Insurance

Recommended vaccinations

Further reading

Required & recommended vaccinations

Dangers & annoyances

Scams

In transit

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

Jet lag & motion sickness

While you're there

Availability & cost of health care

Dengue

Fungal infections

Hepatitis

HIV/AIDS

Intestinal worms

Japanese B encephalitis

Malaria

Malaria medication

Schistosomiasis

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Typhoid

Traveller’s diarrhoea

Amoebic dysentery & giardiasis

Food

Heat exhaustion

Heatstroke

Insect bites & stings

Prickly heat

Sunburn

Water

Gynaecological problems

Pregnancy

MONEY & COST

Costs

Tipping

Money

ATMs

Cash

Credit cards

Travellers cheques

CAMBODIA

Make it happen

ANGKOR WAT TOUR GUIDE SERVICE

Important Q and A for Cambodia

MAJOR ATTRACTIONS

SUGGESTED ITINERARIES

WHAT & WHERE TO BUY

PHNOM KULEN

FLOATING VILLAGE

Beng Melea temple

Banteay Srie Temple

Angkor Thom

Angkor Wat

TA PROHM TEMPLE

HISTORY OF ANGKOR

CAMBODIA SUPPORT

English is secondary language, it is useful for us to communicate with each other esp to foriegners, those students have an opportunity for studying foreign language on part time. All student are taught by voluntary teacher with good communication in a friendly way in the classroom.

SAMPEAH OR SALUTATION

Temples of Angkor

Wat Preah Prom Rath

New Monastery