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The treasures of Siem Reap, Cambodia | Private jet hire Cambodia

Siem Reap is the destination city for visitors to the vast ancient temple complex of Angkor Wat. A former French protectorate, Siem Reap has much French-colonial architecture, as well as fascinating museums and a thriving restaurant and café culture.

Angkor Wat

The main attraction in the area, this vast ruined temple complex will be familiar to fans of the Tomb Raider films. In fact, one of the movie’s scenes was shot at Ta Prohm temple. Buy a three-day pass and take your time – this is a 400sq km site – and there are many other smaller temples such as Preah Pithu worth exploring. Make sure you also visit the Bayon Temple at Angkor Thom. Descendants of the original Angkor Wat citizens still live in the park subsisting on agriculture and rice cultivation. Aim to arrive at dawn to miss the crowds and visit the official Angkor Museum which tells the complete history of this fascinating city and its original Kymer royals.

Angkor Handicraft Association Market (AHA)

Instead of buying overpriced craft souvenirs in some of the markets, head for the AHA on Road 60, Trang Village. It’s on the road to the temples and all your cash will go directly to the makers of the beautiful jewellery, pottery, scarves, paintings and bags. You can even connect more personally with locals and attend a bag-making workshop at the Backstreet Academy, located at the rear of the market.

Angkor Wat Night Market

Based in Stung Thmey Village, this is a fun destination for souvenir hunting and soaking in the local atmosphere. You’ll find Khmer artwork, local handicrafts and mouth-watering street food – and it’s only a few minutes’ walk from the bar district. The best value food is at the back where you can sit at canteen-style outdoor tables and savour your stir fried beef or barbecued pork skewers.

Siem Reap War Museum

Located between the city of Siem Reap and the international airport, Siem Reap War Museum is the largest of its kind in Cambodia. Offering visitors a unique guide to the international political events that shaped Cambodia’s history. There’s also a small shop selling souvenirs and refreshments.

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