Good Times in Siem Reap, Cambodia

We have just completed a very enjoyable stay in Siem Reap, Cambodia.  The main purpose of the visit was to see Angkor Wat and the many other ancient Wats and temples in the area.  These proved to exceed expectations and rank right up there with other historical ruins that I have visited during my travels, such as the Pyramids and Valleys of the Kings and Queens in Egypt, Machu Picchu in Peru, and the Forum in Montreal.  There were many impressive structures to visit covering a huge area.  Thipp commented that past invaders wouldn't have had a chance because they would have been too hot and tired before having the chance to attack.

Siem Reap is a tourism Mecca and there are no shortage of bus tours groups.  However, the crowds weren't as bad as what you would find in many spots in Europe during the summer.  Also, the town is well set-up for tourism with plenty of great restaurants and many people speaking at least some English.  Our hotel was very nice and just a short stroll to the Old Market.  The staff spoiled Alex with attention.  He loved going for swims in the small pool and I was even happier to discover that one of the TV sports channels showed hockey.  The first evening that I discovered this I let Thipp and Alex go find dinner on their own, as I preferred to stay and starve.  To my pleasant surprise Thipp ordered me room service.

We visited the Angkor Wat area over three half-days during the mornings over a four-day period.  Having Alex was our excuse for our relaxed pace, but we all enjoyed avoiding the afternoon heat and instead going for Mexican food, a swim, and a nap.  We met-up with Victoria, Thipp's friend from Vancouver, for the third time and third country of this trip and met some of her new expat friends that were working there.  By the end of our stay in Siem Reap we were ready to look for jobs, as well.