Cambodia- Siem Reap
Cambodia Information
Capital: Phnom Penh
Major language: Khmer
Population: 13.7 million (UN 2006)
Head of state: King Norodom Sihamoni
Currency: Riel
Major Religion: Buddhism
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Cambodia Holidays
Siem Reap, translated literally as ‘Siam defeated’, commemorates a Khmer
victory over the neighbouring Kingdom of Siam (or Thailand as it is known today).
Once just a small gateway town to the world famous heritage the Angkor temples,
Siem Reap has changed beyond all-recognition in the past ten years. The town is
now one of Asia’s major tourist hubs, home to some of the regions finest hotels
and restaurants. However, despite the huge international influences, Siem Reap and
its people have managed to conserve much of the town's culture and traditions.
For details on the Angkor temples click here
Siem Reap grew from a cluster of small villages along the Siem Reap River. These
villages were originally developed around Buddhist pagodas which are evenly spaced
along the river from Wat Preah En Kau Sei in the north to Wat Phnom Krom in the
south, where the Siem Reap River meets the great Tonlé Sap Lake.
Today, the main town is concentrated around Sivutha Street and the Psar Chas (Old
Market area) where you will find some great shopping, entertainment and dining options.
Aside from the road leading to the airport (the hotels don’t seem to stop),
Siem Reap is still a perfectly pleasant town to spend a few days and the large variety
of entertainment and dining is ideal when you consider most days are spent exploring
one of the Seven Wonders of the World!
Recommended Siem Reap Hotels