Siem Reap: A Journey Through Time, Flavour, and Heart

I had the wonderful opportunity to visit both Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap, two cities that, while geographically close, offer vastly different experiences. Each destination had its own charm, character, and rhythm, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have seen both in such a short space of time.

My time in Ho Chi Minh was filled with bustling streets, endless motorbikes, the smell of street food wafting through the air, and a kind of electric energy that never seemed to pause. It’s a city that pulses with life from dawn till well past midnight. But it was in Siem Reap, Cambodia, where I found a different kind of magic — one rooted in history, culture, and a deeply spiritual sense of peace.

My few days there were devoted to exploring ancient temples, tasting traditional dishes, and immersing myself in the laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere that this beautiful town has to offer.

Day 1 | Starting my unforgettable adventure in Siem Reap

From the moment I landed in Siem Reap, I knew this leg of the journey would feel different. I was immediately struck by the newly built airport terminal — sleek, modern, and surprisingly tranquil. It had a calm, almost resort-like feel to it, with high ceilings, warm lighting, and a level of cleanliness that was a pleasant surprise after the chaos of Ho Chi Minh. There was something about the architecture and landscaping that already gave me a glimpse of what Cambodia had in store — a harmonious blend of modern comforts and timeless elegance. The airport was about 35 minutes from the city centre, and the ride into town offered a first peek at the countryside — lush green fields, stilted houses, and friendly faces waving as we passed by.

Accommodation | The Aviary Hotel

Our accommodation for the next few nights was The Aviary Hotel, a boutique-style property that balances sustainable design with modern luxury. When I walked in, I was genuinely impressed. The interiors were inspired by local birdlife and traditional Cambodian textures, with soft colours, wooden finishes, and carefully curated décor that instantly made you feel at home. The staff were welcoming, the rooms spacious, and the little touches — like freshly brewed lemongrass tea at check-in — added a sense of warmth and hospitality that made the stay extra special. It felt like a serene retreat from the moment I stepped inside.

Sunrise at Angkor Wat

Our first full day began bright and early, well before sunrise, as we had planned to catch the sunrise at Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s most iconic and revered temple complex. Despite the early wake-up call, there was a quiet excitement among our small group. We arrived in the dark and found our spot by the water’s edge, waiting for the sun to rise behind the silhouette of the ancient towers. Unfortunately, the sun decided to hide behind clouds that morning, but oddly enough, it didn’t matter. The atmosphere was so still and serene, and the sight of Angkor Wat shrouded in early morning mist was unforgettable. There was a quiet reverence in the air, and I found myself just standing in awe, imagining the centuries of history held within those stone walls.

After sunrise, we returned to the hotel for a hearty breakfast. Refreshed and re-energised, we headed out again mid-morning to explore more of the Angkor Archaeological Park. Our next stop was the Bayon Temple, known for its many giant stone faces that gaze in all directions. It was fascinating and slightly eerie — almost as if the faces were watching you wherever you moved. We spent a good amount of time wandering through its chambers, marvelling at the carvings and hidden nooks.

Tomb Raider Temple

From there, we continued to Ta Prohm, often referred to as the “Tomb Raider Temple” thanks to its appearance in the Lara Croft film. Unlike the other temples, Ta Prohm has been left in a partially overgrown state, with massive trees wrapping their roots around the crumbling stone walls. There was something poetic about seeing nature reclaiming these man-made structures — a reminder of the passing of time and the power of the natural world. Walking through the ruins, I imagined what it would have been like to discover this place centuries after it had been abandoned.

Local cuisine & cocktails

By midday, the heat was setting in, and we stopped at a local restaurant for lunch. Here, we sampled authentic Khmer dishes — fragrant curries, sticky rice, and a tangy green mango salad that was the perfect antidote to the humidity. The flavours were both familiar and new, and every bite seemed to tell a story. After lunch, we returned to the hotel for a few hours of rest and downtime — much needed after the early start and hours spent exploring ancient ruins.

That evening, feeling refreshed, we ventured into the heart of town and explored the famous Pub Street. It was a completely different vibe from the quiet temples — noisy, colourful, and full of energy. Bars and restaurants lined the street, each offering drink specials and live music. It was impossible to ignore the allure of $2 cocktails, and before long, we found ourselves sipping mojitos and people-watching from a balcony bar. It was easy to get swept up in the fun — this area is a favourite among backpackers and travellers alike for good reason. Everything was so affordable, and despite the crowd, it never felt unsafe or overwhelming.

Day 2 | A day away from the Guidebook

Traditional Cambodian cooking class

The highlight of the day came when our guide invited us back to his home, located in a nearby village, for a traditional Cambodian cooking class. We learned to prepare a three-course meal, including a rich fish amok, a refreshing green papaya salad, and a sweet sticky rice dessert with mango. It was an intimate and enriching experience, not just learning about the food, but sitting down to eat with the guide and his family, hearing stories about his upbringing and how his grandmother taught him to cook. It added a deeply personal layer to the trip — one that no guidebook could ever capture.

Day 3 | Reflecting on my Cambodian experience

On our final morning in Siem Reap, we packed our bags with a sense of reluctance. The trip had flown by, but we’d packed so much into just a few days. I caught a flight from Siem Reap to Singapore, and again, I was reminded of how beautiful and well-designed the Siem Reap airport is — clean, airy, and easy to navigate. Before boarding my onward journey, I had a few hours to relax in the KrisFlyer Gold Lounge, which was nothing short of luxurious. Comfy seating, delicious snacks, and showers made it the perfect place to unwind and reflect on everything I’d just experienced.

As my trip drew to a close, I felt a deep sense of gratitude — for the stunning sights I’d witnessed, the wonderful people I’d met, the unforgettable flavours I’d savoured, and the stories I now carry with me. Cambodia had opened its heart to me, and in return, I left a little piece of mine behind. Siem Reap is far more than just a destination; it’s a living reminder of the timeless beauty of the past, the vibrant richness of the present, and the endless discoveries that still await.

Having walked these paths, tasted these flavours, and connected with the incredible people who bring this place to life, I’d love to help you experience it for yourself. With tailor-made itineraries and trusted local guides, I’ll ensure your journey is effortless, immersive, and truly unforgettable — just as it should be.

Get in touch today, and together we’ll start planning something truly extraordinary.