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Siem Reap (aka. Siem Reab) is one of
the living examples where tourism has taken precedence over preservation
of culture.
Considered as Cambodia's most “touristy” town, Siem Reap is no longer
the typical provincial town, Western luxuries and many nightclubs are to
be found here. The place is also full of English speaking locals
The smart new market and transport hub of
Psar Leu is the usual drop off point for tourists arriving by
shared taxi services. Arrival by boat (the port is around 12 km from
Seam Reap) can afford travelers views of quaint floating houses,
children playing in the water and families going about their daily ch ores.
Whether your are arriving by land
or by boat, it is often recommended to have already decided upon where
you will stay. Otherwise, prepare to be besieged by guesthouse
representatives at the river port
or at Psar Leu.
Entertainment
Siem Reap is well known for two things: accessibility to the Angkor Wat
and a superb nightlife. Filled with bars targeted at foreign tourists,
Siem Reap has night- spots from the more low key pubs and billiard halls
to the more lively and modern clubs:
Angkor What? - One block northwest of Old Market. Quiet, chilled-out
bar, good for a relaxing drink. 2pm–late.
Bakheng Nightclub - At the night market. The dance floor is
packed full with line-dancing Khmer youngsters by 10pm every night.
Elephant Bar At the Grand Hotel d'Angkor. - Start your evening
off in style in the luxurious cellar bar, with happy-hour cocktails
(daily 4–8pm); a ready supply of free popcorn may mean you won't need
dinner.
Ivy By Psar Chas - Very much an expat hangout, with free use of
the pool table.
Liquid Nightclub On the river - near Old Market.
Futuristic-looking nightclub, which may seem completely out of place in
provincial Siem Reap. Open 11am–late; happy hour 5–9pm.
Martini Nightclub and Beer Garden - Across the river from Old
Market. The beer garden is the place to be seen for an evening drink,
and to enjoy some live Khmer music. The disco is a bit racier than the
others in town.
 Red
Piano - 50m northwest of Psar Chas. Attractive bar-restaurant with
quirky touches, such as massive tables and chairs that make you feel
like Alice after she went through the looking glass. You can also sample
a Tomb Raider cocktail or two (the name a reference to the Lara Croft
movie which was filmed up the road at Angkor).
Zanzy Bar - Sivatha St, near the night market. Small, popular
expat bar with $1.50 beers and free pool table.
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