After 2 days 1 night in Phnom Penh, my journey continues to Siem Reap by sleeper bus. This was my first solo sleeping bus experience and the overall bus journey was considered quite comfy.
However, I did not sleep tight as I have read some of the other travelers’ blogs stated that we have to be aware and be alert when taking the night bus. Because some of the “pickpocket” / thieves would take advantage to steal your stuff when you asleep. Luckily, throughout the whole South East Asia trips (about 9 solo bus trips from one province/country cross over to another province/country ) I’ve only lost one of my favorite scarfs in Cambodia. 🙁
<Double-decker sleeper bus
To cut a long story short, it is possible to go to Siem Reap from Phnom Penh by a road trip and it takes about 8 hours to arrive (by overnight sleeper bus). The road was smooth and not as bumpy as from my journey Hanoi Vietnam to Vientiane, Laos (will share it next time)
The bus stopped at the bus terminal and if you arrived as early as me (around 6-7am), there are many tuk-tuks awaiting there to send you to your hostel.However, within a short distance (less than 10 minutes) to my hostel, it costs me USD3.
Where did I stay?
I chose The Hostel Mekong after comparing most of the accommodations in Siem Reap: the cost + the total people I need to share in a room. This was the most reasonable and affordable stay.
In overall, I gave 4 out of 5 Stars for this hostel. Here are the reasons:
- A mini swimming pool is included
- The hostel has a spacious area to chill and relax
- Bar and breakfast are available
- A pool table is available
- The female dorm room with a private toilet is available
- The check-in time was in the afternoon and I have arrived earlier. At least I could chill in the living room, using Wi-Fi and took a shower.
Book here: website
What have I done here?
Everyone comes here for Angkor Wat. If you did not visit it, it seems it’s pointless that if you tell someone that you have been here before.
Entrance Ticket: 1 Day / 3 Days / 7 Days?
My answer is 1 Day. Unless if you are really interested in all temples’ architecture/ designs.
Because the weather was rather hot and to visit all the temples you have to take transport from one to another which considered quite exhausting. My Angkor Wat trip starts at 430am until 12 pm noontime which is more than enough for me.
Most of the hostel /hotel would provide the tour to visit Angkor Wat. I booked the transportation arrangement with Mekong Hostel.
Suggestion: Try to ask other travelers [in the same hostel] to visit Angkor Wat together in order to share the transportation cost.
In the early morning, a Tuk tuk driver will pick you up to buy the entrance ticket around 430am.
Entrance Fee (Year 2017):
1 Day: $37
3 Days: $62
7 Days: $72
What have I seen in Angkor Wat?
Sunrise. All the tourists gather in the early morning just to witness the sunrise. Yes, it was impressive. I took many of the sunrises pictures and found this is among this best (what to do you think?) 🙂
And many pictures from different Wats :
Since I came alone, most of the pictures I was asking strangers to take it for me. And some local people might “standby” at the temple and offered the service to take the photos for you (they only asked for tips after they took the pictures).
PUB STREET
As you can see from the street name, it is the street full of clubs, bars, and restaurants.
Famous Bars:
Angkor What? Bar is the very first bar to open on Pub Street back in 1998
Temple Club & Temple Balcony – another favorite and popular club for tourists on Pub Street
Angkor Night Market
Opened in 2007 and apparently, it was the FIRST night market in Cambodia and it is just next to Pub Street.
Siem Reap Art Center Night Market
Location: Right across the bridge from the old market (Psa Chas), 5 Minutes walking from pub street
It is one of the newer night markets in town and as you can see from the street name “Art Center”, you can find various and a range of souvenirs and handicrafts over here.
WAR MUSEUM CAMBODIA
It is the Biggest War Museum in Cambodia. What I liked here was they provide a free guide (a war veteran) and you can examine and hold the small arms.
Entrance Fee: USD 5 (Year 2017)
More info: check here
It was a short trip for me. I stayed there for 3 days 2 nights and heading next to Sihanoukville, which is a province in southwest Cambodia known for its beaches. Will share next post soon!
Cheers.
Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary: click here
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Thanks for sharing. I have always wanted to go here. You make this place even more appealing than I read about. Thanks for the local tips and awesome pictures.
Thanks Roger for your kind support..Really appreciate that