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Indochina- Cambodia- Phnom Penh & Siem Reap

Phnom Penh & Siem Reap

Captivating cities and world-class wonders
Situated at the confluence of three rivers; the Mekong, the Bassac and Tonle Sap- Cambodia’ s vibrant capital, Phnom Penh, features broad tree-lined boulevards adorned with French colonial mansions and monumental Angkorian architecture. Bistros and boutiques sit alongside the riverfront, smart shops and art galleries dot the side streets and the city also revels in a heady dusk-to-dawn nightlife.
Arguably the city’ s most impressive landmark is the dazzling Royal Palace which is the official residence of the Cambodian Royal family, and the adjacent Silver Pagoda. Other notable sights include the National Museum of Cambodia and its significant Khmer artefacts, Wat Ounalom and Wat Phnom plus the old French Quarter. Gain an insight into the Khmer Rouge’ s reign of terror( 1975-79) by visiting the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum( S21) and nearby Choeung Ek Killing Fields Memorial( this is considered a very harrowing experience, so may not be for everyone).
The once sleepy backwater of Siem Reap has undergone one of the fastest periods of growth in Southeast Asia due to its close proximity to the world-famous temples of Angkor. Lying around 3 miles from Siem Reap, this staggering temple complex is one of Southeast Asia’ s most important archaeological sites and is UNESCO World Heritage listed. Its crown jewel is majestic Angkor Wat, the world’ s largest religious monument, built to replicate the heavens on earth. Angkor Thom also forms part of the complex and houses the Bayon Temple, the pyramid of Baphuon, Phimeanakas and the royal viewing stands of the Terrace of the Elephants plus the Terrace of the Leper King. Another must see is Ta Phrom, which featured in the Tomb Raider film.
Temples aside, no visit to Siem Reap is complete without exploring the fascinating string of floating and stilted villages on the nearby Tonle Sap lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Southeast Asia.
The town is also known for its lively café and restaurant scene, shopping opportunities and activities galore.
Phnom Penh
Angkor Wat, Siem Reap from £ 39 per person per night
from £ 94 per person per night
Baitong Hotel & Resort
4H Phnom Penh
This sleek, urban hotel, which sits right in the heart of trendy BKK1, boasts quintessential design elements around each corner and along every corridor. The unique architecture features lush gardens, minimal ponds, a cascading jacuzzi, striking staircases, a glass-bottomed pool and many other bold features. After a busy day, disconnect at the spa or gym, relax in the comfort of your stylish room and, when hungry or thirsty, options include a rooftop bar and seafood restaurant.
Features: 106 rooms & suites • restaurant
• bar • coffee shop • 2 swimming pools
• spa • gym • free WiFi
Accommodation: In standard rooms with shower, mini bar and safe.
Room upgrades: Superior city view rooms from £ 5, which also have a balcony • deluxe city view rooms from £ 7, which have a bath and separate shower
154 Indochina along with a balcony • superior pool view rooms from £ 12 with a balcony looking over the pool • deluxe pool view rooms from £ 14 which also have a balcony.
Meals: Breakfast.
Private transfers: 45 minutes from Phnom Penh airport.
La Rose Suites
5HBOUTIQUE Phnom Penh
This all suite hotel enjoys a perfect location on a quiet street just minutes from major attractions such as the Royal Palace and Independent Monument. Combining attributes of contemporary design and touches of French Indochina blended with practical comfort, La Rose has spacious suites spread across two wings. Amidst the lush tropical gardens you’ ll find an inviting pool plus there’ s a complimentary traditional Khmer massage to look forward to! In addition, the palate-pleasing restaurant dishes up fine Khmer cuisine and traditional western favourites.
Features: 34 suites • restaurant • bar
• small saltwater swimming pool • children’ s pool • spa • cooking classes • free WiFi
Accommodation: In La Rose junior suites with bath and separate shower, mini bar and safe.
Room upgrades: La Rose junior suites with balcony from £ 8 • La Rose pool view suites from £ 18.
Meals: Breakfast.
Private transfers: 45 minutes from Phnom Penh airport.
Premier Plus FREE daily 60 minute Khmer traditional massage. FREE daily mini bar.
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