We are travelling from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh in late April. Can we go by boat, if not can anyone help with our options, how to book, prices, etc. Thanks very much.
Hi,
of couse you can travel by Boat from Siem Reap to Ho chi Minh. But you have to spend 2 days with overnigh in Phnom Penh, and Change 2 time for Boat in Phnom Penh and ChouDoc. the cost is very expensive.
Myself and gf will be travelling to PP in just over a month. Planning to stay 2 nites in PP then 2/3 nites in SR.
I would appreciate any advice on places to stay in both PP and SR that:
- are clean and safe
- central location
- friendly staff with good advice to share
- Private Bathrooms
- ';roof top'; bar or something similar to spend the evening.
Price range would be above that of %26#39;backpacker%26#39; but below that of %26#39;western hotel chain';. basically 30-40 USD a nite.
I like Molly Malone in Siem Reap %26amp; Paragon in PP. Paragon doesn%26#39;t have a restaurant but you can walk to FCC a bit further down Sisowath Quay for a rooftop bar. Molly%26#39;s has a verandah bar. Both are within your price range with private bathroom %26amp; TV %26amp; great staff
We stayed for 5 nights in PP last month and stayed in rooms above Sunny Internet cafe. It is on the waterfront and it was GREAT. There are only five rooms and the front two have a balcony overlooking the river. Front rooms are $35US and back rooms are $25US. But the front are by far the best value with ensuite, fridge, comfortable chairs, ironed linen, and very tastefully decorated and of course a lovely balcony. Serviced daily and less then 100 meters to the FCC club and nice bars and nice places to eat nearby.
email address of owner is : lek_sovanrith@yahoo.com
In SR we stayed at a hotel oppiste the little eating street and 100 meters to pub street. Had an indian sounding name (near the 24 hour supermarket) it was $15.00US very clean, fridge, Air Con, ensuite and daily service.
Enjoy your stay
Hi,
FCC is a bit above your budget (double-rooms from 60 usd) but matches your requirements.
www.fcccambodia.com/phnom_penh/
Hi Dave,
Do you have any photos of the Sunny Apartments or the view from your room that you can share?
Yes i have some photos but don%26#39;t know how to add them. Let me know and i will put them up.
Regards David
Sorry David, I%26#39;m clueless about that. Hopefully someone else can advise? Anyone??
Regards
Coop
To upload photos on TA
- through the menu, go to: My TripAdvisor %26gt; Contributions %26gt; Photos
- click on ';Post photos'; button
Your photos won%26#39;t be published immediately, it needs a few days before TA validates the photos and publishes them.
Have posted 3 photos of the rooms. It is called Sunny Guest House, I found a receipt I had from my stay. Not sure when photos will appear on the webpage.
Regards David
Excellent!!
thanks very much
Coopy
I was in PP last summer and stayed at the Pavilion. It was beautiful and completely reasonable. I paid $42 a night and the staff was fantastic. Pavilion was one of the better values during my entire seven week trip. They can book your Mekong Express bus tickets too. I recall just emailing the hotel direct and communicated with them to determine my exact rate. It was all exactly as we discussed when I arrived.
Viroth%26#39;s in SR might be out of your range. I think I paid about $75-80 a night; it was a great hotel in SR and close enough to pub street, etc but also far enough away. They only have seven rooms and again, the staff there was lovely.
Will be travelling Bangkok/Phnom Penh/Bangkok, April/May 2009, and am seeking advice whether it is best to book now, or perhaps wait until closer to the time (maybe 1 month before). Does Airasia put out specials closer to flight time or are the flights cheaper the earlier you book. At present can get a return flight for Baht5056 with 20kg baggage allowance and a chosen seat alloaction. Any advice appreciated.
heke, we use Air Asia quite a bit and have no complaints re them. Just keep checking their website as they always have specials. Sign up to receive their emails and you will know instantly when a special is starting.
I wouldnt book yet as Im sure it will come out cheaper, like free flights and you just pay the taxes etc.
Cathy
Thanks Cathy, have subscribed to their email specials. I will hold off for a while, still have 2 months before I travel.
Heke
We use AA quite a bit and always manage to get their special. Just last week they had a 20% off sale.
Stragely their cheapest leg is actually Kuala Lumpur to Phnom Penh not from BKK.
We have some pics and stories of our trip here... www.bobandjanette.com which may help.
Happy %26amp; safe travels
Hi Heke,
It is an agony ( I know....).
From last year December every day I checked their price (Bangkok-Hanoi), I was waiting for ';better price ';. In December the price was 1300/person.At the end I was too late (no deal, no discount, nothing) and I had to book my ticket for 2600/person.
What you can do, check the price for the next month or just for a next day later, if that price is not cheaper , book it now.
I hope you will be luckier than I was, I still regret why I did not book a ticket in December.
They always have very good deals but believe me never free seats or discount on that day when you want to book ! :-)))
Have a nice holiday !
zskin
Hi everyone
Did Vietnam and Thailand last year and are looking to book Cambodia this year and are wondering what prices/cost of living is like
If anyone can advise that would be great!
Many thanks
oh dear!
Probably lots more info tucked away in various JBR%26#39;s
we never paid more than $15 (us) for dinner for the two of us - starters and mains plus beers.
beers (draft)50c-$1, cans in the supermarket 60-80c (change from US$1 given in riel) internet 75c per 1/2 hour, t-shirts $3, foot massage $5-6 (1 hour)
lunches for 3 (we had our driver to lunch both days - and highly recommend doing this) $15 - inlcuded drinks, scarves $1, tuk-tuk $15 for the whole day, silk $5 per metre in the markets,
cheap as chips and great fun - cambodia comes highly recommended.
happy planning
Helen
thank you!
Its all appreciated
Hi anneloo, We have been to Cambodia a few times in the last couple of years, have a look at my link below theres photos and prices of meals we had, shopping etc. Cambodia can be extremely cheap or expensive depending on where you eat, what you buy, where you stay etc. Fantastic country to visit!
Cathy
cathyandgarystravelpages.com/phnom_penh.htm
Hi there
thanks for this, im looking forward to looking at your site!
We are thinking of travelling to Cambodia and Thailand.
Wondering if we can do both places in 3 weeks?
What is the best way to travel between countries?
What cities should we put on itinerary?
Thinking of flying from Canada to Cambodia, and returning home From Thailand.
Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks Dan
You would need to check your routes as Cambodia is not an international longhaul destination for a lot of flights.
For 3 weeks you could squeeze in both countries but will need a little backtracking. Unfortunately overland travel is quite slow and as your time is a little short I would suggest flying where possible.
Perhaps consider flying into BKK, then AirAsia flight up to Phnom Penh for 2 nights, Mekong Express bus to Siem Reap for a 3 day temple pass.
Fly back to BKK for 3-4 nights including an overnighter to Kanchanaburi.
Overnight sleeper train up to Chiang Mai for 3-4 days and then fly CM down to the southern islands to finish off your trip. Depending on season would dictate East or West coast islands.
We have some pics and stories of our similar trips here... www.bobandjanette.com which may help.
Happy and safe travels
Thanks very much for the speedy response and great direction.
Will start to do some research .
Planning on going next Oct/ Nov
Regards Dan
I cant speak about coming from Canada, but we have just returned from both countries and travelled into Bangkok from London/KL and had two great days there, and got a Thai Airways flight to Phomn Penh (Air Asia does a good service here too) and had most of the trip in Cambodia, and returned to BKK for the last couple of days. Things to remember that if you decide to go overland expect an extra day or so to lose thru travelling, and in Cambodia the internal flights is very minimal, expect to use coaches more to see the sights like Siem Reap %26amp; Sihanoukville. Its 20 dollars to pay visa on arrival and 25 dollars leaving and take a photo. Make sure all your dollar bills are pristine and keep your bags away from roadside when walking on quieter roads as bag snatching from yobs on motorbikes is rampant, it almost happened to us ,but the pillion passenger just dropped it on the command of my mates perfect Khymer, maybe we were lucky. Having said that Cambodia is really worth a visit and Bangkok although in places a bit overpowering is fabulously vibrant and very exciting.
We need one way air from HCMC to Siem Reap with Vietnam Airlines. The airfare seems to be a lot higher if booked in Canada (where we live). Any idea if it can be booked with a Vietnam tour company? How is the flight with Vietnam Airlines like?
We also need to go from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh by motorcoach. Is Mekong Express the best and safest?
Any insight will be much appreciated.
Sorry for the late post, have been away.
We flew from HCMC to SR with Bangkok Airways (Siem Reap Airways, one and the same) in November. Fairly expensive, about $150 if I remember correctly. Great flight though, only about 20% full.
It is difficult to book Vietnam Airways at a reasonable price outside of Vietnam. We have always used Vietnamopentour.com for our internal Vietanmese travel arrangements, they may be able to book you at a reasonable price. Their web site is good.
Coach SR to PP, there are a number of companies running this route. Paramount and Mekong Express are the major ones, both about $12. We used Paramount in November, bus was ok, on board toilet left a bit to be desired. Probably worth leaving the booking for these until you are in SR, your guest house or hotel will book and include pick up.
We stay at the Mandalay Inn in SR, air con rooms about $20/double.
Jetstar Pacific were also advertising that they were flyinf HCMC to SR starting November 2008 but I can see no evidence that it actually is operating.
Jetstar Pacific is the offshoot of Qantas that bought the Vietnamese Pacific Airways.
Has anyone had any luck booking a flight from HCMC to Siem Reap?
My girlfriend and I are going in May and can%26#39;t seem to find anything that is cost effective. Everything is over $300 USD! How can one get the fare that is around $150?
Well, though I live in Siem Reap but I think the only cost effective airline is either AirAsia (Kuala Lumpur to Siem Reap) or JetStarAsia (Singapore - Siem Reap).
Both are budget airline and non-stop service. For Bangkok Airways (Bangkok-Siem Reap) %26amp; Vietnam Airlines (Ho Chin Minch-Siem Reap). I believe that the price is crazy high.
Regarding your trip from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh. The Mekong Express Bus is one among the best and safest. I would recommend.
Hey guys
I am due to head out to Cambodia this Saturday... however I%26#39;ve got a troublesome wisdom tooth. It%26#39;s not bad enough that it needs to be extracted within the next few months apparently.. however.. if the occasion arose where I did need to get it extracted, can anyone recommend a dentist/oral surgeon in Cambodia?
Cheers
John.
SOS in Phnom Penh. It%26#39;ll have to be a weekday though as I dont think Antonia works on the weekend.
Thanks..
I had a quick visit to SOS in Vietnam so am glad its this company.
Appreciate the response.
Hey guys,
We are traveling to Ho Chi Minh City in November this year and from there planning to take the bus to Phnom Penh and then bus again to Siam Reap.
Just a few questions:
1. We are planning to stay in Phnom Penh for 2 1/2 days and Siam Reap for 3 1/2 days. Will that be enough to see all the sights in both cities?
2. Not sure what hotel we will be staying at yet. Looking into the Asia Hotel but I read it has a lift problem and very old and dirty? Has anyone stayed there before Or do you recommend any others around the 25-30USD per night price range?
3. We are going to take the Sapaco Bus from HCMC to PP. Will our 15kg - 20kg luggage be able to fit on the bus with no problems? Is there a storage compartment below the bus or do we have to try to fit it with us in the bus itself?
Thanks heaps.
Go see the answers to your querry posted on the HCNC forum!
Thanks for the replies guys.
I am sure that this has been asked before, but here goes. After numerous years in Goa for month of January, we would like to go to Cambodia. Can you please let me know what would be a good trip to take, sightseeing for a couple of weeks and then 2 more weeks just relaxing. Thanks for any help anyone can give.
We spent a very enjoyable 2 weeks in Cambodia and can%26#39;t wait to go back again.
We flew into Phnom Penh and spent a few nights there. Caught the bus (4hrs) down to Sihanoukville and had a very relaxing stay on the beach. Night time BBQs and cocktails on the beach as the waves are lapping at your feet is a great way to watch the world go by. Whilst at Sihanoukville we took a side trip via bikes to Kampot and Kep for an overnighter.
From Sihanoukville we headed back up to Phnom Penh by bus, stayed overnight and then caught the Mekong Express bus to Siem Reap (5 hrs) to do the temples. We had 4 nights there which seemed about right.
We have some pics and stories of our trip here... www.bobandjanette.com which may help.
Happy %26amp; safe travels
I have two Pay As You Go mobiles. The O2 one has no coverage at all in Cambodia.
The Orange mobile does..BUT ONLY for contract and not Pay As You Go.
Can I buy a SIM card when in Siem Reap? If so..how much can I expect to pay? Will I then be able to text back to UK?
Many Thanks!
Well from what I gather can buy a sim ranging from $2 to $20, depends on the number you want. Apparently some numbers are more than others - didnt quite get it, but perhaps a resident can explain that one.
Bought mine in Phnom Penh, Russian Market for $5. Then added $20 to it. Only used it for sms, and ring the guide ect. Then used it all up when I rang home prior to leaving and heading back to Bangkok.
Used mobile company called - Cellular.
Many thanks for your prompt reply!
Hi wondering if anyone can help me. We are going to be in Siem Reap in the beginning of July.
I have spent many hours searching the internet, I%26#39;m trying to find roughly the cost of a flight between Siem Reap and HCMC but having little success. The only price I found was a TNK internet site and they are advertising tickets at $170US. This seems very expensive. The Vietnam Airlines website does not give much information about international flights.
I%26#39;m aware of the other option to catch the bus but we are travelling with my parents and my mother get motion sickness quite bad, so if I don%26#39;t have to, I don%26#39;t really want to subject her to a 12hr+ bus ride. But that possibly might be the only option.
So I was just wondering if anyone has noticed the cost of flights out of Siem Reap as they are walking past travel agencies in Siem Reap or even Phnom Penh.
Hope somebody can help me,
regards Tracey
Hi Tracey,
That is the price I%26#39;m pretty certain.(Or more). I also have done heaps of research for the same purpose and can verify that charge. Vietnam Air is the only airline to fly HCMC to Siem Reap, so they have a monopoly on cost. Maybe you could contact Jason Super Star on the Vietnam forum directly, as he seems to know everything and is very helpful to others. I%26#39;ll watch with interest.
regards
Cooperellie
Can anyone please advise me on cheap flights from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh. Thanks.
There are 3 daily flights from Seam Reap to HoChiMin, 12.40 , 13.55 , 19.35 , you would need to contact Bangkok Air for the going airfare on your day of choice .
Well, I don%26#39;t think Bangkok Airway flight from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh (?).
However, to the best of my understanding there is only one airline company flight is Vietnam Airlines (VN). For the price it may not cheat since there is no competition.
Well, I don%26#39;t think Bangkok Airways flight from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh (?).
However, to the best of my understanding there is only one airline company flight is Vietnam Airlines (VN). For the price it may not cheap since there is no competition.
We flew HCM to SR last November. We had booked on-line with Siem Reap Airways but actually flew on a Bangkok Airways aircraft.I understand that Siem Reap Airways are banned from International flights (maintenance issues?) and Bangkok Airways actually owns them.
Does anyone know if there are any DIRECT flights
between Cambodia (Phnom Penh OR Siem Reap and either
Phuket or Koh Samui without going through BKK ??
If so i%26#39;d greatly appreciate the tip(s) !!!
Thanks to any with info that can help....
Hi, as my understanding there is no direct flight from Phnom Penh or Siem Reap to Phuket or Koh Samui now.
Bangkok Airways used to arrange direct flight to both island from Cambodia (Phnom Penh %26amp; Siem Reap)last year.
You can check with Bangkok Airways office or in the website to find futher details. For your information; there is other airline operate beside Bangkor Airways.
All the best :-)
Our agent has just booked us flights with Bangkok Air from Siem Reap to Samui. I%26#39;ve been told that the flight touches down at Bangkok before continuing on to Samui.
Hi! I will be traveling Cambodia next May. However I would like to visit Laos as well. Does anyone know cheap flights between Phnom Penh and Vientiane. Is it easy to buy in short notice. How much I should expect to pay for round trip?
See here for info http://www.laoairlines.com/airfare_new_i.html
Site says $278. Yes, you could buy short notice on their website, or at a travel agency in Cambodia. May is not high season so you should have no problem getting seats but to be on the safe side, I%26#39;d try to book at least a week in advance.
Ok. Thanks for your reply.
Hi All.I would be most grateful of any comments you may have concerning precautions against Malaria.
I have taken various anti Malaria tablets in the past, but did suffer from side effects.
We shall be in Phnom Pene and Siam Reap early June for about 10days.Looking at some internet sites, both area%26#39;s are listed as ';low risk';. Is it worth the risk NOT to take anti Malaria tablets? We will use loads of ';deet'; insect sprays containing at least 30% deet. TIA
So we don%26#39;t run the risk of the heated discussion from last week, if you have a look on the next page or so, you will find a malaria topic with 60+ comments, which should give you a good idea!
Thanks air for pointing me in the right direction, I had not logged into this Forum for a few days. (I%26#39;m just about half way reading through the posts.) (Still not sure what to do!!)
My partner and I are going to be in Siem Reap for 4 days and I suspect we%26#39;ll have some free time in the afternoons. Instead of spending all of that time poolside, I am wondering if anyone can recommend a good place to volunteer time (and donate some $). He%26#39;s a musician and I am a writer...
The Jayavarman VII Children%26#39;s Hospital can use both blood and money. It%26#39;s right on the road heading to the place where you purchase your Ankgor Wat passes.
Thanks. Great suggestion!
check out www.stayanotherday.org
When I was in Siem Reap for holiday last year, I went to Children hospital to donate blood and during the night I went to concert hall to listen to music and I donated some money for hospital. It was great for me and I was so happy to do that.
The concert/lecture is excellent, I agree! I donated $ at the concert last time, and this time donated blood...
A great way to help out is this small organization that I found in Siem Reap. Schools for Children of Cambodia offers free tours that last between 1 and 1.5 hours every Friday from the Singing Tree Cafe. Granted, there%26#39;s no direct or intense volunteering but the staff seemed to really appreciate the small donation I made. It was also an incredible way to learn about the dire situation of the educational system in Cambodia. They answered all my questions and when I asked about some other places to volunteer they also led me to some amazing resources. It was altogether a great experience and I took a lot away from the school visit.
I have been looking at staying at The Villa for my trip in May. If you look at their website they have various volunterring activities, helping orphanes paint, learn English etc. Im sure if you contact them they could arrange for you?http://www.thevillasiemreap.com/tours.htm
On my last trip I spent a lot of time visiting small NGOs but didnt do any volunteer work. I stayed at The Villa Siem Reap and arranged through them a half day doing some painting with a great group of kids at an orphanage by Srah Srang. It was a lot of fun, some of the better paintings go on sale to raise money for the orphanage, and most importantly the kids are really super. It%26#39;s called %26#39;Art for Life.%26#39;
You can see my photos from the experience at …google.com/AngkorWatTukTuk/ArtForLifeProgam… and read the weblog I now maintain about Angkor Wat since my last trip at http://www.angkortuktuk.org/apps/blog/.
Its super that you are looking to do something while there. Have a great time!
We stayed in Siem Reap for 6 nights %26amp; I spent 2 afternoons teaching English at rural schools.
LITTLE ANGELS SCHOOL near the Roulos Group has an open-air pavilion, where the kids sit on mats on the floor %26amp; their %26#39;desk%26#39;s are slices of logs. They go to school in the AM %26amp; study English too. In the afternoon they learn traditional Khmer leather carving (like the kind used to make shadow puppets)... and their leather carvings are for sale for $5-$20 %26amp; the $ goes directly to the child who did the leather %26#39;painting%26#39;... there is NO bargaining.
You could bring a 10 kilo sack of rice (buy at supermarket in REP) or enough food (sandwiches?) to feed 40 kids, bring school supplies like colored pencils, children%26#39;s educational books in English (think Sesame street) that teach numbers, colors, ABCs, children%26#39;s CDs that have simple songs in English, bottles of children%26#39;s vitamins (to give to teacher to give out), 40 packets of ramen noodles, children%26#39;s toothbrushes, pencils, pens, 4 dozen eggs.
I taught English for an hour, I gave each child a toothbrush %26amp; tube of paste (none of them had ever owned a toothbrush) which I brought from the US %26amp; taught then how to use them.
It was wonderful. Afterwards, the teacher put on a shadow puppet show. The kids really appreciate HEARING English from a native speaker. They also asked a lot of questions, mostly personal ones.
Have your guide or drive take you there around 1 PM or a bit later, so as not to interrupt their classes.
My 13 year old son is permanently attached to his GameBoy and has no interest in much else at the moment that isn%26#39;t electronic. So the thought of being dragged around various temples is horrifying him! I would love advise on what else is on offer in SR that a young teenager might enjoy. No shopping please (unless for electronic games!)as that appears to be a worse fate even than Angkor Wat!
What else is there to do in SR other than going to visit the temples(that%26#39;s my dream about to come true)? Are most things shut during the day as everyone knows that the tourists are out and about and only surface in the town at night? Are there any hotels particularly suitable for teenagers?
Grateful for any advise. Thank you.
Have a look at the Quad Adventure Cambodia ATV Tours. It may be of interest.
He just might surprise you and turn into a real boy if you organise a visit to a school or orphanage.
We did this about 4 years ago on a trip to Vietnam. OK we took two girls but they both nominated the orphanage visit as the highlight of the trip. We spent about half a day there, the kids played soccer, chess, frisbee and drew on the concrete with jumbo sticks of chalk. the kids at the orphanage didn%26#39;t speak english, we didn%26#39;t know any vietnamese but communication was not a problem.
I recognise your name from a post about football boots so maybe that is the communication medium which will work best. Perhaps you could even take a couple of footballs with you -or even a league/union or aussie rules ball - you never know!
Travel has broadened our kids minds so much more than anything they can get on TV or at school.
good luck - (I%26#39;d be really tempted to forget the charger for the DS! - but then I%26#39;m a mean mummy sometimes!)
Helen
sorry Poli - it wasn%26#39;t you with the footy boots, it was the backpackers on the post inbetween.
H
';Travel has broadened our kids minds so much more than anything they can get on TV or at school.'; - ain%26#39;t that the truth!
Donna
Hi All,
Can anyone recommend a hotel or guesthouse in Phnom Penh that provides all the above? And clean.
Close to the river if possible.
I know I know, I%26#39;m probably living in fairy land!
Still, it%26#39;s worth asking.
Thanks
Cooperellie
%26lt;bump!!!!%26gt;
Yes, I%26#39;m afraid you are living in fairy land, although that may not be a bad place to be.
All those things you are asking for cost money, even in cambodia.
Try at least double that ($60-100).
Have a look at the hotels section on this website.
Could recommend several , problem is you will have to wait until the rainy season , hotel $12.00 a night and up , no breakfast , $25.00 a night with breakfast , after a storm you just nip out into the street and swim in the flood with the kids .
Seriously , around $60.00 for what you are looking for , there is however , a public swimming pool you could use or nip down to Sihanook-ville and take a dip in the clean , warm sea .
We stayed at the Billabong Hotel and loved it. Probably the best salt water swimming pool in town which was great after a long hot day. Not sure if breakfast was included and we had a dearer room downstairs near the pool.
According to their website, rooms are from $36 but I think we negotiated a little off for our 4 night stay.
We have some pics and stories of our trip here... www.bobandjanette.com which may help.
Happy %26amp; safe travels
Hi All,
I thought as much, but hoped someone might have a secret place to share. I%26#39;ll work it out. I wonder what the removed post said - I%26#39;m intrigued.
Thanks for trying to help.
Colin - I am going to Snooky for a dip or six, but I%26#39;ll pass on the street floods! Then again, maybe we could start a new tourist attraction. Instead of swimming with the dolphins in Australia or swimming with the sharks in South Africa, we could be swimming with the tuk tuks in Cambodia!
Coop
Youré a laugh and a half Cooperellie , we need more like you around LOL Colin .
Hi, I had decided months ago on the Green Village Palace for our 6 night stay in SR (4 adults %26amp; 6 kids aged 9-15). Unfortunately the last review mentioned theft. Not sure whether to give it a go anyway or stay at Tanei Guesthouse. Both places are a similar price with pool etc. Any opinions?? Which would be the better location?
Thanks, Donna
I will be blunt but honest-
Careless people get their stuff stolen. Never, ever leave valuables, especially cash, in your bags unattended.
Hi, regarding the location of both hotels; I really have no idea too even I live in Siem Reap.
I would recommend to keep your window closed at night and try not keep your valuable things in the room. If you can please ask the receptionist to keep it for you.
Any further questions, please let me know. I am more than please to help since I am a local people.
Have a nice trip!
Thanks for the replies. It will probably come down to location, but on the map they look equal distance to Old Market just on opposite sides of the river. Might have to toss a coin!
hi i stayed at the Tanei guest house this year in January.
i was travelling alone woman.
was fine the location.
walk up road to main square cheap street sit down food .
club other way up road.
market late nite opening all a walk away.
24/7 round the corner with ATM.
lovely pool, i was allowed to use when i wished :
ie; 11pm.
perfect floating with the stars
hi im in pattaya whats my best route to get to Siem Reap please?
money a bit low.
shalli get bus to ??
border then another?
please help
or shall i go down then up again on bus thanks gillie
As your low on cash, aint we all, i would sugest bus fron Pattaya to Morchit and from there to Aranyaprathet. Total cost around 400 baht. From bus station take a bike, 50 baht, to border, once through customs passport ect:take the free mini bus (near the roundabout) to the bus terminal where there are usually lots of folk looking to share a taxi, last time i did the route it was us.$ 10 per head to the Reap, things change. Just a thought, get to border as early as possible as the later in the day it gets the less folk are travelling onward. Cheers.
hi, thanks for that.
maybe i should stay somewhere enroute to get to border early next morning?
nmaybe Morchit?
or where?
thanks gillie much appreciated
most kind of you to advise
hi, or can i get a bus from pattaya without going into bangkok?
please
update: i did find a luxury coach from Pattaya from Big C for 200 baht YES 200 TO THE BORDER.
they supplied coffee n water on the way.
was for locals mainly renewing their visas
i do have the contact number
Hi all,
I am looking for some feedback with regards to guesthouses in Siem Reap. My budget would be around USD15/night, twin with a/cond and hot shower. Bou Savy guesthouse received good recommendations. How about Golden Mango Inn or Wats Up Guesthouse?? Anyone stayed there before? Welcome any other suggestions too.
Thanks a million!
Cheers!!
Hi, not sure about Bou Savy or Golden Mango Inn.
I only know ';Mom Guesthouse'; one of the good guesthouse in town. My friend is the owner(s) of this guesthouse - His name: Piseth.
Enjoy your trip!
Stayed at Bou Savy two weeks ago and it is right in your budget with free breakfast . That would be a good choise.
Thanks for the feedback.
MountOlympus,
Did you used their driver too? Or if not, how much do you pay for the tuktuk/car?
Thanks
hi, i stayed at %26#39;Tanei Guest House%26#39;
has a swimming pool!
was 10$ per nite in January 2009.
excellent fan room.
aircon costs more
also another with pool directly across the road.
Hi mlimsf,
I used one of their drivers and was charged $15.00/day for the short circuit and the long circuit.
And $25.00 for Banthei Shrei and the Roulous Group.
Enjoy your visit
hi , i paid in January 10US $ a day to go to Angkor Wat in moto tuk tuk.
that price was for 2 of us.
their prices are usually fot the vehicle not how many people.
he took us all day from 8am till after dusk.
would wait anywhere for us.
or me as was the case on a few days.
no more than 15$ a day
Hi..I will be staying in HCMC for a day before proceeding to PP. I am planning to take the bus. There were 3 bus lines mentioned in this forum, namely: Mekong Express Bus, SAPACO, and Mai Linn. In your opinion, which is the best bus company to use, in terms of comfort, schedule, frequency of trips, reliability, and safety?
Can I buy the roundtrip bus tickets in advance? Like thru a website? There are 4 of us, and am afraid that it would be difficult to get seats a day before our intended travel. By the way, we will be traveling in the first week of March.
Your suggestion/opinion will be appreciated..
Hi Maxlie,
If you have enough time, consider going to P. Penh by taking a Mekong tour starting from HCMC which ends up in P. Penh. There are are tours for 2 days and 1 night ($35.00) and 3 days and 2 nights which I just took costing around $48.00 from Sinh Cafe (www.sinhcafevn.com). This includes hotel, travel by bus and boat with boat tours, free breakfast and free lunch ( one time only). Similar tours are also available from several other tour companies in District 1 (De Tham/Bui Vien/Pham Gnu Lao Streets.
You can purchase the tour ticket one day before the start of the tour and it is offered daily.
Re bus tickets from HCMC to P.P. there are many bus trips daily so buying tickets a day before is not a problem for the 4 of you.
I took the Sapaco bus from P.P. to HCMC for $12.00 and the bus was quite good and the driver drove safely. There is no need to buy your return ticket (PP to HCMC) at HCMC as it very easy to arrange. Your hotel/guest house in P.P. can easily arrange it for you two days before your trip ( or even one day before although you you might not get the seats you prefer). My Guest House in P.P. even issued the ticket right in their hotel for the Sapaco Bus to HCMC and also for my ticket from PP to S. Reap via the Apsara Khmer Travel which travels faster than the bus (the driver drove safely too). The bus companies send vans to pick you up from your hotel The tickets have assigned seats indicated on it, so you there is no need to fight for a seat even if others come before you.
Enjoy your trip Maxlie, Pinay Girl.
Cheers
Thanks MountOlympus for your valuable reply!
Will just need the bus tickets since I have made arrangements with tho hotel already.
As for the tours in PP, do you suggest that I get it in HCMC via Sinh Cafe, or just make the booking once I get to PP?
Hi Maxli,
Re PP- No need to join a tour , just do it on your own via tuktuk. On the P. Penh forum (this page) click ';Things to do'; on the left side of this page. Read the travelers review for each site. The more important sites are :
1) Killing fields- do this early as it is far and then proceed to no. 2 below
2) Toul Sleng Genocide Museum
get a tuktuk or a car for the morning tour and dismiss it after you get to the Genocide Museum, Have lunch.
After lunch, see
3) The Royal Palace and the Silver pagoda (one entrance fee)
4) Walk to the National Museum which is nearby
You can see the other places the next day or on your way back from Siem Reap.
Although you have not mentioned it, you should visit Siem Reap to see the temples. Spend more time in Siem Reap rather than than P.P. if time is a limiting factor.
Enjoy your trip.
Thanks Mount Olympus!
How much should we pay for a tuktuk/taxi to bring us and back to the hotel for a trip to the Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Museum?
Are US$ travellers cheques easy enough to change in Phnom Penh/Sihanoukville/SR etc? or US$ cash be best?
Or take in sterling and change to US$ when there?
Bring dollars (most useful) or sterling and change at any change counter, hotel or bank. Don%26#39;t mess with traveler%26#39;s checks...
;o) Cheers!
Used dosh, and then when I ran out, made a quick run to an ATM.
Spending a week in Siem Reap %26amp; would like to donate some time, at least a day doing veterinary work with farm animals. Can anyone suggest a veterinary clinic or charitable organization to contact prior to visit in late April?
DVM = Doctor of Veterinary Medicine... work with both large %26amp; small animals.
Hi, If I am not wrong. In Siem Reap do not have clinic of Veterinary.
You may contact the Department of Animal Health %26amp; Production - Siem Reap (Government). Address: Wat Bo Village, Sala Kamroeuk Commune, Siem Reap District
Siem Reap. Tel: 063 963 190 or 012 983 474 once you are here!
thank you, I will email to my guide Leng Tek, to see if he can speak with them beforehand, to see if there is anything I can pre-arrange before I arrive...
Has anyone recently used a tour guide called Theam Vuthy? He has a web site called vuthyguide.com. If so would you recommend him?
(I can only find old posts on him.)
cheers
browny58
Hi Brownie,
I don%26#39;t really believe you need a tour guide. Get a copy of lonely planet (either here before you go or from any of the dozens of street kids who sell photocopied versions) and read up yourself.
also check out canbypublications.com/siemreap/sritinerary.h…
great site for all your pre-trip research including timing (as in how long you need to plan to stay) and time of day for best visiting
can%26#39;t help with Vuthy - sorry. can recommend a tuk-tuk driver if you wish (will PM email address if you wish)
happy travels
Helen
Hi Brownie,
Sorry can not help for Vuthy but can recommend a very good tour guide named Bunna (bunna@travels-cambodia.com).
Enjoy Cambodia !
Agree with Helen. Spot on!
Davy dova - are you sure you%26#39;re not touting - similar recommendation for this guide on a couple of other threads.
Post a genuine trip report and we might just take you seriously
I just got back from Cambodia and would like to recommend a great driver in Siem Reap. I read about Sun Same through the postings here on Tripadvisor and was very impress with this young man. I%26#39;ve always been drawn to Cambodia because of it%26#39;s tragic history and the glory of Angkor Wat. Many of us travelers forget that the (people) of the country makes the experience a much fuller and deeper experience.
I spent 4 days with Sun from dusk till late into the night going from temples to lesser known areas. We shared all the meals and I got to know Sun well enought to say without any hesitation that he%26#39;s an honest, reliable and humble person that you can trust to bring you to the right locations and at the right time of day (avoiding crowds).
Sun is left with a mother and 3 sisters to care for after his father was killed by the Khmer Rouge (I asked Sun if it%26#39;s Ok to talk about this) Although he%26#39;s only 25 he%26#39;s taken on a heavy load like many Cambodians have embraced his responsibilities seriously.
If you need a driver in Siem Reap, give him a call
+855 92 55 25 35 or e-mail him at sunsame99@gmail.com. Please make sure you confirm with Sun because many times clients don%26#39;t confirm and either don%26#39;t show up or showed up and he%26#39;s not there due to lack of confirmation. This costs Sun a lot of money to rent a car spend $ for gas etc.. at the end of the day Sun only makes a few dollars after the car rental fee and high gas prices.. so do the right thing.
Please don%26#39;t read this and misinterpret it as a professional promotion or some sort of travel agency%26#39;s spam. If you need further validation you may contact me at hau.mai@retinastudios.com
Cheers and good travel,
Hau,
Washington DC, USA
Was his father killed during their ';governmental rule?'; If so, even if he was in the womb when his father died, he would need to be at least 29 years old now (not 25) if my calculations are correct.
That%26#39;s a very good point. I said he was 25 based on another post%26#39;s description of Sun%26#39;s age. I never did ask Sun%26#39;s age, but you%26#39;re right the Khmer Rouge reign ended in %26#39;79 but rebels continued long after that in the country side. It%26#39;s a hard subject for his family to discuss, I%26#39;d pried enough all ready.
My wife and I just got back from Siem Reap. We used Sun the whole time. He was great in every way so I do not understand how anybody could have a problem with him? Young and handsom and very polite. Speaks fluent english and just an over-all good guy! He showed up on time ect.
Hi all,
Me and my friends just returned from Siem Reap And I had a great time with Sun showing us all the site but specially the right time and place to go to skip the big buses.
You will not be disappointed with Sun%26#39;s service and gentle ways. He really honest and reliable.
Visit him for detail. www.driverinsiemreap.com
I would highly recommend him.
many tourists pre book and dont show up,many drivers to cover this take 2 or 3 bookings for the same date,beware of pre booking,with 1000s of great drivers all wanting to make a living just go with the flow and advoid disappointment.beware of drivers and guides using this site to self promote,under another handle
I vote we get admin to ban all new posts/topics reccommending any guide/driver .
Let%26#39;s get some real informative posts on this forum.It%26#39;s getting boring with just about every second topic about %26#39;you gotta have this guide%26#39;
Anyone want to hear about the rest of my ghost story...?Now that could be really interesting!
Sorry .Missed this...';LOL!';
100% agree..you know the really good ones are too busy doing there job then sitting in internet cafes emailing people anyway,or self promoting there services.
Yes, this is dang boring. And yes, 2 of the 3 posters here obviously were put up to do it by Sun himself - at least he lives up to his name - Same Same stuff on this forum. :P
If jimshu writes his ghost story, then at least we will have something new on this forum finally! Unless the ghost was recommending or is a guide! :) (Not to make light of the ghosts, but making fun of all this guide stuff....it%26#39;s never ending!)
This is exactly the kind of thread I was trying to avoid. As mentioned in my original post, I welcome any direct interaction to qualify that I%26#39;m not a spammer. The reason for the post was to try to help a young man clear his name which hurt his ability to earn a living. Like the ones you have just posted.
If we banned good service recommendation then what is the purpose of the forum? I have stayed in hotels/lodges based on good reviews here, ate at good restaurants because travelers enjoyed the food and visit locale that are not well known because someone stumbles upon a secret spot. I found Sun Same because many of you recommended him and I thank you all for doing just that.
Cheers,
Hau
We have several pairs of kids football boots in good condition that the kids have outgrown. Is there any use of bringing them to SR to give to someone? If so, any suggestions of who to give them to, as I don%26#39;t want to cause problems.
It%26#39;s great that you want to help. Unfortunately, Cambodian customs wont allow used footwear into the country. I got this information from the carryforkids website. Worth looking at if you want to know what you can bring.
';Cambodian customs won%26#39;t allow used footwear in to the country';
Sorry, but this is utter nonsense. I visit an orphanage every year and friends %26amp; I bring kilos %26amp; kilos of used footwear into the country. Kids should be so lucky. Bring all you want, and then some!
3Future-
Look up Earthwalkers Guesthouse and/or the Warehouse Bar, who would have the lowdown on folks who need stuff. Cheers and good on you for wanting to help!
Maneko..I%26#39;m sure you dont intend to sound so rude. I was not relaying ';utter nonsense'; at all. I was only repeating what I had read from the carryforkids.org website. The information was taken directly from the orphanage wishlist. I actually remembered reading it, and went back to check the information before posting it.
I%26#39;ve been bringing and sending stuff over (including used footwear) for several years now, and it%26#39;s been fine. I visited the Ban Rajvithee in Thailand about 4 years ago, and I went through the Carry for Kids organization and never read a thing about the footwear...
Who cares who saw what where. 3FB, just take the shoes, the worst that can happen is you would have to drop them at Customs.
maneki
www.carryforkids.org
If you click on schools and orphanages,then cambodia, and then the sunrise childrens village wishlist it is highlighted in red.
Perhaps they are mistaken, but as they run the orphanage, I would like to think that they know what they are talking about. I can%26#39;t imagine that it is a rule that is just in place for that one particular orphanage. I simply decided to take other items on the list when I go to avoid even the remotest possibility that I was wasting space with an item that was not going to be allowed into the country.
Tracey-
I have just looked over the 4 websites of the orphanages listed on the Carryforkids site and could find nothing regarding used footwear being unacceptable. Could you please attach a link to where you read that?
www.carryforkids.org
';if you click on schools and orphanages, and then cambodia, then the sunrise children%26#39;s village wishlist it is highlighted in red';
As Tracy says, the info about used footwear not being allowed by Cambodian Customs does appear on the Wishlist link for Carryforkids.
As Maneko says, they may very well get through Customs with no problem.But be prepared to have them seized.
My suggestion is to at least wash those boots well.Get every scrap of dirt off them.
No country allows dirt across it%26#39;s borders.The chance of harbouring diseases and insects are high.And will make them prohibited goods.
I suspect the warning on the Carryforkids site may well be more to do with them being seen not to encourage people to bring dirty used footwear into the country.
Where does it appear? Post the link, that is all I am asking (I read it and did not see it!)...
I%26#39;ll congratulate myself on a great pun firstly.
Secondly, I saw a bar called the Kep Riel Bar advertised which promotes the use of the Riel. As a believer that the Riel should be the one and only currency (also due to the fact it adds significantly to my holiday pursestrings due to the crappy AUD vs USD exchange rate at the moment), can anyone recommend hotels/bars etc that use the same sort of system as the Kep Riel Bar? Their website is... http://www.kep-riel-bar.com/.
Cheers
John.
PS if you are going to tell me to accept the way it is.. USD blah blah, please don%26#39;t.. Thanks in advance to the awesome people who are going to offer me awesome advice, because you are awesome.
JC
I do not see the %26#39;Riel deal%26#39; here , my wife pays for practically everything in Riel , it is , after all , the local currency . Please explain where you will make out better , I am truly interested .
Yes not sure where the maths are in this one?
US$10 converted to Reil is 26857
AU$10 converted to US$ is $6.48 then converted to Reil is 26881
The extra 24 Reil equates to a massive AU$.0089
Hardly seems an issue.
Hey bobnjanette , your math is off also , $10.00us is 41,318 Riel , by accepting US dollars at 4,000 to the dollar , a bonus is made of a little over $3.00 when exchanging $100.00 us into Riel . My wife had no formal education , I taught her math , she can even add cash register reciepts in her head (try that with your average jo-blow ) . She can equate the bonus of paying in Riel when the average market peson equates $1.00 to 4,000 Riel . You can fool some of the people some of the time , but not all of the people all of the time .Colin .
4410.00us is 41,318 Riel
Dunno seems like not that big of a deal at the end of the day. However most places prefer the yank dollar, but will accept the monopoly money known as the riel too. :D
Sorry everybody, but you%26#39;re missing the point JC is trying to make.
He is stating that by paying in Reil he will make a small saving on every item, if the going accepted rate with vendors is 4000 reil to the US dollar.(according to Odball).
I%26#39;be just been on Oanda.com for the lastest currency conversions and without giving you all the conversions, the end reslt is that JC can save 1,329 Reil ($.50AUS) per $10US at today%26#39;s(27-02-09)rate. He is coming to Cambodia in a couple of days so this rate is relevant to him.
Now, I agree 50 cents is hardly worth getting excited about, but add all those 50 cent savings over his whole holiday together and the amount may be quite significant. So, I%26#39;m with JC. When I come to Cambodia I also plan to pay in Reil too.
Lets all wish JC a great holiday.
Thanks
Cooperellie
Coops and Colin thank you for your input as always.
The point is not just to save 50c in every $10- at the end of the day it%26#39;s all sheep stations anyway.
I don%26#39;t see why an independent nation is piggybacking on the USD when they have their own currency. I don%26#39;t care if ';thats the way it is';- personally I%26#39;m going to make an effort to promote the riel.
Thanks everyone for all your help, especially everything I%26#39;ve read on this forum from odball, britmaverick, thmoore, bobnjanette and coops.. you%26#39;ve all been a big help.
Ooops...I stand corrected OddBall. So much for trusting my calculator.
Oh, and BTW 4410.00 US = 18,222,561 Reil :)
Just going back to JC%26#39;s comment - I%26#39;m not sure that cambodia is piggy-backing on the USD but perhaps more of the (IMO) %26#39;wrong%26#39; notion that the greenback is somehow supperior to all other currencies.
the US seems to think they run the world and therefore their $$ should be the currency of choice.
all power to the riel - it%26#39;s their country lets all use their currency!
If you can afford to travel to places like Cambodia then 50c in $10 is probably not a big deal - you%26#39;d drink it and not notice the difference. A $15 meal is almost a months rent, or 2 months school fees for Cambodians - perhaps we need some perspective.
Helen
I have enjoyed this thread , some will nave noticed in previous threads how I suggested travellers think in the local monetary bracket when wondering how to tip etc , some berated my way of thinking , but you know , looking at this thinking now coming to a form of fruition by purchasing in the local currency , may throw a different light on what I was attempting to explain . Saving .50 on $10.00 , chicken feed , no , people feeder , that .50 will buy 2 meals for a hard up local , that is : rice porridge/liver,mint and a smidgen of pork . Way to go guys , thinking to improve the life and experience of the locals will enhance many travellers experiences , god bless you one and all . Colin .
themoore - yanks have nought to do with $ being the defacto choice of currency for Cambodia. This is their choice, so lets not bring politics into this because at the end of the day has nought to do with it.
Hi! Will be arriving PP first week of March. I will be traveling with my hubby, and 2 ladies in their 60%26#39;s. We will be be arriving PP in the afternoon, around 2pm, and will be leaving the next day at 1pm. We are booked at the FCC.
What sights do you suggest we see? For all of us, Is it possible to see the sights in this short period of time? Will definetely include the Royal Palace, the Russian Market, or maybe the old city.
My hubby and I would like to swing by the Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields, on our own. Do you think its possible with our hectic schedule? Will these 2 sights be open early in the am?
Yes,it can be done. As soon as you check into the hotel, walk over to see the palace and the silver pagoda, next door. Be sure you are wearing long pants or a skirt and have a long-sleeved blouse to cover yourself with otherwise they will not let you into the palace compound. The museum nearby is also very worth seeing. The Central Market is fairly nearby which is fun to mill around in. You can walk (a little over 10 minutes) or grab a tuk-tuk or taxi.
Get up early the next day and head out to The Killing Fields. Tuol Sleng can be seen next, and the Russian market is right nearby. Have your tuk-tuk driver wait while you shop. You should be able to get back to the hotel by 11:00am or so (you might want to settle your bill and have stuff packed up beforehand, just so you don%26#39;t have to rush when you return)...
Bear in mind if you want to get the most out of Tuol Sleng, then you may find it takes a good 3 hours. That%26#39;s about how long we spent there and we only caught 15 minutes of the documentary film (left as we could barely make out what was being said which was a shame).
I would be anxious about rushing back for 1pm. if it were me, I%26#39;d do it the other way around, Tuol Sleng and Killing Fields on the first day ( although I%26#39;m not sure how late the KF are open until) and then the rest the next day but you%26#39;d have to get up sharp to squeeze it all in.
Royal Palace is pretty but we only spent 40 minutes there. Museum was nice too, that is a hard one to determine how long to spend there, but worth a quick visit. Even just as a brief escape from the hussle and bussle on the street!
If the timing is right, go to Friends for food near the National Museum, and also into Boddhi Tree after Tuol Sleng.
Tuol Sleng is set up in a former elementary school. It is not so big. The first time I visited I spent 2 hours there. I was there in December with a friend and we spent an hour there. An hour is plenty.
Can anyone recomend which town has the best night market or market in general? Does the shopping compare to Thailand? TIA
The shoppings GREAT, and different stuff than Thailand, comparable prices, bargaining expected. Russian Market has just about everything a person could possibly want and then some, and Central Market is a fun local Market. If you want a mall-type place, Sorya Market is right nearby, but they mostly have local sizes. Lots of gems booths, places where you can get eyeglasses made, a supermarket , electronics store, etc.
Thank you so much!! We are looking for the fun local market type!!!!
If you want REALLY local, (and fun!), you can take a stroll through Psar Chaa, where the locals buy their fish and produce %26amp; what-have-you.
If you are walking along the riverside, heading away from the Royal Palace, hang a left on Street 110. You%26#39;ll see it on your right after a couple of blocks. If you keep on walking 5 more blocks, hang a left and go up a bit further you will hit Psar Tmei (Central Market)!
I have read some reviews about the Okay Guest House and I would like inquire what their room rates are.
Does anyone know their email address or web cite.
Or provide me with the web site of any hotel booking service that can book this guesthouse?
Thank you.
Travelfish have some info, link below
travelfish.org/accommodation_profile/鈥?423
Hope it helps
Regards David
Hi Dave 442,
Thank u for the info. It give the reviews (very informative and the telephone numbers but does not indicate the email address or the web site.
I hope somebody else can help on this.
Cheers
their email address is okay.2001@hotmail.com
just got a reply from them.
Hi
I am looking for contact information for a guide named Soluy Loert I have read reviews about this guide but I now need contact information.
Any help is appreciated
Thanks
Looking for a tour guide and driver for your visit to Siem Reap (Angkor Wat) - look no further!!!
I have just returned from my 2nd Cambodia visit, and have used tour guide and driver on both occasions - he%26#39;s totally reliable, friendly, speaks very good English, and an enjoyable person to have with you on your Siem Reap (Angkor Wat) trips...
Please feel free to contact www.angkor-guides.com
e-mail: sourtkimsan@yahoo.com
I used Kim San on both occasions, was totally pleased, and thoroughly recommend.
Contact Kim San and So Phal, driver for your Siem Reap visit.
Local Siem Reap airport pickup/drop-off if you need.
Taxi ride from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap if you need.
Air-con car/van around siem Reap.
Hotel Reservation.
Sun Same, He was an excellence our driver and guide in Siem Reap. He was realizable, honest, trustworthy, friendly and very prompt. I would highly recommend without any hesitate. For more detail visit him at www.driverinsiemreap.com.
Good luck.
Soluy Loeurt can be reached through the Siem Reap Guide Service Co - the e-mail address is sales@siemreapguideservice.com. Just specify that you would like the services of Soluy Loeurt and they should be able to book her for you. She is popular and may be booked for your dates so be prepared to have to go with someone else. Hope this helps.
If I get a guide, is that in a car, in the temple or both?
I read that the driver cant go in the temple? Or I read the Guides don%26#39;t drive?
I am confused.
Lets say I wanted to spend 1 or 2 nights in the hotel. I would like to be picked up from hotel and go to temples and back safely and learn some history.
Safely of course
Is that what they do ?
You need to hire both a driver and a guide if you want to use services of a guide. For us trip to Siem Reap was a bit of a last minuted thing (we got bored in Malaysia and booked ticket to Siem Reap with two days notice) so did not have time to arrange for a guide via e-mail in advance. We are using guide and driver from hotel and are very happy with both.
Yes we are overpaying for both since we are staying at a high-end hotel but to me the difference in price ($35 vs. $25 for guide and a bit more for the car) is not substantial and we see what we get. Not only the guide is knowledgeable and speaks good English but is also very nice person who happens to be from an orphanage originally. And she takes good pictures of us. If you want her name and address, please feel free to email me.
We did not like taxi driver who took us from the airport to hotel (he was sneezing all the time and was pushy about us hiring him) so decided to go with hotel%26#39;s car. It is much nicer, cleaner and we get cold water and towels each time we return from the temple. Considering restaurant and other prices in Asia we%26#39;ve saved enough on dinners to justify the premium.
I do agree with Cossachka about taxi driver from airport.
We did not like taxi driver who took us from the airport to hotel (he was sneezing all the time and was pushy about us hiring him)
But if you know someone you should book him/her in advance, it is much better for your trip because they take care of you.
AMRivlin - you have several options to using a guide or driver. If you want to have someone accompany you to the temples you must hire a guide. These run from US$25-35(or more) a day depending on who you hire and if you need someone who speaks other than English. These guides will pick you up at your accommodation and spend the day with you - there is usually a break mid-day when you may return to your accommodation or have lunch with your guide. If you want extras, such as sunrise at Angkor Wat or visits to the father away temples you will pay extra - the guide will give you the costs up front(some guides post their costs on their web sites). Guides will also help with booking restaurants,etc or take you to see other sights if you so desire. For transportation your guide will hire a tuk-tuk(approximately US$12) or an A/C car (usually US$25-30)and a driver. There will also be an extra charge for the car(for gas) if you travel to the outer temples,etc.. The driver will wait for you and the guide while you explore the temples and will have cold water for you when you return (some also provide towels or umbrellas). The guide and driver usually pick you up and drop you off at the airport if you book them before you arrive. If you do not want the services of a guide you can elect to just hire a tuk-tuk or car and driver on your own. Some of these drivers are very knowledgeable about the temples(some are working towards being guides) and can give you great information so you can explore on your own but they cannot accompany you at the sites.
I hope I have clarified everything for you. If you decide to hire a guide ahead of your arrival you can do a search on here for past posts with recommendations or do a %26#39;Google'; search on the internet for Angkor Wat guides. Most guides you contact over the internet will give you a sample itinerary and then work on fine tuning it for you. Or you could just wait until you arrive and get a guide then - there are many to choose from and they are all qualified to do the job. Also, many drivers have been recommended by posters on the forum, so you could do a search for them as well.
I do agree with Newfie43 - What you said is correct.
Hi all,
It%26#39;s my first posting here after gaining much info and help from reading up on the forum for my past travels. This time, I would like to tap on the expertise and knowledge of many in this forum for my trip to Siem Reap next month. I%26#39;m arriving on Monday around 4pm and leaving on Friday around 6pm. I have read up on many websites and several guidebooks but can%26#39;t seem to find answers on the queries below. Hope can get some help here. Thanks in advance!
1. I read that temple tickets bought after 5pm will begin the following day. I am planning to do that on the day I arrive. But I%26#39;m not sure what%26#39;s the best way to get to the ticket office, seeing that the temples close at 6pm. Should I book a tuktuk for one way there? But would I be able to get a tuktuk on the way back? What is the market rate for a tuktuk halfday rental? Also, I am fine with just visiting Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm. Would I be able to cover them in a day? If yes, I would just purchase a one-day pass that I can use on Tuesday, instead of a 3-day pass.
2. I read that there is a tethered balloon that offers aerial views of Angkor Wat. But I can%26#39;t seem to find the website and I stumbled on a travel website that says the balloon is due to be replaced in November last year. Is this still in operation?
3. I am keen to try the ATV quad adventure rides but not sure if the routes will be similar to the routes I would take on the way to temples. I thought if they are the same, it%26#39;s kinda redundant to pay for the ATV.
4. Does anyone have a trustworthy tour operator who could handle all the necessary arrangements? Am considering getting help on booking the tours and other stuffs like Apsara dance-dinners etc.
Enjoy Siem Reap! Looks like you%26#39;ve done your research :)
1. Correct - book a tuktuk there, and watch the sunset. Should cost you between $3 - $5 if you can find someone who will agree to take you out just for the sunset. The tuktuk will wait for you that whole time. But also, as the ticket office is not far from the airport, you could even go on your way into Siem Reap after you arrive (assuming you fly...)
Booking a tuktuk for a halfday is very possible... but seriously, I%26#39;d find a good driver and just spend the $13 for the full day!
You could do Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm in a day if you wanted. They%26#39;re the famous ones anyway. If you only have a day, do it! If not, splurge and get a three day pass and see some more :)
2. Yes, we saw it there a few weeks back.
3. Dunno.
4. Trustworthy tour operator - we used Kim Soryar www.kimsoryar.com . His website is still under development, but his service is fantastic. We%26#39;ve now recommended him to many others, who have always been suitably impressed. Soryar can book tour guides, drivers, hotels, shows, etc. Tell him what you want, and he%26#39;ll plan your itinerary. He has a few sample ones on his website. Tell him Emily says hi! He%26#39;s been recommended in a few places around this forum, if you have search. He used to be just a tuktuk driver many years ago, but has since become a fully integrated tour operator, and involves his wider family in the business too. He prices are competitive too.
I%26#39;ll be spending 2 weeks in Siem Reap in April?
What will the weather be like?
Thanks
Hot...very hot. April is the peak of the hot season in Cambodia, so wear a hat and drink lots of water.
You might consider visiting the temples in the very early morning and late afternoon, in order to avoid the hottest time of the day. Mid-day can be well spent napping, at your hotel%26#39;s pool or browsing in air-conditioned shops.
Yes good advice from Mal. We spent a few weeks there in May and we would tour the temples in the morning and they go back to the hotel for lunch and a refreshing dip in the pool before heading back out late afternoon.
We have some pics and stories of our trip here... www.bobandjanette.com which may prove useful
Happy %26amp; safe travels
I%26#39;m coming to Cambodia in two weeks and wondered if Bokor Hill Station was open. I heard they were redeveloping the roads. Anyone been there in the last few weeks?
Thanks
I was in Sihanoukville 2 weeks ago %26amp; when I enquired about the advertised trips to Bokor Hill was told they were not happening. I checked at several places, so this should be accurate info!!
During our trip, albeit last year, the road was opened depending on traffic and construction works.
We stayed at RikiTikiTavi Guesthouse in Kampot which is excellent BTW. You could try emailing them as they arrange tours etc from there.
We have some pics and stories of our trip here... www.bobandjanette.com which may help.
Happy %26amp; safe travels
my wife and i were ther in dec and it was open, we also stayed at rickitickitavi which was great. the owners said boker hill was to expensive and recommended a day trip by bike to kep,which was amazing and stayed 2nites with a trip 2 rabbit island
We are flying from PP to Hanoi and I am trying to find the best fares. So far I%26#39;ve found Expedia at $217 US. Anyone recommend a travel agent that might be better? Does this price sound fair?
Thanks
$217 sounds OK to me. What airline?
I have only been able to find Viet Nam air for that route - are there others?
Thanks
Actually I know there are many other airlines, are there any cheaper?
Thanks,
Posting for a friend..
a single woman (35) traveling alone (already hired guide Leng Tek) with 6 days of touring %26amp; 8 nights at the hotel, which guest house would you suggest for a mid-April stay?
VIROTH%26#39;S HOTEL or ENCORE ANGKOR HOTEL?
I like that they%26#39;re both downtown, walkable to restaurants %26amp; both have pools. I%26#39;d prefer to stay at the guest house that has more sociable guests... as I%26#39;ll be traveling alone.
Which one has friendlier guests?
Better breakfasts?
Better food?
Will either one pack a lunch for when I%26#39;m traveling to remote temples.
Thanks!
Read the reviews here
tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g297390-d668993…
Check this site for reviews of Encore as well.
Oksana-
Tell your friend that she%26#39;ll undoubtedly find friendlier guests at backpacker-type places, where there are more solo travelers (like myself!), as opposed to couples hoping for romance %26amp; atmosphere staying at boutique hotels like the ones you have mentioned.
I%26#39;ve read the reviews on both places. I don%26#39;t know that she wants to stay at a backpacker place.
She%26#39;s going at the end of April %26amp; for a Canadian who is an ice climber, I think she%26#39;ll need a place to stay that has a pool %26amp; A/C.
I didn%26#39;t mind the heat in Cambodia at all, but I live in an area with intensely hot summers... and I was there in Feb., not April.
Where would you recommend?
I stayed an Encore Angkor and recommend it. (Single woman, traveled alone)
Don%26#39;t worry too much about breakfast, because if you%26#39;re out seeing the sunrise or getting to the temples ahead of the crowd, you%26#39;re going to miss it. I don%26#39;t know where Viroth%26#39;s is. I didn%26#39;t ask about packing a lunch but EA doesn%26#39;t serve lunch. The guy will take your friend to a lunch spot. Didn%26#39;t spend much time at the hotel to make friends with the guests, so can%26#39;t help you there.
The photos and the descriptions never paint a perfect picture, so I would tell your friend to go with her gut and enjoy her trip!
We have read in lonely planet to get train to Poipet, get visa there on arrival and book transport to Siem Reap when we get there. Travel place in bangkok has quoted us 1500 baht for minibus and car all way there and one room for one night. Is going by road the best way? has anyone any tips or advice on what we should do?
thanks
I assume you are coming in via Bangkok - why not fly and save yourself some time.
Helen
Flying is the best option. we flew from PP to SR which took 40min and it wasnt expensive even using the aussie dollar. With the pound u could fly the plane. Safe travels
We took the exact route to Siem Reap from BKK two weeks ago. We have tried both - going to Siem Reap by overselves, but with travel agent on the way back.
Onward journey
We took a bus(200BH) from the northern bus terminal in BK to the Aranyaprathet, than a tuktuk to the Thai immigration building(80BH,the driver first took us to a travel agent and we angrily yelled them off). We hooked up with two other travellers, and shared a taxi to Siem Reap for US$40 (some touts would tell you there is no taxi here, and they offer to take you to a travel hub where you could find bus / taxi to Siem Reap. IGNORE THEM. Just walk straight on the main road, and some taxi drivers would approach you)
Backward journey
We couldn%26#39;t find any one to share taxi back to Poipet, so we had no choice but to book a bus ticket (to Poipet US$6, and we paid another $12 to Ko Chang; it seems to costs $15 in total to BK). A tuktuk picked us up at our guesthouse at 7am, and than we were taken in a gas station where we waited for more than a hour before a crowded, poorly-ventilated bus arrived. It would have been a three hour journey instead of four hours if we didn%26#39;t force to stop at a restaurant which overcharges everything everything. But things were much better after we crossed the border.
The experience told me to avoid travel agents, but we did meet a few interesting travellers on the way. Hope it helps.
If you%26#39;re visting Battambang stay at the Hotel Royal and book a day guided moto trip with Mr Philay. He%26#39;ll take you to the local market to explain everything thats for sale and he%26#39;ll take you through the rice fields, buddist temples, killing cave and for a ride on the Bamboo Train. I really unforgettable experience.
one of the highlights of our time in Cambodia were the days we spent exploring the stunning Battambang countryside with motodops from the Royal Hotel, totally rewarding.
Hi
My wife is 5 months preganant. Is it safe to visit Angkor Wat at this time? I mean if the road to the temples are too bumpy and rough for her? And if the sites will be risky for her to walk around etc.
Any advice from travellers who did it while she was pregnant is appreciated.
Thanks.
Welcome to Siem Reap!
In general road to Angkor Wat temple is quiet okay though it is not so smooth like the road in Singapore.
All the temples are very very old; however - it is very safe since all those temples are carefully maintain by the government in corporation with UNESCO.
It is very safe to visit Angkor complex now, do not worry. Although your wife is 5 months pregnant. Have a nice trip in Cambodia.
When I had a holiday in Siem Reap my wife had 6 months pregnant, she was fine during the tour. We had our tour guide, Kim San, taking care of us. If you need a guide during your stay in Siem Reap, please contact him. His website http:/www.angkor-guides.com or http:/www.siemreap-guides.com
Have a great trip!
My only addition to the above posters is that I think she might find the Bayon a bit tough - there is more %26#39;climbing%26#39; here than any of the other temples.
Walking round most of the sites she%26#39;ll be fine, the roads are Ok , it might just be her general level of fitness and how quickly she gets itred in the heat and humidity which might slow you down a bit.
good luck and safe travels
Helen
most importantly, make sure she stays hydrated. it can get quite hot so a hat might be nice too. just take it easy and slow... and enjoy!
With good walking shoes, hat. water and electrolite in it shouldn%26#39;t be a problem. Break up your days a bit and do temples in mornings before extreme heat.
Was there last week and temps 40-42.
Have fun, its great.
OMG, the weather is so hot!
Actually, i%26#39;m more concerned about the condition of the stairs, roads around the temples that may not be suitable for my pregnant wife.
There is malaria %26amp; Dengue fever in Cambodia, and it%26#39;s the beginning of the rainy season.
If you are staying in a quality hotel with A/C throughout (as some have open air lobbies that are full of mosquitoes %26amp; restaurants like this too), screens on the windows %26amp; you drink bottled water %26amp; use it to brush your teeth she should be fine.
But, if you are planning to stay at a guest house, go out at night to eat, have an open air restaurant she runs the risk of getting bit by mosquitoes %26amp; getting Dengue fever or malaria, and killing your unborn child.
There are mosquitoes all around Siem Reap due to the ponds, barays %26amp; the river. Certain hotels have fewer mosquitoes. We had no problem last year at this time, but we did not go out at night... we were too exhausted from all the temple tours. Many people complain of bites in restaurants or in certain hotels.
Be careful of where you stay/eat... as she can%26#39;t take Malarone if she%26#39;s pregnant %26amp; there is no Rx to guard against Dengue fever.
The CHILDREN%26#39;S HOSPITAL in REP has a big sign asking for blood donations to transfuse children who have a form of Dengue fever that causes them to bleed... so don%26#39;t take this issue lightly.
I%26#39;m a travel freak but I would never travel to a place where I can potentially get sick ( and I mean bad diseases) if I was pregnant. The mother getting sick is one thing, but passing that onto a child or harming/hurting the unborn child because of the mother%26#39;s sickness is completely irresponsible.
As for the road and steps, Angkor Wat temple would be fine for a 5-6 month pregnant woman. Some other temples require a bit more climbing but you don%26#39;t really have to climb up that high to see it. The highlight is the Angkor Wat temple and it%26#39;s totally doable for a pregnant woman.
But then, unfortunately, Angkor Wat is not in a disease-free zone, so it doesn%26#39;t matter how safe the structure is. If the mother must go, I%26#39;d book a very very clean westernized hotel, take mosquito sprays and coils, cover up completely, eat only the cooked food at only the very clean looking restaurants, and only travel during the completely dry months (december and january?).
Angkor Wat is definitely a great place to visit, but there are so many other places in the world to travel. Why not save the Angkor Wat until after the child is born?
It sounds bad, and I gathered that the advice is that place is not for pregnant ladies.
We had been to Phnom Penh and it is still alright, and recently we went to Ho Chi Minh while she was 3 months pregnant without second thoughts. Well, I had thought Siem Reap area would be in similar conditions, and went ahead with our bookings.
We can choose the best food and accomodation ourselves, the problem is we can%26#39;t control the mosquitoes.
