Siem Reap in April

My wife and I will be in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap next month and were wondering about 2 things: weather and mosquitoes.

My wife is really afraid of mosquitoes and would like to avoid taking anti-malarial medicine. We took a trip last year where we used Malarone with no problems, but it is not recommended if you are pregnant. Are the mosquitoes really bad in SR in April?

On the question of weather it looks like it will be really hot then. Will we be prohibited from going to Angkor Wat and the other temples if we are wearing shorts? How do people normally dress in this kind of heat?

For you photographers out there, how do you protect your camera in this kind of heat?

Siem Reap in April

Angkor Wat is a historical site, not a practicing temple, so no worries regarding the clothing. Still, if you want to avoid getting mosquito bites, getting scratched should you brush against a rock and to also protect yourself from the sun, wear long pants. I sweat profusely in humid weather and opt for garments made of synthetic fibers such as the blouses and pants that are sold at mountaineering shops. The items are made with special fibers that wick away perspiration and allows it to dry while it is on your body. I can wash out a pair of pants and they%26#39;ll be dry within hours. Cotton, while comfortable, will stay wet, takes forever to dry, and looks awful when it wrinkles.

And lastly, I highly recommend a sturdy pair of walking sandals such as those made by Keen, Teva or Chaco. (Socks are much too hot and hiking boots are too heavy and hot)

I have never taken malaria meds on my countless trips to Southeast Asia, but instead cover up and wear mosquito repellent. Please remember that not every mosquito you see will be a malaria vector mosquito, and if there is a risk in Siem Reap, it is very very minute.

Heat will generally not bother your camera. You might want to make sure it%26#39;s in its case while clamboring over rocks, in case you might drop it...

Siem Reap in April

Firstly, there is no need for anti-malarials if you are only travelling to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. You need to be more concerned about Dengue fever. However, good prevention of been bit is much better, wear light clothing that covers bare skin in the evenings. Use mosquito repellant when going out. Also it is wise to give your room a spray with mosquito spray just before you go out for dinner then when you come back you will be mosquito free in your room. Mosquitos are not to bad in April though but when choosing a hotel choose one with little garden, little greenery and no stagnant pools which mosquitos love.

As for the weather you are coming at the hottest time of year. You are best off starting early and then going back to the hotel from 11:00am to 3:00pm then going back after 3:00pm when it stars to get a bit cooler. It is very humid as well so wear light clothing and also opt for an A/C room.

Dress for the temples is not a problem but show some respect and do not wear skimpy shorts and tops, Knee length shorts and t-shirts are fine though.