For our second full day in Siem Reap, we woke at 4:00am for a 4:50 meet-up time with our guide and driver. We headed out to Angkor Wat, which was already crawling with tourists. Lead by phone flashlight, we walked across the moat and to one of the libraries, where we sat and chatted quietly while thousands descended to the nearby lake. Our guide walked us through the site to the various photographic settings, and we slowly watched the sun come up over the temple. I haven’t sat and watched a sunrise like this, and it was amazing to be a part of the day waking up: from the sounds of the birds and bugs awaking, to the sky and then the sun illuminating, and finally the temperature slowly increasing throughout the morning, it was an amazing experience.
Following sunrise and exploring the massive grounds, we had breakfast which was prepared by our hotel, at a restaurant among other early tourists (including some Israelis drinking beer and ordering bottles of wine at 8:00am….).
After we walked the Ta Prohm Temple, which was a personal favorite because of the banyan trees that are part of the buildings themselves. Their trunks looked like dinosaur necks and their roots like various types of noodles we’ve eaten on this trip, draped over ancient structures.
We were tired, so a few more temples were all we had energy for, as the pool and spa at the hotel were calling.
Our guide, who can be found at angkorbuddytour.com, had the perfect blend of information, helping us to grab the perfect photos, and time to enjoy the spaces. He’s a lifelong learner that is passionate about meeting people and showing off Cambodia.
Our hotel, the Viroth’s Hotel, was the best place to relax. I got a second spa treatment while Auntie had his first massage, and we weren’t mad about it. After lunch by the stunning pool, we got ready for Golden Hour through the city and dinner on Pub Street (we looked at Google and Trip Advisor for recs). For a second day we had the Amok (this time fish, 100 times better).
Cambodia has our heart, from the kindness of people, to the beauty of the landscape, to the cost of food and goods, it’s an amazing place.
Travels with my Auntie 