The intention was to do nothing in the first week of my three month trip to Southeast Asia, expecting I'd need time to acclimate to the time change and get my feet under me. Little did I know a pamphlet at the hostel's front desk would convince me to spend that week in magical Cambodia. From Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, I saw and did so much in seven days that I could write a book about it. But for now, here are my top five tips for a one day visit to the ancient temples of Angkor Wat.
Find your tuk-tuk driver
The first thing you'll notice when you arrive in Siem Reap is that many tuk-tuk drivers are hoping to be your preferred driver during your stay. It may feel weird, especially if, like me, you're not used to being chauffeured around, but it is totally worth it. I ended up being driven around for three days by the nicest man named Mop. He walked me through what to expect when I went to Angkor Wat on my second day and made sure I had everything I needed.
Have breakfast
If you find a way to eat before 4:00 AM, you're a better traveler than I am! But if you're like me, you'll want to grab something to eat at Angkor Wat. There are so many steps and long walkways that you'll need some calories. When you arrive before dawn, you will be approached by many vendors encouraging you to go to their food stalls. The food was not great, and also not bad. The prices were higher than in Siem Reap, but it was so convenient and the vendors were super friendly.
If I had planned ahead, I could have brought some food to keep in the cooler on the tuk-tuk. But let's face it; you're not visiting Angkor Wat for the food. Just make sure to pack a snack.
Rise and shine!
As a habitual night owl, I was not prepared for Mop to inform us to be ready to go at 4:00 AM. Most tourists try to get there early to get the classic photo of the largest temple reflected in the pool with the sunrise behind it. I was skeptical that it would be worth it, but even if you don't take the photo, there is nothing as magical as seeing the sun rise over the 8th wonder of the world. Even the non-religious will have a spiritual experience.
Stay hydrated
If you are not used to humidity, I don't know how to prepare you for the air in Cambodia. It is thick. It is hot. One of the girls I was traveling with lives in a high desert USA and nearly walked back into the airport when we arrived in Southeast Asia.
While walking around she looked at me and said, "Angkor Wat, more like Angkor HOT." A joke so lame it made me laugh and Mop handed her an ice-cold bottle of water from the cooler he had filled for us. I cannot stress enough how much he made our trip!
Unwind in Siem Reap
Nothing caps off a long day sight-seeing in the heat like a cold beer. The bars in Siem Reap are filled with welcoming people, and you won't find a better happy hour anywhere! Make a reservation at Cuisine Wat Damnak, which is one of the 50 best restaurants in the world. I can say firsthand you will have one of the best meals you'll ever have.
Austrian Restaurant had authentic and delicious schnitzel, and the owner came out and chatted with me about how he met his wife and moved to her home country. If a sit-down dinner isn't what you want, try one of the night markets where there is something for everyone.