SAVVY TRAVELLER: Winner this week

via CAAI

RISTINA MARIA DASS in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Must Do A MUST-VISIT is the Angkor Wat temple. Deemed one of the wonders of the world, it is surrounded by a 5.5km long lake. The sunrise at Angkor Wat is a gorgeous sight. Angkor Thom, once the largest city of the Khmer empire, is another place to visit. There, a must-see is the Bayon temple and the Terraces Of Elephants. The picturesque Ta Prohm with its giant fig trees intertwined with the temple ruins should be visited as this is the temple where Tomb Raider was filmed. Another temple worth visiting is the pink sandstone temple at Banteay Srei and the Serpent temple, Neak Pean. Apart from temples, a boat ride at the floating village on Tonle Sap Lake, the largest in Southeast Asia, must not be missed. Here, a different lifestyle of the Vietnamese can be observed. If time permits, nature lovers should make a trip to Kbal Spean, The River of the Thousand Lingas. There, a beautiful waterfall awaits. Do not forget to take a ride on the tuk-tuk around town.

Avoid Don’t wear clothing that exposes the shoulders and knees as certain temples will forbid entry. Visitors should also avoid touching items sold by kids, as it will upset them if you do not buy their items.

Good Eats Try local dishes such as Amok fish cooked with coconut and Morning Glory, a popular vegetable dish there. These are eaten with rice. Local deserts sold at the market street should not be missed as well. For coffee lovers, try the local Cambodian coffee which it’s smooth and tasty. Buy a packet of Ratnagiri coffee to bring home. This is available at the Artisan’s Centre or the airport. If you don’t like coffee, get a refreshing coconut drink. Priced at US$1 (RM3.10), it’s worth a try.

Top Shop The best place for shopping and buying souvenirs is market street, open from 8am till 7pm. Or go to the night market that opens till midnight. Good bargaining skills will come in handy at these places.

Insider Tips Apply sunscreen lotion before going out and bring an umbrella too. Caps and sunshades are also a must. Wear comfortable shoes or sandals as there will be plenty of walking and climbing. Bring more US currency. These are useful during your shopping sprees in Siem Reap. Bargaining with the local kids is easier than in the market.