Us English are used to a bit of a rain. But in South East Asia, a rain shower is very rarely an English drizzle. When it rains, it RAINS, and you’re most likely to be caught out in the middle of nowhere with nothing but a broken poncho to shelter you from the shower you’re about to unwillingly take.
That’s the problem we were faced with when pulling into Siem Reap bus station, late at night. But thankfully we were saved by Hong-da, a friendly tuk-tuk driver who, with a friendly and cheeky charm would become our chauffeur and unofficial tour guide for the next few days.
From the first morning, where we were up at dawn to see a beautiful, yet drizzly sunrise over Angkor Wat at 4am, to the trip to the airport for our flight to Kota Kinabalu in Borneo on our last day, he put up with us, taking us anywhere we wanted to go. For 20 dollars for two-days (plus a well deserved tip) we really recommend using one of the local tuk-tuk drivers to ferry you around.
Angkor Wat itself is a beautiful, leafy green town and nestled right by it is the amazing Angkor Ruins. To explore this area we got a two-day pass (around $50), well worth it if you don’t feel like rushing and compacting it all into one day.
Having an extra day meant our visit was much more relaxed, and enabled us to wander aimlessly around this beautiful and magical place. Known as the largest religious complex in the world, the Khmer ruins were amazing. From restored beauties, to crumbling ruins – hours felt like minutes, and around every corner something new and incredible emerged.
It’s hard to believe these temples and statues were buried in the jungle for so long – but thank goodness they were rediscovered; the feeling of peace and intelligence at Angkor Wat really was second to none. Siem Reap and the Angkor ruins truly are the highlight of any travellers trip, come rain or shine.
Angkor Wat in one word: breath-taking.
These Wild Journeys 