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Luang Prabang & Siem Reap

Travel in comfort and style, visiting these two cities, the highlights of Cambodia and Laos.

Cambodia & Laos Indochina Tours

Enjoy a more in-depth experience of Indochina, spending time to explore towns and countryside.

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ABOUTAsia Schools supports the education of some of the poorest children in SE Asia.

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Welcome to Laos...

Traveling to Laos is to travel to the old Indochina. The Mekong river was viewed by the French as a gateway to the rich trade and resources of Southeast Asia, and the Upper Mekong and Lower Mekong are divided at the waterfalls and islands of the "Four Thousand Islands" region of South Champassak - by the border between Cambodia and Laos. The Mekong river, and its tributaries, define the landscape of Laos.

Luang Prabang is the quintessential French colonial Southeast Asian town. The virtually unspoiled fusion of Laotian and colonial architecture brought it UNESCO World Heritage status, and strict limits on development have limited the impact of the tourists who visit.

Laos: "Land of a Million Elephants"    

Laos deserves much more than just a visit to Luang Prabang, however. There is almost endless scope for trekking and adventure sports - from a morning elephant ride to a waterfall for a refreshing swim before lunch, to challenging multi-day treks staying at hilltribe villages .

"Combine the best of Cambodia and Laos in one life-changing vacation. Stunning landscapes, two thousand years of history written in the temples and palaces, a relaxed pace of life, and above all - welcoming people, who you are supporting with your travel."

Andrew Booth Founder, ABOUTAsia

• Sunrise start to see thousand of orange-clad monks processing through the streets on their daily alms-gathering
• Elephant trekking - starting from an easy 90 minute ride
• Boat trip up the Mekong, through stunning mountain scenery, to the Pak Ou caves
• A traditional welcome Baci ceremony

Luang Prabang (and Laos in general) is a very laid back place, and an ideal spot to wind down after a busy touring itinerary

A Little Longer

The capital city Vientiane is usually the first stop outside of Luang Prabang, either to see the main city sights or use as a base for more active adventures. Developing hotels beyond Vientiane and Luang Prabang, however, mean that the rest of Laos is not just the domain of backpackers:

• Wat Phu - UNESCO listed Angkorian temple in Champassak, near Pakse
• Champassak province - the Xe Pian Wetlands and Phu Asa the Bolaven Plateau, the 4 Thousand Islands
• Xieng Khouang - the mysterious Plain of Jars
• Northern Laos - rafting, climbing, trekking and hilltribes
• Central Laos - spectacular river caves including the 7.5km Konglor cave

Stunning scenery, a relaxed and welcoming people, great cuisine and a fascinating mix of cultures - Laos and Cambodia are perfect complementary vacation destinations

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"Thank you very much for organizing a wonderful tour of Siem Reap and the Angkor Temples for us… We were also thankful to know that your company does so much for the children's education in Cambodia"

- Vimal Parikh (2008). More unprompted testimonials and blogs from past guests.

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Sala lodges: simple & stylish siem reap accommodation.

Fancy a taste of simple Cambodian living, but don’t want to compromise on luxury comforts? Then you’ll like the newly-opened sophisticated Sala Lodges, which has come up with an ingenious solution with their brand new property of genuine traditional Khmer Read more…

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ABOUTAsia’s Senior Travel Advisor, Anna Betts, recently headed to the quaint seaside town of Kep, on Cambodia’s stunning coastline, to check out the recent refurbishments of the popular property Knai Bang Chatt, located in this former French Colonial coastal retreat. Read more…

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Cambodia: a new kind of tour

E ven at 5am the ticket checkpoint for Angkor Wat is heaving. Busloads of Korean, Vietnamese and western tourists are on their way to the sight for a picture-perfect sunrise. We are among them – hurtling along the pitch-black road in a tuktuk. But when we reach a crossroads and the line of traffic heads left, we peel off to the right. Our guide enjoys our surprise. "We're going in the back door," he says with a smile.

Some 2.5 million visitors come to Cambodia every year, with at least 70% of them visiting Angkor. But it's hard to experience the wonder of 1,000 years of Khmer history if you feel shunted and elbowed by the masses as you try to absorb the breathtaking detail of these ancient sandstone ruins.

I may have found the answer. A poster from tour company AboutAsia promised "Angkor ... without the crowds". This is quite a claim, but on our trip it kept its word. Having measured footfall at the most popular temples and entrances, it tries to do something different – and in style.

So where the masses go to Angkor Thom in the morning, AboutAsia guests go in the afternoon. Where crowds are jostling to catch the sunset at the top of Phnom Bakheng, they have you sipping G&Ts on a boat on the nearby moat instead. And when the sun rose that day over Angkor Wat and hundreds of people were at the west gate, snapping away, we were at the top gallery of the main temple, having come in via the quieter eastern gate.

If all this makes me sound smug, that's probably because I felt it: as a tourist it's always pleasing to swim against the tide. But holidaying in Cambodia comes with responsibilities. There is still extreme poverty there, and for anyone who has ever visited a developing country and felt uncomfortable about their comparative wealth and how much of it reaches the local community, AboutAsia has an answer.

Every penny of profit this company makes goes into providing equipment for Cambodian schools: pens and exercise books, and uniforms for the very poorest. It also supports school building and maintenance, and occasional school trips – perhaps to see Angkor Wat for the first time.

Andy Booth, the company owner, doesn't like telling his story for fear of it sounding "too cheesy". But as a child who went to a local comprehensive he studied hard to get a place at Oxford. When the letter from the university arrived on the mat he told himself that if it was a "yes", it would be a life-changer and he'd use his good fortune it to help others.

After 15 years as a banker he thought he would try to fulfil that promise. On holiday with his family in south-east Asia, he ended up spending 17 days in Cambodia, fell in love with it, saw that tourism was on the rise and realised that it was the perfect place for a socially responsible company. Cambodia's problem is that while tourists flock there, the country doesn't see a lot of their money. Most tour operators are international, and only one in six visitor dollars stays in Cambodia. With AboutAsia, it's more like six in six.

Booth worries that too much emphasis on do-gooding will put off holidaymakers who might think it comes at the expense of quality service. But our itinerary was pitch-perfect. The right level of sightseeing and relaxation, of basic village houses and boutique hotels with pools.

Our AboutAsia guide, Bunchay, spent several days making sure we saw the temples at their best. He expertly pointed out the apsaras (dancing girl) carvings, and identified the sprawling spung trees, stretching their roots all over the crumbling mossy stones. He took us to the temple where Angelina Jolie filmed Lara Croft and to the deserted Ta Nei ruin where, after a bumpy dirt track journey, he laid out coffee and croissants on a mat, and only the sound of drongo birds interrupted the peace.

When we visited Prek Toal, a floating village on Tonle Sap lake, we bypassed Chong Khneas (where busloads of tourists are dumped daily) and took a boat out deep into the lake. We kayaked the final leg of our journey, weaving between water hyacinths and the tops of trees in this flooded forest.

As well as being an important fishing resource, the lake is also great for birdwatching. Grey-headed fish-eagles, herons, oriental darters and kingfishers all thrive here. After a night in the homestay we rose early to climb a Barringtonia tree and spy on colonies of pelicans and cormorants so vast we felt like we'd stepped into a David Attenborough programme.

If early mornings and kayaking sound too much like hard work that's not a problem – you can tailor your Cambodian holiday as you please. We chose a boutique beach break at the end. And nothing makes a better break than kicking back on a white sandy beach, cocktail in hand, thinking smugly that it's not just yourself you're helping on your holiday.

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Siem Reap Tour Itinerary for 7 Days – The Ultimate Guide for 2023

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If you’re planning a visit to the magnificent temples of Angkor in Siem Reap, Cambodia, you may be wondering – how many days do I really need? Should I spend 3 days, 5 days, or a full week discovering this ancient wonder of the world?

In this ultimate guide, I’ll share my recommended 7 day Siem Reap itinerary to help you plan the perfect trip in 2023. With the right amount of time, you can fully immerse yourself in the history, culture, and natural beauty of the Angkor Archaeological Park and beyond.

Whether you want to watch the sunrise over Angkor Wat, admire the Bayon’s serene smiling faces, wander through the jungle-covered ruins at Ta Prohm, or enjoy Siem Reap’s bustling markets and nightlife when you need a temple break – a full 7 days allows you to see it all.

Key Takeaways:

• Watching sunrise at Angkor Wat is a moving, bucket list moment. Arrive by 5am to beat crowds.
• Beyond the temples, save time for cultural excursions like cooking classes, riverboat tours, and countryside villages.
• Consider staying at multiple hotels like downtown boutiques and peaceful countryside resorts.
• Private tour guides add invaluable context. Book them through reputable companies.
• Pace yourself and don’t squeeze too much into each day. Leave room for spontaneity.

Here’s an overview of how I recommend spending your week in Siem Reap:

Siem Reap 7 Day Itinerary

Day 1: arrival + city highlights.

• Explore downtown Siem Reap
• Learn about silk production, visit the Angkor Silk Farm
• Cambodia Landmine Museum
• Welcome dinner with Apsara dance show

Day 2: Small Circuit Temples

• Sunrise at Angkor Wat
• Angkor Thom & Bayon Temple
• Ta Prohm, Ta Keo, Banteay Kdei

Day 3: Grand Tour Temples

• Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Som
• East Mebon, Pre Rup
• Sunset at Pre Rup Mountain

Day 4: Outlying Temples

• Banteay Srei
• Banteay Samre
• Roluos Group

Day 5: Tonle Sap Lake

• Floating villages
• Ox cart countryside tour
• Les Artisans d’Angkor arts center

Day 6: Further Afield

• Beng Mealea jungle temple
• Kulen Mountain waterfall
• Banteay Prei temple

Day 7: Cooking Class + Departure

• Khmer cooking class
• Souvenir shopping
• Evening flight home

This itinerary includes all the highlights while leaving room for some relaxed free time each day. You’ll get an amazing overview of the Angkor temples, enjoy interactive cultural experiences, and have the flexibility to revisit your favorite sites.

Below you’ll find a detailed day-by-day guide on how to make the most of your 7 days in Siem Reap!

After arriving at Siem Reap International Airport (REP) and checking into your hotel, start exploring the charming provincial town that serves as the gateway to the Angkor Archaeological Park.

• Learn about the process of silk production at the Angkor Silk Farm, founded in 1996 to help rebuild Cambodia’s silk industry following the Khmer Rouge regime. You can tour workshops where artisans create luxurious silk fabrics and garments.
• Visit the Cambodia Landmine Museum to learn about the legacy of landmines in Cambodia through the story of museum founder Aki Ra, who over 25 years has helped clear over 50,000 mines.
• Explore the Old Market area, getting lost in the maze of stalls selling everything from fruits and spices to souvenirs and clothing. Psar Chaa is one of the most colorful places in town!
• Check out the Angkor National Museum, which houses thousands of significant Khmer artifacts from the ancient Angkor civilization.
• Sit down to a delicious welcome dinner at one of Siem Reap’s many restaurants serving authentic Khmer cuisine. Koulen Restaurant offers a buffet alongside traditional Apsara dancing, a lovely introduction to Cambodian culture.
• After dinner, browse the bustling Angkor Night Market near Sivatha Boulevard to do some souvenir shopping and people watching.

Get a good night’s rest, because tomorrow starts early with sunrise at Angkor Wat!

1-day Angkor Wat SMALL LOOP Private tour | Make the Most of Your 1-day Visit with a Guide on Angkor Small Circuit

On your second day in Siem Reap, you’ll tour the Small Circuit, a 17 kilometer loop that connects temples on the inside of Angkor’s massive walls. Highlights include sunrise at Angkor Wat, exploring Angkor Thom and Bayon, and the jungle-wrapped ruins of Ta Prohm.

• Rise before the sun and tuk-tuk over to Angkor Wat to watch the morning rays light up its towering sandstone spires. Due to popularity, arrive as early as 5am to beat the crowds.
• Return to the Angkor Thom walled city, entering through the imposing South Gate lined with 54 giant stone warriors.
• Marvel at photogenic Bayon temple, with over 200 massive carved smiling faces looking out in all directions.
• Wander through the ruins of other sites like Baphuon, Phimeanakas palace, and the Terrace of Elephants.
• Make your way to Ta Prohm, an ethereal temple left in the clutches of sprawling jungle. The interplay of crumbling ruins and giant tree roots is visually stunning.
• Visit other Small Circuit temples like Ta Keo, a soaring sandstone pyramid, and Banteay Kdei with its atmospheric corridors.
• End the day relaxing by the lotus pond at Srah Srang before returning to Siem Reap.

After a full day of epic temples, enjoy Khmer cuisine and perhaps a foot massage! Siem Reap has no shortage of dining, spa, and nightlife options.

1-day Angkor Wat GRAND LOOP Private tour with air-con minivan [with the famous Banteay Srei temple]

Day 3: Grand Circuit Temples

On your third day exploring Angkor’s sprawling temple complexes, focus on the sights of the Grand Circuit, which extends 26 kilometers north and east of Angkor Thom. Must-see temples include the underrated Preah Khan and its mysterious stone faces, East Mebon on a circular island, and sunset from Phnom Bakheng.

• Arrive early to serene Preah Khan temple, wandering the crumbling corridors and hallways adorned with stone faces wrapped in tree roots.
• Continue to Neak Pean, a petite island temple surrounded by four connecting pools.
• Visit Ta Som, a small but atmospheric temple cloaked in the encroaching jungle.
• Journey out to East Mebon, known for its towering temple-mountain architecture perched on an artificial island in the center of Jayatataka Baray reservoir.
• Make your way to Pre Rup temple for sunset – climb to the top of this Hindu mountain temple for panoramic views over palm-lined rice fields.

After a full day of hitting the highlights of the Grand Circuit, take it easy with dinner and evening entertainment in downtown Siem Reap. Recharge those temple-touring batteries!

Beng Mealea | Beng Mealea Temple Tour Experience | More Thrilling Than Skydiving with Sharks [Includes 4 majestic temples and a unique sunset short hike]

Venture beyond the main Angkor Park on day four to visit some extraordinary outlying temples. Highlights include the intricate carvings of Banteay Srei, the pink sandstone citadel known as the “jewel of Khmer art”, and the rarely-visited jungle ruins of Beng Mealea.

• Travel 32 kilometers from Siem Reap to reach Banteay Srei, famed for its ornate detailed carvings decorating nearly every surface, including impressive bas reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.
• Nearby, drop by Banteay Samre, a peaceful temple with a moat and central sanctum.
• Make your way 16 kilometers further north to visit the Roluos Group, some of the earliest permanent temples built by the Khmers, including Preah Ko, Bakong Lolei.
• On the drive back, stop at the roadside temple Beng Mealea, atmospheric ruins overgrown by jungle. You can climb through collapsed halls and galleries.

After a full day on the road, relax with Khmer barbecue and a foot massage!

Afternoon Siem Reap floating village tour [All included Siem Reap floating village Kampong Phluk Private guided tour]

On your fifth day, get out on the water to see life in the floating villages of Tonle Sap, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake. Bring your camera to capture truly fascinating glimpses of daily life.

• Board a local boat to explore Kampong Phluk floating village, where over 3000 people live in homes tethered to the lake, following its ebb and flow.
• Visit nearby Chong Kneas, the most visited floating village, winding through stilted houses, floating pigpens, a fish farm, a crocodile farm, and Cambodian schools.
• Experience a breezy ox-cart countryside tour from Siem Reap out to surrounding villages. See rice fields and chat with friendly local villagers.
• Browse the workshops at Artisans Angkor complex, which works to revive Khmer arts and crafts. Marvel at students masterfully carving wood, weaving silk, painting, and more.

After a day on the water, settle in for dinner and a relaxing evening in Siem Reap town.

Koh Ker and Beng Mealea guided tour [breathtaking natural scenery]

Most visitors never venture beyond Angkor Park, but with 6 days already under your belt, use day 6 to explore some other incredible Khmer sites further afield. Highlights include Koh Ker’s jungle temple and waterfall, Banteay Chhmar, and Preah Vihear mountain temple perched on a cliff.

• Drive 95 kilometers north to Koh Ker, capital of the Angkorian empire from 928-944 AD. Explore the nearly 50 temple ruins spread around the area, like the seven-tiered pyramid Prasat Thom.
• Enjoy lunch at Koh Ker before hitting the road again.
• Continue another 60 kilometers north to visit Prasat Preah Vihear, an incredible Khmer temple precariously situated atop a 525-meter cliff on the Thai border.

After a full day of adventuring off the beaten path, you’ll be ready for a relaxing last evening in Siem Reap!

Private Siem Reap Culinary Tour | From Market to Garden Tour with Siem Reap Cooking Class and Angkor Botanical Garden

On your final day before flying home, enjoy a hands-on Khmer cooking class to learn about Cambodian cuisine and take home new culinary skills. End with last-minute souvenir shopping before catching your evening flight.

• Roll up your sleeves for a cooking class at one of Siem Reap’s highly rated establishments like The Siem Reap Cooking Class or Le Tigre. Shop local markets and create authentic dishes like amok fish and mango sticky rice!
• Visit Lucky Mall or Angkor Trade Center to hunt for any last souvenirs, specialty food items, or gifts for loved ones.
• If you have extra time, head to the downtown Sisowath Quay area along the Siem Reap River for more shopping and dining.
• Relax until it’s time for your airport transfer, already dreaming of your next visit!

Siem Reap Itinerary Variations

While this 7 day Siem Reap itinerary works well for many travelers, it’s easy to customize to your interests, whether you have less or more time to spend.

Here are some ideas for variations:

5 Days in Siem Reap

If you only have 5 days, you can still see all the top attractions by focusing on Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom/Bayon, Small Circuit temples, and Tonle Sap Lake. Skip some of the outlying temples, since distances are greater. Add floating villages or a cooking class if you have time!

Siem Reap Angkor Wat Tour – A 5 day Siem Reap Angkor Wat itinerary

10 Days in Siem Reap

With 10 full days or more, you have time for a more leisurely pace, revisiting favorite temples, exploring further afield like Koh Ker or Preah Vihear, and taking part in experiences like village homestays or cycling tours. Add destinations like Battambang or Kampot.

Angkor Dreams & Beyond – Private Siem Reap 5 day tour of Temples, Villages, and Nature.

Less Temples, More Culture

Some travelers grow weary of too many temple tours. Instead focus your 7 days on cultural experiences like Khmer cooking classes, educational villages, Apsara dance shows, countryside cycling etc. Just visit the “must see” Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm and a few others.

Temple Marathon

Other visitors can’t get enough of ancient ruins! Maximize your 7 day ticket and cover every temple with sunrise trips, full day tours by tuk-tuk, and maybe even a helicopter tour for aerial views. Spend spare time reading about Khmer history and architecture.

The possibilities for crafting a personalized 7 day Siem Reap itinerary are nearly endless. Use this guide as a starting blueprint, then tailor to match your exact travel style and interests.

Booking Your Siem Reap Tour

While it’s possible to plan your own 7 day itinerary, for convenience, cultural insight, and seamless logistics, I highly recommend booking tours and guides rather than strictly DIY travel.

Some excellent Siem Reap tour companies to check out:

• PRIVATE Siem Reap Tours  – My personal favorite! Friendly expert guides and private, customizable tours.
• Siem Reap Shuttle Tour – Budget group tours on minibuses. More impersonal but very affordable.
• ABOUTAsia Travel – Bespoke private tours and guides, luxury options available.
• Khmer Ways – Small group and private tours with sustainability initiatives.

Benefits of Booking Tours:

• No dealing with cash, tuk-tuk drivers, admissions, getting lost etc.
• In-depth insights from knowledgeable guides about ancient history, culture, architecture.
• Flexibility to customize your daily itinerary and pacing
• Convenience of door-to-door transport and some meals included

While paying for guided tours does add to your total costs, the value gained is well worth it in my opinion. Do your research to find the right Siem Reap tour company that fits your travel style.

Accommodation for 7 Days

With a full week in Siem Reap, you may wish to split your time between a couple different hotels or boutique resorts.

Recommended areas to stay in Siem Reap:

Wat Bo Area  – Central, affordable lodging and restaurants, vibrant night market. Great budget/mid-range options.

Riverside  – Stylish boutique hotels set along the Siem Reap River, tranquil and romantic. More upscale.

Outskirts of Town  – Lush countryside resorts near Angkor Wat, ideal for a tropical retreat. Need tuk-tuks to get to town.

I suggest starting your trip at a reasonably-priced hotel in the heart of Wat Bo, where you can walk to restaurants and shopping.

Then for a tranquil second half of your stay after several temple days, switch to a peaceful resort nestled amid rice fields and tropical gardens just outside the city – you’ll be perfectly positioned near Angkor Wat.

Some top-rated accommodation to consider:

• Luxury: Shinta Mani Resort, Belmond La Residence d’Angkor
• Mid-range: The Siem Reap Hostel, Teo Hotel
• Budget: Onederz Hostel, Seven Candles Guesthouse

For a complete overview, see my guide to the  Best Hotels in Siem Reap  across all budgets and neighborhoods.

Siem Reap Private Driver | 1-Day and Multi-Day Siem Reap Private Charter with Private Driver

Getting Around Siem Reap

For transportation on your 7 day itinerary, consider a mix of:

• Tuk-Tuks  – For short trips around downtown Siem Reap, hiring tuk-tuks is very affordable. Negotiate rates in advance.
• Private Car & Driver  – Hire a car and knowledgeable driver through your hotel or a tour company for daytrips outside of town.
• Group Transfers  – Airport transfers, some temple trips and optional activities may be on shared minibuses.
• Bicycle  – Rent a bike for sightseeing around Siem Reap town or cycling through nearby villages.

I’d recommend having a private tuk-tuk or car when possible to avoid waiting on other travelers. But use group transfers if you’re solo and want to save money.

Discuss transportation options with your selected Siem Reap tour company when first planning your itinerary and pricing.

Best Time to Visit Siem Reap

The ideal season for visiting Siem Reap is from November to March during the dry season when rains are minimal. Temperatures are cooler and more pleasant for sightseeing. Visitation also peaks during these months, so book tours in advance.

April to June sees increasing temperatures and humidity. September to October is rainy season when you’ll encounter occasional downpours but cheaper prices and smaller crowds. July and August can be quite wet.

While visiting in dry season is more comfortable, the temples can still be enjoyed year round! The moody atmosphere during wet season has its own appeal. Just come prepared with umbrella, poncho and sweat-wicking clothes.

Siem Reap 7 Day Itinerary Summary

Hopefully this detailed guide provides plenty of temple touring ideas and cultural activities to make the most of 7 days in Siem Reap.

The key is balancing must-see Angkor temples with other experiences to offer variety. Don’t cram so much into each day that you burn out. Leave room to revisit favorites and simply soak in the atmosphere.

Follow this suggested itinerary, then tweak to personalize according to your travel style. Stay flexible – one of the beauties of having a full week is the ability to be spontaneous each day!

With 7 days in Siem Reap, you’ll come away understanding why Cambodia’s ancient Angkor temples are considered one of the world’s most impressive historical and architectural sites. Have an unforgettable adventure!

My Siem Reap Trip Reflection

After several visits to the Angkor temples around Siem Reap, I’m continuously in awe of this ancient kingdom lost in the jungle and the Khmer civilization that built it centuries ago.

No matter how many days you spend exploring Angkor’s soaring towers, intricate bas reliefs, and mysterious smiling faces, it never feels like enough time. I always leave wanting more, imagining the lives of the kings, monks, artisans, and commoners who once inhabited this impressive empire.

Beyond the temples, I’m inspired by the kindness and resilience of the Cambodian people, who have endured so much tragedy but still face each day with warmth, optimism, and pride for their heritage. Spending time among local communities, whether floating villages or countryside ox cart tours, offers touching glimpses into daily life.

The flavors of Cambodian cuisine are another delight – the subtle spices and techniques of dishes like fish amok and banana flower salad, displayed during cooking classes, reveal fascinating cultural connections.

And I can’t forget the magical moments like watching the sunrise cast its glow over Angkor Wat, or hearing Buddhist chants echo through the stone hallways on an early morning temple visit.

Siem Reap is one of those special destinations that sticks with you long after departing. I hope anyone planning a trip there savors each moment to the fullest. Let the temples work their magic!

To start planning your own memorable Siem Reap trip, feel free to check out  our tour packages  or  contact us  for a customized tour quote. We’re thrilled to share the wonders of Angkor with fellow travelers!

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By Sarah Khan

Have a Little Faith

“Travelers are often nervous of getting ripped off, and therefore miss out on some experiences. They’re wary of tuk-tuk drivers, as they think they’re going to get taken to ‘his uncle’s jewelry store’—and they might! But I’ve also had drivers take me to their aunt’s restaurant for the best noodles I’ve ever eaten; their brother’s tailor shop, where I got a suit jacket made; and to a cousin’s wedding, which was a hell of a party. If you don’t trust in a little destiny, you might miss out on the adventure.” – Andrea Ross , Wild Frontiers

Pace Yourself

“Don’t try and see it all. It’s better to make return trips than to squeeze Thailand , Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia into a single two-week itinerary. Give yourself three to four nights in each area. And know you’ll be back.”– G.W. “Sandy” Ferguson, Asia Desk

Don't Underestimate Cambodian Food

“Some people tend to underestimate Cambodian food because they haven’t had much of it back in the States. Sure, you can pick up the phone anywhere in the world and order Thai or Vietnamese takeaway, but Cambodian food is almost nonexistent on the international stage. It’s starting to shine, and there’s a mix of high-end restaurants and local joints—try Mie Cafe, in a wooden house in Siem Reap , and Nesat, which serves Khmer seafood in the up-and-coming Russian Market area of Phnom Penh .”— Edward Gibbons, AboutAsia Travel

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ABOUTAsia Travel

Aboutasia travel reviews.

I had an amazing two-week trip to Cambodia with AboutAsia Travel from late May to early June of 2022. Edward was extremely helpful and informative when creating an itinerary for me. I spent six days in Siem Reap where I saw the Angkor temples, learned about a lot of important NGOs, and explored the city's beautiful arts scene, just to name a few activities. Mr. Kheleur, my guide in Siem Reap, was highly knowledgeable about all the temples we visited and was willing to answer any questions I had. He also did a really good job helping me take photos. I then spent four days in Koh Kong at an island resort on the Tatai River which had great staff, food, and activities. While I was there I took a hiking trip and saw some beautiful waterfalls. I ended my trip in Phnom Penh, where my guide, Mr. Sokros, took me to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, where I learned about Cambodia's modern history. Mr. Sokros was able to tell me a lot about how the genocide had impacted the country, including the impact it's had on present-day Cambodia. He also took me to a beautiful temple in the city, Wat Phnom, and the National Museum. All my guides made sure I was having a great time. Mr. Lim Chhun and Mr. Samnang both did an amazing job as drivers. My drivers and guides were always on time. They always had plenty of water and cold towels as well. AboutAsia does a great job making sure travelers can avoid the crowds. For example, my food tour guide, Mr. Vanarith Nop took me around Phnom Penh's Chinatown and to a couple other local markets where I got to try some outstanding street food, including a deep fried banana, coconut sticky rice cakes, and a variety of savory noodle dishes. I didn't see a single tourist that entire morning. If you're considering traveling to Cambodia, I highly recommend booking a trip with AboutAsia, as my trip with them has been my best travel experience so far.

AboutAsia provided us with an amazing week in Cambodia. From the moment we left the airport, our guides provided us with information, stories, and unforgettable experiences. Everything ran smoothly and our itinerary was well-planned based on our interests. We were among the first tourists traveling to Cambodia after the pandemic and were pleased to see how happy the local residents were to see our guides. They all greeted them warmly and expressed happiness that they were again bringing visitors to their area. One of the highlights was our dinner at AboutAsia's country manor. Don't miss this if you enjoy good food served in a beautiful setting, while being pampered throughout.

A fabulous trip! Joshua planned the best itinerary. Wonderful guides and being treated so special everywhere. Two of us had birthdays that were celebrated in every city with cakes and flowers! And hand made cards for our anniversary! It was hard to leave and come home to Honolulu!

Small company that prides itself on bespoke tours and personal treatment. We got a tuktuk breakfast at a temple in the forest. The breakfast was amazing.croissants, coffee, fruit etc all from a hamper with cutlery and linen. The guides allowed us time for breakfast before taking us for personal guided tour of several temples. The guide was really polite with excellent English and also very knowledgeable. A wonderful day. We also booked the private boat tour on the lake. Again we had the whole boat with its deck and cushions to ourselves. A piece of dark wood history that speaks of opulence. We saw the floating village before watching the sun go down in the lake with nobody else around. Another night we were taken to the company's villa on the edge of the paddy fields where we started with cocktails before a 3 course meal prepared by chefs from a top star rated hotel. Music was played all evening by a small quartet and it was a very peaceful time. Thoroughly recommend this company for their eye for detail and customers wishes. I wish them the best of success in the tourism market.

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Responsible Tourism Cambodia – ABOUTAsia

By Emily Martin

The “Responsible Tourism Cambodia” blog series is concentrating on high-quality businesses who are dedicated to their social responsibility in Cambodia. All of these businesses focus on responsible tourism and are supporters of Phare and our social mission.

ABOUTAsia Travel is an incredible business with its heart and soul deeply connected to responsible tourism. You just have to learn the backstory to realise that this business was developed on the base of sustainability and giving back to the community rather than the other way around.

ABOUTAsia has two parts to it – there’s the luxury travel company and then the ABOUTAsia Schools programme which is funded by the travel company and supports over 100 schools in the surrounding areas of Siem Reap.

So how did they start?

A man called Andy Booth began it all. He was brought up on a farm in very rural England and then went to Oxford University. He worked in investment banking for 15 years in London and during his time there did very well… he was very successful in investment banking and so was able to retire in his mid-thirties and embarked on a trip around the world with his family. He was kind of looking for something to enable him the opportunity to give back, to assist the less fortunate.

During his travels he stopped in Siem Reap and found the culture welcoming, the smiles warm and a country brimming with potential– on which was at the same time resource rich yet cash poor in many ways.

That’s when he unearthed a startling statistic: of every $6 spent in the country only $1 actually stays – the rest leave to enrich the balance sheets of international companies. He felt it could be done better.

Ethan Crowley, Business Development Director at ABOUTAsia Travel says, “He had a vision of a sustainable business model, one which would utilize Cambodia’s rich resources and pour the profits into the local economy. So he decided to start a travel company which would bring lots of travellers, while ensuring the profits stayed in-country.”

“The way we’re set up is that at the end of every month, after paying staff and covering our costs, 100% of the profits go to our sister philanthropic arm, ABOUTAsia Schools.”

ABOUTAsia Schools started off with Andy, the founder, building Prey Chrouk secondary school with the help of other donors. He soon realised, however, that the problem wasn’t lack of schools in Cambodia but rather the resources they need; everything from pens, paper, uniforms to teachers, clean water, books etc.

“We’ve adapted over the years, coming alongside government schools and helping where we find a need. We start from the base level of providing pens and uniforms, all the way up to supporting teachers and creating learning centres where children can have access to books and free English lessons etc. We have our first village library going live next week. We pay the salaries of 18 Khmer teachers who teach English in government schools.”

All of this, and more, is funded by the travel company – in fact Andy the founder has NEVER drawn a salary since he started the business and organisation.

“To be clear, we are a luxury travel company, not a non-profit. We function as a business and a good business at that. It just so happens that the money we earn doesn’t go to enrich somebody or to shareholders, but rather it goes to schools. You could almost say that the children are our shareholders. That’s why we exist.”

The travel company not only delivers he support to the local community but they also deliver you with some of the most unique travel opportunities.

“We’re the only single-country Cambodia specialist around. Most other tour operators cover all of South East Asia, some cover the world, some cover Asia—a mile wide and an inch deep. As Cambodia experts, no one else can offer the depth that we do—we can do things that other companies can’t.”

“We work with some great specialists as well- so if a guest had a particular interest in archaeology then we can find one of the lead archaeology experts in Siem Reap to go in-depth. If someone is a keen photographer then we’ll arrange for a world class photographer to give them tips on photographing Angkor. If someone is especially interested in wildlife then we’ll match them up with an adventure specialist who is an expert on wildlife and entomology… In Phnom Penh we can work with an architecture specialist who can essentially tell the story of Phnom Penh through architecture.”

“Additionally many people come to see Angkor and miss one of the most amazing parts of Cambodia – its beautiful countryside and contemporary lifestyles rich in culture and history. People usually miss out on that.” A unique company all round, ABOUTAsia travel is a brilliant way to see Cambodia while also leaving a positive mark on the country.

“In Cambodia you have a country rich in culture, beauty and history, and above all the amazing Cambodian people—vibrant, resilient, kind, welcoming people. As a traveller it’s exciting to be a positive factor, to be part of leaving this country a better place. I think it’s incredibly important to be a part of the solution and not a part of the problem. So spend your travel dollars wisely in such a way that the entire country benefits – and in our case being a part of educating a generation of young Cambodians.”

100% of the money you spend with ABOUTAsia goes towards the future generations of Cambodians.

Read more about ABOUTAsia Schools and see what packages you can get through the Travel company .

Check out more of our Responsible Tourism series .

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Trans-Siberian Railway Prices

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Home » Prices and Trans-Siberian Tickets » Trans-Siberian Railway Prices

Ticket prices for the Trans-Siberian Railway also depend on the current ruble exchange rate.

Is the Trans-Siberian Railway expensive?

Before starting on your Trans-Siberian Railway adventure you naturally want to know what the entire trip will cost. Although this sounds like a simple question, it is pretty difficult to answer. The Trans-Siberian Railway price of travel depends on the following factors:

• Which travel class do I want to use? The price for a first class ticket is about three times the price of a 3rd class ticket
• Am I willing to buy the tickets myself and assume responsibility for the organisation of the trip?
• How many stopovers do I want to make? The more breaks, the higher the total price.
• What sort of accommodation do I want? Will it be a luxury hotel or will a hostel dormitory be sufficient?
• What tours and excursions would I like to go on?
• What is the current exchange rate for rubles?

Basically, everything from a luxury to a budget holiday is available. If you buy yourself a 3rd Class nonstop ticket at the counter, a few hundred Euros will cover the price. All you will experience is a week on the Trans-Siberian train and will see nothing of the cities on the way. There is, however, any amount of room for upward expansion. Everyone makes different choices about which aspects they are willing to spend money on. I personally prefer to save money on accommodation and railcar class, visit as many cities and do as many trips as possible. To enable better classification of your travel expenses I have contrasted two typical traveler types. In the third column you can calculate the total cost of your own journey on the Trans-Siberian Railway. Please keep in mind that these are only rough estimations and not exact prices.

The all-in costs seem fairly high at first. However, they cover everything and it is quite a long journey taking four weeks. Many people forget to consider that when looking at the list. We should also deduct the running costs for food and leisure at home. I think most visitors to this page will classify themselves somewhere between the two categories, that is around the € 2,000 – € 2,500 range. When comparing these prices with other travel packages, you get the impression that it is hardly worthwhile travelling individually on the Trans-Siberian Railway. Please keep in mind that most packages last no more than 14 days and you are herded like cattle through the most beautiful locations.

If you spend less time on the Trans-Siberian Railway you will, of course, pay less. I chose this particular travel length because I prefer not to do things by halves. If you fulfill your dream of travelling on the Trans-Siberian Railway, enjoy it and don’t rush things. But it’s up to you, of course. Try playing around with the form a bit to find the appropriate price for your trip.

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• Peter the Great Military Academy
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• History of Russian Scarfs and Shawls Museum
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• Bykovo Manor
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• Malenky Puppet Theater
• Drama Theatre BOOM
• Ramenskii History and Art Museum
• Noginsk Museum and Exhibition Center
• Pavlovsky Posad Museum of Art and History
• Saturn Stadium
• Fairy Tale Children's Model Puppet Theater
• Fifth House Gallery
• Church of Vladimir
• Likino Dulevo Museum of Local Lore
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• Orekhovo Zuevsky City Exhibition Hall