BEST OF CAMBODIA WITH SOFITEL
Begin your Cambodian exploration in vibrant Phnom Penh. Learn about the horrors of the Khmer Rouge regime but also get inspired by todays developing city. After continue to Siem Reap, the home of the famous Angkorian temples. The tour is slow paced in order for you to appreciate staying at some of the finest hotels in Cambodia.
Upon arrival at Phnom Penh airport you will be met by our local English speaking Tour Guide and transferred to your hotel to check in.
After freshening up take an original Cambodian method of transport for a tour of the capital. Taking a cyclo (pedicab) begin at the National Museum.
Continue to the Royal Palace. Built in 1866 today the palace is home to King Norodom Sihamoni who has ruled Cambodia since October 2004. Wander through the complex, gardens and visit the interesting Silver Pagoda which houses a collection of Buddha statues, one of which is decorated with 9,584 diamonds and also take a look at the floor which is covered by 5,000 silver tiles.
Meal included: None
Accommodation at: Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra, Phnom Penh
In the morning visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the ‘Killing Fields’ of Choeung Ek. Today Choeung Ek is a Memorial site for Cambodians and visitors from all over the world to pay their respects for those lost. The visit is a profoundly moving but also depressing experience. However the insight into the cruel Khmer Rouge regime is educational and part of understanding Khmer culture as it is today.
Enjoy lunch at a non-profit restaurant run by which has worked to build the futures of former street children and marginalized young people in Phnom Penh since 1994. The set menu is ranges from almost forgotten recipes from the provinces to contemporary creative Cambodian cuisine.
After it is time to visit a bustling market and one of the most beautiful buildings in Cambodia, if not Asia.
Meal included: Breakfast/Lunch
Accommodation at: Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra, Phnom Penh
After breakfast transfer to the airport for the short flight to Siem Reap (45 mins). Upon arrival at Siem Reap airport you will be met by our local English speaking Tour Guide and transferred the short distance to your hotel to check in.
Take the chance to freshen up before in the afternoon travelling to Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. Board a traditional wooden boat to visit one of the lesser-visited villages on the lake.
On your return to Siem Reap stop at Artisan d’Angkor, a project established to support Cambodian arts and crafts. Visit the workshop and see stone carvings, wooden sculptures, lacquer work and painting all being produced.
Meal included: Breakfast
Accommodation at: Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort, Siem Reap
This morning begin your exploration of the Temples of Angkor by visiting Angkor Wat, the largest religious building in the world. Built by Suryavarman II in the early 12th century as a state temple and later mausoleum, Angkor Wat was originally a Hindu complex to honour Vishnu, the Hindu God.
Continue to Ta Prohm, a unique temple that has been left to nature with trees and vines growing amongst the structures.
Take a break around midday back at your hotel.
The afternoon is free at leisure to relax at your pool, perhaps take some spa treatment or explore the pleasant town of Siem Reap on your own accord.
This evening enjoy Dinner whilst watching a show of Apsara dancing at your hotel, first performed in the court of kings at Angkor.
Meal included: Breakfast/Dinner
Accommodation at: Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort, Siem Reap
In the morning continue your exploration of the Angkorian temples by visiting the ancient city of Angkor Thom. Surrounded by walls with a height of 8m and length of 12km, the city was the last capital of the Khmer Empire.
Return to your hotel around midday. The afternoon is at leisure.
This evening enjoy some modern Khmer theatre at a performance of Phare, the Cambodian Circus by professional artists from Phare Ponleu Selpak. Enjoy an hour long show which is a great, positive example of modern Cambodia and mixes theatre, dance, music, juggling and contortion.
Meal included: Breakfast
Accommodation at: Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort, Siem Reap
This morning travel into the Cambodian countryside. First visit the Landmine Museum located near Banteay Srei. The museum was founded by Mr Aki Ra who was once a child soldier for the Khmer Rouge before changing allegiance to work as a de-miner for first the Cambodian Army and later the United Nations.
Continue to Banteay Srei, one of the most picturesque temples where a morning visit provides a great opportunity to appreciate one of the most stunning achievements of Angkorian artisanship.
Following the visit head to a silk farm that is an excellent example of an NGO that preserves traditional arts in a sustainable way. A visit is highly recommended for those who appreciate fine artisanship and Khmer culture.
Enjoy a restful lunch experience only minutes from the silk farm. The restaurant comprises of several kiosks with traditional thatch roofing set amidst a tropical garden.
After lunch return to your hotel where the rest of the day is at leisure.
Meal included: Breakfast/Lunch
Accommodation at: Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort, Siem Reap
Today you will have a half day of visiting local art galleries and market and the rest at leisure.
Your last evening in Siem Reap is free to perhaps enjoy fine dining at the hotel or maybe head out to local restaurants such as Cuisine Wat Damnak, Chanrey Tree, Abacus or Olive. Siem Reap has a huge and diverse range of restaurants.
Meal included: Breakfast
Accommodation at: Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort, Siem Reap
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight. ‘Chum reap lear’ and goodbye to the Kingdom of Wonder.
Meal included: Breakfast