Reflections on Cambodia 2026

I did not expect to fall in love so completely with Siem Reap, Cambodia! It was my second visit to Cambodia. I was without Rich, who was taking a solo retreat to Boracay, Philippines while I spent two weeks exploring the ancient ruins of Angkor Wat and so much more. My dear friend, Carmen, of many years was with me during the first six nights. I decided to skip Phnom Penh on this visit after her departure and just stayed in Siem Reap soaking up all the positive vibes. Rich and I visited Cambodia nine years ago in 2017.

Siem Reap is easy-going, refined, affordable and so welcoming and friendly! In addition to the local currency—the Riel, US dollars will dispense from the ATMs, and are welcome everywhere. The restaurant scene is outstanding. There’s a quiet, growing western expat community and gobs of international tourists from all around the world who’ve come to see Angkor Wat and all the rest. But, gobs less throngs than in Chiang Mai, Thailand, for example.

Also see my Mystical Marvels of Siem Reap series that includes the sites of Angkor Wat, Beng Malea, Bakong, Preah Ko, Koh Ker, Banteay Srei, Angkor Thom, Forest Temples of Kulen Mountain, Wat Preah Ang Thom and Tonle Sap.

Full disclosure: It’s (temperature) hot! It’s a photographer’s dream destination! It’s a small country with a complex political history—and it’s recently had military border skirmishes with Thailand (that was not impacting Siem Reap during my visit).

Scroll for details on the hotel and the Airbnb where I stayed and also pics from both the Angkor National Museum and the Cambodia Landmine Museum.

Favorite restaurants in town: Café Indochine Restaurant, Soben Cafe Guesthouse & Restaurant, Mamma Shop Italian Restaurant, Miss Wong Cocktail Bar, Khmer Taste Restaurant, CUCINA - Pizza & Pasta, Maybe Later Mexican Bar & Grill, The Temple Sourdough Bakery, Book & Coffee and Romiet Restaurant & Bar (for Sunday night live jazz).

A Note About Transportation

Nine years ago we met Reaksa Sok, a bright, ambitious young Cambodian man who was our dedicated driver to shuttle us about in comfort between the various sites of interest in the area. He made a lasting impression and we stayed loosely in touch since then. While planning the 2026 return visit, we contacted ‘Sa’, for short, who expertly planned all our transportation. He now maintains multiple vehicles and drivers — mostly his brothers — and has our enthusiastic recommendation. If you’re interested in 100% dependability and very comfortable transportation around the area in both car and tuk tuk—including to and from the airport—he can be reached on WhatsApp at +855 77 482 292, or via his wildly successful Tripadvisor page or via email at soksaangkor@gmail.com. Go Sa go!