Discover Siem Reap’s Bar Scene on a Private Pub Crawl
Siem Reap is a city that is full of life both during the day and at night. Whether you’re into traditional Khmer entertainment, lively bars and clubs, or even a peaceful night at a cozy cafe, Siem Reap has something to offer everyone. One of the best ways to experience the city’s nightlife is on a pub crawl. On a pub crawl, you get the chance to sample some of the city’s best bars and clubs, meet new people, and make memories that will last a lifetime. In this guide, we’ll provide an overview of Siem Reap’s nightlife, offer tips on how to make the most of your pub crawl experience, and recommend some of the best bars and clubs in the city for you to explore.
Why a pub crawl in Siem Reap should be on your itinerary
Siem Reap is one of the best cities in Southeast Asia for a pub crawl. It’s home to an ever-growing selection of bars and clubs that cater to a variety of tastes, from traditional Khmer restaurants to hipster bars and nightclubs. What’s more, Siem Reap offers plenty of deals and promotions throughout the year that make it even more affordable to visit multiple bars in one night. On top of that, it’s easy to get around the city and explore different areas on a pub crawl.
Best neighborhoods for a pub crawl in Siem Reap
Siem Reap has plenty of great neighborhoods for a pub crawl. Here are some of the best areas to explore:
- Pub Street: This popular area is full of bustling bars and clubs that cater to all kinds of tastes. It’s also the ideal spot for people-watching and soaking up the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
- Old Market: This traditional Khmer neighborhood offers plenty of authentic eateries and bars, perfect for anyone looking to sample some local delicacies.
- Kandal Village: This hipster hotspot is home to an eclectic mix of bars and restaurants, making it the perfect place to explore off the beaten path.
Popular clubs, bars, and restaurants for a pub crawl in Siem Reap
Now that you know which neighborhoods to explore, here are some popular bars, clubs, and restaurants in Siem Reap to check out on your pub crawl:
- Angkor What? Bar: With its vibrant neon lights, pool tables, and loud music, this popular bar is a great spot for those looking for a fun night out.
- The Temple Club: This chic nightclub offers a stylish atmosphere and plenty of dancing opportunities. Plus, their signature cocktails are a must-try!
- Indochine Restaurant & Bar: This traditional Khmer restaurant has an extensive menu of local dishes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Plus, they have live music every night!
Tips for booking and preparing for a pub crawl in Siem Reap
Now that you know some of the best places to go on your pub crawl in Siem Reap, here are some practical tips for booking and preparing for your pub crawl:
- Book in advance: Make sure to book your pub crawl in advance so that you can get the best deals and promotions available.
- Arrive early: Give yourself plenty of time to get ready for your pub crawl by arriving early at your first destination.
- Dress appropriately: Make sure you dress appropriately for each bar or club you visit on your pub crawl.
- Bring cash: Some establishments may not accept credit or debit cards, so it’s best to bring cash just in case.
- Stay hydrated: Make sure to stay hydrated throughout your pub crawl by drinking plenty of water.
Conclusion
A pub crawl in Siem Reap is an unforgettable experience that shouldn’t be missed. From vibrant bars and clubs to traditional Khmer eateries, there’s something for everyone on a pub crawl in this city. To make the most of your experience, be sure to book your tour in advance, arrive early at each destination, dress appropriately, bring cash, and stay hydrated throughout your journey. For more information on an amazing 2-day private tour that covers some of Siem Reap’s best attractions including Angkor Wat, Koh Ker, and Beng Mealea Temple click here.
An Insider’s Guide to Siem Reap: Uncovering the City’s Hidden Gems and Experiences
Siem Reap, known for its world-famous UNESCO heritage site, is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture. Beyond Angkor Wat, there are delightful hidden gems and experiences in the city that can make your visit unforgettable.
Local Attractions: Discovering Siem Reap’s Hidden Gems
While temples like Angkor Wat and Bayon are must-visit tourist attractions, there are lesser-known sites that offer a unique perspective of Siem Reap. Ta Prohm, a monastery built in the 12th century, is best known for its intertwined trees that have overgrown the temple architecture over the centuries. You can hire a bicycle and cycle to this temple, which is otherwise not easily accessible.
Another hidden gem is the Banteay Kdei temple complex, just south of Ta Prohm. It was built in the late 12th century and is less crowded than the popular Angkor Wat complex. The interior contains impressive murals and bas-reliefs, which are well-preserved.
One more site to visit is the Psar Chaa or Old Market, which has been around for generations. Here, you will find a wide range of seafood, meat, vegetables, and souvenirs. The market is open from dawn till late evening and is an excellent place to get a feel for Siem Reap’s daily life.
Dining Spots: Relishing the Local Cuisine
Cambodian cuisine is known for its bold flavors, fresh herbs, and spices. There are plenty of restaurants in Siem Reap that serve delightful local dishes.
One of the city’s most popular food spots is Genevieve’s, located in the vibrant Kandal village. The restaurant serves authentic Cambodian street food, such as amok fish and beef lok lak, which are both popular traditional dishes.
Another excellent option is the New Hope training restaurant, which is a non-profit social enterprise, training young adults from vulnerable backgrounds in hospitality skills. The restaurant serves local cuisine with fresh and organic ingredients, and the profits go towards helping the youth gain independence.
Cultural Experiences: Celebrating Siem Reap’s Traditions and Festivals
Apart from visiting temples and historical sites, Siem Reap offers a host of cultural experiences. Attending a traditional dance show at the Phare Circus is an excellent way to immerse yourself in Cambodia’s culture. The Phare performers come from disadvantaged backgrounds and are trained in art, theater, and music, making for a heartwarming show.
Another cultural experience to partake in is a visit to the Artisans Angkor workshop, where you can see local craftspeople creating beautiful pieces of art. It’s an excellent place to purchase authentic souvenirs such as silk scarves, pottery items, and wooden carvings.
Local History: Discovering Siem Reap’s Fascinating Stories
Siem Reap has an intriguing past that goes beyond the popular temples. One interesting story is about the Siamese invasion of the city in 1594 AD. The Thai forces came to take control of the land and killed the ruling king, Kiling, in the process. The city was subjected to Thai influence for the next 200 years until France took over Cambodia in 1863 AD.
Another exciting story is about the 1941 creation of the Royal Crusade for Independence by the then King, Norodom Sihanouk, to build national pride and stir up anti-colonial sentiment against the French.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Adventures
For a unique experience, take a balloon ride over Angkor Wat. It’s a thrilling way to witness the entire complex from above. You can also hike up the Phnom Kulen mountain range. The trek is not easy, but the views from the top are incredible, and it’s an excellent way to see rural Cambodia.
You can also dedicate a day to visit one of Cambodia’s floating villages, Tonle Sap, where life revolves around the river. The village is built on stilts and consists of designated areas for living, schools, and even farming.
Conclusion
Siem Reap is a city that has a lot to offer beyond its world-famous temple complex. From local cuisine to hidden gems, cultural experiences to fascinating history, and off-the-beaten-path adventures, Siem Reap guarantees an unforgettable adventure. Explore the city, meet the locals, and you’ll find that there is so much more to Siem Reap than you ever imagined.
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