How to Plan Your Siem Reap Tour: Cooking Class and Market Shopping

Are you looking for a unique experience to add to your Siem Reap travel itinerary? Why not enroll in a Cambodian cooking class and market shopping tour? Learn about Cambodia’s signature ingredients while shopping at a local market and then cook up delicious traditional dishes with a local chef. Here are some tips on how to plan your Siem Reap tour for a memorable culinary adventure.

Details of the Experience

The Cambodian cooking class and market shopping tour in Siem Reap is a 4-hour group tour that starts with a pickup from your accommodation. You’ll be transported to a local market, where you can explore the workings of a Cambodian food market. You’ll have the chance to speak with local vendors and discover signature Cambodian ingredients often overlooked on the tourist trail. Next up is the cooking class itself. Led by a local English-speaking chef in a purpose-built garden pavilion, you’ll learn how to cook three traditional Cambodian dishes, such as fish amok spring rolls and Cambodian curry bananas in palm sugar with coconut juice. Your chef will guide you through the steps in preparing each ingredient and will provide you with cooking tips and techniques that you can take home with you. The experience culminates with a sit-down meal in the garden, where you can enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Highlights

• Explore a working Cambodian food market
• Discover the secrets of Cambodian cuisine
• Learn recipes you can take home

How to Prepare for Your Tour

Booking Your Tour

Prepare for your tour by booking in advance to secure your spot. You can book online through GetYourGuide, where you’ll find all the details of the tour and a schedule of availability. The process is simple, and you’ll receive instant confirmation of your booking. You can book the tour by clicking here.

What to Bring

Make sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes that you don’t mind getting a little messy. You’ll be doing some walking during the market shopping portion of the tour, so be sure to bring a water bottle and sunscreen if needed. Also, bring a camera to capture the experience.

What to Expect

Be prepared to be fully immersed in the Cambodian culinary experience. You’ll be shopping at a local market where locals go to buy their daily groceries, so expect a lively and busy atmosphere. During the cooking class, you’ll be getting your hands dirty, so don’t be afraid to roll up your sleeves and get stuck in.

Book Your Tour Now

If you’re looking for a unique and immersive experience during your trip to Siem Reap, the Cambodian cooking class and market shopping tour is definitely worth considering. You’ll have the opportunity to explore a local market, learn about Cambodian cuisine, and cook up some delicious traditional dishes with a local chef. Book your tour today and get ready for a memorable culinary adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions About Siem Reap

If you’re planning a trip to Siem Reap, Cambodia, you likely have a lot of questions about what to expect. To help you prepare for your journey, we’ve created this list of frequently asked questions about Siem Reap. From the best time to visit to advice on transportation, we’ve got you covered.

1. What is Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is a city in northwestern Cambodia. It is the gateway to the famous Angkor Wat temple complex, which is the largest religious monument in the world. The city is known for its rich history and culture, as well as its stunning architecture and natural beauty.

2. When is the best time to visit Siem Reap?

The best time to visit Siem Reap is between November and March. During this time, the weather is relatively cool and dry, making it perfect for exploring the temples and other attractions. However, keep in mind that this is also peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

3. How do I get to Siem Reap?

The easiest way to get to Siem Reap is by flying into Siem Reap International Airport. There are direct flights from major cities throughout Southeast Asia, as well as a few destinations in Europe and the Middle East. You can also take a bus or a taxi from Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital city.

4. Do I need a visa to visit Siem Reap?

Yes, visitors to Cambodia need a visa. You can get a visa upon arrival at the airport or at certain land border crossings. Alternatively, you can apply for an e-visa online before you arrive.

5. What is the local currency in Siem Reap?

The local currency in Siem Reap is the Cambodian riel. However, US dollars are widely accepted, and many businesses actually prefer them. You can exchange money at banks, exchange offices, or at your hotel.

6. What are the must-see attractions in Siem Reap?

The must-see attraction in Siem Reap is Angkor Wat, of course. However, there are many other amazing temples to explore, such as Ta Prohm, Bayon, and Banteay Srei. Other popular attractions include the floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake, the Angkor Night Market, and the Cambodian Cultural Village.

7. How do I get around Siem Reap?

The easiest way to get around Siem Reap is by tuk-tuk or by bicycle. Tuk-tuks are cheap and widely available, and are especially convenient for getting around the temples. Bicycles can be rented at many shops and hotels, and are a great way to explore the city on your own.

8. Is Siem Reap safe for tourists?

Siem Reap is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any destination, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take appropriate precautions. Petty theft is a common problem, so be sure to keep your valuables secure and be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.

9. What is the local cuisine in Siem Reap?

The local cuisine in Siem Reap is a blend of Khmer, Thai, and Chinese influences. Some popular dishes include amok (a fish curry cooked in banana leaves), lok lak (stir-fried beef with vegetables), and kuy teav (noodle soup). Be sure to try the street food, as it’s some of the best in the country.

10. What should I pack for my trip to Siem Reap?

When packing for your trip to Siem Reap, be sure to bring lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes for walking around the temples. You may also want to bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Don’t forget to pack a camera to capture all the amazing sights!

Book Your Tour Now

Siem Reap is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient temples, learning about local traditions and customs, or simply enjoying the beautiful natural scenery, Siem Reap has something for everyone. We hope this FAQ has helped prepare you for your trip, and we wish you an amazing adventure in this enchanting corner of the world.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Siem Reap

Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor Wat, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Cambodia. The city is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for travelers who want to experience something new and exciting. If you’re planning to visit Siem Reap soon, here’s a guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in this enchanting city.

1. Visit the Angkor Archaeological Park

No visit to Siem Reap is complete without a visit to the Angkor Archaeological Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the famous Angkor Wat temple, which is considered one of the most impressive architectural marvels in the world. The park also contains other historic temples, such as the Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Srei. Make sure to allocate at least one full day to explore this magnificent complex.

2. Take a Guided Tour

If you want to learn more about the history and culture of Siem Reap, taking a guided tour is a great option. There are numerous tour operators in Siem Reap that offer guided tours of the Angkor Archaeological Park, as well as other sites such as the Tonle Sap Lake, Angkor National Museum, and the Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity. Guided tours can be tailored to your interests, budget, and preferred mode of transportation. Some popular options include tuk-tuk tours, bicycle tours, and walking tours.

3. Watch a Traditional Apsara Dance Show

The Apsara dance is a traditional Khmer dance that has been performed in Cambodia for centuries. If you’re interested in learning more about this beautiful cultural tradition, watching a live Apsara dance show is a must. There are many restaurants and theaters in Siem Reap that offer Apsara dance shows, complete with traditional costumes, music, and lighting. Some popular options include the Apsara Theatre, Koulen Restaurant, and Rosana Broadway.

4. Shop at the Old Market

The Old Market, also known as Phsar Chas, is a vibrant marketplace in the center of Siem Reap. This bustling market is a great place to shop for handicrafts, souvenirs, clothes, jewelry, and other items. Make sure to haggle with the vendors to get the best price, and try some of the local street food while you’re there. The market is open from early morning until late at night.

5. Visit a Silk Farm

Siem Reap is home to many traditional silk farms where you can learn about the silk-making process and purchase high-quality silk products. Some popular silk farms in Siem Reap include the Angkor Silk Farm, Artisans Angkor, and the Golden Silk Pheach Farm. Make sure to allocate at least half a day to visit a silk farm and learn about the intricate process of silk production. You can even try your hand at spinning silk yourself!

6. Explore the Countryside

Siem Reap’s countryside is home to many traditional villages, rice paddies, and temples. Exploring the countryside is a great way to experience the true culture and beauty of Cambodia. You can take a guided tour of the countryside on a tuk-tuk or bicycle, or if you’re feeling adventurous, rent a motorbike and explore on your own. Popular destinations include the Banteay Srei Butterfly Centre, Phnom Kulen National Park, and the Preah Khan temple.

7. Relax at a Spa

After a day of exploration and adventure, there’s nothing better than relaxing at a traditional Cambodian spa. Siem Reap is home to many spas that offer a range of treatments, including massages, facials, body scrubs, and aromatherapy. Some popular spas in Siem Reap include the Bodia Spa, Lemongrass Garden Spa, and Frangipani Spa. Make sure to book your spa treatment in advance to secure your spot.

Book Your Tour Now

Siem Reap is a charming city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or relaxation, Siem Reap has it all. By following the tips in this guide, you can make the most of your time as a tourist in Siem Reap. Remember to allocate enough time to explore the Angkor Archaeological Park, take a guided tour, watch an Apsara dance show, shop at the Old Market, visit a silk farm, explore the countryside, and relax at a spa. Happy travels!