Secrets of Siem Reap

Welcome to Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor and a lively hub of creativity. Transfer to your hotel in the heart of the town. This evening, treat your tastebuds to a culinary adventure on your private tuk tuk tour. Sample fine dining at three restaurants led by the country’s best chefs.

Phum Baitang | Meals: D

Rise early for the short journey into the land of temples. Watch the sky explode with colour over the legendary Angkor Wat – one of the final vestiges of the Khmer Empire and a worthy UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, join your guide to uncover the stories behind one of the largest religious monuments in the world and its intricate artwork. Next, climb through snake-like roots that engulf the temple of Ta Prohm to discover an intriguing history hidden amongst strangler figs and kapok trees. Marvel at towers etched with bodhisattva faces and bas-reliefs revealing ordinary Khmer life. Return to your hotel for a late breakfast and afternoon at leisure.

If you so choose, you can embark on an afternoon excursion to Siem Reap’s outer villages and visit the exquisitely preserved Banteay Srei temple, nicknamed the ‘Citadel of Women’ due to its pink sandstone façade. Continue to a local family home to learn about the Cambodia Clean Water Project, an Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy (AKP) initiative installing wells in rural areas to provide much-needed clean water. Meet one of the recipient families to see firsthand how this project is changing lives, one well at a time. If you would like to find out more, or to get involved, visit www.akphilanthropy.org.

Phum Baitang | Meals: B

Today's exploration takes you to the former capital of the great Khmer Empire, Angkor Thom, travelling by your choice of vehicle or bicycle. Embark on your guided discovery at the glorious Bayon in the heart of the ancient city. Take in the 37 stone faces of this elaborate temple built by and for King Jayavarman VII. Wander through the perfectly square, walled city and stop awhile at the sanctuary of Baphuon. See where kings once worshipped at Phimeanakas Temple. Imagine life in the Royal Palace and picture the performances that once regaled royal crowds on the impressive Terrace of the Elephants. The Terrace of the Leper King, with its fascinating sculptures, promises the perfect finale. Return to your hotel for an afternoon at leisure.

This evening, watch in awe as theatre, dance, music, storytelling and circus arts come together at Phare Ponleu Selpak, Cambodia's leading creative arts organisation. All proceeds from the high-energy performance are reinvested into the social enterprise, providing free arts education to economically and socially challenged Cambodian youth.

Phum Baitang | Meals: B

Discover Siem Reap’s creative vibe with your local guide and arts curator, Robina Hanley. Visit the Golden Silk Farm to witness the time-honoured process of cultivating silk worms to create delicate fabrics. Continue to House and Gallery where Cambodia’s rich artistic heritage comes to life through a collection of recovered artefacts and handmade pieces. Step inside the studio of internationally acclaimed fashion designer Eric Raisina, whose modern designs are heavily inspired by Cambodia's ancient culture and crafts. Recharge with coffee in the peaceful city-centre enclave of Kandal Village, where colonial buildings now house upscale interior design shops and art galleries. Then, head to One Eleven Gallery to peruse contemporary works by international artists. Return to your hotel to relax and explore the city, your way.

Phum Baitang | Meals: B

Transfer to the airport for your outbound flight.

Meals: B