Angkor Wat, UNESCO heritage site is one of the largest archaeological sites in operation in the world. This architectural masterpiece is well-preserved and occupies 400 km2 (about 60 % of Singapore). Be awed by its mightiness & magnificence.
Hence, do not underestimate the distance between temples & ruins. Tip #1: Do hire a driver or tuk-tuk as low as USD20 for a whole day, to bring you from sight to sight. Trust me, you need to preserve your energy to “lara croft” around these Khmer temples & ruins.
Day 1│Angkor Thom
Tip#2: Purchase your Angkor Wat pass either 1 day (USD20), 3 days (USD40) or 7 days (USD60). We bought a 3 days pass and kick-start our Khlmer adventures with Bayon Temple via the north gate and explored the entire Angkor Thom on foot.
My favourite was the Bayon Temple, situated north of Angkor Wat. Established as the capital of the Khmer Empire at 12th century, the complex of buildings cover an area of 9 square km and include many well preserved buildings.
Leper King Terrace
Elephant Terrace
Behind us stood the Bas Relief Figures
Day 1│Angkor Wat
Tip #3: Start as early as possible because by late morning, you would be under the blazing heat & unbearable humidity. Have your sunblock protection & constantly hydrate yourself with water. I witnessed tourists fainting and symptoms of heat stroke during my 3 days in Angkor Wat.
Entering Angkor Wat via the sandstone causeway at west gate
The Seven-headed Naga (Serpent) & The Lion
Within the Temple
A common sight of Theravada Buddhist Monks & their vibrant orange robes (also, one of my fav photos)
The Central Temple is surrounded by the longest bas reliefs in the world. Mostly completed in the early 12th century. With more than 3,000 Apsaras carved into the walls, each supposedly unique. 
The third storey of the central temple is known as Bakan, the Kingdom of the Gods, and is suitably difficult to reach. For several years the Kingdom of the Gods was not accessible, but is now open with limited visitors. 
Tip #4: Please wear appropriate attire as you are in the temple and also, proper shoes. Most stairs are narrow and each step is half the length of your feet!? Be careful, not to fall as you are averagely at the height of 5th – 6th storey.
Avoid visiting Angkor Wat during wet season (June to Oct) due to all these hiking in the open
The View from the Top
As I spider-man myself up with my hands, I asked “Why on earth, I am doing this? Once you reached the top, you would be rewarded with the stunning view from the top. #breathtaking
Day 2│Angkor Wat
Almost all the tourists will not miss for the icon Angkor Wat’s sunrise-reflection photo. Unfortunately for us, it was too cloudy at the breaking dawn that we were not able to witness the famous golden Angkor Wat sunrise. #whatashame
Angkor Wat itself is made of sandstone blocks floated 50km downstream from holy Phnom Kulen. Inscriptions tell that 300,000 workers and 6,000 elephants were used in the construction of the wat in the 12th Century.
Bakong Prasat temple in Angkor Wat complex
Chaotic beauty from Beng Mealea Temple
Banteay Srei Ruins
Sunset at Phnom Bakheng
Neak Pean – As usual the last in the group as I am still photographing
By now, most of us would be temple or ruins overdose. Thus, it is important to read up some history of the site so that, one can fully appreciate them. I have been to a few magnificent ruins around the world. I must say, Angkor Wat is one of the world’s best.
DAY 3│Ta Prohm
Banteay Kdei is situated at the south of Ta Prohom
Many were badly looted
Intact decorative colorful sandstone covered with ornate carvings
Lost among the Jungle & Ruins
I had a new form of respect for the aging giants
Ta Prohm has been largely left to the clutches of the living jungle and bounded by massive roots of huge trees. With its dynamic interaction between nature and man-made art, this amazing temple is a favorite for many.
Temple of Ta Prohm
Amazingly Entwined
A Sense of Sacredness
We felt so part of Laura Coft’s crew
Pre Rup Temple
Tip #5: One should wear more bright colours & sweat-freeattire, to standout in the pictures versus patches of perspiration appearing in your photos.
Tip #6: Go for daily foot reflexlogy in Angkor Wat for as low as USD10 for an hour (price back in 2007). With daily walking of 5-6 hours, your feet will thank for it.
I highly recommend 3 full days in Angkor Wat itself especially if you love architectures marvel & photography. #norush
DAY4 & 5│Phnom Penh
Travelling from Angkor Wat to Phnom Penh would take 6-7 hours averagely by bus. Way back in my 2007 trip, the coach cost USD 6, one way and was not as modern (versus now with wifi & charging point at USD12). Took a 7am coach, arrived at 1pm and headed straight to the Killing Fields.
The Killing Fields
She is only reason for me to visit the capital of Cambodia. About 15km away from the main city, it is easily reachable by tuk-tuk. Witnessed one of the worst massacres in history and the brutality of the Cambodian Khmer Rouge regime which killed millions. It was such a somber atmosphere and I did not wish to take further pictures. #disgusted
A minute of respect to all victims suffered at The Killing Fields! #restinpeace
We came across the government campaign and decided to join in
BBQ meat for my french loaf (USD 1) as breakfast was one of my favs
Simple dinner at Cambodia
Stunning Khmer cuisine
Enjoying a Khmer performance over our dinner
DAY 6 & 7│Sihanoukville
Not many are aware that Cambodia has coastal lines and beautiful beachfront. Sihanoukville has white sand beaches and clear water, projecting a laid back atmosphere.
A 5 hours coach from Phom Penh to Sihanoukville
Lazy afternoon at the beachfront
Yummy, fresh shrimps by the beach
Awesome Cambodia Ice coffee
Dragon guarding Sihanoukville
Wat Leu Temple at Sihanoukville
Tip #7: Hop onto a scooter for USD 1 to move around in Sihanoukville. Back in 2007, Sihanoukville beach & resorts are very affordable compared to her neighboring countries. No itinerary or plans needed, just chillax!
Spectacular sunset at Sihanoukville
Stunning Lightning Shot
Entertaining Fire show
Cambodia│My After-thoughts
Back in 2007 when I visited Cambodia, it was still much a developing country. She is totally inexpensive. A USD 1 beer, USD 5 souvenir tshirt or for USD 20, one would be feasting like a queen.
Tip #8: Do not be bothered to change to local currency and just spend in USD. Do not that their currency is not recognized outside of the country.
Happy Cambodian Kids
Hard to Bid Farewell
Her people are friendly & warm. Their smiles are genuine and easily contented folks. I love their street foods, as well as Khlmer cuisine. Of course, Angkor Wat never disappoints. I have to admit after witnessing Angkor Wat, the other ruins round the world are trying very hard to impress me, this refesber.
Julia The Resfeber 