Siem Reap, famous for the Angkor Wat temples, also boasts a vibrant street food culture that reflects both traditional Khmer cuisine and international influences. The town’s street food can be categorized into three main types: authentic Khmer dishes, Western-inspired street food, and budget-friendly restaurants that offer great value.

To read about Battambang Street Food click here.

Authentic Khmer Street Food

The heart of Siem Reap’s street food culture lies in its traditional Khmer offerings. As evening approaches, the streets around Pub Street and various night markets come alive with the aroma of local delicacies being prepared by vendors. Popular dishes include Lok Lak, a stir-fried beef dish served with a tangy lime and pepper dipping sauce, and Amok, a fragrant coconut milk curry often cooked with fish. Grilled skewers of meat and seafood, served with fresh herbs and rice, are also staples, showcasing the town’s proximity to the bountiful Tonle Sap Lake.

Seafood is particularly noteworthy in Siem Reap, with options like grilled fish and shellfish seasoned with local spices. Snails cooked with lemongrass and chili offer a unique taste experience for the adventurous eater. The abundance of fresh ingredients, combined with the skill of local cooks, makes Siem Reap a hub for sampling authentic Khmer cuisine.

To read about Kampot street food click here.

Western-Inspired and Fusion Street Food

Reflecting Siem Reap’s international appeal, the street food scene also features a variety of Western-inspired dishes. Food courts and stalls around tourist hotspots serve familiar comfort foods like burgers, pizzas, and sandwiches, often with a local twist. This fusion cuisine caters to the diverse tastes of the town’s visitors, blending familiar flavors with Khmer ingredients.

A popular trend is the creation of fusion dishes, such as Khmer-style tacos or pizzas topped with local ingredients. These dishes offer a unique culinary experience, blending the best of Khmer and international flavors. For those seeking a taste of home or something different, these options provide a delightful break from traditional fare.

Budget-Friendly Restaurants

In addition to street vendors, Siem Reap offers numerous budget-friendly restaurants that provide a dining experience akin to street food in terms of price and accessibility. These establishments often feature extensive menus that include both traditional Khmer dishes and international cuisine. Notably, “Happy Pizza” joints are popular, known for their relaxed atmosphere and unique pizza toppings.

These restaurants are not just a draw for tourists but also serve the town’s sizeable expat community. The affordability of dining out in Siem Reap means visitors can enjoy high-quality meals at a fraction of the price they might pay elsewhere. From hearty Khmer dishes to international favorites, these eateries offer something for everyone.

To conclude Siem Reap street food…

Siem Reap’s street food scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Khmer cuisine or curious to try unique fusion dishes, the town offers a plethora of options that cater to all tastes and budgets. As you explore the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, make sure to also embark on a culinary journey through Siem Reap’s bustling streets and markets. This culinary exploration is an integral part of the Siem Reap experience, offering a delicious taste of Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage.

	Cambodia
	https://www.thestreetfoodguy.com/
	+85511814349

Recent Posts

• 
  Smoke on the Water: A Twilight Cruise with a Cause
• 
  M’Pai Bay: The Cambodian Island Village That’s Doing Things Differently
• 
  Joint Chamber Cocktail Social at Sofitel Set To Bring Diverse Expat Audiences Togerher To Mix, Mingle, and Connect
• 
  Marvel’s Thunderbolts Hits Cambodian Screens: Where to Watch and What to Expect

Founded by Povmlis and Brew Master Nagui, Siem Reap Craft Brewing’s journey has been a frothy blend of passion, perseverance, and flavor. Speaking exclusively to Cambodia Lifestyle, Nagui shares insights into the essence of Siem Reap Craft Brewing and why it’s more than just a brewery, but a destination for beer enthusiasts and community builders alike.

Brewing Dreams Nagui’s venture into the craft beer world stemmed from his deep-rooted passion for brewing flavorful concoctions. “I wanted to create a space where people could gather, enjoy high-quality craft beer, and experience the artistry behind the brewing process,” Nagui explains. 

Find more of the best thing’s to do in Cambodia

Over the past year, he’s immersed himself in the intricacies of brewing, growing not just his business but also his expertise and relationships within the industry. Siem Reap Craft Brewing has been operational for a year, marking a milestone in their flavorful journey. “During this time, we’ve been able to establish a strong foundation and build relationships with our customers and partners,” Nagui shares proudly.

“Our dream is to become a market leader, providing innovative solutions that exceed customer expectations,” Nagui envisions. Siem Reap Craft Brewing aims not just for market share but also for a reputation built on integrity, ethics, and a vibrant company culture. 

What’s on Tap: Savor the Flavor 

Indeed, Siem Reap Craft Brewing fills a crucial gap in the market by offering unique and interesting brews that tantalize the taste buds. “Our offering meets a demand that has been underserved or overlooked by other options in the market,” Nagui explains, emphasizing their commitment to continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.

Beyond brewing beer, Siem Reap Craft Brewing benefits the community by providing job opportunities, supporting local suppliers, and contributing to economic growth. 

“We aim to create a positive social impact and contribute to the overall well-being of the community,” Nagui emphasizes, highlighting their dedication to fostering a thriving ecosystem. 

Find more of the best places to Eat & Drink in Cambodia

Pouring Back into the Community 

For Nagui, Cambodia offers a sweet and pleasant life, particularly in the vibrant city of Siem Reap. “Life is good here,” Nagui reflects, “We feel well integrated into the population, and through our work, we create moments of joy and sharing.”

Where can you find Siem Reap Craft Brewing in Cambodia? 

Location: Phsar dam krolanh, 17252 road, Krong Siem Reap 171202

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday – 9:30am to 5pm

Contact: Facebook

Siem Reap Craft Brewing Company isn’t just about brewing beer—it’s about crafting experiences, building communities, and savoring the sweetness of life. 

Whether you’re a beer aficionado or a casual imbiber, Siem Reap Craft Brewing invites you to raise a glass and toast to the flavor-filled journey ahead. Cheers to good beer, great company, and the spirit of adventure!

	Cambodia
	https://www.cambodialifestyle.com/
	+855 9 678 01791

Recent Posts

• 
  Smoke on the Water: A Twilight Cruise with a Cause
• 
  M’Pai Bay: The Cambodian Island Village That’s Doing Things Differently
• 
  Joint Chamber Cocktail Social at Sofitel Set To Bring Diverse Expat Audiences Togerher To Mix, Mingle, and Connect
• 
  Marvel’s Thunderbolts Hits Cambodian Screens: Where to Watch and What to Expect

Siem Reap, Cambodia, a city renowned for its majestic temples and rich cultural heritage, has unveiled a new gem for tourists seeking an immersive experience in nature and history. The Apsara Authority, dedicated to preserving and promoting Cambodia’s cultural treasures, has forged a picturesque hiking trail through the lush natural forest, connecting the Angkor Botanical Garden to the iconic Angkor Wat Archaeological Park.

This newly established walking path not only provides an alternative route for travelers but also offers a fresh perspective on exploring the renowned temples of Angkor. Long Kosal, spokesperson for the Apsara Authority, highlighted the significance of this initiative, emphasizing its role in offering tourists a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the region’s biodiversity.

“The creation of walking paths in the forest gives tourists a unique experience to explore its biodiversity for free,” Kosal remarked. “In an era where both domestic and international tourists prioritize health-conscious travel, providing accessible pathways through natural landscapes not only promotes physical well-being but also fosters a deeper connection with nature.”

Indeed, as visitors traverse the scenic route, enveloped by the tranquility of the forest, they are encouraged to pause and rejuvenate at designated rest stops strategically placed along the trail. These intervals not only offer respite from the journey but also serve as vantage points to appreciate the beauty of the surroundings.

Government Support

Prime Minister Hun Manet echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the pivotal role of initiatives like the new hiking path in enhancing the tourism landscape of Siem Reap. “Siem Reap is not merely a city of temples; it is a thriving economic hub brimming with tourism potential,” noted Prime Minister Manet. “By diversifying our offerings beyond the iconic temples, we aim to enrich the overall visitor experience and showcase the multifaceted beauty of our region.”

In line with this vision, the government has launched the “Visit Siem Reap 2024” campaign, aimed at spotlighting the myriad attractions and experiences the city has to offer. This initiative underscores the commitment to sustainable tourism development, balancing the preservation of natural resources and cultural heritage with the evolving needs of modern travelers.

As visitors embark on this enchanting journey from the botanical gardens to the ancient temples of Angkor, they not only unravel the mysteries of Cambodia’s past but also forge unforgettable memories amidst its breathtaking natural landscapes. From exploring the intricate carvings of Angkor Wat to witnessing the vibrant culture of Siem Reap’s bustling markets, there’s no shortage of experiences awaiting those who dare to venture beyond the beaten path.

So, whether you’re drawn by the allure of ancient civilizations or seeking solace in the embrace of nature, Siem Reap beckons with open arms, ready to unveil its treasures to intrepid travelers from around the globe. Join us on a voyage of discovery, where every step leads to a new adventure and every moment is etched with the magic of Cambodia.

	Siem Reap, Cambodia
	https://www.cambodialifestyle.com/siem-reap-province/
	+855 9 678 01791

Recent Posts

• 
  Smoke on the Water: A Twilight Cruise with a Cause
• 
  M’Pai Bay: The Cambodian Island Village That’s Doing Things Differently
• 
  Joint Chamber Cocktail Social at Sofitel Set To Bring Diverse Expat Audiences Togerher To Mix, Mingle, and Connect
• 
  Marvel’s Thunderbolts Hits Cambodian Screens: Where to Watch and What to Expect

Here is our top 5 travel options in Cambodia from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap!

1. Our recommendation: Taxi Time!

Summary: Buckle up for a comfortable ride priced between $70 to $100. Taxis are your luxury chariots, promising a smooth journey of about 5 hours. The price is not so steep if you split it between the 3 or 4 people. You can also check out on expat Facebook groups if anyone is travelling at the same time if you want to fill some space!

In a private Taxi, you can score a plush Lexus 4×4 by booking online in advance. Skip the last-minute price haggles and slide into your spacious ride hassle-free.

Usually a Guesthouse or Travel Agent Taxi is a Toyota Camry sedan, but watch out for the trunk space! Confirm the fare beforehand to dodge any misunderstandings.

2. Budget Bus

Summary: Get ready for panoramic views and a bargain ride costing $10 to $18. Buses take about 6 hours, treating you to a scenic journey through Cambodian countryside.

Giant Ibis Bus: Hop on for a tech-savvy ride with WiFi and power outlets. Book your $18 ticket online and settle into comfort while admiring the vistas.

3. Mini-bus method:

Summary: Quicker than buses, mini-buses and vans zip you to your destination for $10 to $13 in approximately 5.5 hours.

Cambodia Post VIP Van: Say goodbye to cramped rides with their spacious Toyota HiAce vans. For $10.50, enjoy a comfy journey with limited seating.

Larryta Express: Buckle up in their Ford Transit Vans for a speedy trip at $13 a ticket. Catch some Z’s on their $18 sleeping buses for a night journey like no other.

Seila Angkor: Grab a seat in their Ford Transit vans for $12.50 and prepare for a thrilling ride with 18 daily departures.

4. Airport Options: Fly High!

Summary: Take to the skies with Cambodia Angkor Air! Flights between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap range from $100 to $200, whisking you away in just 1 hour.

Do bare in mind though, the new airport is around 1 hours drive from Siem Reap itself, so add this time in to your travel, plus the boarding time and travel to the airport (and frequently busy roads leading to it!).

5. Ferry Fiasco? Not Today!

Summary: Due to COVID-19, ferries are currently on hiatus and not so reliable. But when they’re up and running, enjoy an 8-hour scenic voyage through Cambodian waters. More to come, when we know, you’ll know!

Frequently Asked Questions”

COVID-19 Caper: No restrictions, just don your mask for courtesy!

Travel Tidbits: Journey times range from 5 to 6 hours by road and a mere 1 hour by air.

Distance Delight: Covering 235 kilometers by air and 319 to 403 kilometers by road.

Airport Adventures: Hitch a ride with pre-booked taxis or hop on a pre-arranged bus transfer for convenience galore!

So, whether you’re craving a cushy cab ride, a bus bonanza, or a thrilling flight, your journey from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap promises excitement at every turn!

	Cambodia
	https://www.cambodialifestyle.com/
	+855 9 678 01791

Recent Posts

• 
  Smoke on the Water: A Twilight Cruise with a Cause
• 
  M’Pai Bay: The Cambodian Island Village That’s Doing Things Differently
• 
  Joint Chamber Cocktail Social at Sofitel Set To Bring Diverse Expat Audiences Togerher To Mix, Mingle, and Connect
• 
  Marvel’s Thunderbolts Hits Cambodian Screens: Where to Watch and What to Expect

The Cambodian Ministry of Tourism have announced that Siem Reap city nd province will host the 8th River Festival to be held between the March 16th-18th 2024.

The exciting update was shared by So Mara, of the Ministry of Tourism, on February 1, 2024. It was further stated that the event would feature arts performances, exhibitions, and cultural and sports activities to attract tourists to the province.

They went on to add that the event would also be used to promote the ideals off envornoentalism, as well as sustainable use of river resources.

What is the Cambodian River Festival?

Organized every year (Covid notwithstanding) it is rotated between province that have rivers and wish to host it. 

The first event was held in Kratie province in 2015, followed by events in Stung Treng, Kampong Cham, Thbong Khmum, Kandal, Kampong Chhnang, Battambang, and Kampong Thom. 

With Siem Reap being the first major tourist city to host the event it is hoped that this will not only be the biggest river festival to date, but will also help raise the profile of the festival. 

Siem Reap is of course no stranger to tourism, with the lions share of the estimated 6 million, or so visitors this year coming to visit Angkor Watt. 

Tourists are also drawn in for other water based activities, such as the floating villages, as well as the infamous water fights that occur around the streets of the city at Khmer New Year. 

Tourism is considered the main industry of Siem Reap, who last October opened a new international airport. Said airport which bears the code SAI is expected to be able to cope with 7 million passengers annually, with pans to raise this to 12 million by 2040. 

	Siem Reap Cambodia
	https://www.cambodialifestyle.com/siem-reap-province/
	+855 9 678 01791

Recent Posts

• 
  Smoke on the Water: A Twilight Cruise with a Cause
• 
  M’Pai Bay: The Cambodian Island Village That’s Doing Things Differently
• 
  Joint Chamber Cocktail Social at Sofitel Set To Bring Diverse Expat Audiences Togerher To Mix, Mingle, and Connect
• 
  Marvel’s Thunderbolts Hits Cambodian Screens: Where to Watch and What to Expect

It’s a Saturday night as January comes to a close and a two band lineup made up of Sam Rocker and Battambang’s pride, the Batbangers, have blasted the night away at Pomme in Siem Reap. Kids, parents, old friends, new friends, neighbors and a fresh contingent of tourists (yes…actual tourists!) danced to the rhythm and feeling of normalcy. Souls have been replenished by the glimpse of life beyond the crest of the “end of the beginning” of the pandemic.

Pomme was packed with a mix of both artistically starving Khmers and expats alike.  Sam Rocker began the night playing to enthusiastic fans who screamed out from the get-go, “We love you Sam!” Battambang’s most famous band, the Batbangers, followed and showed they can both rock and do justice to songs like Billy Ray Cyrus’ “Achy Breaky Heart”.  The night benefited from having all the makings of a proper night of music entertainment on hand, with Ian and Steve from 60 Road Studios providing lights and sound at the professional level. It was a bonified rock show and it felt great, like we had peaked around the corner and discovered fun waiting patently for us.

Siem Reap is feeling alive again – Saturday night at Pomme

Over the last three months or so businesses have opened, holding special events and live music shows to attract both the town’s remaining expats and the rare and elusive “tourists” seen wandering in Temple Town like shadow memories from aa past life.  

And most every day, there is something great going on somewhere in Siem Reap, with options growing quickly. Businesses have re-opened, reborn and ready to get back to making a living. Are there enough people in town to support all this hopefulness?  Are businesses vying for the limited dollars of the survivors of the Covid economy and a smattering of tourists?

Well yes and no. It’s hit or miss for now.

It’s akin to back when you were in your early 20’s and you would clean your apartment really well, create a music playlist, buy a new boom box to rock the tunes, order 4 kegs of the cheapest beer known to mankind, set out massive bowls of Doritos and generic potato chips and invited your neighbors ith no gaurantee they would show up. All this effort in preparation for a party that would surely be visited by the police at 3am if successful. But then? Come midnight, the “party” would be populated by only you and your three friends, Tucker, Tanner and Todd.

Why? Because the night before Monty Jorgensen threw an impromptu party at his house with midget wrestling that lasted until 7am and everyone was there. Your phone filled with apologies for not showing up because people are too hung over and broken and staying in tonight.

The analogy is that things can go either way here in Siem Reap for now. You might be prove to be Monty Jorgensen, doing well because you employed really talented midgets or you might just be you and spend the next three weeks hammered and eating stale Doritos with Tucker, Tanner and Todd.

It’s clear at this point that people only have so much money to spend on entertainment. They’re picking and choosing their nights to go out. And that’s OK for now. Business owners will take it. The fact is that when people want to go out for food and entertainment there have lots of great options in Siem Reap and that is the fuel we need to rekindle the city’s fire.

Happy Hour is Back….

So, what are Siem Reap businesses doing to survive? They’re bringing back “Happy Hours”, pub quizzes, live music, open mics, geek night, bingo and loss- leader food specials like 25 cent buffalo wings. On an average week you can enjoy Pressure Hour on Friday, live music Saturdays and the Sunday Night Charity Pub Quiz at Star Bar. Then you could take on Latin Rock Night and Open Mic night at the Harbour. And follow that up with Charity Bingo at Playground and Live Sessions at New Leaf. That is just a fraction of what is happening in Siem Reap.  

So here’s a “job well done” salute to Pomme, Siem Reap and 60 Road Studios team for helping light the fire that will guide us all back eventually to the new “good old days”. You woke the dead in every single attendee. Let’s do it again…because we have to.

Tim Scott

Sitha Kuch

Owners, Star Bar Siem Reap

	Siem Reap Cambodia
	https://www.cambodialifestyle.com/siem-reap-province/
	+855 9 678 01791

Recent Posts

• 
  Smoke on the Water: A Twilight Cruise with a Cause
• 
  M’Pai Bay: The Cambodian Island Village That’s Doing Things Differently
• 
  Joint Chamber Cocktail Social at Sofitel Set To Bring Diverse Expat Audiences Togerher To Mix, Mingle, and Connect
• 
  Marvel’s Thunderbolts Hits Cambodian Screens: Where to Watch and What to Expect

Two years of lockdowns, constant roadwork and the absence of tourists due to the pandemic put Siem Reap in a very tough spot. And while many optimistic voices have spoken about an imminent comeback for the city, our recent visit to look at the situation on the ground says otherwise.

To read about visiting an empty Angkor Wat click here

Signs of life – Pub Street is back, kinda 

One of the best barometers of the state of Siem Reap’s economy is how the legendary Pub Street is doing. For the longest time it has resembled less a street of bars and more Beirut circa 1985. New Year’s however was an outlier in this. For one night at least, Pub Street was pumping.

Manager of trendy cocktail bar Picasso, Tom Kay, has this to say, “For one night at least things things felt like old times, excepting that 90 percent of the crowd were Khmer”. He added that while there have been more people around since New Year’s that it did not necessarily mean more money was being spent.

Kay noted in our chat, “There are more people in Siem Reap now but tourist levels still remain very low. More bars have reopened, but that translates into the customers that are here being spread more thinly”.

This was echoed by Tim Scott, the owner of the legendary Star Bar. He said, “Things are definitely better now but the local expat scene has still not recovered from the previous exodus of people. The locals tend to flock to places that have events, so you get the odd busy night, but generally speaking things are steady rather than crazy”. 

This was evident on the weekend Khmer Nights went bar hopping around the city. The icons of Pub Street were at best 10-20 percent full, even at 11pm on a Saturday night when things usually start to “kick-off”.

So while things were not exactly kicking during our visit, they do at least look more “normal”. The re-emergent presence of street hawkers, beggars and the infamous cocktail trucks speak to that.

Mr Pran, who served us an excellent Black Russian from his aptly named Van Bar, told Khmer Nights, “Things aren’t that busy yet but at least we are working and there are enough customers to make coming out worthwhile”.

City’s hotel sector is waking up steadily

Another “canary in the coal mine” that is showing hope, if not full recovery, is the hotel sector in Siem Reap. While the city-scape is still dominated by boarded up properties, many bigger players are making a return, as well as old hands that have managed to hang on by deep-discounting.

The Shinta Mani Angkor, which we were lucky enough to check out recently, is seeing promising bookings despite being at the highest end of the price scale. Chandra Oum, the Executive Assistant Manager of the property, told Khmer Nights, “We only recently reopened and while we have not heavily marketed yet, we are getting bookings from both local and foreign tourists”.

Nights at the Shinta Mani Angkor start at $200 for a standard room. An evening in a private Bensley Collection Pool Villa will set you back $990 and while this might sound a lot it does comes with the aforementioned private pool and your very own highly skilled butler.  OK, that still sounds like a lot for most of us. But maybe not so much to those used to living in that particular snack bracket. And for those of us not quite so flush? I’d hazard a guess that a taste of the high life may indeed prove a memorable “one-off” worth the dent in the wallet as the setting for one of life’s very special moments.

On the flip side of the coin, budget orientated operators are offering deals to help entice customers. Star Bar, for example, offers rooms at $45 a night. That price includes $20 in consumables credit that can be applied to purchases of food and/or beverages. A bargain indeed. 

So, after our short visit? It’s clear that things are starting to get better, if rather slowly. More importantly? There’s deals afoot in the “here and now” that won’t be around once Siem Reap is fully back on its feet again. 

	Siem Reap Cambodia
	https://www.cambodialifestyle.com/siem-reap-province/
	+855 9 678 01791

Recent Posts

• 
  Smoke on the Water: A Twilight Cruise with a Cause
• 
  M’Pai Bay: The Cambodian Island Village That’s Doing Things Differently
• 
  Joint Chamber Cocktail Social at Sofitel Set To Bring Diverse Expat Audiences Togerher To Mix, Mingle, and Connect
• 
  Marvel’s Thunderbolts Hits Cambodian Screens: Where to Watch and What to Expect

Currently Siem Reap is more well known for its empty hotels than hotel deals, but there are still some great deals to be had, with Sabara Angkor Resort being point in case. 

What’s the story with Sabara Angkor Resort?

The hotel opened not long before the current pandemic, not ideal timing, but also with the financial backing to be able to weather the storm. The hotel has been built in a pseudo-classic Khmer style, but with a wide range of modern creature comforts, as well as perhaps one of the best swimming pools in Siem Reap. 

Since then they have largely been able to stay open, bar lockdown’s and Red Zones and whilst obviously on reduced staff,  still offer a great and most importantly highly affordable hotel option in Siem Reap. 

Sabara Angkor Resort and Spa – Room rates and facilities

They have the aforementioned extremely well-kept swimming pool, as well as offering massage, spa, as well as advertising cooking classes, although these are largely not available during the current pandemic. 

The rooms here are frankly phenomenal, with a standard costing around $25,inclusive of breakfast and the suite featuring a private pool costing as little as $60, depending on availability. As things stand this is a time when apps such as booking.com are to be avoided, with the best deals available when you simply rock up and ask. 

Whichever room you choose, all are setup with extremely comfortable beds, a smart TV with Netflix and YouTube integration, as well as a hot shower that actually has hot water.. 

They have also previously offered monthly packages for as little as $280 a month, making it one of the best long-stay deals currently in Siem Reap. 

When things finally do open-up within the Kingdom prices here will rise dramatically. 

What is the food like at Sabara Angkor Resort?

Unlike in many hotels currently booking a room here is inclusive of breakfast, which features Khmer options, continental, American and even Eggs Benedict. 

They also have a restaurant offering a mostly contemporary take on traditional Khmer dishes, as well as a few western favorites. For residents there is room service and for the time being at least they do not mind you ordering in from delivery apps, such as Food Panda.

To read about delivery apps in Cambodia click here.

Sabara Angkor Resort Location

Sabara Angkor Resort is not centrally located at all, instead being just off of National Road 6 near the Siem Reap big wheel. This is really not much of a problem right now, with Siem Reap largely being closed, but if you do need to “hit the town” a Grab will set you back about $2.

Being out of town though definitely adds to the charms of the place, with the quietness not only offering solitude, but you being that bit nearer to Angkor Wat.

Siem Reap might not be top of everyone’s list for visiting right now, but with chance to see an empty Angkor Wat and hotel deals like these, there also might not be a better chance. Just don’t come expecting to party….

	Siem Reap, Cambodia
	https://www.cambodialifestyle.com/siem-reap-province/
	+855 9 678 01791

Recent Posts

• 
  Smoke on the Water: A Twilight Cruise with a Cause
• 
  M’Pai Bay: The Cambodian Island Village That’s Doing Things Differently
• 
  Joint Chamber Cocktail Social at Sofitel Set To Bring Diverse Expat Audiences Togerher To Mix, Mingle, and Connect
• 
  Marvel’s Thunderbolts Hits Cambodian Screens: Where to Watch and What to Expect

The Siem Reap lockdown is over! The lockdown which had lasted two weeks will not be extended and the red zones have been lifted, in a move that can hopefully be seen as Cambodia beginning on the path back to normality. But that doesn’t mean you can immediately go out and enjoy my favourite vegetarian food and restaurants. The Siem Reap Tourism Department has announced that anyone wishing to serve dine-in must submit a form, and present themselves for an inspection, where the ministry will rate you based on how well you follow the guidelines. Are these guidelines part of the ‘steps taken towards safe reopening’ and will that change Siem Reap’s dining scene?

Guidelines for everyone – including delivery drivers

The full document, available from the Provincial Hall contains 58 easy-to-follow pictures across 6 key areas:

• Guidelines for Customers
• Guidelines for Employees
• Disinfection and Sanitation
• Restaurant Management
• Delivery Services
• Restaurant Configuration and Set-up

At first glance, most of these guidelines should be followed anyway – employees should be washing hands frequently and before handling food, and raw and ready-to-eat food should be kept separate. Some guidelines are also clearly focused on reducing the spread of Covid-19, such as installing hand sanitiser stations and encouraging social distancing, and ensuring employees are vaccinated. Others, such as employees avoiding chit-chatting at work and shifting the staff meal schedule, have a less clear connection.

Siem Reap Lockdown is Over – Rules for reopening restaurants

Before any restaurant can open for dine-in, an inspection will be carried out by the Tourism Department. From speaking with restaurant owners, it seems each district, split by sangkat, has its own inspection teams. Everyone is following the same regulations and guidelines, so one would expect adherence and enforcement to be the same across Siem Reap, but it may mean differences in the time it takes for your favourite restaurant to be inspected and opened. L’Annexe Fine Dining was able to get a visit nearly immediately and is open for dine-in again right now but as of the time of writing, most establishments seem to be expecting visits at the end of the week, just after the Pchum Benh public holiday.

No set Pass or Fail Guidelines

At the time of writing this, it isn’t clear how many of the requirements an establishment needs to satisfy to be given the green light for opening. Presumably not all, as I have yet to see or hear of anyone putting up transparent dividers, and it would be unfeasible for every establishment to offer outside or well-ventilated dining. Restaurants like Khema and cafes like Footprints simply do not have the outdoor space for that. But then again, the choice of wording – ‘if possible,’ ‘guidelines’ and ‘ranking’ suggest that these are simply best practices and not a rigorous pass-or-fail test.

Will this Permanently change Dining in Temple Town?

As with all things, there is a period of confusion and adjustment when new procedures are implemented. Until more restaurants have been inspected and the results of inspection released we don’t know whether this will have any long term effects.

From my point of view, while some guidelines, such as the discouragement of buffets, are likely to persist well beyond the immediate future, many restrictions will be relaxed in time as confidence grows that Cambodia’s impressive mass vaccination drive will keep Covid-19 at bay. Certainly, I can’t imagine international tourism restarting if indoor, air-conditioned restaurants are not operating!

One thing is certain though, just because red zones across Cambodia have been done away with does not mean we have gone back to the old, pre-Covid days. And for those of us in Siem Reap who were eagerly awaiting the chance to return to our favourite restaurants…well, we will just have to wait a little longer. Keep an eye out on my personal blog or here on Khmer Nights for updates.

	Siem Reap, Cambodia
	https://www.cambodialifestyle.com/siem-reap-province/
	+855 9 678 01791

Recent Posts

• 
  Smoke on the Water: A Twilight Cruise with a Cause
• 
  M’Pai Bay: The Cambodian Island Village That’s Doing Things Differently
• 
  Joint Chamber Cocktail Social at Sofitel Set To Bring Diverse Expat Audiences Togerher To Mix, Mingle, and Connect
• 
  Marvel’s Thunderbolts Hits Cambodian Screens: Where to Watch and What to Expect