A few days ago, I was in the beautiful city of Siem Reap.
Home to the famous UNESCO World Heritage temple antiquity, Angkor Wat, Siem Reap remains a bucket-list destination not to be missed.
Due to the border conflict with Thailand, tourism in Siem Reap city, the main source of its economy, is drastically down by more than 40%. This includes tourists from neighbouring countries such as Thailand and Laos, who would normally drive overland to visit for a few days.
I felt motivated to write this brief article to encourage tourists to keep Siem Reap in their travel itinerary and outline a few points of consideration in favour of visitation.
Siem Reap is the capital city of Siem Reap Province. Siem Reap city is approximately 170 kilometres from the Thai border. Government warnings relate to the 50 kilometres of land within Siem Reap Province near the Thai border. Siem Reap city and Angkor Wat are several hours drive away from this area which has been in an ongoing political dispute for more than 100 years. For Thailand to consider attacking Siem Reap city or damage Angkor Wat is unthinkable—the international outrage and risk to the Thai’s own tourism and reputation would be enough to stop them. When reading official warnings about Siem Reap, take note that Siem Reap city and Siem Reap province relate to different places.
I stayed at an exquisite boutique hotel, called The Heritage Suites, a short drive from the town centre. As I entered the premises, my world was transformed into a by-gone era, with lush, tranquil surroundings and an opportunity to truly relax. The staff were jovial, kind and welcoming in a way that comes from the heart. I also had the privilege to dine at The Embassy, one of Siem Reap’s most highly regarded, fine dining restaurants. Serving re-imagined Khmer gastronomy, Culinary Director Pol Kimsan is supported by a team of all female staff, providing training and career opportunities for young women, many from impoverished backgrounds. Usually at this time of year, it would be impossible to get a table at Embassy, but with tourist numbers down, I was able to secure a reservation. My dinging experience surpassed expectations, and it felt good to contribute my custom to an important local business.
As a traveller who enjoys a bit of space, Siem Reap is an appealing destination of choice.
The warmth of the local people, the astonishing temple compounds, the refreshing proximity to an abundance of nature, and Tonlé Sac, the largest lake in southeast Asia, all await you.
Seasonally, it is also the best time of year to visit the Temple Town, the climate lending itself to walking and cycling, and touring the temples and other attractions.
The people of Siem Reap need our support for their livelihoods. Most of them are small, independent businesses and they are suffering unnecessarily from misinformation and misguided interpretations.
I loved my time in Siem Reap. If I had the opportunity, I would have stayed longer.
Writer: Kat Johnston.
Melbourne, Australia.
22 December 2025
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