HOLIDAYS

These tours are specially curated by Melody Villa for our guests and are designed with your comfort, safety and pleasure in mind. You can pick individual Day Tours as you please or choose from the various combination options for 2,3,4 or 7 days that we have matched for you to fit your duration of stay with us. We are committed to making your visit a most pleasant and enjoyable one, feel free to discuss with us any special requests you might have.



Siem Reap-Overview-History

Siem Reap-Overview-History

The name "Siem Reap" can be translated to mean "Defeat of Siam" (siem in Khmer), and is commonly taken as a reference to an incident in the centuries-old conflict between the Siamese and Khmer kingdoms, although this is probably apocryphal. According to oral tradition, King Ang Chan (1516–1566) had named the town "Siem Reap", meaning "the defeat of Siam", after he repulsed an army sent to invade Cambodia by the Thai King Maha Chakkraphat in 1549.[3] However, scholars such as Michael Vickery consider this derivation to be simply a modern folk etymology, and maintain that while the names Siem Reap and Chenla (old Chinese name for Cambodia) may perhaps be related, the actual origin of the name is unknown.[4]

The traditional tale claims that King Ang Chan of Cambodia tried to assert greater independence from Siam, which was then going through internal struggles. The Siamese King Chairacha had been poisoned by his concubine, Lady Sri Sudachan, who had committed adultery with a commoner, Worawongsathirat, while the king was away leading a campaign against the Kingdom of Chiang Mai. Sudachan then placed her lover on the throne. The Thai nobility lured them outside the city on a royal procession by barge to inspect a newly discovered white elephant. After killing the usurper, along with Sudachan and their newly born daughter, they invited Prince Thianracha to leave the monkhood and assume the throne as King Maha Chakkraphat (1548–1569). With the Thais distracted by their internal problems, King Ang Chan decided the time was right to attack. He seized the Siamese city of Prachin Buri in 1549, sacking the city and making slaves of its inhabitants. Only then did he learn that the succession had been settled and that Maha Chakkraphat was the new ruler. Ang Chan immediately retreated to Cambodia, taking his captives with him. King Maha Chakkraphat was furious over the unprovoked attack, but Burma had also chosen to invade through the Three Pagodas Pass. The Burmese army posed a much more serious threat, as it captured Kanchanaburi and Suphanburi. It then appeared before Ayutthaya itself.

The Thai army managed to defeat the Burmese, who quickly retreated through the pass. Maha Chakkraphat's thoughts then turned to Cambodia. Not only had Ang Chan attacked and looted Prachin Buri, turning its people into slaves, but he also refused to give Maha Chakkraphat a white elephant he had requested, rejecting even this token of submission to Siam.[5] Maha Chakkraphat ordered Prince Ong, the governor of Sawankhalok, to lead an expedition to punish Ang Chan and recover the Thai captives. The rival armies met, and Ang Chan killed Prince Ong with a lucky musket shot from elephant back. The leaderless Thai army fled, and Ang Chan allegedly captured more than 10,000 Siamese soldiers. To celebrate his great victory, King Ang Chan supposedly named the battleground "Siem Reap", meaning "the total defeat of Siam".

In reality, surviving historic sources make this folk tale appear very unlikely, since they date the decline of the Angkor kingdom to more than a century before this, when a military expedition from Ayutthaya captured and sacked Angkor Wat, which began a long period of vassal rule over Cambodia.[6] The 1431 capture coincided with the decline of Angkor, though the reasons behind its abandonment are not clear. They may have included environmental changes and failings in the Khmer infrastructure.[7]

From the sixteenth to the nineteenth centuries, infighting among the Khmer nobility led to periodic intervention and domination by both of Cambodia's more powerful neighbors, Vietnam and Siam. Siem Reap, along with Battambang (Phra Tabong) and Sisophon, major cities in the northwest of Cambodia, was under Siamese administration and the provinces were collectively known as Inner Cambodia from 1795 until 1907, when they were ceded to French Indochina. In fact, during the 18th century, under the rule of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, it was known as Nakhorn Siam (Siam's city), not as "Siam's Defeat"."[8]

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siem_Reap

Sisophon, Battambang& Angkor Wat received by King Sisowath, 1907

Siem Reap - Attractions

Angkor Wat Heritage Area

Angkor Wat (Khmer: អង្គរវត្ត or "Capital Temple") is a temple complex in Cambodia and the largest religious monument in the world,[1] on a site measuring 162.6 hectares (1,626,000 m2; 402 acres). It was originally constructed as a Hindu temple of god Vishnu for the Khmer Empire, gradually transforming into a Buddhist temple towards the end of the 12th century. It was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yaśodharapura (Khmer: យសោធរបុរៈ, present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Breaking from the Shaiva tradition of previous kings, Angkor Wat was instead dedicated to Vishnu. As the best-preserved temple at the site, it is the only one to have remained a significant religious centre since its foundation. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It has become a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on its national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors.

Angkor Wat combines two basic plans of Khmer temple architecture: the temple-mountain and the later galleried temple. It is designed to represent Mount Meru, home of the devas in Hindu mythology: within a moat and an outer wall 3.6 kilometres (2.2 mi) long are three rectangular galleries, each raised above the next. At the centre of the temple stands a quincunx of towers. Unlike most Angkorian temples, Angkor Wat is oriented to the west; scholars are divided as to the significance of this. The temple is admired for the grandeur and harmony of the architecture, its extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls.

Angkor Wat (Wat temple) is the central feature of the Angkor UNESCO World Heritage Site containing the magnificent remains of the Khmer civilization. Angkor Wat's rising series of five towers culminates in an impressive central tower that symbolizes mythical Mount Meru. Thousands of feet of wall space are covered with intricate carving depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. The most important are the Carved Bas reliefs of the Hindu narratives. They tell a story about gods fighting demons in order to reclaim order which can only be achieved by recovering the elixir of life known as amrita. The gods and demons must work together to release it and then battle to attain it.


Angkor Thom

Angkor Thom (Khmer: អង្គរធំ; literally: "Great City"), located in present-day Cambodia, was the last and most enduring capital city of the Khmer empire. It was established in the late twelfth century by King Jayavarman VII.:378–382:170 It covers an area of 9 km², within which are located several monuments from earlier eras as well as those established by Jayavarman and his successors. At the centre of the city is Jayavarman's state temple, the Bayon, with the other major sites clustered around the Victory Square immediately to the north. Other notable sites are Baphuon, Phimeanakas, The Terrace of the Elephants and The Terrace of the Leper King. The city can be accessed through 5 city gates, one on each cardinal point and the Victory Gate on the eastern wall.


Other temples

A number of significant temples are dotted around Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom within the Angkor Archaeological Park, including Ta Prohm, Preah Khan, Banteay Kdei, Phnom Bakheng, Ta Keo, Ta Som, East Mebon, Pre Rup and Neak Pean. These temples may be visited along the grand circuit or the small circuit routes. Other sites are the Roluos group of temples located to the east of Siem Reap.


The Cambodia Landmine Museum and Relief Center

The Landmine Museum offers tourists and Cambodians the chance to see (safe) landmines up close, understand how they work, and what they can do to help rid Cambodia and the world of their continuing threat. It is located approximately 25 km north of Siem Reap (30 minutes by tuk tuk), just 7 km south of the Banteay Srey Temple complex in Angkor National Park. On the way to the museum there are quaint countryside villages, rice paddies and wide views of locals working their fields, as well as local handicrafts "outside the hussle and bussle of town." Some two dozen at-risk Khmer children are educated and live, along with staff, at the Relief Center located on the museum property. The organization has plans for building a farm behind the Center sometime in 2016.


War Museum Cambodia

The War Museum Cambodia covers the last three decades of the 20th century when the Khmer Rouge was active in Cambodia. There is a vast array of vehicles, artillery, weaponry, landmines and equipment on display. The museum is making use of guides who are war veterans who fought for the Cambodian army, the Khmer Rouge or the Vietnamese army.


Angkor National Museum

Opened on 12 November 2007, the Angkor National Museum offers visitors a better understanding of the area's archaeological treasures. The Golden Era of the Khmer Kingdom is presented, including the use of state-of-the-art multimedia technology. The museum covers Khmer history, civilization, and cultural heritage in eight galleries.


Markets

The Old Market or Psah Chas is located between Pub Street and the Siem Reap River, and offers a mixture of souvenirs for tourists and a variety of food produce and other items meant for the locals.

Other markets in Siem Reap include the Angkor Night Market which is located off Sivutha Street, Phsar Kandal (The Central Market) located at Sivutha Street which mainly caters to tourists, and Phsar Leu (The Upper Market) which is located further away along National Road 6 but is the biggest market of Siem Reap used by the locals. The Made in Cambodia Market (initially called "Well Made in Cambodia") is a night market for tourists in Siem Reap where all the products sold should be made in Cambodia. The market hosts daily shows and other events in King's Road.


Nightlife in Siem Reap

The majority of bars and pubs of Siem Reap are concentrated in on a strip called Pub Street and it's surrounding alleys. Although peaceful during the day, the streets in the Pub Street area which is just a block away from the historic Psah Chas (Old Market), comes alive with lights and music. Tourists, both local and international alike, starts pouring into the bars and pubs and give the streets almost a nightly street party scene.

Started in the late 90s by a local business called Angkor What? Bar and followed by it's rival, Temple Bar, from the across the street, Pub street is often recommended as a must-see attraction in Siem Reap.


Artisans Angkor

Artisans Angkor is a semi-public company founded in 1992 which aims to revive traditional Khmer craftsmanship and provide employment for rural artisans. It is also associated with a silk farm where visitors may learn about sericulture and weaving. It also participates in the restoration of historical Angkor sites by repairing and replacing damaged sculptures.


Cambodian Cultural Village

Opened on 24 September 2003, the Cambodian Cultural Village assembles all the miniatures of famous historical buildings and structures of Cambodia. There are 11 unique villages, which represent different culture heritages, local customs and characteristics of 21 multi races.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siem_Reap


2 Day Tour Package Angkor Wat, Banteay Srei & Kbal Spean Itinerary


Day 1 - Angkor Wat (Small Circuit)
  • The Small Circuit tour begins at Angkor Wat and runs through an 18 kilometers circuit around the Angkor Archaeological Park, taking in temples like Angkor Thom, Ta Phrohm, Banteay Kdei, Baphoun, Bayon, The Terrace of the Leper King, The Terrace of the Elephants, Twelve Prasats, Spean Thma and Sras Srang.
  • Back to Melody Villa by about 4pm for a rest and then in the evening we depart on a little night tour of the city.
  • We start at the Royal Gardens and then a slow ride along the river to Kandal Village and then to the Made-In-Cambodia market.
  • The final stop of the tour is the Old Market and Pub Street where you are free to walkabout, shop, eat, drink & massage at any of the many shops here. There are even stalls that sell fried insects for you to eat or photograph.
  • Whenever you are ready to leave, our driver will bring you back to Melody Villa.

Day 2 - Banteay Srei & Kbal Spean
  • Catch a sunrise at the Angkor Wat, before traveling out of the city, through the rural countryside.
  • On the way, we will stop to to sample local snacks and drinks before making our way to Banteay Srei, an exquisite sandstone temple also known as the Citadel of Women.
  • The Angkor Interpretation Center here is also very informative about the various Angkorian periods.
  • We then make our way to Kbal Spean, located in the Kulen mountain range. Here you can hike and relax at the River of a Thousand Linggas and enjoy a nice swim at the waterfalls.
  • Returning to the city, our driver will stop along the way for you to see rural cambodian life as well as to try some of the local fruits and snacks

Includes all entry passes, licenced guide, transportation, 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, snacks, drinks


3 Day Package Tour Angkor, Bantey Seri, Kbal Spean, Tonle Sap itinerary


Day 1 - Angkor Wat (Small Circuit)
  • The Small Circuit tour begins at Angkor Wat and runs through an 18 kilometers circuit around the Angkor Archaeological Park, taking in temples like Angkor Thom, Ta Phrohm, Banteay Kdei, Baphoun, Bayon, The Terrace of the Leper King, The Terrace of the Elephants, Twelve Prasats, Spean Thma and Sras Srang.
  • Back to Melody Villa by about 3pm for a rest and then in the evening we depart on a little night tour of the city.
  • We start at the Royal Gardens and then a slow ride along the river and the Old Market is the next stop followed by a walkabout through Night market and Pub Street.
  • Here you are free to have dinner at any of the many restaurants scattered around. There are also many shops selling everything from clothes to shoes to souvenirs and you might even want to try a foot massage, a fish message, or any of the other services around. There are even stalls that sell fried insects here.
  • Whenever you are ready to leave, our driver will bring you back to Melody Villa.

Day 2 - Banteay Srei
  • Catch a sunrise at the Angkor Wat, before traveling out of the city, through the rural countryside.
  • On the way, we will stop to to sample local snacks and drinks before making our way to Banteay Srei, an exquisite sandstone temple also known as the Citadel of Women.
  • The Angkor Interpretation Center here is also very informative about the various Angkorian periods.
  • We then make our way to Kbal Spean, located in the Kulen mountain range. Here you can hike and relax at the River of a Thousand Linggas and enjoy a nice swim at the waterfalls.
  • Returning to the city, our driver will stop along the way for you to see rural cambodian life as well as to try some of the local fruits and snacks

Day 3 - City & Tonle Sap
  • We begin the day at around 8.30am and go into the city, starting at the Old Market area where you get to see a real Cambodian wet market. Lots of photo opportunities abound here along with a wide variety of fruits, and souvenirs.
  • Our next stop is Kandal Village, a hip little hood with great coffee shops, boutiques, and other interesting stuff.
  • We then go to the Made-In-Cambodia market, an authentic local producers market.
  • In the afternoon, visit lotus farm, crocodile farm and boat cruise through the floating village of Tonle Sap Lake
  • Sunset cruise with buffet dinner and drinks on the Tara Queen ship on the Great Lake.

* Please note that this itinerary can be done over a week as the Angkor 3-day pass is valid over a 7 day period.

Includes all entry passes, licenced guide, sunset cruise, 5 meals, snacks, drinks, cruise


4 Day Package Tour Angkor, Phnom Kulen, Bantey Seri, Kbal Spean, Tonle Sap itinerary


Day 1 - Angkor Wat Small Circuit
  • We start the Small Circuit tour at 8am and we begin at Angkor Wat and runs through an 18 kilometers circuit around the Angkor Archaeological Park, taking in temples like Angkor Thom, Ta Phrohm, Banteay Kdei, Baphoun, Bayon, The Terrace of the Leper King, The Terrace of the Elephants, Twelve Prasats, Spean Thma and Sras Srang.
  • Back to Melody Villa by about 3pm for a rest and then in the evening we depart on a little night tour of the city.
  • We start at the Royal Gardens and then a slow ride along the river and the Old Market is the next stop followed by a walkabout through Night market and Pub Street where you are free to walk around, shop, get a massage, eat & drink.
  • Whenever you are ready to leave, our driver will bring you back to Melody Villa.

Day 2 - Kulen Mountain & Beng Mealea
  • We depart at 5am to catch the sunrise at the Angkor Wat, before traveling out of the city, through the rural countryside.
  • Phnom Kulen is a sacred mountain with special religious and historical significance and was the first capital of the Angkor empire.
  • Enjoy a nice full day trekking the hills, visiting the sacred river, the Reclining Buddha and the waterfalls, where you can enjoy a nice swim and some relaxing nature time.
  • On the way back, the tour stops at Beng Mealea, another important temple from the Angkor period.
  • You will be back in Melody Villa by 5pm.

Day 3 - Angkor Wat Grand Tour
  • The Grand Circuit of Angkor Wat, which is a 22 km extension of the small circuit and includes Preah Khan, Preah Neak Pean, Eastern Mebon and other monuments including Ta Som, Preah Rup. The Grand Circuit encompasses a good representation of the rich variety of architecture in the Angkor Archaeological Park.
  • In the afternoon, we will make our way up to Bakheng hill to catch the sunset overlooking the whole park.

Day 4 - City Tour & Tonle Sap
  • We begin the day at around 8.30am and go into the city, starting at the Old Market area where you get to see a real Cambodian wet market. Lots of photo opportunities abound here along with a wide variety of fruits, and souvenirs.
  • Our next stop is Kandal Village, a hip little hood with great coffee shops, boutiques, and other interesting stuff.
  • We then go to the Made-In-Cambodia market, an authentic local producers market.
  • In the afternoon, visit lotus farm, crocodile farm and boat cruise through the floating village of Tonle Sap Lake
  • Sunset cruise with buffet dinner and drinks on the Tara Queen ship on the Great Lake.

Includes all entry passes, transport (tuktuk, car, boat), licensed guide, 3 breakfast, 3 lunches, 1 buffet dinner, snacks, drinks, sunset cruise.


7 Day Package Tour Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Banteay Srei, Kbal Spean, Tonle Sap, Kampung Phluk, Siem Reap itinerary


Day 1 - Arrival, City by night
  • Your personal driver for the week, will be at the airport at 9.30am to welcome you.
  • He will stop at the superstore near us for you to pick up essentials, produce and drinks as well as to get an idea of what’s available there.
  • An early lunch will be delivered to the villa just as you arrive.
  • Early evening or when you are rested, we go to the Royal Gardens and then a slow ride along old Siem Reap to King Road Angkor where you will be treated to a traditional Cambodian Dance performance.
  • The Made-In-Cambodia market here has original and authentic products and helps support home-based cottage industries.
  • We walk to the Old Market and through the Night market and Pub Street where you are free to walk around, shop, get a massage, eat & drink.
  • Recommended places to eat : Chamkar (Cambodian vegetarian), Il Forno (Italian), Dakshin’s (Indian), Blue Pumpkin (breads and ice-Cream)
  • When you are ready to leave, driver will bring you back home.

Day 2 - Angkor Wat Small Circuit
  • At 8 am to the Angkor National Museum.
  • Then the Small Circuit which begins at Angkor Wat and runs through an 18 kilometers circuit around the Angkor Archaeological Park, taking in temples like Angkor Thom, Ta Phrohm, Banteay Kdei, Baphoun, Bayon, The Terrace of the Leper King, The Terrace of the Elephants, Twelve Prasats, Spean Thma and Sras Srang.
  • You can cook (we have tiffin containers) and the driver will set up a spot, overlooking the temples, for you to have a nice picnic lunch. Or you can cater
  • Back to Melody Villa by about 4 to 5 pm, and we recommend a nice foot or body massage after the long walks. We can arrange for someone to come to your villa.

Day 3 - Village And Rual Life
  • At 8 am, we leave the city and travel to a village surrounded by rice fields. You will see real Cambodian life and even get to talk to the inhabitants.
  • We continue the drive out to Kampung Phluk and get on a boat to the Tonle Sap lake to visit the floating villages. We visit a school, a temple and the home of one of my staff’s mum. It’s generally a relaxed day with lots of amazing photogenic opportunities. And conversations.
  • There is not much in the way for “strict” vegetarian food here (other than fruits) so prior arrangement is necessary.
  • Back to Melody Villa by 7.30pm.

Day 4 - Banteay Srei & Kbal Spean
  • 4am - Catch a sunrise at the Angkor Wat, before traveling out of the city, through the rural countryside.
  • On the way, we will stop to to sample local snacks and drinks before making our way to Banteay Srei, an exquisite sandstone temple also known as the Citadel of Women.
  • The Angkor Interpretation Center here is also very informative about the various Angkorian periods.
  • We then make our way to Kbal Spean, located in the Kulen mountain range. Here you can hike and relax at the River of a Thousand Lingas and enjoy a nice swim at the waterfalls.
  • Returning to the city, our driver will stop along the way for you to see rural cambodian life as well as to try some of the local fruits and snacks.
  • Again, food arrangements have to be made for this day.
  • You will be back in Melody Villa by 6pm.

Day 5 - Angkor Wat Grand Tour
  • The Grand Circuit of Angkor Wat, which is a 22 km extension of the small circuit and includes Preah Khan, Preah Neak Pean, Eastern Mebon and other monuments including Ta Som, Preah Rup.
  • Another packed picnic lunch is recommended. Borai will find a nice spot.
  • It might be a hard climb (for some) but the view and sunset from the top of Bakheng hill is spectacular. Due to the limited number of visitors they allow to the top of the temple, we need to go up early.
  • You will be back in Melody Villa by 6.30pm after sunset or much earlier if you skip the hill.

Day 6 -City and Cultural Discovery
  • In the morning we leave to the city to walk around. We will also explore a few interesting spots around the city including Kandal Village, Artisan Angkor and the Old Market.
  • At 12.30pm, we leave to visit a lotus farm.
  • And then to the Cambodian Cultural Village to get a deeper understanding of what it means to be Khmer.
  • Back home after sunset

Day 7 -Departure
  • We say goodbye and driver sends you to the airport

Includes all entrance passes, tuktuk, car & boat, licensed guide, gifts for villages, airport pickup and dropoff.

Not included is food, tips, and other miscellaneous expenses

Food in not included here but we highly recommend catering a tiffin for the Angkor Wat and full day tours. We can discuss this when you arrive.


Day Tour Options


A1. Angkor Wat Small Circuit & City night tour
  • Leave at 4.30 am if you want to catch the sunrise at Angkor Wat. Otherwise, you will be picked up at 8 am.
  • The Small Circuit tour begins at Angkor Wat and runs through an 18 kilometers circuit around the Angkor Archaeological Park, taking in temples like Angkor Thom, Ta Phrohm, Banteay Kdei, Baphoun, Bayon, The Terrace of the Leper King, The Terrace of the Elephants, Twelve Prasats, Spean Thma and Sras Srang.
  • Lunch can be at any of the local restaurants or if you like, be delivered to you at Angkor Wat and our driver will set up a nice picnic lunch overlooking the temples (if weather permits).
  • We are back to Melody Villa by about 3pm for a short rest and then in the evening we depart on a little tour of the city, starting at the Royal Gardens, the french quarters and old Siem Reap.
  • We stop at the Made-in- Cambodia market to catch a traditional dance performance as well as look at authentic Cambodian products.
  • A short walk across the river takes us to the Old Market, Night Market and Pub Street where you are free to shop, get a massage or a spa treatment, eat & drink and generally take in the tourist heart of Siem Reap.
  • Whenever you are ready to leave, our driver will bring you back to Melody Villa.
  • Recommended add-on: The Angkor National Museum is an excellent starting point on your discovery of this once mighty empire. Best done before visiting the temples.

map11.jpg

Cost
  • Angkor Wat Pass (1 day=$37, 3 days=$62, 7 days=$72) per person.
  • Museum: $18 per person.
  • Tuk-tuk =$15 (+$5 for sunrise), Car=$30 - full day, max 4 people
  • Guide: $35 (English), $50 (Chinese, Japanese, Korean) - full day
  • Lunch at Angkor Wat : $10 to $15.
  • Catered picnic lunch: $12
  • Drinks & Snacks: $5

A2. Angkor Wat Grand Tour
  • Leave at 8am for the Grand Circuit of Angkor Wat, which is a 22 km extension of the small circuit and includes Preah Khan, Preah Neak Pean, Eastern Mebon and other monuments including Ta Som, Preah Rup. The Grand Circuit encompasses a good representation of the rich variety of architecture in the Angkor Archaeological Park.
  • Lunch will be at a local restaurant in the Park or you can choose to have a catered picnic lunch overlooking the temples.
  • In the afternoon, we will make our way up to Bakheng hill to catch the (hopefully amazing) sunset overlooking the whole park.
  • We are back at Melody Villa by 6.30pm
  • Recommended add-on: The Angkor National Museum is an excellent starting point on your discovery of this once mighty empire. Best done before visiting the temples.

map22.jpg

Cost
  • Angkor Wat Pass (1 day=$37, 3 days=$62, 7 days=$72)
  • Museum: $18 per person.
  • Tuk-tuk =$20, Car=$35 (full day) - 4 people maximum
  • Guide: $35 (English), $50 (Chinese, Japanese, Korean) - (full day)
  • Lunch at Angkor Wat : $10 to $15.
  • Catered lunch: $12
  • Drinks & Snacks: $5

K1. Kulen Mountain & Beng Mealea
  • We depart at 5am to catch the sunrise at the Angkor Wat, before traveling out of the city, through the rural countryside. Phnom Kulen is a sacred mountain with special religious and historical significance and was the first capital of the Angkor empire.
  • Enjoy a nice full day trekking the hills, visiting the sacred river, the Reclining Buddha and the waterfalls, where you can enjoy lunch, a nice swim and some relaxing nature time.
  • On the way back, the tour stops at Beng Mealea, another important temple from the Angkor period.
  • The drive back will meander through rural Cambodia and you are encouraged to try naturally grown fruits and snacks on the way.
  • You will be back in Melody Villa by 5pm.

Cost
  • Kulen Pass - $20 per person
  • Car: $50 (full day) - 4 people maximum
  • Guide: $40 (English), $60 (Chinese, Japanese, Korean) - (full day)
  • Lunch at Kulen : $10 to $20.
  • Catered lunch: $15
  • Drinks & Snacks: $5

B1. Banteay Srei & Kbal Spean
  • We depart at 5am to catch a sunrise at the Angkor Wat before traveling out of the city, through the rural countryside.
  • On the way, we will stop for a local breakfast and sample local snacks and drinks before making our way to Banteay Srei, an exquisite sandstone temple also known as the Citadel of Women.
  • The Angkor Interpretation Center here is also very informative about the various Angkorian periods.
  • We then make our way to Kbal Spean, located in the Kulen mountain range. Here you can hike and relax at the River of a Thousand Lingas and enjoy a nice swim at the waterfalls.
  • Returning to the city, our driver will stop along the way for you to see rural cambodian life as well as to try some of the local fruits and snacks.
  • You will be back in Melody Villa by 6pm.

Costs:
  • Angkor Wat Pass (1 day=$37, 3 days=$62, 7 days=$72)
  • Tuk-tuk =$30, Car=$50 (full day) - 4 people maximum
  • Guide: $40 (English), $60 (Chinese, Japanese, Korean) - (full day)
  • Breakfast: $3 to $5
  • Lunch at Kbal Spean: $10 to $20.
  • Catered lunch: $15
  • Drinks & Snacks: $5

C1. City, Tonle Sap, Kompung Phluk
  • We begin the day at around 8.30am and go into the city, starting at the Old Market area where you get to see a real Cambodian wet market. Lots of photo opportunities abound here along with a wide variety of fruits, snacks and souvenirs.
  • Our next stop is Kandal Village, a hip little hood with great coffee shops, boutiques, and other interesting shops.
  • After an early lunch, we leave the city and the first stop is a lotus farm.
  • We then continue on to the great Tonle Sap lake, taking in the serene landscape of rural Cambodia.
  • We get on a boat to cruise through to the floating village where you get to see life on the water. You will get to meet and speak with locals as well as visit temples, school and others. There is an amazing Mangrove forests in that area too.
  • Back at Melody Villa by 8 pm

Costs:
  • Kompung Phluk tickets - $25 per person
  • Tuk-tuk =$20, Car=$40 - 4 people maximum
  • Guide: $35 (English), $50 (Chinese, Japanese, Korean) - (full day)
  • Gifts for Monks, kids and others you meet: $- (if you like)
  • Lunch at City : $5 to $10
  • Food at Kompung Phluk: $5 to $10
  • Drinks & Snacks: $5

X1. Other Activities
  • Cambodian Cultural Village and its exhibits, shows and food is a great way to experience what is means to be Cambodian. There is a set program and you have to enter by 1.30pm latest. You will be out by 8pm. $18 per person plus $5 for a guide.
  • Angkor Zipline - Walk on the canopy of the ancient Angkor forest and ride a zipline while seeing endangered animals. Expect to spend at least 3 to 5 hours. 59$ (8 trees) / $99 (15 trees) per person
  • Tonle Sap Biosphere tour - Visit an important ecosystem and breeding ground for indigenous and migrating birds at Prek Toul. Full day from 6am to 3pm. $165 per person (inclusive of transport, meal & drinks)
  • Buddhism & Spiritual tour - Gain a deeper insight into Theravada Buddhism by visiting and talking with monks at a local pagoda. A water blessing & countryside tour is included. Half-day (afternoons only). $30 per person (inclusive of transport, meal & drinks).
  • Photography tours & workshops: Hands-on lessons from a professional photographer so you can shoot amazing and unique photos of one of the most photographed world heritage site. Fully immerse yourself in the world of photography by learning, shooting and processing great photos. .If you are already a professional photographer and want a fast way to get the best of Ankor Wat, then a guided tour with a long-time Angkor Wat photographer is a must. You will have the opportunity to capture rare and off-the- beaten track pictures Workshops and tours are from 1 day and up and costs from $50 to $500 per person.
  • Microlight tours: Spectacular aerial views of Angkor Wat, Tonle Sap and the countryside. from $99 upwards per person.
  • Balloon: See the Angkor Wat atop a giant balloon. From $90 person.
  • Food tours - Experience the wide variety of food in Siem Reap. The tour takes you through the market, the streets and restaurants in a gastronomical adventure of Cambodian cuisine. Starts at 4pm till late. Foodie guide: $20 (up to 6 people) and pay for your own food and drinks.
  • Cooking Class: half day & full day. from $22 to $35
  • Ceramics & Pottery: half day & full day: from $16 to $22
  • Wood Carving: half day & full day: from $22 to $35
  • Circus: Be mesmerized by the captivating choreography of Phare’s performance in Siem Reap, in a 90- minute spectacle that blends riveting theater with folk music and distinctly Cambodian stories. Tickets: $18 / $25 / $28 / $35 each.

Golf Tour

Day 1 – Pickup and Golf
  • Pick up at the airport and then transfer to check in at Melody Villa Holiday Homes.
  • In the afternoon, play 18 holes at the Nick Faldo designed Angkor Golf Course.
  • Free and easy for the evening with options to drink and dine at Pub Street.

Day 2 – Golf & Angkor Wat
  • 8am - 1 round of 18-holes at Sofitel's Phokeethra Country Club
  • Lunch and rest.
  • At 4pm, go to Angkor Wat and Sra Srang for sunset.
  • Evening, free and easy, spa, dine, drinks.

Day 3 - Angkor Wat Tour
  • Leave at 8am for the tour of the World Heritage Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom.
  • Back to Melody Villa by 3pm.
  • In the evening, Night Market

Day 4 - City Tour & Tonle Sap
  • Morning round of 18-holes at Angkor Golf Resort.
  • Afternoon, visit Artisan Angkor.
  • Free and easy - spa, dine, drink, shop, etc

Day 5 - Departure
  • Breakfast
  • Airport Dropoff

Includes all entry passes, transport (tuktuk, car), licensed guide. Golf Charges include all fees except shoes and club rental


About the Courses

Angkor Golf Resort

The Sir Nick Faldo designed Angkor Golf Resort opened in January 2008 and is, without doubt, the finest golf course in Cambodia.

All year round this course is presented in immaculate condition. The tees, fairways and greens are maintained to a high standard. The course measures 7,279 yards from the back tees. But don’t let the length deter you as there are a further three tee boxes on each hole. Maybe the blue course measuring at 6,666 yards is more appealing to the mid-handicap golfer.

Each hole will make you think from the tee. There is an abundance of bunker and water hazards throughout the course. But thankfully these are clearly visible when negotiating a hole. A quote from the course states, “Our fairways are typically generous, but our bunkering style is impressively bold. The greens have plenty of subtle undulations and they reward and encourage a variety of approach shots”.

By the time you reach the 16th hole you will be looking forward to a refreshing drink in the impressive contemporary clubhouse. But first you must negotiate the difficult final stretch. The 16th is a monster 593 yard par 5 that only the very long hitters will be reaching in two shots. Whilst the 17th is the longest par 3 on the course measuring 208 yards with water guarding the green on the right side. Finally the 18th hole, a par 4 of 437 yards requires you to skirt the water down the left hand-side of the fairway to give the best approach to the dog- leg hole.

A visit to the 300 meter grass driving range prior to your round is recommended. This a great practice facility to hone your game with an abundance of target greens and a chipping area. This is an exceptional course and you’ll most probably want to play more than once. ​


Phokeethra Country Club​

Phokeethra Country Club is a Sofitel managed international standard golf course which has hosted Asian PGA Tour events.

Designed to a championship standard​,​ this impressive layout will test your strategic skills to the full. Water comes into play on all but one hole, plus the final hole requires the player to negotiate a double water carry.

Sweeping fairways and generous greens gives Phokeethra Country Club its distinctive feel. Natural lagoons and water hazards are abundant which just adds to the beauty of this 7,327 yards course. Four tees are available on each hole ensuring golfers​, ​without the ability to play a tour length layout,​ can enjoy their game.

There is a pitching green and putting green located close to the clubhouse allowing you to perfect your skills before your round commences. A very inviting clubhouse and restaurant awaits on completion. Whilst on the course make sure you get a view of the restored Khmer ‘Roluh’ bridge between the 9th green and 10th tee. As the club’s moto states, “Tee-off in the 11th century, finish your round in the 21st century”.