Taking advantage of the photogenic temples of Angkor Wat, Siem Reap has become a hub for professional photographers and over the past few years, a number of excellent photo galleries have set up. There is even now the annual Angkor Photography Festival, held in the last week of November. During the festival there are photo workshops for the kids of Anjali, a centre for underprivileged children in Siem Reap.

Carnets d’Asie mixes contemporary art house photography, shots of temples and images of early 20th century Cambodian and colonial life. The collection features some rare finds, including works by local artists as well as fine temple reproductions and statuary. The large, tinted photographs of Pier Poretti features large in the collection. Other photos include early Apsara images and Lara Croft-inspired collages of Angelina Jolie.

Going contemporary, John McDermott has a gallery within the FCC complex, which also shows the works of Japanese photographer Kenro Izu. Much of McDermott’s work focuses on Angkor Wat. With the use of infrared photography and other techniques he has managed to produce a number of darkly atmospheric shots of the temples shrouded by threatening light and ominous clouds. The photographer also opened a new gallery near the Old Market, showcasing his own and other photographers’ works.

Another option is the Arthouse, a contemporary gallery above The Warehouse. The Arts Lounge within the Hotel de la Paix, is another venue with temporary exhibitions.

The heart of Siem Reap nightlife is Pub Street and adjacent alleys. In the evening this street in the centre of town close to the Old Market is only for pedestrians. Tuk-tuk and moto drivers are kept out at the street entrance.

In Pub Street itself there are only a few proper bars left, the rest are restaurants. But in surrounding streets you will find bars, especially in the alleyway to the north.

Don't forget to explore those streets around Pub Street. You'll find a few good restaurants which offer their fare at very competitive prices.

Close to Pub Street is Sivatha Street where you'll find the most unique bar/restaurant in Cambodia: Dead Fish Tower, with a creative and unusual decor.

Apsara Dancing is one of the biggest attractions for visitors to Siem Reap after the Angkor temples and it is on most visitors list of things to do.

There a number of places in Siem Reap to see Apsara Dancing now and most of these places are restaurants which provide a buffet style meal and a dance show. Though less professional than the Royal Ballet in Phnom Penh, Apsara Dancing is definitely worth seeing in Seam Reap and it is a nice evening out.

If you still are not tired, and don't feel to go to bed, there is a place where you can spend your night, The Zone. This is a club, located a little bit out of the center, in the direction of the airport. International dance music, drinks at a fair price. Most of the people are Cambodian. You will probably leave this place with one or more new Cambodian friends.

Old Market (Psar Chas)

The Old Market is in the centre of Siem Reap town opposite the Siem Reap river. You will see many visitors looking for souvenirs or just browsing.

Of course you'll have to practice your bargaining skills here, but always do it with a bit of humour. In the end it will get you a better price! And don't hassle over the last 1000 riels.

Some vendors claim their old stone carvings are from Angkor. They probably are not, but still do not buy those. It of course is illegal to take Angkorian artefacts out of the country and you may run into serious problems with customs.

Other things to buy in Siem Reap at the Old Market are gold and silver jewellery, and gemstones. There is also a food section where you can buy fruit, vegetables, meat, fish and groceries.

Night Market

The Angkor Night Market is open from 4:00pm to midnight and is just at the back of Sivatha Street. This market sells many items such as handicrafts, souvenirs, clothes, jewelry and it also has an Asian food court, foot & head massage, live painting and an entertainment area.

WARNING: Be aware of pick pockets in the markets and make sure to carry your bags and money close to your body.