Siem Reap exists as the gateway to nearby Angkor Wat, so you might expect it to be a terrible place that one must tolerate in order to visit the amazing temples, but it’s actually a lovely little town that is a good place to just hang around for a while if you have some time. Hotels in Siem Reap range from very cheap to world-class resorts, and quality at the low end is generally pretty good. You’ll even find the cheapest hostel beds in the world in Siem Reap.
It’s true that visiting the temples is perhaps the highest priced tourist attraction in the whole region, but once you are inside you see why it costs what it does, and you’ll realize it’s well worth it. Budget minded travelers might prefer a one-day ticket that also allows for a sunset visit the day before as a great way to see more of the place without rushing too much.
Food and drinks tend to be quite cheap and quality is fairly high, with an amazing assortment of places on Pub Street and the small alley nearby. Draft beer in particular is a great bargain, with happy hour deals at most places, but you can get wine, spirits, and exotic cocktails at decent prices as well.
