We have 8 guests online
13 Apr - 16 Apr
Place: Across Siem Reap and Cambodia
Lasting three full days in mid-April (13 - 16 April), Khmer New Year is, arguably, the most popular festival and national holiday in Cambodia. Khmer New Year, or Chol Chnam Thmey as it is called in Khmer, coincides with the end of the harvesting season so farmers celebrate the New Year with their families and enjoy some relaxation before the rainy season starts again.
People travel from near and far to meet with their families, visiting the temples and celebrations are widespread all over the country. Streets are often packed with people enjoying some time with their friends and families and you will also see traditional games and dances.
The throwing of water is also a notable feature this special time of year and, although it has been limited in the main tourist areas, it's still widespread in the countryside and rural areas.
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I have been a travel consultant for over 25 years. I knew that if I was really going to appreciate the Angkor Wat complex and Siem Reap, I would need the assistance of a local guide. After much research, I decided on Vanith Hoeum and I was not disappointed.
Vanith was very helpful with suggestions, as we arranged our itinerary via email. As expected, when we landed, a smiling Vanith was waiting for us for our transfer. When we first arrived in 2009, the streets of Siem Reap were flooded and our family of six certainly benefited from the expertise and local knowledge of Vanith and his team. Not only were Vanith and his team always punctual in appointed pick-ups, they were able to adjust to the difficult circumstances while we pursued our proposed itinerary.
Vanith is university educated, speaks and writes excellent English, he is very knowledgeable, polite and flexible with our arrangements. He is well regarded as a tour guide and was chosen to be part of the “Amazing Race” team when they arrived in Siem Reap. We found Vanith to be very trustworthy and decent. We always felt safe and well looked after in his company. We enjoyed, not only his fantastic local knowledge of the area, but also his own stories.
We returned to Siem Reap in late 2010 with friends and again a smiling Vanith greeted us at the airport (this time there was no flooding). Vanith and his team were as ever reliable, friendly and flexible during our 9 day stay during which period our daughter volunteered at the ADOCO children’s orphanage, which was, for her, a rewarding experience.
Angkor Wat is a special place. You really need the expertise of a guide to truly appreciate its rich history and beauty. I can highly recommend Vanith Hoeum as an excellent tour guide.