Discover low waste, ecologically friendly restaurants, bars, hotels, and shops in Siem Reap. Centrally located, but far enough from Pub Street to be hip, these are our go-to spots for relaxing after a long day at Angkor Wat.
Where to Eat
Wild Creative Bar & Eatery
Sip locally sourced cocktails under the stars and chow down on freshly made spring rolls.
What we love: It’s kid friendly, no fuss, and above all, tasty. All the ingredients are local, and they run a plastic-free kitchen.
Know before you go: Wild only has a few tables, so be sure to reserve in advance. When they’re busy, service might be slow, but you can take advantage of their wide selection of board games to play while you wait.
Genevieve's Restaurant
Fantastic French food in a beautifully conceived space. Not the cheapest destination, but a great splurge. Focus is on locally sourced produce with a French flair, including some of the best baguettes I’ve had in Asia.
What we love: The decoration is lovely, the menu is seasonal, and the staff are lovely.
Know before you go: The restaurant is spread across an atypical space, so choose your location when you reserve. Use your judgement if you have antsy kids as some of the tables are former sewing wheels!
Where to Shop
Rehash Trash - Green Gecko
What’s not to adore? This souvenir shop is dedicating to helping local communities make money by collecting trash and turning it into treasure. If you want to get some souvenirs that are actually helping the environment and local communities, this is the place for it.
What we love: It’s not easy to find in Asia, but this gem of a hotel is centrally located, gay friendly, socially conscious, absolutely beautiful, and won’t break the bank.
Know before you go: Don’t want to buy something in person? You can donate or shop online.
What to Do
Grasshopper Bike Tours
Get off the beaten path at Angkor Wat and explore the majesty of the ruins on your bike. You’ll be paired with a knowledgeable guide, making this a great first day of exploring the ruins. We recommend doing a ride with Grasshopper and then a self-guided tour with a local tuk tuk driver on another day.
What we love: Angkor Wat is a bit overrun with tour buses and people looking for their “perfect” Instagram picture. So long as it isn’t going to be too hot when you are there, why not get out on a bike and escape the crowds? Grasshopper has a variety of tours and offers child seats as an option.
Know before you go: Prices don’t include entry to the ruins, so you’ll need to get those in advance (when you do get your tickets, we recommend taking a moment to check out the market to the South West of the ticket office and its terrifying array of BBQ scorpions, tarantulas, and the ilk). It is pricier than getting a local tuk tuk driver, but it makes for a more rewarding experience.
Where to Sleep
A secluded oasis just off the old market, Rambutan Hotel is a boutique hotel that offers a drop of luxury at quite reasonable rates.
What we love: It’s not easy to find in Asia, but this gem of a hotel is centrally located, gay friendly, socially conscious, absolutely beautiful, and won’t break the bank.
Know before you go: The hotel has two sites and a variety of rooms – some with outdoor tubs and splash showers.
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