Asia - Worth a side trip to Angkor Wat while visiting Thailand?

I'm in the early stages of planning my first trip to Thailand (getting my ff award tickets). I've spent a fair amount of time in Asia (especially China), but I've never been to Thailand. I'm taking my wife and kids (young teenagers). We've got about 10 days "in country."

Looking at a map, I see that Angkor Wat is quite close to Thailand, especially BKK. And it seems very much on the beaten path these days. If you had 10 days in Thailand, would you trade a few of those days (maybe 3?) for Angkor Wat? If so, is there value in flying to Siem Reap, or is land transport efficient?

Thanks for the advice.

My GF and I spent 2 days in Siem Reap after 5 days in BKK. I think it's definitely worth it. We flew b/c it is such a sort flight. I think we paid $100 each for 1-way tixs. We proceeded to Phnom Penh via bus and then to Vietnam.

"or is land transport efficient? " haha, awesome joke! Try the land route if you want a REAL adventure ... Otherwise fly; the side trip will be worthwhile.

"or is land transport efficient? " haha, awesome joke! Try the land route if you want a REAL adventure ... Otherwise fly; the side trip will be worthwhile.

What are you talking about? Old memories perhaps? Nowadays, it's not a particular challenging route or adventure, particularly not since the Cambodian road from the border to Siem Reap was completely paved in 2009. It's one of the better intercity highway stretches in Cambodia now. With some advance research, it's not that hard to get a good description of options to get to Thai-Cambo border, scam avoidance, the crossing itself, and then the rest of the trip. One should allow a day (7-8 hours incl crossing time) to do the entire route though.

BKK-REP flights are a pricey PG monopoly but if you've GotBucks, it's the quickest way. Alternative option priced between the all-overland or the PG flight, is flight BKK-PNH then private car or public bus between PNH and REP. However, when you figure in the front-end time to BKK and check-in, immigration, security, etc, time savings over the all-overland from BKK might end up being nothing, when all is said and done.

However you get there, a trip to Angkor is absolutely worth the effort. Try to spend about 3 full days there.

Strongly recommend getting an English speaking tour guide, who would then arrange local transport. Well worth the money if you're with a family and once in a lifetime visit.

There are a couple of threads re tour guides here, take a peek
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/search.php?searchid=12462863

Thanks guys. BTW, does adding Angkor Wat to a "mainstream" Thailand trip require more drugs? I think I'm going to have to subject the family to the anti-malarial meds for an upcoming trip to southern Africa, so I'd rather not do it to them again (unless we need it for Thailand, anyway).

It sounds like flying is way more efficient than land transport. It also sounds like there are some tricks to get tickets cheap. Since I'll need 5, I'd appreciate any advice on how to minimize the cost (like which program is GotBucks?).

I'm hoping to fly home from Siam Reap with a stopover in China using a Star Alliance award.

Thanks guys. BTW, does adding Angkor Wat to a "mainstream" Thailand trip require more drugs? I think I'm going to have to subject the family to the anti-malarial meds for an upcoming trip to southern Africa, so I'd rather not do it to them again (unless we need it for Thailand, anyway).

It sounds like flying is way more efficient than land transport. It also sounds like there are some tricks to get tickets cheap. Since I'll need 5, I'd appreciate any advice on how to minimize the cost (like which program is GotBucks?).

I'm hoping to fly home from Siam Reap with a stopover in China using a Star Alliance award.

Anti-malarials probably not needed if flying from BKK to REP, if you use some repellents, and if you are going between Nov-April/May when it's not rainy and wet. Thailand--I suspect that wherever you are likely to be going (on the tourist trail), you won't need. Remember that malaria is probably not your biggest issue--dengue is. And there is nothing much you can do about preventing that except use repellents diligently and don't get bitten.

GotBucks! Wish it was a program that I qualified for! Mostly it has to do with size of one's bank account. :D

Thanks guys. BTW, does adding Angkor Wat to a "mainstream" Thailand trip require more drugs? I think I'm going to have to subject the family to the anti-malarial meds for an upcoming trip to southern Africa, so I'd rather not do it to them again (unless we need it for Thailand, anyway).

It sounds like flying is way more efficient than land transport. It also sounds like there are some tricks to get tickets cheap. Since I'll need 5, I'd appreciate any advice on how to minimize the cost (like which program is GotBucks?).

I'm hoping to fly home from Siam Reap with a stopover in China using a Star Alliance award.

No malarials needed in most of Thailand nor REP.

I loved Angkor. But frankly with only 10 days total to spend I would just see Thailand. UNLESS you don't think you will ever return to this part of the world, in which case I would do it.

I'm doing a day trip to Siem Reap shortly and would like to ask a question. Our flight arrives at 9am and the journey continues at 7pm on the same day. I was planning to hire a driver for the day and visit the most important temples.

Since we would be having all our luggage in the car for the day, how big of a risk is it that the driver simply leaves with all our stuff instead of earning the $25? Should we book a reliable driver in advance to minimize this risk?

I'm doing a day trip to Siem Reap shortly and would like to ask a question. Our flight arrives at 9am and the journey continues at 7pm on the same day. I was planning to hire a driver for the day and visit the most important temples.

Since we would be having all our luggage in the car for the day, how big of a risk is it that the driver simply leaves with all our stuff instead of earning the $25? Should we book a reliable driver in advance to minimize this risk?

There's a Left Luggage at Siem Reap Airport where you can stick all your luggage for a small fee per piece. Lock it up or have it shrink-wrapped or strapped there. Take anything valuable with you in a small daypack. Or you can take it all with you in the car. In this event, I'd lock all the luggage pieces, but I think chances of the driver taking off with your stuff is pretty minimal. You'll of course have his car license plate written down and take a nice photo of him and the car at the outset. ;) Given that the cost differential shouldn't be all that much, reserving a driver through a reputable agency would probably be OK vs an independent cruiser.

Thanks! It's probably better to leave our stuff at the airport. Any suggestions of a reputable agency?

I'm doing a day trip to Siem Reap shortly and would like to ask a question. Our flight arrives at 9am and the journey continues at 7pm on the same day. I was planning to hire a driver for the day and visit the most important temples

Did you check if the one night stay rule for the tourist visa is still enforced ?

Hi again. OK, I now have 12 days in Thailand and I still think I want to take the family to Angkor Wat for about 3 days. Howver, flying doesn't seem possible: my Star Alliance award ticket won't get me to Siam Reap (amazingly, Thai Airways doesn't fly there) and fares look pricey. There are 5 of us, so I'd need a very cheap fare to fly.

So I guess I'm looking at land options. Given my relatively tight schedule, I don't want to waste a day in each direction from BKK to get there (I don't want to spend 5 days on the Cambodia portion of my trip). Is there a time efficient and cost efficient way to do this?

Also, a "best of Thailand" trip seems to require a visit to both the north of Thailand and the southern beaches. Is there any way to more efficiently combine this with a visit to Angkor Wat or for practical (aka cost) reasons am I pretty much looking at Bangkok to Siam Reap back-and-forth, and then I can head elsewhere in Thailand?

Thanks for the help.

EDIT:

I found this rather comprehensive transport guide for BKK-Siam Reap on the seat61 website. It sure sounds like too much of a time waster to do this by land. I'll have to look at other air routes to Cambodia on Air Asia and such -- or just punt Angkor Wat from my itinerary.

http://www.seat61.com/Cambodia.htm#Siem Reap

my Star Alliance award ticket won't get me to Siam Reap (amazingly, Thai Airways doesn't fly there) and fares look pricey.

How are you getting to BKK? OZ does fly ICN-REP:

19:15-22:40 OZ737

And REP-ICN:

23:40-07:00 +1 day OZ738

Any way you can fly an open jaw, into REP, return from BKK (or vv)? That way you'd only need to worry about a one-way flight REP-BKK or vv.

Do not punt on Angkor Wat. Amazing place.

Angkor Wat is one of the world's wonders. Try hard to make it work.

Angkor Wat is one of the world's wonders. Try hard to make it work.

You must do Angkor Wat.
Will gladly go back.

If anyone goe, make sure one of the temples the guide will take you to: Make sure he shows and stops in the small open all sides dome with columns.

If you stand under the dome, and thump your heart and listen to the resonance. It is said these vibrations cured many ills...

I tend to believe this as one of the yoga posture makes you hum with your ears plugged with your thumbs ..you will get resonance. Regular practice helps insomnia, depression etc.

Thos e who want to really follow th eguides commentary can read up on Ramayana (Lord Ram....).

How are you getting to BKK? OZ does fly ICN-REP:

19:15-22:40 OZ737

And REP-ICN:

23:40-07:00 +1 day OZ738

Any way you can fly an open jaw, into REP, return from BKK (or vv)? That way you'd only need to worry about a one-way flight REP-BKK or vv.

Do not punt on Angkor Wat. Amazing place.

Great minds think alike. :) I was looking at OZ and thought it might be my solution. Unfortunately, while OZ award inventory generally looks fantastic, it disappears on Dec. 22 -- right before I need it. :eek:

I've started a thread on the UA board asking whether this is common, but I'm guessing it's either there or not.

Obviously, I can wait awhile and see what happens (I'm a UA 1K, I can change my award tickets at will), but eventually I'll have to consider other options. Without at least one free OZ flight though, I don't think it works for me given the expense of flying BKK-REP for a family.

Did you check if the one night stay rule for the tourist visa is still enforced ?

I wasn't aware this even existed. But there is a requirement for PG tix that BKK-REP-BKK must be at least one night. Both of them would go in tandem.

Hi again. OK, I now have 12 days in Thailand and I still think I want to take the family to Angkor Wat for about 3 days. Howver, flying doesn't seem possible: my Star Alliance award ticket won't get me to Siam Reap (amazingly, Thai Airways doesn't fly there) and fares look pricey. There are 5 of us, so I'd need a very cheap fare to fly.

So I guess I'm looking at land options. Given my relatively tight schedule, I don't want to waste a day in each direction from BKK to get there (I don't want to spend 5 days on the Cambodia portion of my trip). Is there a time efficient and cost efficient way to do this?


I found this rather comprehensive transport guide for BKK-Siam Reap on the seat61 website. It sure sounds like too much of a time waster to do this by land. I'll have to look at other air routes to Cambodia on Air Asia and such -- or just punt Angkor Wat from my itinerary.



If you want to get to Angkor there's the option of flying BKK-PNH (TG, PG, FD) and then getting land transpo to Siem Reap. With 5 of you, unless some of those numbers are small people, a car could be tight. This would be a quicker option than land transpo from BKK to Siem Reap, but it would still eat up time.

There are many places to see in Thailand and 12 days don't really add up to much. If there's a good chance you'll be back in the region then Id hold off on Angkor for the time being. If this is likely the only chance you'll get then make the time to get there.

Great minds think alike. :) I was looking at OZ and thought it might be my solution. Unfortunately, while OZ award inventory generally looks fantastic, it disappears on Dec. 22 -- right before I need it. :eek:


OZ blocks award availablility at various times throughout the year. IIRC the period around NY is one of them.

OZ blocks award availablility at various times throughout the year. IIRC the period around NY is one of them.

Yup, with some help from some flyertalkers on the UA board, I just figured that out. Weird blackout system where, for about 9 months of the year there's fantastic inventory and then for various 5-week-or-so periods, there's a complete blackout. I'm guessing it corresponds to Korean holiday periods.

But what I decided to do with rearrange my trip to start at REP, flying in on OZ right before the blackout starts. I'll then need to somehow get to Thailand, which I'll now figure out. Given that the resorts seem busy at Xmas time, there seems to be some significant advantage in planning my itinerary way in advance to pick off things like Starwood cash & points nights that are still available.

So I guess I'm looking at land options. Given my relatively tight schedule, I don't want to waste a day in each direction from BKK to get there (I don't want to spend 5 days on the Cambodia portion of my trip). Is there a time efficient and cost efficient way to do this?

Also, a "best of Thailand" trip seems to require a visit to both the north of Thailand and the southern beaches. Is there any way to more efficiently combine this with a visit to Angkor Wat or for practical (aka cost) reasons am I pretty much looking at Bangkok to Siam Reap back-and-forth, and then I can head elsewhere in Thailand?



I read a newsletter from the agency I use in Bangkok not long ago. The owner had gone overland from Bangkok to Siem Reap. It sounds like it basically takes a day to get there and back. 3.5 hours to the border crossing by road. Then you have to make it through the gauntlet, ride a government bus to the 'arrival depot', and then you can continue on for a 2 hour ride to Siem Reap. Not sure it's something I would want to do.

You don't have to go to the beaches if you don't want to. Personally I am not a person who enjoys beaches so I avoid them. But I think going to the North (Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and surrounding area) is worthwhile. You may also want to consider Sukhothai if you like old ruins. You could also spend some time in NE Thailand (Isaan). There are old Khmer sites there like Phimai and Phnom Rung. While not on the same scale as Angkor, they are a similar style. And less crowded.

Yup, with some help from some flyertalkers on the UA board, I just figured that out. Weird blackout system where, for about 9 months of the year there's fantastic inventory and then for various 5-week-or-so periods, there's a complete blackout. I'm guessing it corresponds to Korean holiday periods.

But what I decided to do with rearrange my trip to start at REP, flying in on OZ right before the blackout starts. I'll then need to somehow get to Thailand, which I'll now figure out. Given that the resorts seem busy at Xmas time, there seems to be some significant advantage in planning my itinerary way in advance to pick off things like Starwood cash & points nights that are still available.

I think your decision is a good one. OZ flies Airbii into REP/PNH which are not so comfortable on the northbound redeyes. Taking these southbound, during the day, is the better choice.

TG is apparently moving their BKK-PNH-BKK flights over to Thai Smiles. While not currently able to be booked, they do retain the TG code, though the flight numbers are changing. Whether getting to PNH and flying to BKK or taking land transpo to Thailand would be your next choice. Both have their benefits and detriments and would probably consume similar amounts of time.

Regardless how you set up your award itin you'll need to have an open jaw.

I read a newsletter from the agency I use in Bangkok not long ago. The owner had gone overland from Bangkok to Siem Reap. It sounds like it basically takes a day to get there and back. 3.5 hours to the border crossing by road. Then you have to make it through the gauntlet, ride a government bus to the 'arrival depot', and then you can continue on for a 2 hour ride to Siem Reap. Not sure it's something I would want to do.

You don't have to go to the beaches if you don't want to. Personally I am not a person who enjoys beaches so I avoid them. But I think going to the North (Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and surrounding area) is worthwhile. You may also want to consider Sukhothai if you like old ruins. You could also spend some time in NE Thailand (Isaan). There are old Khmer sites there like Phimai and Phnom Rung. While not on the same scale as Angkor, they are a similar style. And less crowded.

A few years back I crossed the border into Thailand and it wasn't difficult. My understanding is coming into Cambodia presents more pitfalls.

I've been to a number of beaches and islands in Thailand and much prefer the north. Issan, because of the paucity of tourists and the incredible food, is one of my favorite locations.

With just under 2 weeks for the trip, and the first few days already set with Angkor, I would choose either the north or the south. Especially if you also desire to have a few days in Bangkok at the end.

I think your decision is a good one. OZ flies Airbii into REP/PNH which are not so comfortable on the northbound redeyes. Taking these southbound, during the day, is the better choice.

TG is apparently moving their BKK-PNH-BKK flights over to Thai Smiles. While not currently able to be booked, they do retain the TG code, though the flight numbers are changing. Whether getting to PNH and flying to BKK or taking land transpo to Thailand would be your next choice. Both have their benefits and detriments and would probably consume similar amounts of time.

Thanks. As I was looking at Cambodia-Thai flight options, I also read about the launch of Thai Smiles (no website yet). Sadly, it seems like the service will be PNH-BKK and not REP-BKK. The current REP-BKK flights (I guess it's on Bangkok Air) are crazy expensive -- over $200 ow. It's a darn shame because I see that REP-KUL can be had for $60!

I'll ponder my REP-BKK transfer later (maybe lower airfares will spring up?), but I'm guessing I'll just do the land transfer. It doesn't seem logical to me to spend time travellling to PNH (I don't think I have time to see it) in order to buy an airline ticket (even a discounted one) to BKK.

My current thought is a couple days in BKK and then overnight train to Chiang Mai (seems more fun than flying, and sleepers are reasonably priced). I have to read up on the northern sites, and how much time I need. Then we'd fly down to the Phucket area for a few days, and leave from there on Thai Airways award ticket (connecting in BKK). Reasonable itinerary for a first-Thai-mer (bada bing)?

If I arrive in REP on Saturday in the late evening, and I spend the next two full days sightseeing, would it make sense to leave on Tuesday morning for BKK? Or do I really need 3 full sightseeing days in REP (keeping in mind I have a total of 12 days for Cambodia/Thailand).

Thanks for the advice.

If I arrive in REP on Saturday in the late evening, and I spend the next two full days sightseeing, would it make sense to leave on Tuesday morning for BKK? Or do I really need 3 full sightseeing days in REP (keeping in mind I have a total of 12 days for Cambodia/Thailand).

Two days is sufficient unless you are a major temple/ruin aficionado. I love sites like Angkor, but "temple fatigue" may strike others not so inclined. After the big three, Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and Ta Prohm, CHGal had had enough. "It's like Europe, where after the fourth or fifth church/cathedral, they all start looking the same." :D

So the next day, she hit the market in Siem Reap while I visited Banteay Srei , Preah Kahn, and Ta Som.

You'll get a lot of FTers insisting three days is the minimum, but the two we had was sufficient. It really comes down to what works for your party.

Two days is sufficient unless you are a major temple/ruin aficionado. I love sites like Angkor, but "temple fatigue" may strike others not so inclined. After the big three, Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and Ta Prohm, CHGal had had enough. "It's like Europe, where after the fourth or fifth church/cathedral, they all start looking the same." :D

So the next day, she hit the market in Siem Reap while I visited Banteay Srei , Preah Kahn, and Ta Som.

You'll get a lot of FTers insisting three days is the minimum, but the two we had was sufficient. It really comes down to what works for your party.

Thanks, Chapel Hill. This makes sense. I've also seen lots of European churches, so I know about the risk of "cathedral fatigue." In fact, my wife and I have an informal strategy regarding European cathedral visits these days: if we have to pay, we don't bother (there are actually some famous churches in Europe that now cost $15 to enter; most you can still get in for free). So I suspect 3 nights/2 full days would be enough, especially since we could use the extra day to explore Thailand.

I just wish there was a quicker/affordable way to get to BKK from REP. Given what I assume is a horde of tourists wishing to do this, you would think necessity would be the mother of invention. I'm guessing there's some legal restriction preventing Air Asia from offering what would seem a gold mine of a route. I'm also wondering why there isn't some sort of direct bus line.

I've done BKK-REP via land before and it's quite easy, so I'm guessing the return will be even easier. With five of you, it's probably best to just get a driver for the entire trip, but in case you wanted to do it a little different, just get a driver to Poipet, walk across the border, catch tuk tuks to Aranyaprathet and then a train to BKK. Sounds far more complicated than it is. Not sure the timings of the trains that direction, but if you happen to decide to start your trip in BKK instead of PNH, the train leaves quite early from BKK (6 AM-ish IIRC) and you can be in Siem Reap by about 2-3 PM.

I know I will be quite contrary to some of those here, but I found one day completely sufficient for the Angkor complex. I am one who definitely suffers from temple fatigue, and after seeing all the largest temples, some of the smaller ones, although interesting, become a bit less enthralling. But, I also found the town of Siem Reap a lot nicer than many here likely would, so I found a day wandering around town a bit quite enjoyable as well (good Mexican food).

One thing to keep in mind, that I guess I wish I would have known before I left, is that you need to be prepared for MASSIVE amounts of tourists. When I hired my driver to go to the temples about 9 AM, there were probably 1,000 tourists in line to buy tickets (there are many lines, only took about 5-10 minutes). Far gone are the days where Cambodia and Angkor are "off the beaten path". They are quite squarely upon the path now. When going to the most famous temples (Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, the "Tomb Raider" one, etc.) sometimes you have to wait a few minutes to take any picture because of the tour groups parading through. Not that this is all a bad thing, and Cambodia could definitely use the tourist dollar, but having been in other "temple meccas" (Bagan, etc.), it wasn't exactly what I thought it would be. Not better, not worse, just different.

Good luck on whatever you decide to do.

Chris

I'm guessing there's some legal restriction preventing Air Asia from offering what would seem a gold mine of a route.

Someone more knowledgeable will probably chime in, but I recall reading somewhere on FT that Bangkok Airway's monopoly on the BKK-REP route had something to do with some pretty high level "pull" with the Thai government that keeps competitors out.

It's a nice airline. Clean planes and good service.

I've done BKK-REP via land before and it's quite easy, so I'm guessing the return will be even easier. With five of you, it's probably best to just get a driver for the entire trip, but in case you wanted to do it a little different, just get a driver to Poipet, walk across the border, catch tuk tuks to Aranyaprathet and then a train to BKK. Sounds far more complicated than it is. Not sure the timings of the trains that direction, but if you happen to decide to start your trip in BKK instead of PNH, the train leaves quite early from BKK (6 AM-ish IIRC) and you can be in Siem Reap by about 2-3 PM.

I know I will be quite contrary to some of those here, but I found one day completely sufficient for the Angkor complex. I am one who definitely suffers from temple fatigue, and after seeing all the largest temples, some of the smaller ones, although interesting, become a bit less enthralling. But, I also found the town of Siem Reap a lot nicer than many here likely would, so I found a day wandering around town a bit quite enjoyable as well (good Mexican food).

One thing to keep in mind, that I guess I wish I would have known before I left, is that you need to be prepared for MASSIVE amounts of tourists. When I hired my driver to go to the temples about 9 AM, there were probably 1,000 tourists in line to buy tickets (there are many lines, only took about 5-10 minutes). Far gone are the days where Cambodia and Angkor are "off the beaten path". They are quite squarely upon the path now. When going to the most famous temples (Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, the "Tomb Raider" one, etc.) sometimes you have to wait a few minutes to take any picture because of the tour groups parading through. Not that this is all a bad thing, and Cambodia could definitely use the tourist dollar, but having been in other "temple meccas" (Bagan, etc.), it wasn't exactly what I thought it would be. Not better, not worse, just different.

Good luck on whatever you decide to do.

Chris

Thanks, Chris. In my mind I'm expecting something like Machu Picchu, but maybe I'm underestimating the size of the crowd, as there are a lot more Asians than South Americans.

As far as hiring a driver to take us from REP to BKK, is that something that is easily arranged (it always seems harder when there's an int'l border involved)? If it were affordable, it sounds like a great option for convenience, comfort and speed -- especially as I'm transporting my family.

And not that I want to rearrange my airline tickets again, but is it possible to book an affordable 3-day private Angkor Wat trip (like in a van with driver and guide) from BKK for my family? I didn't really think about that option. Flying into REP isn't a bad option for me, but I will wind up with a day in Seoul that I'm not terribly excited about due to fatique/weather factors (winter trip).

Thanks, Chris. In my mind I'm expecting something like Machu Picchu, but maybe I'm underestimating the size of the crowd, as there are a lot more Asians than South Americans.

As far as hiring a driver to take us from REP to BKK, is that something that is easily arranged (it always seems harder when there's an int'l border involved)? If it were affordable, it sounds like a great option for convenience, comfort and speed -- especially as I'm transporting my family.

And not that I want to rearrange my airline tickets again, but is it possible to book an affordable 3-day private Angkor Wat trip (like in a van with driver and guide) from BKK for my family? I didn't really think about that option. Flying into REP isn't a bad option for me, but I will wind up with a day in Seoul that I'm not terribly excited about due to fatique/weather factors (winter trip).

I can't really comment on a private trip from BKK other than to say I'm sure it's possible, but how much it would cost, I have no idea. As far as drivers go from Siem Reap to Bangkok, the easiest way to arrange this (in my opinion) is to do the trip in two stages. Take a Camry from Siem Reap to Poipet for about $40, cross the border on foot (easier going Cambodia->Thailand than vice versa due to visa requirements), and then catch another cab for Bangkok for around 1900 THB, or $60-ish. I figure $100 for a family of five isn't too bad.

Here's a helpful link for ya (makes it sound more "exotic" than the trip is though) (http://www.talesofasia.com/cambodia-overland-bkksr.htm)

Chris

Flying into REP isn't a bad option for me, but I will wind up with a day in Seoul that I'm not terribly excited about due to fatique/weather factors (winter trip).

We also had a day (long layover of about 12 hours) in Seoul and used it to take a day trip to the DMZ from ICN. Your teens might enjoy visiting the third tunnel (you take a mining car down). We did this in early November.

I can't really comment on a private trip from BKK other than to say I'm sure it's possible, but how much it would cost, I have no idea. As far as drivers go from Siem Reap to Bangkok, the easiest way to arrange this (in my opinion) is to do the trip in two stages. Take a Camry from Siem Reap to Poipet for about $40, cross the border on foot (easier going Cambodia->Thailand than vice versa due to visa requirements), and then catch another cab for Bangkok for around 1900 THB, or $60-ish. I figure $100 for a family of five isn't too bad.

Here's a helpful link for ya (makes it sound more "exotic" than the trip is though) (http://www.talesofasia.com/cambodia-overland-bkksr.htm)

Chris

Thanks. Yeah, that cost would be completely acceptable. Obviously, if I could pay someone about $100 to take us in one vehicle all the way to BKK, that would be better (assuming there's not a long delay getting a vehicle across the border). BTW, given the reasonable nature of this expense, it's hard to get excited about travelling to PNH and then have to buy 5 airline tickets from there.

We also had a day (long layover of about 12 hours) in Seoul and used it to take a day trip to the DMZ from ICN. Your teens might enjoy visiting the third tunnel (you take a mining car down). We did this in early November.

I know this is the wrong thread to dicuss this, but I think my family would enjoy a similar day tour (we're at ICN from 7 am to 7 pm, so a day tour seems perfect). I understand Asiana may offer free day tours to its customers with long layovers (not sure it applies to award tickets), and I've asked a question about that in the Asiana forum. How did you arrange your tour, and what was the cost? Thanks.

Thanks. Yeah, that cost would be completely acceptable. Obviously, if I could pay someone about $100 to take us in one vehicle all the way to BKK, that would be better (assuming there's not a long delay getting a vehicle across the border). BTW, given the reasonable nature of this expense, it's hard to get excited about travelling to PNH and then have to buy 5 airline tickets from there.

Obviously with kids in tow and whatnot it would likely be easier to have the one car, but literally the second you get on the Thai side of the border you'll have cabbies offering their services. It's not like there's a chance to be stranded anywhere. The Poipet border crossing is a very busy place. That said, keep an eye on luggage and whatnot due to reports of pickpockets, but I never felt/saw anything even remotely suspicious, other than the Thai tuktuk driver trying to get me to go to the "visa office" which I knew would happen. Just told him I already had a visa and off I went to the border where I got my visa at the official office. Nothing similar would happen to you on the reverse since you don't need a visa for Thailand.

Concerning the DMZ tours, I'm pretty sure I read there's a counter at the airport to organize such things on the spot. Chapel Hill will likely provide more detailed info that I can.

Chris

I know this is the wrong thread to dicuss this, but I think my family would enjoy a similar day tour (we're at ICN from 7 am to 7 pm, so a day tour seems perfect). I understand Asiana may offer free day tours to its customers with long layovers (not sure it applies to award tickets), and I've asked a question about that in the Asiana forum. How did you arrange your tour, and what was the cost? Thanks.

Concerning the DMZ tours, I'm pretty sure I read there's a counter at the airport to organize such things on the spot. Chapel Hill will likely provide more detailed info that I can.

There is indeed a counter at ICN where you can book the tour on the spot.

DMZ tour starts at 8:30 AM and is about 7 hours. Includes lunch, which was actually quite good. Directions I got:

<How to get to our main desk>
When you arrive at Incheon International Airport, you get on the second floor.

After filling out the immigration form, you can pass through the immigration.

There are 4 arrival gates including A,B,E or F, and you can go outside through one of these gates.

You can find our main desk between gate 3 & 4 on the first floor.

Don't recall the cost, but it's based on number who sign up. I paid for two of us, but then they refunded a good chunk as more folks signed up. Interesting system.

Can't find the URL, but I do have this email address you could try (this is from 2008). I prebooked using this email:

transittour@naver.com

There is indeed a counter at ICN where you can book the tour on the spot.

DMZ tour starts at 8:30 AM and is about 7 hours. Includes lunch, which was actually quite good. Directions I got:

<How to get to our main desk>
When you arrive at Incheon International Airport, you get on the second floor.

After filling out the immigration form, you can pass through the immigration.

There are 4 arrival gates including A,B,E or F, and you can go outside through one of these gates.

You can find our main desk between gate 3 & 4 on the first floor.

Don't recall the cost, but it's based on number who sign up. I paid for two of us, but then they refunded a good chunk as more folks signed up. Interesting system.

Can't find the URL, but I do have this email address you could try (this is from 2008). I prebooked using this email:

transittour@naver.com

Thanks! As it gets closer to my trip, I will make an inquiry. Due to the jetlag and limited time in Seoul, I think my family would do better to be "guided" that day than arrange something independently (assuming the price is reasonable).

We are thinking of using Derleng Tour for a transfer from REP to BKK - it is $120 for private transfer. They get great reviews on Tripadvisor, if that means anything. http://live.derlengtours.com

We are thinking of using Derleng Tour for a transfer from REP to BKK - it is $120 for private transfer. They get great reviews on Tripadvisor, if that means anything. http://live.derlengtours.com

120 USD for each or all.

Also make sure of the vehicle make and amount of luggage it can handle.

vehicles tend to be small all over there.

Transfer for 5 people plus luggage is going to need either 2 taxis or one van, and I'd recommend springing for the van and keep everyone together. Siem Reap to Bangkok for $120 for the vehicle/driver (not per person) sounds about right. What needs to be clear though, is whether the same vehicle will take you all the way through, or if there will be a change of vehicles from Cambodian to Thai after you cross the border, and how that changeover is managed.

Visit to Angkor Wat is well worth it though airfare to get there is the killer. But once you are there, prices are so cheap with rooms going for $25 for twin sharing. We found a great place to stay for $25 for twin sharing which came with breakfast. It was in a private house which had about 6 rooms to rent. And I'd go back and stay there if I were to go again as it was very spacious and clean. Yes, after visiting the main temples, you will most likely get temple fatigue. During my visit there, I think we did take the 3-day pass and boy, that was way too long and maybe a full schedule of 1 day or a leisurely 2-day tour was enough. The kids got tired and so did the adults as we were there in May when it was super hot; everyone perked up when we decided to take a day of going to just relax and just go to the market for some shopping!

Yes, after visiting the main temples, you will most likely get temple fatigue.

For some yes and some no. Declaring it to be one sided is folly.

I've been inside the temples 5 of 7 days on 2 occasions. Is that for everyone? nope, nor would I claim it to be.

The trip to Angkor is ABSOLUTELY worth the detour. I debated this myself last year and was SO glad I rearranged my schedule to give myself three nights/two full days in Siem Reap. I am already trying to figure out when I can get back again.

I arranged a driver/guide and did one full day of temple tours (actually most of a day... the rains started during lunch and became monsoon-like by late afternoon). The second day, I went before dawn and did a lake tour by boat - I debated whether or not to do this and I'm SO glad I did. I had a private boat arranged by my guide and got what are some of my favorite photos from that trip. We then went back to a couple of temples I wanted to see again from the previous day when it had been rainy. I spent my second afternoon shopping in Siem Reap

Can any FTs recommend a car + driver for Angkor? No need for a guide.

or.. should i roll the dice when I get there?

I just used one of the remo drivers from in front of the Le Meridien for like 8 bucks a day IIRC.

The trip to Angkor is ABSOLUTELY worth the detour. I debated this myself last year and was SO glad I rearranged my schedule to give myself three nights/two full days in Siem Reap. I am already trying to figure out when I can get back again.

I arranged a driver/guide and did one full day of temple tours (actually most of a day... the rains started during lunch and became monsoon-like by late afternoon). The second day, I went before dawn and did a lake tour by boat - I debated whether or not to do this and I'm SO glad I did. I had a private boat arranged by my guide and got what are some of my favorite photos from that trip. We then went back to a couple of temples I wanted to see again from the previous day when it had been rainy. I spent my second afternoon shopping in Siem Reap

When you come back you should meet us again for drinks/food. That was a fun evening. :D

When you come back you should meet us again for drinks/food. That was a fun evening. :D

Absolutely! I was so glad to spend the evening with you and your lovely fiance! Thank you for introducing me to Cambodian BBQ.

I am thinking I will schedule another trip for this fall. When I got home and started processing photos off my memory card, I somehow lost/deleted/misfiled 100+ of them... including a lot of my Ta Phrom shots. So will be going back just to get those... and really, I wanted to anyway since it was so rainy by the time I got to Ta Phrom so the lighting was not what I wanted.

You were absolutely right... it is VERY easy to get addicted to visiting the temples!

Absolutely! I was so glad to spend the evening with you and your lovely fiance! Thank you for introducing me to Cambodian BBQ.

I am thinking I will schedule another trip for this fall. When I got home and started processing photos off my memory card, I somehow lost/deleted/misfiled 100+ of them... including a lot of my Ta Phrom shots. So will be going back just to get those... and really, I wanted to anyway since it was so rainy by the time I got to Ta Phrom so the lighting was not what I wanted.

You were absolutely right... it is VERY easy to get addicted to visiting the temples!

Ta Prohm is slowly changing. I've been very critical of the Indian team's work as the boardwalk and rails are hideous beyond belief and the pace of the re-build is glacial, but the one hallway they finished on the eastern side looked nice at quick glance when last there.

At this point the temple is in an odd phase; not quite beautiful ruin and still well away from being rebuilt. There are a couple of temples I prefer over Ta Prohm, similar, big, but less visited and with more alcoves of photographic interest, yet I'll refrain from advertising them here.

Anywho, at some point I'd like to trace your morning excursion to the lake. The general lake/village tour I've heard not so wonderful things about but you raved about that morning both when in REP and here. ^^

was SO glad I rearranged my schedule to give myself three nights/two full days in Siem Reap. I am already trying to figure out when I can get back again.

Same for me. We did 2 nights / 3 days in Siem Reap. I am also trying to figure out when I can get back because 3 days was not enough time. Literally the only thing that I saw was Angkor, the road to Angkor and my guest house. We were too tired to partake in the nightlife (although there was a drinking hole near the guest house where I enjoyed a beer).

I should say, if you just want to fly in, see the temples and fly out, then 3 days is entirely sufficient.

YES, worth it, but I wouldn't fly directly from BKK. Bangkok Airways has a monopoly and they are maximizing profit on that route. I'd also look into a side trip to Luang Prabang, Laos. I much preferred it over Cambodia, actually, but I did both and would recommend anyone else to do the same.

YES, worth it, but I wouldn't fly directly from BKK. Bangkok Airways has a monopoly and they are maximizing profit on that route. I'd also look into a side trip to Luang Prabang, Laos. I much preferred it over Cambodia, actually, but I did both and would recommend anyone else to do the same.

The OP is taking a 10 day trip to Thailand. He cant afford to waste any more time by stopping off. He has no choice but to fly from Bangkok.

However, if one were to stay several weeks in SE Asia, I would recommend taking a longer route to skip the Bangkok Airways monopoly. That would mean routing through Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Phnom Penh or Vietnam.

Will be curious to read what OP thoughts upon his/her return.

We decided on a similar excursion on a trip to BKK. Initially, we were trying to do Bangkok, Siem Reap and Phuket in one trip. But after talking with friends who've visited multiple times we decided to skip HKT; I'm sure it's beautiful but it's expensive and I'll probably make it back to BKK before long.

Instead, we're flying BKK-REP on PG for three days there with a very highly recommended guide and then heading down to Phnom Penh for two days there before flying back to BKK. Haven't decided yet how we'll do the REP-PNH transfer (and I may not decide until a few weeks from now when it actually happens).

Just back from our trip. Candidly, Angkor Wat was more interesting than anything we saw in Thailand. I'd be so bold as to suggest that a visit to BKK is not worth it UNLESS you visit Angkor!

We did fly into Siem Reap on Asiana, spent 3 nights, and then went by land to BKK. Doing it this way makes a lot of sense because airfares between BKK and Siem Reap remain ridiculously expensive and the drive sucks. We wasted an hour and a half crossing from Cambodia to Thailand because the Thai immigration authorities were incompetent. It took about 5 minutes to process each foreigner, and there were 3 agents working. So even though there were only a few dozen people on line, we waited, and waited . . . .

Otherwise, it's just a longish drive. We left Siem Reap at about 9 and were in our BKK hotel after 4. I arranged the entire trip through a Cambodian travel agency. The total cost was about $110: separate cars on each side of the border, and you walk across. We were glad to waste only one day doing this.

I understand that a new direct bus service is starting and the cost is $25 per person; perhaps this makes sense if you're one or two people.

Angkor merits 2 days to see the temples at an unrushed pace. A private guide is worthwhile but not completely necessary. There's probably another day to be spent in Siem Reap seeing other attractions, and then most folks would be ready to move on. Prices are generally a bit cheaper in Cambodia than in Thailand, so there is good value for money there. And, oddly, Cambodia feels very safe; you see many more police (with guns) in Thailand. There does seem to be significant corruption in Cambodia, though. At immigration when I landed in Siem Reap, the officer asked me for a tip to process my entry. I gave him a buck for my family. Just odd.

Angkor merits 2 days to see the temples at an unrushed pace.
Hmm... you need much more than that if you want to visit Angkor temples at an unrushed pace (4 to 5 days).

Hmm... you need much more than that if you want to visit Angkor temples at an unrushed pace (4 to 5 days).

Unrushed for me = a week. But I do other non-temple-visit stuff layered into that week.

Hmm... you need much more than that if you want to visit Angkor temples at an unrushed pace (4 to 5 days).

I guess it's a question of whether you want to see EVERY temple. I think most folks curiosity -- including mine -- would be satisified by two days of temple hopping.

I guess it's a question of whether you want to see EVERY temple. I think most folks curiosity -- including mine -- would be satisified by two days of temple hopping.

I've probably spent 40 days in Siem Reap over the last few years and while I've seen many, and repeated many, I've yet to see them all. Further, some are great in the morning and some are great in the afternoon. Some, like Banteay Samre, oddly have great color midday.

You don't realize how many small or remote temples there are as well. In my list is well over 50 temples do date.

I spent 3 nights and felt that I could easily spend a week. It is such a nice area. Besides Temples I could easily just sit near the market in town and people watch. The quad tour was really awesome. A friend of mine just did a helicopter tour. Looked great!

Unrushed for me = a week. But I do other non-temple-visit stuff layered into that week.

I've probably spent 40 days in Siem Reap over the last few years and while I've seen many, and repeated many, I've yet to see them all. Further, some are great in the morning and some are great in the afternoon. Some, like Banteay Samre, oddly have great color midday.

You don't realize how many small or remote temples there are as well. In my list is well over 50 temples do date.

I spent 3 nights and felt that I could easily spend a week. It is such a nice area. Besides Temples I could easily just sit near the market in town and people watch. The quad tour was really awesome. A friend of mine just did a helicopter tour. Looked great!

I completely agree and that's why I now stay a week there :). Many things to see/to do. And now you can go easily go from Siem Reap (day trip) to previously inaccessible wonderful places like Preah Vihear and Koh Ker.

One other side trip we took out of Siem Reap was to an outdoor display museum of mines. They had displays of the different types of landmines and then there were some hung in trees that you worked through. Even though you knew you were safe your mind played tricks on you looking for where the mines could be planted.

We also went to phnom penh. We did visit the the killing fields and tuol slang the school cum prison. You need a strong constitution for these visits Unfortunately it's also the history of Cambodia as much as Angkor Wat.

Just back from our trip. Candidly, Angkor Wat was more interesting than anything we saw in Thailand. I'd be so bold as to suggest that a visit to BKK is not worth it UNLESS you visit Angkor!

We did fly into Siem Reap on Asiana, spent 3 nights, and then went by land to BKK. Doing it this way makes a lot of sense because airfares between BKK and Siem Reap remain ridiculously expensive and the drive sucks. We wasted an hour and a half crossing from Cambodia to Thailand because the Thai immigration authorities were incompetent. It took about 5 minutes to process each foreigner, and there were 3 agents working. So even though there were only a few dozen people on line, we waited, and waited . . . .

Otherwise, it's just a longish drive. We left Siem Reap at about 9 and were in our BKK hotel after 4. I arranged the entire trip through a Cambodian travel agency. The total cost was about $110: separate cars on each side of the border, and you walk across. We were glad to waste only one day doing this.

I understand that a new direct bus service is starting and the cost is $25 per person; perhaps this makes sense if you're one or two people.

Angkor merits 2 days to see the temples at an unrushed pace. A private guide is worthwhile but not completely necessary. There's probably another day to be spent in Siem Reap seeing other attractions, and then most folks would be ready to move on. Prices are generally a bit cheaper in Cambodia than in Thailand, so there is good value for money there. And, oddly, Cambodia feels very safe; you see many more police (with guns) in Thailand. There does seem to be significant corruption in Cambodia, though. At immigration when I landed in Siem Reap, the officer asked me for a tip to process my entry. I gave him a buck for my family. Just odd.

What did your entire itinerary look like? What other parts of Thailand did you visit?

What did your entire itinerary look like? What other parts of Thailand did you visit?

After 2 days in BKK, we went north to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai province for a week. Honestly, there isn't anything extraordinary to see up there, but it was all quite pleasant. If I were giving advice to others, I might say to hit the Thai beaches instead of the north, or just do 3 days around Chiang Mai and then the beaches.

After 2 days in BKK, we went north to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai province for a week. Honestly, there isn't anything extraordinary to see up there, but it was all quite pleasant. If I were giving advice to others, I might say to hit the Thai beaches instead of the north, or just do 3 days around Chiang Mai and then the beaches.

Did you visit the Elephant Sanctuary near Chiang Mai?
Funny you say there is not much extraordinary in northern Thailand as a colleague of mine pretty much said the same of his two-week trip.
For my upcoming trip to Thailand, I definitely would want to see Angkor Wat. But not sure about Chiang Mai and the beaches. I would love to visit an Elephant sanctuary and snorkel around "James Bond" island, but stuffing it all in two weeks is tough.

Did you visit the Elephant Sanctuary near Chiang Mai?
Funny you say there is not much extraordinary in northern Thailand as a colleague of mine pretty much said the same of his two-week trip.
For my upcoming trip to Thailand, I definitely would want to see Angkor Wat. But not sure about Chiang Mai and the beaches. I would love to visit an Elephant sanctuary and snorkel around "James Bond" island, but stuffing it all in two weeks is tough.

I visited the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai. If you go on tripadvisor, you'll see that just about everyone gives it 5 stars there and says it's life changing. To me, it was a lot of elephant feeding. These are domesticated elephants; you stick food in their mouths and on their trunks. Feeding them was fun; it wasn't life changing. I honestly don't think it was worth the $80 I had to pay. But it was certainly a pleasant enough day. And that was probably the most interesting thing in no. Thailand.

I do think you can do Angkor Wat, BKK, n. Thailand and the beaches in 2 weeks. Limit yourself to 3-4 days in the north, and 2-3 full days in BKK. It would be enough. Thailand is not the world's most exciting destination. But the food is very good.

I visited the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai. If you go on tripadvisor, you'll see that just about everyone gives it 5 stars there and says it's life changing. To me, it was a lot of elephant feeding. These are domesticated elephants; you stick food in their mouths and on their trunks. Feeding them was fun; it wasn't life changing. I honestly don't think it was worth the $80 I had to pay. But it was certainly a pleasant enough day. And that was probably the most interesting thing in no. Thailand.

It seems there are several Elephant Parks near Chiang Mai. I was thinking of this one: http://www.thailandelephant.org/en/

It seems there are several Elephant Parks near Chiang Mai. I was thinking of this one: http://www.thailandelephant.org/en/

Yup, there's more than a dozen. From my own experience, I wouldn't particularly recommend the Elephant Nature Park. But I think I'd be in the minority. They're usually ranked number one or two on tripadvisor of things to do in Chiang Mai.

Probably a bit late to the game now and I haven't read every response in this thread but I thought I'd beat this horse a bit more.

Angkor Wat is highly recommended. You can easily to do this as a 2-3 day side trip.

I've written about it quite extensively in my blog so check it out.

Day 16 here is kind of the start of it but we landed there on Day 15 and did an extra day of activities on Day 17 if you're interested.

http://goingawesomeplaces.com/2012/06/13/siem-reap-king-of-temples/

Let me know if you have any questions.

Although Cambodia Angkor Air recently started to fly between REP and BKK, fares are high as ever. Collusion?

Although Cambodia Angkor Air recently started to fly between REP and BKK, fares are high as ever. Collusion?

maybe supply and demand? Are they flying daily or just a few times a week? One A320 rt isn't adding very many seats into the supply.

maybe supply and demand? Are they flying daily or just a few times a week? One A320 rt isn't adding very many seats into the supply.

One daily REP-BKK on K6 but they just announced a 2nd daily flight.

Re: OP. I was extremely fortunate to get to Angkor in early 1997, when it seemed I had some temples almost to myself, and in early 2000. It's much more crowded now and arguably has been ruined by Bangkok Airways doing the BKK-REP trip and others piling on. A whole generation might miss that Phnom Penh-Siem Reap boat trip across the Tonle Sap or staying under a mosquito net in a $4 guesthouse.

That said, see it anyway because it'll only get more crowded in the future.

P.S. I did the elephant-orphanage thing in Sri Lanka, which was also raved about and sounds like the Chiang Mai one. Also the orang-utan center in Sandakan, Malaysia. All worthwhile, but I too don't really "get" the superlatives on ratings.

OP. Unless you will return to BKK with time and money in the future, do Angkor Wat now.

We did an overnight off a cruise and spent two nights in REP. Be sure to get a guide.
Also the museum grounds by one of the killing fields is very impressive....sort of leaves you numb.
Guides will take you to their favorite stores !
Don' buy the fake watches......terrible quality.