Siem Reap

[Isochronous]

About to sample the glorious suites at Park Hyatt Siem Reap for the first time. I look forward to posting photos of the private plunge pool!

A few practical questions arise:

1. Currency-wise - should we bring USD cash with us? Or is this easily withdrawn from local ATMs? Or do we withdraw and use Cambodian Riel instead?

2. Near to the Hyatt, are there good/reputable restaurants and spas? the Hyatt no doubt does a good massage etc, but I suspect one should be able to get a massage package for cheaper than the USD 65 the Hyatt charge.

 

[Denali]

Yes for USD, small crisp new small currency notes. I didnt use a ATM there so cant comment on them but dont buy the local currency.

For Spa, I enjoyed Lemongrass Spa which apparently is about 100mtrs from your hotel. They have 2 locations, I went almost daily and found they were good. My boss also went a few months later and he said he/his wife enjoy the atmosphere. My husband would have pedicures and massages as well.
Lemongrass Garden Beauty and Massage in Siem Reap
Edit: Dont forget to tip. I would tip $5USD pp.

You didnt ask but when you arrive at the airport, as you exit turn right and you can pick up a data sim. I always take a spare phone to use as a hotspot.

Edit: For food, we ate here a few times as it literally was up the lane from the Vila we stayed at
http://www.mahobkhmer.com/

This is where we stayed, its about 5-10mins drive from Pub street http://www.desarannvilla.com/

 

[michaelangelo]

You can definitely withdraw USD from the ATMs there. Maybank ATMs also don't charge a fee.

 

[moa999]

The ATMs definitely distribute USD.
As noted Maybank is fee free for foreign cards, bit others are US$4-5.

 

[Genji88]

Definitely bring over USD. Most of the Fx places that give decent rates look like mom & pop places, but places that Look more reputable and trustworthy give worse rates. If you're around Pub street/main drag, most vendors will give you change in USD if you ask

 

[Danger]

Please do report back on your visit, particularly the Hyatt.