Day 6 - Siem Reap
Today was truly special. We could either walk roughly 300 steps up to Wat Hanchey or take the coach. At the top, we were greeted by novice monks and a beautiful backdrop spanning life buzzing below. We also received a blessing from a monk in a Buddhist pagoda.
This afternoon, back onboard, we had lunch - the best of the trip, in my opinion. The crew members coined it the ‘Scenic Route,’ and it was a buffet with culinary experiences from around the world - from Italy to Mexico. All the food was incredible and really felt authentic.
Following lunch, we had the option of three Scenic Freechoice’s. I chose to visit Koh Penh Village, where we got to experience the agrestic lifestyle of the local farmers. Scenic arranged for us to visit a local farmer’s home, where we could explore the house on stilts.
Sadly, tonight was our last night aboard Scenic Spirit. We enjoyed a farewell gala dinner which consisted of six delicious courses.
Day 7 - Siem Reap
Today, we said goodbye to Scenic Spirit and all her wonderful crew with whom we had become so well acquainted over our 5 days onboard. I’ll never forget being welcomed home every time I returned from an excursion, or how the crew remembered my name and my favourite drink. Their positive attitudes and friendly nature never failed to amaze me, especially when they lasted from morning until late.
The next part of our adventure took us on a journey to Siem Reap. We stopped at a village along the way where we had the opportunity to purchase trinkets from local stone cutters. Then, we crossed a spectacular bridge where photographers take your photo. The images are available to buy for a couple of dollars at the other end - but be sure to keep an eye out for the photographers! They don’t warn you when they’re going to take your photo, so our group was full of surprised faces.
In the afternoon, we arrived at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor which would be our home for the next 3 nights. This glamorous hotel delivers elegance and style with vintage beauty. My room overlooked the shimmering blue pool, which was surrounded by egg chairs and sun loungers.
This evening, we could explore at leisure. I headed out to Siem Reap’s dazzling Pub Street. Lights glimmered against the puddles on the ground and music erupted from every venue, inviting you in. I highly recommend wandering along Pub Street.
Day 8 - Siem Reap
This morning, we were free to do as we pleased before lunch was served in 1932, the hotel’s signature restaurant. Afterwards, we headed to Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Our local guide, who was provided by Scenic, made the history of this breathtaking monument easy to follow. It has 5 lotus-shaped towers that are truly awe-inspiring, and the reflection within the water below makes for a great picture. We spent lots of time exploring the temple complex and left no stone unturned.
Day 9 - Siem Reap
As our final day approached, we rose early and travelled back to Angkor Wat to witness the sunrise. Our guide took us to the best spot - the blend of colours that rose from behind the temple created an orange that was reflected in the magnificent pool of colours. It was a tremendous experience.
Shortly after sunrise, we had a Champagne breakfast which was supported by a local bakery school. The school is sponsored by Scenic, just another example of the wonderful work the cruise line does to contribute towards locals. After breakfast, we explored the other temples in the area. We travelled through Angkor Thom city gate, stopping to look at the wonderful man-made smiling faces that lined either side of the bridge. This led us to Angkor Bayon, a temple that is full of around 200 faces all with the same expression but varying in size. This temple was followed by Ta Prohm, which is best known for featuring in the 2001 blockbuster, Tomb Raider. With towers, narrow corridors and spectacularly weaved trees, this temple was by far my favourite.
Tonight, we had our Gala Temple Dinner. I find it difficult to explain how magnificent this experience was. It was by far the most special occasion of the trip. Although we were all incredibly sad to be heading home, we all agreed that dinner was the best way to end our trip. It was a delicious meal with truly remarkable entertainment and an experience I will hold close for the rest of my life.
This trip exceeded my expectations and provided me with a whole new outlook. I have been truly humbled and cannot believe how generous Scenic are as a company, supporting many of the locals and their businesses by bringing them our custom. I am beyond astounded by the unrivalled and flawless service, especially when you consider that they had not sailed or had guests onboard for over 2 years. The crew are the true heart of the ship, a ship that quickly became my home away from home. Thank you, Scenic River Cruises, for an experience that I will cherish forever.
