Matador Network's Blog, page 362

January 17, 2023

The Generator Space in Nevada Is Where Burning Man Festival Artists’ Work Comes To Life

If you love artwork, you have to make a trip to Nevada. While Reno, Nevada, is typically known as a not-so-interesting Vegas, it’s also a hub for art and culture in the state, including street artists and Burning Man creators. The Generator in Sparks, Nevada, just outside Reno, is where you’ll find many artists hard at work creating some of the festival’s best pieces.

The Generator is a vibrant and innovative community space where individuals can gather to work on projects, learn new skills, and share ideas. This space provides a wide range of tools and equipment for woodworking, metalworking, electronics, and other forms of fabrication, as well as resources for digital fabrication. This space is home to a diverse and talented community of artists, many of whom have a solid connection to the Burning Man festival. These artists use the resources and tools provided by The Generator to create large-scale, interactive, and visually striking art pieces that are featured on the playa at Burning Man each year.

One of the core values of The Generator is to provide a collaborative and supportive environment for its members. The space is designed to facilitate teamwork and the exchange of ideas, which can create new and exciting projects. The area is open to makers of all skill levels, from beginners to experts, and the community is always eager to welcome new members.

The Generator also offers tours, various classes, and workshops on a wide range of topics. Whether you’re interested in learning how to use a particular tool or want to learn a new skill, the space has something to offer. The classes are taught by experienced makers passionate about sharing their knowledge and skills with others.

Burning Man bleeds into the culture in Reno. To get a real feel for the city, a trip to The Generator is a must-do.

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Published on January 17, 2023 11:58

Experience Luxury and Relaxation at Cavo Tagoo in Mykonos, Greece

When travelers think of Greece, most will conjure up images of the white and blue-washed buildings that dot the country, the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea, and the terracotta roofs that line the streets. But few know about one of Mykonos’ hidden gems. This beautiful resort is the ideal spot for a luxurious getaway with its modern amenities, stunning views of the Aegean Sea, and tranquil atmosphere. Stay at the Cavo Tagoo Mykonos and experience peace and tranquility.

Cavo Tagoo Mykonos has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or simply want to relax and soak up the sun, there’s an accommodation option that will suit your needs. Cavo Tagoo provides guests with various accommodations to choose from while staying on the property. Guests can opt for one of the 17-room options with unique amenities, including private terraces with breathtaking views of the sea or heated infinity pools with jacuzzi jets and the infamous cave pool.

@epic.stays 📍Cavo Tagoo in #Mykonos #Greece 🎥 @Ken X Tori #greecetravel #luxuryhotel #traveltok ♬ suara asli – Ægoes EDM🔂⏪⏸▶⏩🔀

We hope you love the Cavo Tagoo in Mykonos, Greece! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Along with stunning accommodations, the Cave Tagoo Mykonos has a full fitness center and a spa called the Cavo Tagoo Golden Spa that offers a range of experiences from Thai massage to phytomer facial treatments and beauty treatments ranging from wax, hair, and nail treatments.

Zuma and Meraki Restaurant are the onsite restaurants at Cave Tagoo Mykonos that offer something for everyone’s taste buds. The Zuma is a Japanese restaurant, lounge, and bar. The Meraki Restaurant features classic Greek cuisine to Mediterranean dishes at their al fresco eatery.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape or want to explore all Mykonos has to offer, Cavo Tagoo is an ideal choice for accommodations in this beautiful part of Greece.

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Published on January 17, 2023 11:05

7 Essential Paris Restaurants Everyone Should Visit at Least Once

It’s no secret that French cuisine is considered the most elegant, refined food in the world. Considered culinary masters, French chefs have established restaurants where people have traveled far from home just to get a table. Succulent roast duck, creamy foie gras, fluffy mousse – from regional dishes to classic French dishes, a whole rainbow, thoughtfully crafted dishes that look as beautiful as they taste can be experienced in elegant, ornately designed settings. Bedecked in chandeliers and adorned with flowers, these restaurants don’t just offer meals – they offer unforgettable, life-changing experiences that embody the glamor of Paris. If there’s any city in the world that understands fine dining, it’s Paris – so expect decadent meals at Paris restaurants that are worth the splurge (Not ready to break the bank? We have tips on how save money at restaurants in France, too).

Essential Paris restaurants1. L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon
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Classic French cuisine is paired with a modern open concept kitchen, where diners can watch the chefs work, at L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon. The colorful, creative dishes here – which focus just as much on plating and presentation as taste – have earned the restaurant two Michelin stars. This is the height of fine dining in Paris, so expect to pay for the experience, and make sure to dress for the occasion.

Where: Hôtel du Pont Royal, 5 Rue de Montalembert, 75007 Paris, France

Price: $$$

2. L’Ambroisie
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Located inside a chic townhouse in Place des Vosges, the first thing to catch your eye about this restaurant won’t be food but the interior design: Tapestry hang from the walls, the floors are polished black and white marble, and elegant chandeliers give the dining room the feeling of a palace. The food might be simple – think scallops, potatoes, and chocolate mousse – but it’s all created with a master’s touch. No wonder L’Ambroisie was awarded three Michelin stars.

Where: 9 Pl. des Vosges, 75004 Paris, France

Price: $$$$

3. Le Cinq
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Located inside the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel Georges V, ornate carpets, vases of red flowers, and chandeliers decorate Le Cinq. The menu is for the refined palate only, and includes dishes like caviar on a bed of sea water foam, grilled deer, and sea urchin. Each dish is paired with a rare wine from the restaurant’s on site wine cellar.

Where: 31 Av. George V, 75008 Paris, France

Price: $$$$

4. La Grande Cascade
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A post shared by Restaurant La Grande Cascade (@la_grande_cascade_)


La Grande Cascade is located in Paris’ Bois de Boulogne gardens, this restaurant was once a refuge for Napoléon III. Today, the restaurant retains its opulent 19th century design. Especially alluring for its romantic setting, couples celebrating a special occasion will enjoy a lingering, intimate dinner here. Except French classics like foie gras and black truffle on the menu.

Where: Carr de Longchamp, 75016 Paris, France

Price: $$$$

5. Brasserie Lipp
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This bistro has been a Paris institution for around 130 years. The restaurant was once a haven for the French literary set – Marcel Proust and Jean Paul Starte were regulars. Today, the iconic yellow awning welcomes guests to a charming space with mirrored walls and colorful tiled depictions of flowers. Escargot, choucroute, and Terrine de Champagne (a plate of pickles and pates, including chicken liver) are among the classic French dishes on the menu.

Where: 151 Bd Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris, France

Price: $$$

6. Chez Janou
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Chez Janou is a cozy little bistro located in Paris’ trendy Le Marais district, with a casual atmosphere. The Provençal-style menu includes dishes like frog legs, roast duck, and bouillabaisse (seafood soup). Other elements that make this bistro stand out are the nostalgic 1950s movie posters that line the walls, and the extensive pastis (anise-flavored aperitif) selection, which can be ordered by the glass.

Where: 2 Rue Roger Verlomme, 75003 Paris, France

Price: $$

7. La Fontaine de Mars
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La Fontaine de Mars is a charming little bistro located just steps from the Eiffel Tower. The red and white design of the awnings and tablecloths will catch the attention of newcomers, but it’s the reliably delicious food that keeps people coming back to this restaurant: eggs baked in red wine, cassoulet, and the strawberry ice cream are all worth trying.

Where: 129 Rue Saint-Dominique, 75007 Paris, France

Price: $$$

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Published on January 17, 2023 10:11

Xochimilco’s Michelada Boats Will Make You Want To Visit Mexico City ASAP

If you’re a fan of savory cocktails, micheladas are hard to beat. No country does the beer-and-tomato-based drink better than its birthplace, Mexico, and there’s one destination in the Mexican capital that serves the coolest micheladas of all: the Xochimilco canals. Here’s everything you need to know about Mexico City’s boozy UNESCO World Heritage site, and why you need to spend a day floating down the Xochimilco canals, michelada in hand.

@foodwtf Ordering a #michelada on the #Xochimilco canals in #MexicoCity 🤤 A michelada is a classic Mexican cocktail made with beer, lime juice, assorted sauces, spices, and chili peppers 🎥 IG: @mexico.living #mexicofoodguide #foodie #foodietok #foodtravel #micheladas #mexico ♬ Cumbia Buena – Grupo La Cumbia

What’s a michelada, anyway?

A michelada is a refreshing beer-based beverage that’s popular in Mexico. It typically consists of a light Mexican beer mixed with a spicy tomato-based juice and for an extra kick. Popular additions include lime juice, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, various chili peppers or hot sauces, and Clamato, a type of tomato juice that has clam juice in it. The result is a savory and refreshing beverage that’s often referred to as a “Mexican Bloody Mary.”

Everything you need to know about the Xochimilco canals

Xochimilco is a district of southern Mexico City that’s famous for its unique system of ancient canals with floating gardens and chinampas, or artificial islands. Built by the Aztecs, Xochimilco is included in UNESCO’s World Heritage list alongside Mexico City’s historic center.

Brightly colored gondolas called trajineras blanket the Xochimilco canals, cruising through vibrant flower petals that float atop Xochimilco’s waters. Some of these boats ferry tourists down the waterways. Others serve as restaurants and party boats. You’ll see mariachi bands playing live sets from some boats, locals selling souvenirs from others, and food vendors peddling snacks like chalupas (fried dough loaded with various toppings), sopes (a popular street food that resembles mini chalupas), and roasted corn. Then there are the unofficial bartenders who turn their trajineras into floating michelada stands — a visitor favorite.

If you plan on treating your trip to the Xochimilco canals like a booze cruise as many tourists do, you might want to consider stopping by the famous two-part market in Xochimilco town before you hit the water. That way you can load up on plenty of water and snacks to sustain an afternoon of day-drinking and hit two of Xochimilco’s most popular attractions with one stone. There are plenty of vendors both on the water and around the embarcadero where trajineras depart, but most local families come prepared with their own picnic baskets and coolers. Make no mistake — as many micheladas as there are flowing, the Xochimilco canals are a great Mexico City attraction for families.

Getting to Xochimilco

Xochimilco is easy to reach by metro from central Mexico City. All you have to do is ride the blue line all the way to the end to a stop called Tasqueña. From there, hop on the Tren Ligero line and ride it until the end. The last stop is Xochimilco.

Once you get to Xochimilco town, it’s about a 20-minute walk or 10-minute taxi or Uber ride to Xochimilco Embarcaderos where you can organize a boat tour. Prices for boat tours will be listed at whichever pier you depart from although negotiating is acceptable.

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Published on January 17, 2023 09:00

Don’t Leave Queensland Without Seeing Its Incredible Marine Life

You can never count on getting a wave from a friendly humpback whale — but if there’s one place where it’s more likely to happen than anywhere else, it’s Queensland, Australia.


@visit Incredible memory taken on a day out in Queensland, Australia. 😍 With its pristine marine environment, Queensland marine life sightings will truly take your breath away! 🇦🇺 “When they wave back. 👋🐋 The incredible morning we woke up and were greeted by a pod of visiting humpbacks and bottlenose dolphins.” How amazing is this moment? 🌊 📍 Queensland, Australia #visitaustralia ♬ original sound – Visit

Queensland, Australia, is well known for amazing marine wildlife viewing. Whether it’s whale watching off the coast of Hervey Bay or snorkeling with sea turtles at Lady Musgrave Island, marine wildlife encounters are abundant in this beautiful part of the world. Here’s where to go and what you may be able to see if you explore the waters around Australia’s northeastern coast.

Whales around Queensland’s coastshumpback whale queensland aus - jumping out of water

Photo: Uwe Bergwitz/Shutterstock

Hervey Bay is one of the most popular spots for whale watching in Queensland, and it’s easy to see why. Every year from June to November, humpback whales migrate past this beautiful spot on their way up and down the coast, making it the perfect place to catch a glimpse of the majestic creatures in action.

One of the best places for marine life viewing in Queensland is around Hervey Bay, accessed by boat tours. Most tours have onboard naturalists who can provide educational commentary throughout your trip. Some companies also offer additional activities such as snorkeling or swimming with dolphins during certain months. Well-known whale watching companies in Queensland include Blue Dolphin Marine Tours and Tasman Adventures, which has multiple packages that include whale watching.

Dugongs near Moreton Islandqueensland marine life viewing - dugong in clear water

Photo: vkilikov/Shutterstock

Moreton Island is just off the coast of Brisbane and is home to some of the most unique creatures in all of Queensland: dugongs. Dugongs are marine mammals that live in shallow, coastal waters throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of the Indo-Pacific. In Australia, they’re most commonly found in the Great Barrier Reef and along the northern and western coasts of the continent, including in Queensland. They’re related to manatees and are also often referred to as “sea cows” because of their herbivorous diet and slow, docile behavior.

They can be spotted anywhere near the islands, but they’re known for living in herds around the Moreton Bay Marine Park. The best way to try to see them is to take a dolphin and dugong tour. Dolphin Wild Tours offers a “Dolphin, dugong, and sea turtle safari” and See Moreton offers all-day cruises that include wildlife spotting and kayaking.

Marine life around Queenslandgreen turtle - queensland marine life viewing

Photo: Marcus Dorado/Shutterstock

For those looking to get even closer to Queensland’s unique marine wildlife, snorkeling is a great way to do just that. With its crystal clear waters and abundant coral reefs, Australia offers some of the best snorkeling spots in the world. It’s an ideal destination for both beginner and experienced snorkelers.

One of the most popular places for aquatic exploration is Lady Musgrave Island, off the coast of Bundaberg. This stunning spot features coral gardens teeming with vibrant sea life, including turtles, reef sharks, and manta rays. You’ll find no shortage of snorkeling or scuba diving day trips to see marine wildlife in Queensland in this region, or you can sleep on a pontoon boat just offshore.

Remember that many of Australia’s animals are rare and endangered, and all marine life are essential to the food web of the oceans. Always prioritize their safety and comfort over your photos. Large fines can (and should) be levied against visitors who don’t follow the rules.

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Published on January 17, 2023 08:16

January 14, 2023

Spot Shooting Stars From Bed at This Magical Glass Igloo Village in Lapland

Lapland, in northern Finland, borders Sweden, Norway, and Russia. It’s one of the most sparsely populated places on Earth and is famed for its stunning subarctic landscape, northern lights, and midnight sun.

Although it’s a popular destination in winter, Lapland is a magical place to explore year-round. The climate and ecosystem are so varied that those living in Lapland mark eight seasons rather than four. Frosty winter, snowdrift spring, ice-run spring, nightless night, harvest, fall colors, first snow, and Christmas-time polar nights are all signs of change and are celebrated with respect to the environment. Because of this, visitors can have a very different experience depending on the month of their vacation. It’s worth planning a trip around what outdoor activities are of interest. What you don’t need to think too much about is where to stay.

Regardless of the season, accommodations such as this glass igloo village in Levi offer a unique way to enjoy the otherworldly destination.

We hope you love Golden Crown Levin Iglut. Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay.

@epic.stays There's a luxury glass-igloo village in #Lapland #Finland 📍Golden Crown – Levin Iglut 🎥 IG: @leviniglut #traveltok #finlandtravel #winterdestination #glassigloo #finlandhotelguide ♬ Careless Whisper – daddy's girl & creamy & 11:11 Music Group

About Golden Crown Levin IglutGolden Crown Levin Iglut at night

Photo: Booking.com

To match the one-of-a-kind character of Lapland, the region is home to exceptional accommodations. From treehouse hotels to glass igloos at Golden Crown Levin Iglut, there is no need to stay in a bog-standard hotel.

woman on bed at Golden Crown Levin Iglut

Photo: Booking.com

The family business now has 27 luxury insulated and heated glass igloos with private bathrooms and showers. Each igloo offers breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness and is located a short five miles away from the well-known Levi Ski Resort. The spacious igloos have been designed to provide visitors with an unparalleled view of the northern lights. The comfortable beds are motorized so guests can move into their preferred viewing angle. All igloos are also constructed from non-fogging glass, so nothing can obstruct the overhead spectacle.

inside igloo at Golden Crown Levin Iglut

Photo: Booking.com

There are two different styles of igloos to choose from. The large suite igloos are perfect for families or those wanting extra space. The spacious pods can sleep up to four guests. Delux and superior igloos sleep two comfortably and come with a modern kitchen and bathroom.

Guests can also enjoy the night sky from The Northern Lights House which has a sauna and a private terrace with a hot tub.

Golden Crown is a local favorite for its outstanding restaurant, Utsu. On the lower level, you can dine by a cozy fireplace, while the upstairs floor has stunning views of the sky. The Scandinavian-inspired seasonal menu celebrates local ingredients such as mushrooms, berries, and lichen that are foraged from the forest.

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Published on January 14, 2023 02:55

January 13, 2023

Don’t Look Down! This Epic Climb in the Swiss Alps Is Mostly Terrifying — but Also Worth It.

Stunning views, sheer rock faces, and an adrenaline rush like no other—are just some of the exciting features of Mürren via Ferrata in Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland. For experienced climbers and adventurers looking for a unique experience, this route should be at the top of their list.

@matadornetwork If you're into adrenaline the Mürren #viaferrata in #Lauterbrunnen #Switzerland is a must 🧗 🎥 IG: @viaferrata_helvetica #swisstravel #klettersteig #mountains ♬ Solitude (Felsmann & Tiley Reinterpretation) [Slowed Down] – M83

The Via Ferrata, which means “iron way” in Italian, is a protected climbing route equipped with steel cables, ladders, and other safety features that make it accessible to hikers and climbers of intermediate to advanced skill levels. Even the most advanced climbers may find themselves challenged at times by some slightly more difficult sections. The Mürren via Ferrata is located in the heart of the Swiss Alps, near the charming mountain village of Mürren. Unlike other via ferratas, the route is one-way down the mountain. The climb takes around 2-3 hours which will test your nerves and endurance.

Before you set off on your adventure, it’s important to note that you must have a good fitness level and be comfortable with heights. You should also wear appropriate clothing and footwear and bring the right gear, including sturdy hiking boots, a helmet, and a via ferrata set.

At the top of the climb, before heading down, adventures can enjoy panoramic views of the Jungfrau region and the famous Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.

If you’re a thrill-seeker looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in the Swiss Alps, the Mürren via Ferrata is definitely worth adding to your travel itinerary. It’s a great way to challenge yourself and push your limits while taking in some of the most stunning scenery in the world.

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Published on January 13, 2023 16:25

What To Expect When You Go Whitewater Rafting Down the Hudson River Gorge

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure, whitewater rafting through the Hudson River Gorge is a great way to explore the outdoors and get your heart racing. The Hudson River Gorge is one of the most beautiful river gorges in New England, winding through miles of lush green forests with plenty of exciting rapids to navigate.

The Hudson River Gorge is located in the Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York. The river begins at Fort Edward and flows north until it reaches Lake Champlain at Whitehall. The gorge has been carved out by thousands of years of erosion and spans more than 40 miles. There are six sections of river ranging from Class I (the easiest) to Class V (the most challenging). The Upper section is known as the “Narrows” and it winds through eight miles of narrow gorges and rocks, making it ideal for those who want an intense experience. The Lower section is more suitable for beginners due to its gentler rapids.

There are numerous outfitters who specialize in guided whitewater rafting trips along the gorge’s various sections with varying levels of difficulty depending on your skill and comfort level. A typical trip will include safety instruction and equipment rental, including life jackets and helmets, so all you need to bring is yourself – no previous experience required. Delicious meals are offered at one of several riverside restaurants near Fort Edward, and there are overnight campsites if desired.

The scenery along the river is magnificent. In addition to towering cliffs, green forests, and rushing waterfalls, there are also several historical sites that are worth exploring as well. You can take time to visit Fort Edward which dates back to 1709 or tour Glens Falls which was once inhabited by Native Americans before being settled by Europeans in 1690. There are also plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, bird watching, and camping along the gorge—all of which make this area even more appealing.

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Published on January 13, 2023 16:06

This Outer Space Themed Restaurant in Disney World Is Guaranteed To Be Out of This World

Disney World, day or night, is always on the next frontier for adventure, from the rides to the dining experiences. If you’re looking for the ultimate experience when you visit Disney World’s Epcot in Orlando? Look no further than the new Space 220 restaurant. Located adjacent to Mission: SPACE pavilion, this space-themed eatery will surely be a hit with travelers of all ages.

@foodwtf This dining experience is out of this world… literally📍The Space 220 restaurant at Disneyworld’s Epcot in #Orlando 🎥 @Shawn | Food & Travel Creator #orlandofoodie #foodtravel #uniquerestaurant #disneyrestaurant ♬ original sound – Foodwtf

Space 220 transports guests on a simulated trip to the International Space Station, complete with stunning views of Earth from above the planet. The restaurant’s decor and atmosphere are inspired by the real International Space Station, with sleek, modern design and various interactive elements to make guests feel genuinely in space.

The menu at Space 220 offers a range of options for both lunch and dinner, including classic American fare with a modern twist. Starters include dishes such as “Starry Calamari” and “Blue Moon Cauliflower” For entrees, guests can choose from options like “Rocket Flame Seared Tuna” and “Spaceghetti & Shrimp.”

In addition to the food, Space 220 also offers a wide selection of specialty cocktails, beer, and even a wine room to complement your meal. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, and reservations are highly recommended as Space 220 is one of Epcot’s most popular dining experiences.

So make sure to add Space 220 to your itinerary when visiting Disney World’s Epcot. This unique space-themed restaurant offers an out-of-this-world experience that will keep guests talking long after their visit has ended. Don’t miss your chance to board the most exciting culinary adventure in the galaxy.

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Published on January 13, 2023 15:36

What to know before Angkor Wat

Cambodia’s star attraction, the Temples of Angkor are among the most fascinating and increasingly popular destinations in Southeast Asia. The excursion is more than worth it, but there are a few things you should know before arriving in Siem Reap. Here are 10 tips for making the most of your visit to Angkor Wat.

1. There’s a lot more to the temple complex than just Angkor Wat.

While Angkor Wat is the most famous and certainly among the most beautiful, there are more than 1,000 Temples of Angkor. Angkor was the capital of the Khmer Empire from the 9th to 15th centuries, both a fully functional city and a religious site.

The temples were constructed in the 12th century, and today make up the largest historical religious site in the world. If all you do is snap a sunrise selfie at Angkor Wat, you’re missing out on a lot.

2. Start early, and pack for multiple days of adventure.

I could spend a month exploring Angkor and still not feel like I’ve seen it all. At about 400 square kilometers, Angkor is impossible to experience in one day. Tickets are available in 1-day, 3-day, and 7-day options, and I encourage you to spend at least three days there.

Arriving early morning puts you ahead of the crowds and offers an opportunity to snap photos without having to spend five minutes figuring out how to frame out that line of tourists causing a traffic jam on the staircase. It also makes it much easier to plot out what you want to see over the course of your visit, as you’ll get a feel for how spread out the temples are and which ones are must-dos and which ones are maybes.

On a side note, you may feel “templed out” afterward. If other temple sites are part of your Southeast Asia travel plans, it’s best to space them out a bit (unless you’re a fanatic, in which case the 7-day pass is right up your alley).

3. Don’t throw away your ticket.

Multi-day tickets will be checked each time you re-enter the property. Replacing it means waiting in line and probably paying again unless your negotiation skills are on par with that of a defense lawyer. It’s best to just keep the ticket on you at all times.

4. Hire a local tuk-tuk driver instead of a tour operator.

I cannot emphasize this point enough. Ditch the tour bus, group package, and any other option that requires you to base your plans on other people’s timeframe and needs. Take your group in one tuk-tuk and have the driver shuttle you to the places your crew wants to see.

Also, the drivers know the area. They can make recommendations on the best times to visit specific temples and speed right by that giant tour bus, saving precious time.

One thing I found to be true in Cambodia, even more so than other Southeast Asian countries, is that drivers are eager to work with you for multiple days, maybe even your entire stay, as opposed to having to flag a ride each time. This provides a chance to get to know them, and equally as important, for them to get to know you. It didn’t take long for our driver to learn that my wife and I valued his opinion above that of the guidebook, resulting in more than one unexpected temple stop that we otherwise wouldn’t have seen or alternative entry point that we would never have heard about otherwise.

5. Skip sunrise at the main temple.

For real. It’s crowded. While breathtakingly beautiful, it’s hardly the only perfect sunrise spot in the complex. We shared our desire to view the sunrise at Angkor Wat with our driver, and he insisted that we instead take a twenty-minute hike up a path he knew about to an often-overlooked temple. We nearly had the place to ourselves, and it ended up being the most memorable sunrise experience of my life.

6. Angkor is inhabited by local villagers to this day.

Some residents have lineage dating back to Angkor’s heyday, with rice farming being a main source of livelihood for the many villages spread throughout the Angkor region. Respecting the residents, their villages, and customs is incredibly important. Treating historic sites with disrespect — being loud, drunk, obnoxious, or demanding — is in itself a shameful practice. Here, it’s not just shameful and disrespectful, it’s downright disgusting.

7. Hosting your own personal photo shoot is to be avoided, as well.

Of course, photos are part of the experience and part of the journey. But in my time at Angkor, I encountered a number of tourist groups occupying an entrance or popular area for far longer than appropriate, simply because each member had to get the perfect selfie followed by the perfect couples’ photo followed by the stoic shot followed by the standalone. Don’t be that group.

8. Bringing food and water is a good idea.

Another perk to hiring a local tuk-tuk driver –- on day two, he showed up with a cooler full of beer and water (which we reimbursed him for). We brought our own food to add to the mix and ended up perfectly satiated the entire day.

The temples are removed from central Siem Reap. It’s possible to buy food and water from local vendors on site, but much easier to bring your own.

9. Be ready to walk. A lot.

There were no elevators in the 12th century, and there certainly are none there now. The full experience requires a good deal of walking and stair climbing. Don’t whine — this is one of the most incredible experiences anywhere in the world. Going a bit deeper might just put you beyond the reaches of that busload of tourists that just pulled up and make the experience that much more memorable. You’ll encounter staircases, long paths to enter and exit temples, plus all of the walking around inside each one.

Additionally, many of the popular temples are far apart and require driving in between. This often leads to a number of impulse stops to check out other temples on the way, maybe buy a refreshment or hit the restroom. Be ready for a full day.

10. Bring a guidebook, even if traveling with a guide.

There’s simply so much knowledge to take in that it’s overwhelming without having a reference at your fingertips. Each temple has a story.

There are plenty of hawkers selling guidebooks onsite if you forget to plan ahead. Just be ready for a long chat if you’re feeling indecisive, as they aren’t keen on taking “no” for an answer.

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Published on January 13, 2023 14:30

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