Siem Reap

Set in northwest Cambodia, Siem Reap was once a small backwater town but during the past two decades it has changed beyond all recognition and is now best known for being the gateway to the Angkor ruins, a sprawling World Heritage-listed complex of more than 400 ancient temples with the magnificent Angkor Wat as its focal point. Visitors come here to see the temples, of course, but there is plenty to do in and around the city when you're templed out. Siem Reap has reinvented itself as the epicentre of chic Cambodia, with everything from backpacker party pads to five-star hotels, an exciting variety of restaurants, sumptuous spas, great shopping to suit both foodies and adventurers, and a creative cultural scene that includes Cambodia's leading contemporary circus.