Siem Reap is one of Cambodia's most popular destinations, thanks to its proximity to the Angkor temples - a wonder of the world so studded with superlatives that it's hard to overstate their magnificence. Siem itself was a small sleepy town until a few years ago, but following the surge of tourism after the borders opened, it's become far more lively. New hotels, guesthouses and restaurants are springing up every day, causing its boundaries to spread out into the countryside, yet it still retains its charming rural atmosphere. It's easy to walk or cycle around the tree-lined streets and a very friendly place to spend a few days.