farfromitall

As a photographer and travel writer I've been a frequent visitor to the magical Angkor Wat and the town of Siem Reap over the years since my first visit in 2001 initially fascinated by the temples then fell in love with the people, I've been privileged to see the place grow and evolve into an incredible destination that takes it's sustainability and socially beneficial credentials very seriously. My favourite place to stay has been the Treeline Urban Resort run by another Kiwi Joni Aker, it's designed and owned by Hok Kang a famous Cambodian Architect and founder of Browns Coffee cafes.

Built with local materials and with a genuine heartfelt commitment to sustainability and nurturing Cambodian artists, The Treeline is the perfect place to be based.  Joni the GM keeps me up to date on what's happening on the sustainability front in town and actively encourages local initiatives such as the Kandal Village project and the new Wat Bo neighbourhood initiative. Both are neighbourhood associations promoting places offering something new and original in their hoods. On my trip before last, she suggested I come back and do a story on a new initiative covering all of Siem Reap town, The Collective for Good.

#hothoods #lifestyle
#Ecofriendly #socialenterprises #charities
#cafes #restaurants #hotels #resorts #conservation
#Destinations

The once-quiet Wat Bo neighborhood has blossomed into a sophisticated destination, drawing discerning travelers with its unique blend of contemporary luxury and traditional charm. Anchored by the esteemed Treeline Urban Resort and Viroth's Hotel, the area has become a hub for refined retail, world-class galleries, and innovative culinary experiences.

Recently, the addition of the renowned Miss Wong's cocktail lounge has further elevated Wat Bo's nightlife scene, offering an exclusive and stylish ambiance. The neighborhood's commitment to sustainability is evident in its search for local funding for significant urban improvements. These enhancements include lush tree and flower planters, inviting roadside benches, and eco-friendly recycling bins, creating a more beautiful and sustainable environment.

Let's explore the exciting new additions that have further solidified Wat Bo's position as a premier destination for luxury travelers.



OKO Gallery

Discover exquisite home decor at OKO Gallery, nestled within the luxurious VIROTHS boutique hotel. Admire a captivating collection of Objet d'Art pieces, each handcrafted locally with a contemporary Khmer flair. The perfect place to curate your dream home or find unique gifts for discerning friends.

COLLECTOR

Has an eclectic collection of “Khmer venacular” or everyday traditional cambodian objects, carefully curated by Doug a seasoned hand on the Siem Reap scene and founder of TRUNKH , a legendary local store orginally in Kandal village, COLLECTOR is a showcase for eveything desirable on your khmer expedition!

BOOKISH 
& BANNLE VEGATERIAN RESTAURANT

On Wat Bo's charming Road 26, discover BOOKish, an enchanting second-hand bookshop housed above BANNLE, a renowned vegetarian restaurant. This idyllic enclave offers a tranquil respite, where bibliophiles can peruse a curated selection of literary treasures. As you wander the quaint streets, indulge your sweet tooth at the inviting gelato parlor, a delightful treat for the senses!

ANGKOR VILLAGE HOTEL

The Angkor Village Resort and Performance Centre is a luxurious retreat in Siem Reap, offering a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Khmer culture through captivating performances at the on-site theatre, indulge in delectable cuisine at the resort's restaurants, or unwind at the serene spa. part of the small luxury hotels group the Angkor Village provides an unforgettable experience.

The Muffin Man


Craving a sweet pick-me-up after a day of exploring? The Muffin Man is the perfect antidote. Their mouthwatering muffins, paired with aromatic coffee, will satisfy your sweet tooth. This popular café, known for its stylish interiors and vibrant art scene, is a real gem, owned and operated by a passionate Khmer entrepreneur highly skilled in the art of australian muffin making!

CHOCOLATE GARDEN

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture at the weekend arts and craft market at Chocolate Garden. Discover a treasure trove of unique handmade wares, including exquisite textiles, jewelry, and vintage film cameras from Kravan Gallery. Enjoy a coffee at the café and soak up the lively, mosty khmer atmosphere.

KRAVAN GALLERY

Previously at the Night Market this fantastic gallery now sells vintage analog film camera and film as well as Rina’s very stylish B&W prints of Angkor Wat temples. Tapping into the blossoming analog film movement worlldwide. Young people who love film and want to try it at one of the worlds most photogenic desintations can now grab a very good quaility camera sourced from the excellent quaility Japanese market and a roll of film locally! Here Rany shows off a few of their cherished babies!

Wat Bo Streets

Our gracious hosts the Treeline Urban Resort had one of their tuktuk drivers take us around the wider flung noteworthy denizens of Wat Bo. Here are a few glimpses of the wider Wat Bo Neighnourhoods street delights. Thanks to our charming and caring dtiver!

SPOONS

I visited the famous Spoons a Hospitality Training Charity supported by their restaurant and cafe and now an official Cambodian charity after a Cambodian management team handover from the original international charity that struggled with fundraising during COVID. This is a great example of Cambodians stepping up and being active in raising expectations and opportunities for themselves. The school is very comprehensive having a great track record of placing graduates into the local hospitality industry. The restaurant as well as providing valuable hands-on experience also helps to fund the school itself ad serves delicious classic Khmer dishes with modern flair garnish coming from their own herb farm out back!

HAVEN

Sara and Paul of HAVEN explained to me how they grew disillusioned with their lives in Switzerland, feeling “there must be more to life than this”. They saved, then quit their good corporate jobs, sold everything they had and started their extensive world trip. When they arrived in Siem Reap they deeply connected with the place and people. After learning about the lack of opportunities for young adults, it was impossible for them to go back to Switzerland. They wanted to stay, create meaningful opportunities for this next generation and contribute to the development of the community. With a background in training and nutrition, they decided to set up HAVEN, a training restaurant taking in an annual group of young disadvantaged people and give them the theoretical and practical training to succeed in the food and beverage industry. Supported by the Restaurant itself the training is completely free to the students. they are provided with housing, medical benefits and training in not just the practical matter of working in a kitchen or as service staff but in food hygiene, stock taking, and interview techniques and guided to placements partnering hotels and restaurants regularly taking graduates in the thriving tourist sector.  Every year at graduation the whole school and restaurant celebrate and experience immense satisfaction that another year's class of young lives have been uplifted and given opportunities previously unimaginable. Head chef Pardet, who has been with them from the start, eagerly receives visiting former students that come back to thank Chef and the team, telling their success stories of life in the big wide world. There is never a dull moment for SARA and PAUL who obviously thrive on the challenges and achievements of each class.
 

WILD

WILD is a real breath of fresh air on the local scene! Bringing exceptionally good cocktails to Siem Reap fusing classics with local flavours. Lorraine and Renaud a Parisian couple, left their successful but unfulfilling corporate careers and fell in love with Siem Reap while Travelling.  They were compelled to set up a mould-breaking outdoor cocktail bar. Renaud inspired by local food on a visit to the Reunion islands started offering them to friends and visitors and soon they took off big time transforming WILD into a lunch and dinner venue! Part of the attraction of Siem Reap was the opportunity to make a real difference by uplifting the local Cambodian’s expectations and opportunities. While not being a social enterprise as such they pay their staff well above the local average and ensure they have medical benefits, good training and access to plastic-free food via the restaurant.  WILD actively contributes to local Charities in kind or with funds generated from their shop area featuring sustainable local items and some WILD merchandise such as the nicely decorated stainless steel water bottles. Plastic-free is an important goal for them!