Explore the temples of Angkor from a different perspective, considering the architectural progression that evolved over the centuries under the reigns of successive kings. By 802CE, when Jayavarman II founded what would become “Angkor”, a powerful Khmer royal family consolidated power over a vast expanse. Over centuries of development, successive kings directed their resources towards establishing their divine status through the construction of ever more grand and complex religious structures.
Programme Details
Departing from the hotel at 07:00, begin the morning at the steps of Phnom Bakheng, the original centre of the city. Then take a journey through the history of Angkor, learning about the evolution of Khmar architecture and symbolism. Just outside and within the city of Angkor Thom, enjoy walking tour including a visit to famed Bayon Temple, whose dozens of towers feature hypnotic Buddha faces who look out in every direction of the once-great Khmer Empire. Then head north of the city to Preah Khan, chronologically one of the last Khmer temples and, arguably, the most grand and labyrinthian complexes of crumbling corridors.
Enjoy lunch at Fabien’s house, a traditional Khmer home tucked away in the forest north of the Srah Srang baray. Enjoy a lunch of Khmer cuisine in a setting conducive to further discussion about the attractions and activities of Siem Reap and Cambodia at large.
In the afternoon, explore the apotheosis of Khmer temple development: Angkor Wat. Arriving in the late afternoon (14:30 or 15:00) avoids heat of midday and also provides a more intimate experience, as this time sees fewer visitors. Furthermore, as the only west-facing temple, Angkor Wat is best to visit (and photograph) in the late afternoon, enjoying the uppermost platform around 17:00, and walking out as the guards begin corralling visitors out of the complex at 17:30. Exiting the temple with the setting sun shining on the Vishnu image discovered beneath the temple’s central sanctuary is a magical sight to behold and a fitting end of your exploration of the temple built by King Suryavarman, whose name translates to “Protected by the Sun”. (L)
Inclusions:
🥘 Lunch
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Nick Ghosh
Global Director of SalesEXO Sales Team
Having spent much of his childhood between Southeast Asia and the UK, Nick has the passion and destination knowledge of a true local. After teaching English at Shanghai University in 2006, Nick returned to the UK to work for a top tour operator for ten years. Serving as a Southeast Asia Product Manager prior to joining EXO, Nick became our UK Sales Director in 2016 and since August 2018 our Global Sales Director based in the UK.
Lucas Arruda
Sales Manager, Latin AmericaEXO Sales Team
Hailing from Brazil, Lucas leverages a deep well of professional experience, destination knowledge and love of travel to his role as Sales Manager for Latin America. He initially joined EXO in our China offices, gaining a strong understanding of EXO services and products, which he brings to this new role.
Sophie Rowley
Sales Manager UK & IrelandEXO Sales Team
Sophie's passion for travel began when she was young, joining her parents for trips abroad. Captivated by the allure of new destinations and diverse cultures, she went on to pursue a degree in International Tourism and Hospitality Management. After a decade working for a renowned UK travel agent, she transitioned to her role as EXO’s Sales Manager for the UK & Ireland.
Pantanida Jantsakool Pitz
General Manager German MarketEXO Sales Team
Born in Bangkok, Pantanida began her career in the travel industry in the early 2000's. After travelling around Southeast Asia for a period of time, she moved to Ho Chi Minh City to help start up the German department for EXO Travel. She has been based in Germany since 2008, where she looks after our German-speaking clients.
Amanda Pilar
Sales Director - North AmericaEXO Sales Team
Amanda is a graduate in Hospitality and Tourism Management and calls Boston home. She first fell in love with Asia in 2012 then worked as a travel specialist creating bespoke luxury journeys to Asia for a leading US tour operator. Her passion to bring unforgettable travel experiences for all clients ensures she brings the best in terms of support for our trade partners in North America.
Kate Winslow
Sales Manager, North AmericaEXO Sales Team
Kate joined EXO Travel in 2023 as North American Sales Manager. With a history of extensive travel in Asia and a proven track record as a Virtuoso advisor, she enriches the travel planning process and promotes EXO's diverse destinations with a fresh perspective. Her passion for unique journeys is a boon for both EXO and our partners.
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Sales Manager Australia and New ZealandEXO Sales Team
As a former Olympic-qualifying athlete and lifelong travel industry professional, Nadine combines a wealth of experience with a competitive mindset to deliver top shelf services to our partners in Australia and New Zealand.
Alice Lefebvre
Sales Manager - FranceEXO Sales Team
Alice caught the travel bug early, accompanying her parents on cultural and architectural trips as a young child. She went on to study tourism and work for a well-known tour operator before taking a solo trip across three continents. In 2017, Alice joined EXO Malaysia as Inbound & Product Manager and, in 2023, returned to Paris as Sales Manager to support EXO's partners in the French-speaking market.