| Siem Reap, a major town in the nation of Cambodia | | | | in their finery and visit temples to burn incense and light |
| possesses a unique set of traditions, with local | | | | candles. Each family worships the Buddha and |
| customs intermingling with Chinese and colonial | | | | observes the custom of washing themselves with holy |
| influences. Although the town has experienced a | | | | water. |
| turbulent history it is now making rapid strides towards | | | | Wanabat, the second day of the celebrations is |
| development. Siem Reap is now a major tourist | | | | observed by charitable actions, providing assistance to |
| destination and accordingly many restaurants and | | | | the less fortunate including the poor, homeless people, |
| cafes along with other facilities for visitors are now | | | | servants and needy families. Families also engage in a |
| available. Features of interest include craft shops, the | | | | ceremony devoted to their ancestors at monasteries. |
| unique Apsara dances, rice paddies, silk farms, fishing | | | | The third day of the festival, known as Tngay Leang |
| villages and a bird sanctuary. Siem Reap is the | | | | Saka, is celebrated by cleansing Buddha figures as |
| entrance to the renowned Angkor Wat historical | | | | well as elders with perfumed water. This is considered |
| complex. | | | | to be a meritorious action that will result in good luck, |
| The Cambodian New Year is one of the most | | | | longevity, prosperity and happiness. |
| important occasions for the Cambodian people. | | | | The New Year is also a time to enjoy special dishes |
| Occurring on the 13th or 14th of April according to the | | | | such as kralan, a cake made out of rice mixed with |
| lunar calendar, the New Year celebrations continue for | | | | peas or beans, coconut milk and grated coconut, |
| three days. This period marks the end of the | | | | roasted in a stick of bamboo. |
| harvesting season, when farmers rest and enjoy the | | | | For the discerning traveller seeking a luxury hotel Siem |
| fruitful results of their labour. | | | | Reap, there is no finer choice than the Raffles Grand |
| Each of the three days of the New Year is celebrated | | | | Hotel d'Angkor. This superb establishment is one of the |
| with a unique set of customs. Maha Songkran, the first | | | | best 5 star hotel Siem Reap has to offer, with modern |
| day of the festival, marks the conclusion of a year and | | | | amenities in a grand setting. |
| the commencement of a new one. Cambodians dress | | | | |