Returning to the Temples of Angkor: A Journey Through Time

A Mother-Son Adventure, 20 Years Later

It was June 1999 when I first arrived in Siem Reap—a quiet, dusty town that bore little resemblance to the vibrant tourism hub it is today. With my backpack slung over my shoulders and my mum flying in to meet me, we set off to explore the temples of Angkor—a trip that would stay with us forever.

Back then, the roads were rough, luxury hotels were few and far between, and there were no tuk-tuks in sight. Instead, I negotiated with a moto-taxi driver to rent his Honda Dream, and off we went—me at the handlebars and my mum nervously gripping the back seat. Even now, two decades later, I remember every moment of that first journey.

A Time When Angkor Was Almost Empty

Visiting Angkor Wat for the first time felt like stepping into an ancient world that time had forgotten. There were no crowds, no selfie sticks, no lines of tour buses. Just my mum and I, wandering in awe through the largest religious monument on Earth, accompanied only by a young local boy with a Khmer smile that could melt hearts. He became our impromptu guide, sharing what little English he knew while pointing out hidden carvings and sacred corners.

At Ta Prohm, the iconic "jungle temple", we didn’t see a single other traveler. The film Tomb Raider hadn’t yet immortalized it on the big screen, so the site was simply a forgotten masterpiece, left for nature to reclaim. Massive tree roots wrapped around crumbling stone, and vines wove through ancient passageways. It felt like something out of Indiana Jones, as we climbed over moss-covered rocks and traced our fingers over centuries-old engravings.

Alt Text: Ta Prohm’s ancient ruins entwined with massive tree roots, an iconic scene from Angkor.File Name: ta-prohm-temple-angkor.jpg

Then there was The Bayon, an extraordinary temple at the heart of Angkor Thom, where nearly 200 giant faces are carved into towering stone pillars. The enigmatic smiles staring down from every direction made the entire experience spellbinding—a moment that felt more spiritual than historical.

How the Temples of Angkor Have Changed

Siem Reap in 2024 is almost unrecognizable compared to the sleepy town I first saw in 1999. The temples of Angkorremain just as awe-inspiring, but now they attract millions of visitors each year. The influx of tourism has brought modern amenities, five-star resorts, trendy restaurants, and lively night markets—but with it has come crowds, traffic, and noise that sometimes take away from the sacred atmosphere of Angkor’s ancient wonders.

Yet despite the changes, the soul of Angkor endures. Beyond the main sites, the Angkor Archaeological Park is still alive, home to hidden villages, ancient irrigation systems, and local Khmer communities who have lived alongside these temples for generations. Many visitors never see this untouched side of Angkor, focusing only on the main sites.

Rediscovering Angkor with My Mum – 20 Years Later

After two decades, my mum (now 72 years old) returned to Angkor Wat with me. But this time, we explored the temples in a way I never imagined back in 1999—on the back of a Vespa.

She was hesitant at first. She hates organized tours, gets stressed by crowds, and now has a bad back. And motorbikes? Terrifying. But with some gentle persuasion, she agreed.

We took the Our Angkor Tour, a journey that bypasses the main roads in favor of hidden jungle trails, rice paddies, and local villages. The goal? To escape the congestion and rediscover the magic of Angkor, just as we had in 1999.

Seven hours later, she returned beaming with excitement. She hugged her driver and guide, tipped them generously, and told me, “This is one of the best things I’ve ever done!”

Why a Vespa Tour is the Best Way to See Angkor

Over the years, I have seen many ways to explore Angkor, but I firmly believe that a Vespa tour offers an unparalleled experience. Here’s why:

• Escape the Crowds: Instead of battling busloads of tourists, ride through secret entrances and peaceful countryside routes.

• Go Beyond the Main Temples: While Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm are must-sees, a Vespa lets you venture deeper into the park to discover lesser-known ruins.

• Local Insights: Our Khmer guides have grown up around the temples and know their history, myths, and hidden stories better than anyone.

• Unparalleled Comfort & Safety: Each guest has their own professional driver, allowing them to sit back and enjoy the ride. Tours include cold drinks, soft towels, and insurance for peace of mind.

The People Behind the Temples

While the temples of Angkor are undoubtedly the star attraction, the real heart of Cambodia lies in its people. The Khmer people built these temples, and their descendants today preserve their legacy.

At Vespa Adventures, we believe in giving back. For every tour booked, we directly employ local drivers, guides, and support staff. Our guests aren’t just visiting Angkor—they’re helping to sustain a community.

An Experience You’ll Never Forget

If you’re planning a trip to Cambodia, don’t just visit the temples—experience them. Whether it’s your first time or a return visit decades later, the temples of Angkor still hold a special kind of magic.

Let us show you a different side of Angkor—one that’s filled with adventure, history, and the untamed beauty of Cambodia.

Discover our Angkor Vespa Tours and experience the temples as they were meant to be seen.