Today, start with a visit to Angkor Thom, not a single temple such as the historic sites it neighbors, but rather one of the most remarkable royal cities of the Angkor Period and an architectural wonder. As the last capital of the Khmer Empire, it was a fortified city, home to priests, officials of the palace, military, and buildings for administering the kingdom. Afterwards, visit the sacred Temple of Ta Prohm. In an incredible standoff between human creation and nature, the jungle's root systems have reclaimed this spiritual location now enshrouded in wild vegetation. The backdrop to many Hollywood scenes, the incredible Ta Prohm is both a cinematic and contemplative location. This afternoon is free time to visit the markets or try a DiscoverMORE tour. This evening as part of your EmeraldPLUS program, attend Phare, The Cambodian Circus, where a combination of acrobatics, music, and dance tell a uniquely Cambodian story. EmeraldPLUS: Phare Cambodian Circus performance: Experience Phare Circus, where theater, music, dance, and contemporary circus arts bring Cambodian stories to life. Performed by young artists from Phare Ponleu Selpak's vocational training center, each show explores the country's history, folklore, and contemporary life with energy and heart. Included Excursion: Visit to Angkor Thom: Explore Angkor Thom, the last great capital of the Khmer Empire. Enter through its monumental gates and discover the Bayon Temple, renowned for its serene stone faces, alongside the Terrace of the Elephants. Ancient carvings and towering ruins reveal the scale and artistry of Cambodia's imperial past. Included Excursion: Visit to Ta Prohm Temple: Explore Ta Prohm, where ancient stone corridors and carved towers are entwined with towering tree roots. Built during the Khmer Empire, this atmospheric temple blends intricate architecture with the surrounding jungle, creating one of Angkor's most evocative and distinctive settings. DiscoverMORE: Evening - Local Fare at Phare Circus (Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 1.5 hours, extra expense): Between Phare Boutique and the big top, you will discover Phare Cafe, an outdoor local 'hawker market' serving drinks, snacks, and delicious Asian inspired meals. Start your evening entertainment dining at the Cambodian Street Food Festival. With your voucher grab a table and choose your dinner with drinks from a selection of Cambodian and other Asian specialty food stalls, all while enjoying the pre-show performances. By having dinner here you are further supporting the great work and mission of Phare's social enterprise. DiscoverMORE: Siem Reap Countryside by Vespa (Activity Level: Active, Duration: 3 hours, extra expense): Riding on the back of an iconic and elegant Vespa scooter, this is a tour like no other. This incredible tour will take you in style to the most authentic and fun experiences available in Siem Reap. You will be driven away from the tourists and into the Cambodian countryside where the splendor of these striking surroundings and its local people will let you discover a new side to Cambodia away from the temples. Exotic foods, drinks, and experiences will let you experience Khmer life in the way the Khmer people do. DiscoverMORE: Gondola Boat ride at Bayon with drinks (Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 2.5 hours, extra expense): On the moat of Angkor Thom, cruise the waters surrounding the ancient city wall in a private gondola paddle boat. Enjoy the scenery as you sip your sparkling wine and enjoy canapes on a 40-minute paddle out to the southwest corner of the wall. Enjoy the setting sun from your gondola boat before returning back to the South Gate of the city. ...
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