Encouraging signs of local entrepreneurism in Siem Reap

Picture: The John McDermott Photo Gallery in Siem Reap

Even though hotels are mushrooming and entrepreneurism is rampant in Siem Reap, the basic infrastructure is ramshackle and the lighting at night out rightly scary for all foreigners. Nevertheless can be the first signs of an urban planning can be seen with the government standardizing sidewalks and block-in off Pub Street at night to traffic. Unfortunately Pub Street, which used to be a quiet haunt for the expats, has turned into a cacophonic wild-array of bars and restaurants. Therefore I was pleasantly surprised to find in a little alley between Pub Street and the Old Market a quiet alley with lovely restaurants, two photographers galleries of McDermott and Klick, the Frangipani Spa and a fair-trade shop selling silk lingerie. Being a tiny alley motorcycles cannot drive and the constant hassle of non-busy taxi drivers can be avoided. What a pleasant surprise to find a little alley that offers relive from the constant traffic around the old city.