So much has changed. Today, the city is increasingly catering to a broad spectrum of travellers seeking shopping, world-class cuisine, stylishly modern hotels and nightlife.

‘For years Siem Reap was considered a one- or two-night destination, with tourists coming to visit the spectacular 12th-century temple complex,’ says Sarah Moya, general manager of the Anantara Angkor Resort. ‘Nowadays a longer stay is charmingly rewarded with an old and new world mashup, from trendy bars and restaurants to an emerging contemporary art scene amid the striking colonial-era French architecture. Siem Reap is definitely becoming in vogue and worth your while to linger longer.’

Anantara Angkor Resort is part of the city’s chic new persona. It recently emerged from a multi-million-dollar refurbishment, with suites decorated with teak wood and sandstone statues of Apsara dancers – a common motif in the city – a luxurious spa, superb restaurants and a fleet of Anantara tuk-tuks that whisk its mostly fashionable guests through the city streets.