Siem Reap surprised me completely on this trip to Cambodia

I went to Cambodia with modest expectations and left completely won over, largely thanks to time spent in Siem Reap. The city has a pace and character that travel guides undersell. Found a great spot for banana flower salad on day two and went back every day after that.

Angkor Wat was the big planned experience and delivered as expected. But it was Angkor Wat is genuinely one of humanity's greatest achievements that became the unexpected highlight — something I stumbled across rather than planned. 21 days was just right for getting below the surface without rushing.