Introduction to Siem Reap Angkor Airport
Siem Reap Angkor Airport (REP) stands as Cambodia’s busiest airport, primarily owing to its proximity to the renowned Angkor World Heritage Temples.
In 2016, the airport efficiently managed three and a half million passengers, experiencing a remarkable 20% growth in 2017. This figure is comparable to the passenger traffic of airports such as Leeds in the UK and Cartagena in Colombia. Situated merely 8 km from Siem Reap and 6 km from the iconic Angkor Wat temple, the airport’s strategic location makes it easily accessible.
The airport consists of a single building housing two terminals, one dedicated to international flights and the other to domestic flights.
My Arrival Experience (June 2017)
Despite its small scale, Siem Reap Angkor Airport impressed me with its well-organised check-in and passport control procedures.
Upon landing, the proximity of the airport meant a swift transition from the tarmac to the immigration hall. The terminal’s aesthetics took me by surprise, a well-designed space that was not only spotlessly clean but also staffed by helpful and attentive personnel.
Immigration at Siem Reap Angkor Airport was a straightforward process. Upon entering the airport, I easily located the visa application forms on a rack. After completing the form and attaching a pre-prepared photo, I joined the queue. The next step involved paying USD30 for the visa before being directed to a waiting area. The visa processing took no more than 15 minutes. Once called, I collected my visa, proceeded to exit, received my arrival stamp, and submitted my entry form. The process also included fingerprint scanning, similar to procedures in the USA.
After completing the immigration process, I made my way to the baggage hall where I found my bag ready for collection. The convenience extended to transportation options, with both tuk-tuks and taxis readily available. Opting for a taxi, the journey to my hostel took approximately 20 minutes, providing a swift and hassle-free transfer from the airport.
My Departure Experience:
For my departure, I opted for a tuk-tuk instead of a taxi, costing me USD6, £4.70, or $17000 Colombian pesos. Heading towards international departures, I proceeded to check in for my flight to Kuala Lumpur with Malaysia Airlines.
The Plaza Premium lounge
As is my usual practice, I arrived quite early for my flight to explore the surroundings, and this time was no exception. The check-in process for my baggage was efficient, followed by a quick and efficient clearance through customs and immigration. There were ample options for a coffee or a snack, and the facilities, once again, were impeccably clean and well-maintained. With some time to spare, I decided to wait at the Plaza Premium airport lounge, for which I paid USD33. Despite the relatively high cost, I was really pleased with the service, as it provided me with a relaxing environment for catching up on work.
The Plaza Premium lounge impressed with its spacious layout, exceptionally helpful and friendly staff, and seriously great food options, complete with an onsite chef at all times. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in this lounge while working, sipping on a drink (or two), and indulging in some delicious local food before my flight. Excellent value for money.
My Rating: (1*- 5*)
- Airport Facilities *****
- Friendliness of airport staff ****
- Signs ****
- Passport Control *****
- Cleanliness *****
“Airports are spaces that hold an immense sense of clatter and absurdity at the same time, a lovely chaos of a diverse mortality holding hands; an elderly couple walking together, a group of noisy backpackers, a place where business people type unceasingly on the laptops almost at a rhythmical pace. But most of all, a place where two destinations become one, a true mirror of reality and magic.” JR
Love
❤️
From Jenny
Jenny Sky Is The Limit 
Leave a comment