Siem Reap, a resort town in northwestern Cambodia, is the gateway to the ruins of Angkor, the seat of the Khmer kingdom from the 9th–15th centuries. Angkor’s vast complex of intricate stone buildings includes preserved Angkor Wat, the main temple, which is pictured on Cambodia’s flag. Giant, mysterious faces are carved into the Bayon Temple at Angkor Thom.

As a low-key but modern gateway to the archaeological site, Siem Reap has boutique hotels, large resorts and numerous galleries and spas. The Angkor National Museum features Khmer artifacts, including a display of 1,000 Buddha statues and images. The Old Market and the Angkor Night Market sell wares like souvenirs, books and spices. The Old French Quarter offers trendy restaurants serving takes on international and Cambodian fare (which focuses on ingredients like rice and fish). And Pub Street is lively after dark.