Siem Reap

In Siem Reap, we visited a local workshop, where artisans are trained in traditional Cambodian handicrafts like wood and stone carving and silk painting. From there, we were also able to tour a real silk worm farm to see how the silk is made, from start to finish. Now that I know how much work goes into producing a single silk scarf, I can really appreciate its value!

Although the trip to Cambodia was worth it just to see Angkor Wat, we ended up really enjoying the town of Siem Reap as well. The town is relatively small and easy to navigate. It was also very affordable - our hotel room was $16/night and our meals generally cost about $2/person. Cambodian food turned out to be perhaps my favorite in Southeast Asia.

Silkworms eating. You could actually hear a faint munching/crunching sound as they ate:


Silkworm cocoons:


Fine silk threads. You can see the 100+ spools and threads:


Weaving: