channeling an adventurous spirit, perhaps akin to a modern-day lara croft, we embarked on a journey to siem reap, cambodia. our attire, a practical yet stylish ensemble of a tight tank-top, cargo shorts, combat boots, and fingerless gloves, was fitting for our exploration of this incredible destination, much like many of our pride parade outfits.
siem reap's primary allure is undoubtedly angkor wat, a breathtaking, ancient religious complex that draws visitors from across the globe. this unesco world heritage site, dating back to the 12th century, is rightfully hailed as one of the world's seven architectural marvels.
the sheer scale of angkor wat is awe-inspiring.
it's a vast expanse of intricately designed temples nestled within a verdant jungle, where nature's reclamation is both humbling and beautiful. siem reap serves as the perfect launching point for experiencing the wonders of angkor. we dedicated an entire week to our visit, allowing ample time not only to immerse ourselves in the grandeur of the temples but also to delve into the vibrant life of the city and, of course, its burgeoning gay scene.
siem reap presents a cosmopolitan atmosphere, bustling with tourists and offering a diverse array of dining establishments and accommodations.
the city's gay scene, though not geographically concentrated, is easily accessible, primarily revolving around the aptly named pub street. a friendly heads-up: this article contains affiliate links. should you choose to book any accommodations or activities through these links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you.
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each november, we eagerly anticipate the out adventures tour through laos and cambodia. this guided experience offers an opportunity to embrace your inner explorer amidst the ancient temples of angkor wat, discover the pulsating nightlife of phnom penh alongside like-minded companions, find serenity in luang prabang, and perhaps even sample some exotic local delicacies - yes, even barbecued spiders are on the menu!
unlike some destinations with a clearly defined gay district, siem reap's gay-friendly establishments and accommodations are dispersed throughout the city center.
we've provided detailed insights into each below. to ensure a seamless arrival, we highly recommend pre-booking your airport transfer. this service, available online, is both affordable and efficient. having a friendly, english-speaking driver greet you in the arrivals hall and whisk you directly to your hotel is the ideal stress-free start to any vacation.
it also allows you to bypass taxi and tuk-tuk queues, ensuring a swift and hassle-free journey to your accommodation.
siem reap is not only a highly visited and remarkably tolerant city but also the gateway to a nation that is widely recognized as one of asia's most gay-friendly.
as a same-sex couple, we consistently felt a warm welcome at the hotels we patronized during our stay. the staff were always gracious, and booking a double bed was never an issue, never drawing any undue attention.
exceptional accommodations for gay travelers in siem reap
we've curated a selection of the finest places to stay, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience for gay visitors.
these establishments not only offer excellent amenities but also provide a welcoming atmosphere:
the privilege floor at lotus blanc resort: a touch of luxury
for those seeking a truly special retreat, the privilege floor at lotus blanc resort stands out as our top recommendation for gay couples.
imagine if lara croft were to celebrate a romantic occasion, this is precisely where she would choose to stay. it's a sophisticated choice for a truly memorable getaway. this exclusive floor, part of the opulent lotus blanc resort, comprises just 23 elegantly appointed rooms and the exquisite damnak lounge restaurant.
the decor artfully blends turn-of-the-century french colonial architecture with minimalist design, featuring chic wood-paneled corridors.
while booking a standard room is an option, we strongly suggest exploring their comprehensive holiday packages. for instance, the privilege landmark package includes convenient round-trip airport transfers, flexible hours for check-in and check-out, and all-day breakfast service.
for an even more indulgent experience, the suite package offers additional perks such as a private chauffeur available for several hours, a knowledgeable tour guide, unlimited cocktails for a set duration, a complimentary minibar, and complimentary laundry services - a true lifesaver in siem reap's warm and humid climate, where frequent outfit changes are a necessity!
the resort boasts a magnificent 15-meter swimming pool, the perfect oasis for relaxation after a day of exploring the ancient temples.
temple fatigue is a real phenomenon, often stemming from those early morning starts to capture the perfect sunrise shot. the pool area is beautifully landscaped with coconut trees, complete with hammocks strung between them, creating a truly idyllic setting. additionally, the resort features a well-equipped gym, a rejuvenating spa, and the acclaimed damnak lounge, renowned for its delectable fusion of khmer and international cuisine.
men's resort: a vibrant hub for gay men
men's resort is more than just a hotel; it's a destination crafted by gay men for gay men.
it was an absolute highlight of our travels through asia. this establishment fosters a relaxed and convivial atmosphere, drawing in both guests and locals, which contributes to its unique appeal. men's resort is particularly recommended for solo gay travelers looking to connect with new people or for groups of male friends seeking a fun and social environment.
with only 15 rooms, the resort maintains a highly personal and intimate feel, making you feel more like a welcomed guest among friends and family than a mere hotel patron.
the social heart of men's resort beats around the expansive saltwater swimming pool.
yes, saltwater! the resort also offers a gym for those keen on maintaining their physique and a selection of free weights to help you achieve that perfect pump before a night out. the rooms at men's resort are characterized by their modern, sleek design, often enhanced with tasteful male nude artwork.
our room was spacious and featured a private balcony, offering a private sanctuary.
the resort's black-and-gold tiled sauna is legendary, frequently attracting local visitors and ensuring a lively and diverse social scene. it's an excellent opportunity to broaden your horizons and meet new people.
furthermore, men's resort provides access to a team of skilled massage therapists ready to soothe your muscles after a long day of exploration. the resort's location, while slightly removed from the immediate hustle of pub street (about a 15-minute walk or a short tuk-tuk ride), ensures a tranquil environment for a restful night's sleep.
rambutan resort: community-focused and centrally located
rambutan resort is a commendable mid-range hotel, owned and managed by gay individuals, situated in the vibrant heart of siem reap.
its prime location is a significant draw, with pub street and the popular barcode bar just a few minutes' walk to the west, and miss wong's lounge to the east. despite its central position, rambutan resort is nestled on a quiet street, offering respite from the energetic nightlife of pub street.
a particularly enticing feature is the outdoor bathtub, crafted from stone - a detail that initially sparked our curiosity.
there's an unparalleled sense of relaxation in unwinding in an outdoor bathtub after a day of temple adventuring, perhaps with a glass of champagne in hand. breakfast is served by the pool until midday, and for those embarking on early sunrise tours of angkor wat, the resort thoughtfully prepares breakfast boxes to accompany you, a truly appreciated gesture.
what truly sets rambutan resort apart is its deep commitment to the local community.
the resort actively employs and trains individuals from nearby villages, demonstrating a dedication to local development. they also run a scholarship program to support the education of local residents and encourage their staff to pursue higher education in fields like tourism, business, and finance, even providing financial assistance for university studies.
it is this profound commitment to social responsibility that makes rambutan resort a place we wholeheartedly support and highly recommend for your stay.
3 monkeys: a welcoming guesthouse experience
stepping into 3 monkeys guesthouse feels like entering a home, a sentiment amplified by its exclusive male clientele.
the staff go above and beyond to ensure a unique, memorable, and incredibly homely stay. they are adept at assisting with your angkor wat plans, preparing picnic lunches, and offering insider tips on the best gay parties in town. with only six rooms, the atmosphere is incredibly friendly, fostering easy connections with fellow guests, often leading to shared tours and group outings to local venues like barcode.
it's almost guaranteed that you'll depart 3 monkeys with a host of new friends - this is precisely what we loved most about our experience.
the rooms at 3 monkeys are a delight, thoughtfully designed and decorated with evident care. they are modern, spacious, equipped with essential air conditioning, and each boasts a private balcony. the pool area is a communal hub, where guests naturally gravitate to socialize and relax.
there's always someone available for a chat or to plan an activity with.
location-wise, 3 monkeys is situated just outside the immediate city center, approximately a ten-minute tuk-tuk ride west of pub street. the guesthouse also hosts its own private gay events, occasionally featuring performances by local drag queen artists by the poolside, adding an extra layer of entertainment to your stay.
siem reap's gay scene: bars, clubs, and more
the gay scene in siem reap is intimate, with establishments sometimes experiencing cycles of opening and closing.
however, there are consistently a few key gay hangouts worth exploring. with the invaluable assistance of our local contacts in siem reap, we make every effort to keep this information current:
barcode: the central gay hotspot
barcode is the quintessential gay bar in the pub street vicinity, making it the most conveniently located of all the gay venues in siem reap.
this central positioning naturally contributes to its popularity. we often began our evenings here, having already enjoyed dinner in the lively pub street area. the prime time to visit barcode is between 9:00 pm and 11:00 pm, when the captivating drag shows commence and continue throughout the evening.
following the performances, the space transforms into a vibrant dance floor. barcode remains open nightly until approximately 2:00 am and is situated at the extension of pub street on new street a.
miss wong's: sophisticated cocktails and queer-friendly vibes
miss wong's offers a sophisticated lounge experience, particularly renowned for its expertly crafted cocktails.
this intimate, gay-owned cocktail lounge is a celebrated establishment in siem reap, attracting a diverse clientele. while the prices might be slightly higher than other bars, the quality of the drinks and the ambiance are, in our opinion, well worth the investment. miss wong's is open every evening until around 1:00 am.
finding a gay sauna or cruising spot in siem reap
while siem reap does not have officially designated gay saunas, there are a couple of venues that offer opportunities for discreet encounters.
the gay sauna located within men's resort is your best bet if you're seeking such an experience in siem reap. as the city's sole recognized gay cruising area, it's understandably popular with locals. it operates from 6:00 pm onwards and is located north of pub street, approximately a 25-minute walk or a short tuk-tuk ride away.
for a more relaxed and therapeutic experience, sokkhak spa, situated in the pub street area, is a gay-friendly spa that provides a tranquil sanctuary.
the name 'sokkhak' itself is derived from sanskrit and signifies tranquility. this is not a venue for cruising; rather, it's a place to unwind, de-stress, and indulge in various spa treatments. sokkhak spa is open daily from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm.
cultural celebrations and events
while not an official gay event, the celebration of songkran, the cambodian new year, is a significant cultural experience that often brings people together.
this vibrant festival is one of the country's biggest public holidays. the tradition involves water throwing, often accompanied by the playful use of talcum powder. imagine encountering attractive, scantily clad locals on the streets, perhaps even in speedos, all participating in the festivities - it's a sight to behold!
we were fortunate to be in siem reap during songkran, and the atmosphere was wonderfully boisterous.
siem reap pride is typically held in early may, transforming into a three-day festival that unites the city's gay community. the celebration features a variety of events, including an energetic opening party at barcode, sophisticated cocktail gatherings at miss wong's, and lively pool parties at rambutan resort.
culinary delights in siem reap
due to its popularity with tourists, siem reap boasts an impressive culinary scene, particularly within the pub street area.
we've highlighted a few of our favorite dining spots, though honestly, every meal we enjoyed in siem reap was delightful:
le tigre
le tigre is widely celebrated for serving the finest pizza in all of siem reap. our discovery of this gem was pure pleasure.
we particularly enjoyed the variety of dishes available, ranging from classic khmer specialties like fish amok and beef lok lak, to refreshing green mango salad, alongside Western favorites such as steaks. however, we found ourselves returning to le tigre multiple times specifically for their outstanding pizza.
it's also an excellent spot for cocktails, and as an added bonus, they offer cooking classes where you can learn to prepare authentic khmer dishes.
the home of spring rolls
imagine enjoying delicious cocktails and perfectly crisp spring rolls in a beautiful garden setting - that's the experience at this delightful establishment.
they specialize in spring rolls, offering both the classic deep-fried variety and fresh versions, bursting with an array of surprising flavors. the cocktail menu is equally impressive, featuring creative names like 'alice in wonderland,' 'midnight in paris,' and 'californication.'
visiting sihanoukville: a gay-friendly option
for those considering a coastal escape, sihanoukville offers a gay-friendly alternative.
nature life resort, situated in the serendipity beach area, is a great-value option for gay travelers. this resort features 16 rooms, two duplex lofts, a pleasant outdoor swimming pool with sun loungers, a rooftop solarium offering panoramic views, and a cocktail bar.
a delicious breakfast is served on the terrace by the pool. the resort has a welcoming reception, with staff fluent in khmer, english, french, and italian. the french owner and his team are readily available to provide local information and assist with organizing transportation and excursions.
this adults-only resort is conveniently located just three minutes from the golden lion monument, white sandy beaches, the city center, and popular tourist attractions, as well as numerous bars, restaurants, and shops.
amenities include a bar, complimentary wi-fi, a sun terrace, and a swimming pool.