I recently achieved a lifetime milestone event thanks to a extraordinary Khmer tour guide named Narin, who enabled me to visit four exceptional Khmer temples well outside Siem Reap, the location of the spectacular Angkor Wat. Many Westerners do not realize the Khmer Empire built large, stone temples throughout a 77 sq. mile region over a period of six centuries. A special jewel amongst these temples is Preah Vihear, which commands a spectacular view on the edge of an 1,800 ft. precipice that overlooks the Cambodian plain. Until recently, this temple has been a battleground between Thailand and Cambodia; however, the International Court of Justice determined it legally belongs to Cambodia. The temple is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit it and you will see why. It took me six years to return to Siem Reap, and I read about Narin in this forum. I contacted him, told him in detail what I wanted to do. He made absolutely everything happen, and offered invaluable advice that resulted in the most enjoyable tour I have ever experienced. Narin managed all logistics, food, drink, and lodging near Preah Vihear. Importantly, he is an expert on Khmer civilization. He is tireless and has an unmatched cheerful disposition, speaks excellent English, and goes above and beyond in ensuring your comfort and safety in all regards. He is always punctual, and as we rolled out of my hotel on a journey (new 4-wheel drive Toyota) at 5:00 a.m., he hands me fresh, warm French baguettes. In sum, he is a man of absolute integrity, and he will do absolutely everything to ensure your vacation investment is completely realized. When I visited Preah Vihear, I stipulated that I wanted my camera on a tripod ready for the morning sun’s gold hour. Narin made that happen. When I take my wife on the next trip to visits these temples, Narin will be our tour guide. He’s outstanding! His email is: angkornarin@yahoo.com

I visited Siem Reap with my sister in April for 3 days.

I have always wanted to visit Preah Vihear but was a little worried because of the ongoing conflict with Thailand. So I asked Narin (angkornarin@yahoo.com) to be our guide during our 3 day visit. He was knowledgeable and friendly. On our first day, we visited Preah Vihear. We took the motorbikes up to Preah Vihear and spent about 3 hours at the temple. Although some parts were in ruins, the temple and its surrounding scenery were spectacular. Narin took us to see the shared border with Thailand, which is now closed, and we had the chance to interact with the soldiers guarding the border. We also tried a local fruit that is found at the temple. He pointed out the different architectural styles at the temple and explained the various carvings, stories etc associated with the temple. It was a safe and fun trip. After Preah Vihear, we visited Koh Ker group of temples and Beng Melea.

The next day Narin's friend took us to visit the Angkor Wat temples and it was fun. Like Narin, he too was knowledgeable and showed us where to take good photos at the different temples. On our last day, we went to Phnom Kulen National Park, which was a last minute addition to our itinerary. Narin gladly changed our planned itinerary to enable us to visit Banteay Srei, Phnom Kulen and a few other Angkor temples before our flight in the late afternoon.

I'm happy that I can fit 2 amazing temples, Preah Vihear and Angkor Wat, into our trip and that Narin was our guide.