Tourists who book a Cambodia tour package before arriving in the Country are likely to have their accommodation in place in advance. Many of the top hotels in Siem Reap have massage and spa facilities as standard. You are likely to have a free massage as part of the service in many of them. At the end of a busy day, there is surely no better way to relax? If you are travelling independently on your Cambodia holiday, then you may be looking for particular services once you reach a town or city. When it comes to spa and massage, there are plenty of options in Siem Reap with few of them needing you to book far in advance.

The Khmers see themselves as the forerunners of Thai treatments yet as a general observation, Khmer massage needs less twisting and turning. In Siem Reap, and in many other towns, there are blind massage services where the staff are regularly hailed as among the most skilful in their art and you can find such services close to the Night Market. In most cases, massage involves oil while with the influx of foreign tourists, services such as Swedish massage are increasingly available.

If your hotel does not offer massage facilities, here are a few places to consider:

•    For something really different, the Fish Massage might be something you fancy; it actually originates in Thailand. Step into a tank full of fish and you will feel them nibbling at the dry skin on your feet.

•    Bodia Spa is close to the Old Market and comes highly recommended. The atmosphere created by the rooms and décor is relaxing in itself and the staff is very experienced.

•    Frangipani Spa Hup in Guan Street is air-conditioned and quiet. The massage tables and well-trained staff are just two of the reasons to pay a visit.

•    Lemongrass Garden on Sivatha Boulevard is a small but soothing place that offers 60 and 90-minute Khmer massage, oil massages, pedicure, manicures and ‘’spiritual massages.’’ There is a cold drink to start and hot tea at the end of the session.

•    Kaya Spa in the Old Market uses oils, soaps and scrubs as part of its therapy to help customers relax and release their stress.

•    Golden Temple Hotel near the High School offers massage, jacuzzi and pool as a way to refresh yourself after a busy day, to get ready for the next one.

•    Sokkhak Spa in Sok San Street, the heart of town, provides a great Swedish massage, followed by mango and tea at the end of the treatment.

•    Asia Herb Association has private rooms, a choice of oils and showers before and after the session; very professional.

•    Viroth’s Hotel is centrally located and offers its services to guests and tourists off the street. After your massage, have a cocktail by the pool and watch the sunset.

Massage is an Asian tradition and speciality. You must try one during your Cambodia tour; friends and family will love to hear about your experience when you get home.