Travellers on the lookout for quality Siem Reap accommodation should look no further than the Anantara Angkor Resort & Spa. Offering guests a centrally location in the heart of the ancient city this stylish rest serves as a strategic base for discerning holidaymakers.
Regarded as one of the most popular sporting events of the calendar year the Angkor Wat International Half Marathon is no ordinary sporting event in Cambodia. With an illustrious history dating back to 1996 when the event was first established this engaging marathon which takes place in December each year has become a tourist highlight for those touring the captivating confines of Cambodia and marathon enthusiasts from around the world. Due to take place for the 18th consecutive year this year’s installment of the Angkor Wat International Half Marathon is scheduled to kick off on December 7th, 2014.
What sets the event apart from similar races in the region is its connection to Angkor Wat, perhaps Cambodia’s most renowned cultural landmark which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as early as 1992. Unlike most marathons which are conducted on main highways and thoroughfares of a city landscape the Angkor Wat International Half Marathon route is set along world famous heritage sites including the 400 square kilometer vast Angkor Wat enclosure. Other highlights along the route include the Siem Reap River which will be crossed by the runners before running past the majestic lion sculptures of ancient Bat Chum Temple. The intricate carvings at the Elephant Terrace and the Ta Prohm ruins are also part of the trail which weaves through some of the country’s most iconic historic sites.
The Half Marathon is 21km long while runners can also take part in the 10km Road Race or the 3km long Family Run. Anyone above the age of 16 can take part in the marathon while the Road Race is open to those above 13 years of age. Organized to raise relief funds to aid the victims of Cambodia’s antipersonnel mines this worthy cause combines the best of Cambodia’s tourist highlights with an exhilarating sporting event that raises funds for a reputed charity.
Intrigued by history, art and food, Shazzana Hamid is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary. Disguised as Lavinia Woolf she writes of the exhilarating and enchanting.