Lay Kimthet

I have had many guides on different continents over 15 years of travel and very simply put, Lay Kimthet is the best guide I have had. I booked an Angkor Wat tour, slightly , apprehensive of large crowds, however Kimthet guided me against the flows of big tour groups- through smaller entrances and around the back of the temples. At the end if the day I felt I had a unique and personal experience. The most wonderful parts of the tour are thanks to his previous experience as a mason at Artisans d'Angkor: he will show you hidden carvings and explain the dexterity in creating them. Stories from the Hindu epic "The Ramayana" flowed effortlessly and decoded the scenes that decorate the pavilion at Angkor Wat. He is also very happy to chat on Cambodian history, politics and society, and can provide you with another perspective that you won't get in guide books, or indeed accepted popular discussions on Cambodia. It goes without saying that logistics for the tour were exemplary: a prompt pick up, great Tuk-Tuk driver, lots of water and fruit. Overwhelmingly, what impresses the most is Kimthet's deep appreciation and knowledge of Khmer culture and history and concern for the future of Cambodia. However, if history and politics don't suit you on a tour, Kimthet will show you great locations for different and more interesting photos of your day at Angkor Wat and surrounding temples. In sum, I had a unforgettable day thanks to Lay Kimthet.