South-East Asia’s newest airport is sleek, shiny and cavernously empty

The airport

Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI).

The flight
Singapore Airlines SQ0163 from Siem Reap to Singapore.

Cathedral ceilings and copious glass provide natural light reflected in the shiny floors, which are constantly being cleaned by staff.

The arrival

What a difference 17 years makes. It’s been almost two decades since I landed at Siem Reap’s old airport, located about 8 kilometres along a dusty tuk-tuk ride (replete with luggage) from the city centre. The new airport, built by Chinese investors for a reported $US1.1 billion ($1.65 billion) and opened in October last year, is about 55 kilometres from town on a spanking new highway (along which some travellers still opt to take a tuk-tuk at a cost of about $US25/$37). I’m on an Intrepid Tour and was transferred by private van. A taxi costs about $US30 to $US40.

The look

This airport has been designed to resemble the famed temples of Angkor for which Siem Reap is renowned and sports a red roof with perky peaks. Inside, cathedral ceilings and copious glass provide natural light reflected in the shiny floors, which are constantly being cleaned by staff. There’s not a speck of dust on the airport, which appears almost as revered as the famous temples themselves. There’s even a replica golden temple in departures.

Checking in

The Singapore Airlines counter is right inside the door at which my driver drops me, and I’m swiftly checked in along with an “I hope you enjoyed Cambodia” from a friendly staff member.

Security

The shiny, happy feeling continues through immigration and security, which is seamless and just around the corner from check-in.

Food + drink

Those seeking even more peace and quiet can pay $US35 for up to four hours to enter the Angkor Lounge, which includes food, alcohol (you pay for premium drinks), newspapers and magazines. Outside there’s a Burger King, Dim Sum Emperors, Crushly Passionnement Food and even a Coffee Club, indicating just how things have changed in this country in recent times.

Retail therapy

Duty-free shopping is a pleasant surprise, both for variety and price. For last-minute Cambodian treats, there are multiple varieties of its popular Kampot pepper (including pepper tea leaves); dried fruits; and local skin care. Duty-free alcohol is good value, with Absolut Vodka on sale for $US13.80 and Bombay Sapphire gin at $US22. Artisans Angkor sells stunning silk scarves, bags and clothing, while Amazing Cambodia specialises in spices, soap and the like. Big brand names such as Calvin Klein and Coach are also here.

Passing time

My two-hour wait for my flight to Singapore passes quickly by the time I pause in the shops and refill my water bottle at the potable water stations around the airport outside the ultra-clean toilets, of which there are plenty. There’s also free Wi-Fi throughout.

The verdict

The airport is built to sustain 7 million passengers a year, but there are reports that post-pandemic numbers sit at about 1000 a week. Hopefully, it will be a case of build it and they will come, as this airport is easily one of South-East Asia’s nicest.

Our rating out of five

★★★★★

The writer travelled as a guest of Intrepid Travel as part of their Cambodian Real Food Adventure