Apsara Dance Performance Including Buffet Dinner and Hotel Pickup

Traveling to Siem Reap offers so many ways to connect with Cambodia’s vibrant culture, and one of the more accessible options is this combined Apsara dance show with a Khmer buffet dinner. This tour provides a relaxed yet culturally immersive evening, perfect for those looking to enjoy local traditions without too much fuss.

What we appreciate most about this experience is the convenience of hotel pickup, the variety of Khmer dishes on offer, and the chance to witness traditional dance performances that give insight into Cambodia’s artistic heritage. The relaxed pace, combined with a decent price point, makes it an appealing evening activity, especially for first-time visitors.

That said, some travelers might find the venue noisy and crowded, which can make it hard to catch every detail of the dances or fully appreciate the storytelling aspect. It’s worth considering whether you’re comfortable in large, lively spaces, or if a quieter, more intimate setting is preferable.

This experience suits visitors who want a blend of good food, engaging performances, and easy logistics. It’s great for those who enjoy cultural shows but also value the simplicity of organized tours and comfortable transport.

Key Points

• Convenient pickup and drop-off make this a stress-free evening activity.
• Variety of Khmer cuisine in a buffet setting offers good value for money.
• Cultural dance show provides insight into Cambodia’s traditional arts.
• Large venue with a lively atmosphere, which might be distracting for some.
• Duration of about 1.5 hours strikes a balance between entertainment and sightseeing.
• Tour costs $32, a reasonable price considering the included transportation and show.

What to Expect from the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with a hotel pickup at 6 pm, which is a plus for travelers who prefer not to navigate Siem Reap’s busy streets on their own. The tuk-tuk ride to the Amazon Angkor Restaurant is quick and often praised for punctuality, with drivers being noted for their friendly service.

At Amazon Angkor Restaurant, you’ll settle into a spacious hall designed to host large groups. The venue itself is quite large—some reviews mention it holds about 400 people—which can mean a loud, buzzing environment. Yet, this scale allows for a vibrant, festive atmosphere, perfect if you’re looking for lively entertainment.

The Buffet Dinner

Once seated, the buffet kicks off. Expect a wide array of Khmer dishes, with options including classic Amok curry, Khmer BBQ, and vegetarian choices like vegetables for those who don’t eat meat. Reviewers like Ana D appreciated the vegetarian options, noting they had a good selection. The buffet is replenished quickly, ensuring no one leaves hungry.

However, some reviews point out that the quality of food can vary. A few found the buffet “not fantastic,” with one reviewer describing it as below average. This highlights that, while the variety is extensive, the overall dining experience might not match gourmet standards but is generally sufficient and filling.

The Performance

The main event is the Apsara dance show, a series of traditional Khmer dances that display both classical and folk styles. The performance is often described as “excellent” by those who enjoy dance, with some reviewers noting the dancing was “fabulous.” The dances are rich in symbolism, often depicting stories or religious themes, which adds a layer of cultural depth.

One guest, Robyn, summed it up nicely, saying, “What a wonderful show and such fabulous food!” Others, like Ana D, found the show “mesmerizing,” although some reviewers felt it was not as captivating overall, often citing the size of the venue making it difficult to hear or see clearly.

Atmosphere and Audience Experience

Given the large size of the venue, noise levels can be high, and it might be challenging to hear or absorb the explanations of each dance. Several reviews mention that the setup isn’t ideal if you’re looking for an intimate or quiet experience. RhiannonA_B describes it as “super loud and crowded,” which affected their enjoyment.

The show is brief—about 4 to 5 dances or songs—so don’t expect a full-hour performance, but enough to give a glimpse into Cambodia’s artistic traditions. Some guests found the variety of performances a bit limited, but for most, it’s enough to appreciate the cultural artistry.

Transportation and Logistics

The tuk-tuk pickup is well-rated for punctuality. Most travelers find this a major plus, as it simplifies logistics and adds a fun local touch to the evening. The return trip is also included, making it easy to relax after a night out.

Cost and Value

At $32 per person, this tour is priced competitively, especially considering the included hotel pickup, return transport, buffet dinner, and cultural show. When comparing it to other options, some reviewers felt they received good value, particularly those who enjoyed the food and performance.

However, a few reviews warn about possible overcharging—one guest noted being billed $58 for two, which they felt was excessive compared to the door price. It’s advisable to clarify costs upfront and ensure confirmation to avoid surprises.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking an easy, organized way to experience traditional Khmer culture. If you value convenience and a lively atmosphere, you’ll enjoy the combination of a buffet dinner and dance show. It’s also suitable for those looking to learn about Cambodia’s dance heritage in a setting that’s accessible and family-friendly.

However, if you prefer a quieter, more intimate cultural experience, or highly gourmet food, this might not be the best fit. The venue’s size and crowd density can detract from the storytelling aspect for some.

Final Thoughts

This Apsara dance dinner tour offers a solid introduction to Cambodian culture in Siem Reap. Its main strengths are the convenient transportation, enjoyable dance performances, and a variety of Khmer dishes that cater to different tastes, including vegetarians. It’s a lively, vibrant evening that’s perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed, entertaining night out.

The experience’s affordability and inclusive nature make it appealing, especially for first-time visitors or those with limited time. While the large venue might make it hard to catch every nuance of the performance, many guests find the overall package satisfying and memorable.

Ultimately, if you’re after a fun, culturally rich evening with friendly service and good value, this tour hits the mark. Just be mindful of the crowd and keep expectations moderate regarding the food quality and acoustics.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, round-trip tuk-tuk transportation from your hotel is included, making the evening hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about 1 hour 30 minutes, including transportation, dinner, and the performance.

Can I choose vegetarian options?
Yes, vegetarian guests have reported good selections. The buffet offers vegetables and other vegetarian-friendly dishes.

What is the dress code?
While not explicitly mentioned, casual, neat attire is appropriate for this kind of informal cultural event.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the package, so you should bring cash if you want to purchase beverages.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers found it family-friendly, especially those with children interested in cultural performances.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance. Changes less than 24 hours before the tour are not accepted.

To sum it up, this tour offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience Cambodia’s traditional dance and cuisine without any hassle. It’s perfect for those who want a lively night out with easy logistics and a reasonable price. For travelers craving a lively, culturally engaging evening with friendly service, this experience could be just what you’re looking for—even if the venue might be a bit lively for some tastes.