Need help with what to take to Siem Reap

[Keduf]

In 2 weeks I'll be heading off to Siem Reap for 7 days...I have a 50D and Sigma 10-20 and am thinking of purchasing a Sigma 24-70 f/2.8 or Tamron 28-75 f/2.8...If I go with the Tamron, do you think 8mm is too much of a gap? Also, is 70/75mm enough reach? I am also taking my Lumix TZ7 and figure I can use that if I need telephoto (much lighter than carrying another lens - I have the 70-200 f/4L but don't really want to carry it around). Also, I'm considering taking my 350D so I don't have to change lenses, but would I be OK with just the 50D? And finally, would it be sufficient to take a monopod, or would a tripod be essential?

[yogestee]

Kerry,,I've been to Siem Reap twice in the last 4 years.. The town itself isn't much, although there is a nice market in the old part of town where you'll get great candids but the Angkor complex is spine chilling.. ..You'll need a couple of days to see it all..

I recommend you see Angkor Wat at sunrise,,get there at around 5.30am to stake a spot.. View it from across the moat..You'll be facing east with Angkor Wat about 200-300 metres away.. As the sun rises over Angkor Wat the building looms out of the darkness at you.. It is immense.. Once the sun is up you can take your time to walk through Angkor Wat..You'll need around 2 hours for that..

Take a look at Bayon mid morning which is also stunning.. Go back to your hotel for lunch then see some more temples in the afternoon.. I recommend you see Ta Promh (the Jungle Temple) late in the afternoon.. This is where they filmed Tomb Raider.. Absolutely brilliant and my favourite site in the Angkor complex..

Your hotel will organise a car and driver for you for around 40USD for the day..

Remember most temples are still working temples where Buddhist monks and nuns still practice.. Show some respect, take off your shoes and hat where you see a monk or nun practicing..

I like to shoot candids, so I prefer to use a tele lens.. A wide angle lens is necessary for landscapes and buildings because most sites are huge.. Pick out some of the bas reliefs with a short tele lens.. It's advisable you don't touch any of the bas refliefs or statues as over time the oils in skin are starting to wear these away..

Take time out to visit Kantha Bopha hospital in Siem Reap to listen to the cello recital on any Saturday night, then donate money, blood or both.. The hospital is run by a Swiss doctor, Beat Richner who is a brilliant cellist and marketer for the hospital..

http://www.investincambodia.com/kanthabopha.htm

It will be very hot in Cambodia this time of year..

[Keduf]

Thanks heaps for your reply Jurgen - and I love your images!
Am heading off tonight and still not 100% sure on what to pack...Would you recommend I take 2 bodies (350D and 50D) or just the 50D? Also, you've now got me thinking maybe I could take the 55-250 as it's light and will give me so much more reach..Think I'll go and pack my gear and have a think about it all...

[yogestee]

Thanks heaps for your reply Jurgen - and I love your images!
Am heading off tonight and still not 100% sure on what to pack...Would you recommend I take 2 bodies (350D and 50D) or just the 50D? Also, you've now got me thinking maybe I could take the 55-250 as it's light and will give me so much more reach..Think I'll go and pack my gear and have a think about it all...


Kerry,, I always recommend light travel, especially in hot climates.. Your 50D will do a splendid job.. I would also take the 55-250mm..

Safe travels..

[Keduf]

Thanks again Jurgen!
The cello recital is on my list of things to do...anything else you recommend? As I'm travelling alone, I can do whatever I please! I am thinking of getting a 3 day temple pass...do you suggest I hire a guide for 3 days also??
I think that's all the questions for now :)