Red tree ants, beef, and kaffir lime in a fragrant chili dish are presented joyfully to the table under the umbrella protection of the wet season. Lunch at Marum, a Tree Global Alliance training restaurant, is innovative and exciting. The best part about this eatery and social business is the ethos and commitment to Cambodian children, sustainability, and customer experience. After a decadent chocolate dessert of Kampot pepper cake with passionfruit, I spoke with the team and visited the onsite retail shop. A brightly adorned space filled with handmade creations meant to teach craftsmanship using recycled materials. Upstairs there was a group of youngsters engaged in a workshop dedicated to the safety of Cambodian children at risk. Lastly, I wished the trainee staff every success and happiness before embarking on my next adventure. And as the sun takes its turn now this afternoon, it is time for a rainforest hike to a secret river. Although the ancient temples and Khmer architecture of Angkor Wat is the main attraction for visitors to Siem Reap and it's the world-renowned archeological park. I opted to travel to the lesser-visited ancient site dedicated to the Hindu Devas, Kbal Spean. The "River of a Thousand Lingas" is approximately one hour's drive from town. Then a two-kilometer hike within the forest. The well-marked but mildly challenging trail in the Kulen Hills is incredibly worthwhile. The Angkorian carved stone river is an enigma, with beautifully sculptured motifs, lingams, and carved cobblestone-like reliefs emersed in the flowing water. Surrounded by broken megalithic stones alive with fish, butterflies, birds, spiders, salamanders, and tropical insects of every type. Watching children play in a waterfall, passing traditional incense wafting from a small prayer altar in a cave opening, and a joining a family spreading flowers on the water engravings for a ceremony transports you, centers you, and brings joy in the serenest of settings. After an impactful afternoon of locally sourced cuisine and archeologically finds amongst nature, it is time to return to the hotel for respite. Entering the Shinta Mani Angkor hotel is like being swallowed into the belly of an all-loving entity. The interior design is dramatic, blissful, and perfectly executed. Immaculate at every turn. The punch of orange against a monochromatic backdrop is stunning. It had me wonder if the choice of orange is a nod to the saffron robes of Buddhist monks, representing illumination. It is easy to lose track of time gliding through the halls of greenery, fish-filled bubbling ponds, and wafts of lemongrass by warm candlelight. The food onsite the hotel is refreshing and delicious. The talented team in the kitchen are craftsmen transforming ingredients into works of edible art. The Executive Chef Reza was on hand every day with happy banter. The day spa was another level of heaven. The staff there are kind but confident. I had the traditional Khmer Massage, and for someone that suffers badly from back pain, I cannot recommend it enough. The room was sensational. Boldly decorated with personal touches at every opportunity. For example, a bespoke Monopoly Game, that was ridiculously fun to play! Light-hearted and funny, just like everyone here. Which brings me to the best part, the people. Beyond the business canvas of successful hoteliers are owners, Mr. Sokoun and Mr. Bensely, respectively, is the Shinta Mani Foundation. It is essential to note that this isn't just a luxury getaway near the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat Temple Complex; it is a lesson on the love for Cambodia and its people. From Executive Director Brad Akins and Chhunin, the Foundation's front line facilitator, we gained a better understanding of the breadth of the work they do in the community. Building houses, supporting small businesses, families, farming, water security, education, healthcare, and hospitality. The hotel staff, for example, have been mentored, trained, and supported to grow their skillsets through this initiative. Even the gift shop has been beautifully curated with local artists and makers. All profits go to the Foundation. Siem Reap is full of unexpected wonders, and a visit will soften your spirits by how generous and caring Cambodian people are, and their pride in sharing their culture and historical treasures is an experience not easily forgotten.