Which is the best community to visit in Tonle Sap? Any that should be avoided?

Thanks in advance.

Near Siem Reap or further out?

Haven't seen most, but we did enjoy a stop in Kampong Chhnang on the south shore between Battambang and PP. Not a whole lot to do there like most small towns, but it has some interesting French colonial buildings still, a nice floating village (Cham Muslim) and potters villages in palm groves a shot moto ride away.

"Near Siem Reap or further out?"

Near Siem Reap, I would allocate a half day to sightseeing in Tonle Sap.

I've been to the floating village closest to Siem Reap and found it a tourist trap, however I also went to a more isolated village and loved it. Can't remember the name though which isn't much help.

To be honest, we visited two or three villages a dozen years ago and thought they were all tourist traps, some more or less than others. In contrast to visiting the temples, we felt it was wasted time. We did enjoy visiting the temple on the hilltop overlooking the lake.

Kompong Phhluk 7:30 am-12:00 pm. Look under small group tour $30 pp www.beyonduniqueescapes.com

Kompong Khleang but no flooded forest here. OSMOSE and Sam Veasna Center offer full day tours.

Another village is Chong Khneas but I think this has gotten too touristy.

www.taraboat.com several tours, varying prices

Phnon Bok or Phnom Krom-what I think Kathie is talking about. Good sunset from Phnom Krom.

Chong Kneas is to be avoided. Best lake community within proximity is Kompong Khleang in my opinion. Please be responsible there or it will be just like Chong Kneas in no time