Siem Reap, Cambodia

 

Bayon

Tomb Raider was filmed here

Standing in front of the beautiful Angkor Wat temple

 Taking a much needed break after climbing steps in 40 degree weather.

 Elephant Terrace

Angkor Wat archaeological park was a marvel. Its masterpiece is the Angkor Wat temple, the world's largest religious structure. There is so much history in the religious devotion of people, the artistry in the carvings and the command and rule over the muscles that laid the sandstone down. We bought a three day pass and toured the temple grounds with a tour guide the first day, via tuk-tuk the second, and cycled through for the third day.

 Silk Farm

 Silk weaving - such an intricate process

  Floating Villages

   

 Our daily walk along the broken path

Angkor What?

 One classroom

 Imagine lyrics

I have come across a place that is spectacular to me. I am amid scenes that can appear to be dormant in development but limitless in its ability to make visitors feel welcome. Our lifestyle in Siem Reap was a perfect blend of high-energy moments coupled with relaxation. With many days in Cambodia, we have enjoyed a slower paced vacation style albeit a fast paced appreciation for the country. We picked out our favourite dining place ($2 meals that left us feeling completely satisfied), our favourite side street bakery, our favourite night spots and our favourite locals. In addition, after an evening of introductory meditation, I met Monk Reth Rann who also happens to be the Headmaster of an English school. With an invitation to teach, the reverie of being in Cambodia continued well into three subsequent nights. It was gratifying to teach English to a classroom full of teenagers, young adults and a few Monks who all have a genuine interest to learn the language. We handed out colourful woven bracelets, sweet candy and took many pictures with our wonderful pupils. A fellow traveler commented, "I can meet tourists anywhere. I'm here to meet the locals." Although we don't set restrictions to who we meet, I can soundly say that a visit to Cambodia is not complete without meeting the faces of this country.

Pam  xx