Cambodia: 1

Cambodia is an amazing and interesting place. It is, as the advertisements proclaim, 'the kingdom of wonder'. It is wondrous not only for its ancient temples and beautiful happy people, but also for its astounding contradictions and bizarre government (more on that later).

First some facts, did you know that over 75% of Cambodia's population is under 30? (that makes me old in Cambodia) and that 50% are under 18?

wondrous, no?

Or that the Temples at Angkor, just outside Siem Riep, is arguably the largest religious temple area in the world?

Or that because Cambodia is situated between two very powerful neighbours, Vietnam and Thailand, its land and people have been raped and pillaged for centuries by these neighbours, and of course by its own people (read here Khmer Rouge), and yet, the people keep smiling and loving?

This place is truly one of wonder. I knew this to be the case before I visited because Skye had lived, worked and traveled around Cambodia a few years ago, and regaled me with stories of the place. It was like visiting a fairytale land for me, and the best thing was, it lived up to its stories.

I don't know exactly what it is about the place, the feel, the smell, the warmth, the smiling and friendly people, but there is a spirituality that simply can not be expressed in words. I now know why Skye adores it, and am starting to develop strong feelings for the place myself.

I am determined to return at some stage and spend some time to really to get know her.

Here's some photos of Phnom Penh, and possibly some of the last photo's of the sunset over the lake from the Drunken Frog guesthouse! (its a long and horrible story... one for another post)


Sunset on Day 2. The Drunken Frog is great place to stay. The staff are unbelievably friendly. We stayed a few days here at first, then returned for two more after going to Siem Riep. On our return we were greeted with huge hugs and told, that 'Our' room is available. Lovely people.

This is a temple on the only hill in town. A cool place full of monkey's and very poor people, begging and selling their wares. This is one of the great contradictions in this town. There is so much love and beauty, and yet, so many people struggling to survive.
Skye on the deck of the Drunken Frog.
Sunset over the Drunken Frog. The Govt. has sold the lake to developers who are currently filling it with sand so they can build a resort. Very shit, but the sunset, while it lasts, is amazing.


At the aforementioned temple, lighting incense for the 'Big Man'.

Enjoying a cleansing ale at the Foreign Correspondents Club over looking the Tonle Sap River. This club is one of the few fully western places in Phnom Penh and a nice place to recover from culture shock.