Cambodia

Cambodia somewhat looked like Vietnam but believe it or not it was a lot more impoverished. We began our time in the largest city, Phnom Penh. We visited The Royal Palace and saw the king’s thrown and we also went to the Silver Pagoda, which was really beautiful.

Every time we stepped off the bus there were groups of little Cambodia children trying to sell us everything from postcards to bracelets. It was very overwhelming as they were quite persistent. They often grab your arm, beg you, and then cry if you don’t buy anything from them. Some just beg for money without selling anything. They are very smart little children and it is amazing how young most of them are but yet how skilled they are at begging. It is also extremely sad to watch them because all you can think of is how different life is for children their age in America. Very thought provoking and very sad. At night we took a sunset boat ride and then went to a huge restaurant for dinner. Cambodian food was really different from anything else I’ve had. I have been eating a mix of new flavors and textures and although my stomach is telling my brain that it can't take much more of it, I really haven't been listening because it is for the most part so delicious. Thank goodness for Pepto Bismol!

On day 2 visited the killing fields but due to time constraints we weren’t able to go to the genocide museum. After lunch we took another boat ride on the Mekong through a floating village. It was amazing to see the homes that these people live in. It was humid and muggy and we were in a high risk Malaria area but don’t worry I am taking my Malaria medicine and lathering up every day.

Finally, we flew to Siem Reap and visited Angkor Wat (the main attraction) and some other temples. Wow, they were spectacular! I took so many amazing pictures that I want to share but unfortunately I am forced to pick only a few to post.