Category: Travelling

Spending another day in Angkor, the former capital of the Khmer kingdom, visiting 3 more temples. First Ta Prohm, also known as the 'Tomb Raider' temple. Then Banteay Srei temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva (hence also known as the woman temple). Then the enigmatic Bayon Temple within the walled city of Angkor Thom. I really enjoyed the look of this one - pun intended... always having a carved faced smiling at you.

The highlight of the tour was exploring Angkor, one of the wonders of the archaeological world. Taking photos at sunrise and spending more time there later in the day. Another fun day was exploring the countryside around Siem Reap, driving around with a quad bike. The last evening was well spent, watching traditional Cambodian dancing whilst enjoying a buffet with a wide selection of traditional food.

Arriving in Cambodia, I did learn about the dark side of Cambodian history by visiting the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Museum (S-21 Prison). I also got to see the Royal Palace and the National Museum. In the evenings a cycle tour and a boat ride on the river.

A day trip to the Mekong Delta, that empties into the South China Sea. Board a small boat and navigate through narrow canals, seeing locals living along the way. Also visited cottage industries and their products for which the area is famous for - delicious, chewy coconut candy and rice cakes.

Ho Chi Minh City is more modern metropolitan, with beautiful skyscrapers. Whilst it gives the feeling of more space it is very busy with even more motorbikes buzzing around. Wider roads with more traffic can make crossing the road interesting and challenging. Also visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels, stored ammunition, had underground hospitals, and served as a hidden base.