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Phnom Phen, Angkor Wat , Sihanoukville
Cambodia is
a land on the mend. From 1977 through 1980, the Khmer
Rouge ruled the country, fanatics bent on genocide.
Millions were killed and the period was put to film in
the movie, "The Killing Fields." Fortunately, those days
are over and the country is becoming a tourist
destination.
Cambodia is
a land of incredible contrast. Thick forest, mountains
and pristine rivers compliment amazing white beaches.
When you get down to it, however, travelers know
Cambodia for two things, Angkor Wat and the nastiest
roads around. But, let's not get ahead of ourselves. |
Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is the
capital of Cambodia. The city is a combination of old French
beauty and modern condominiums. The city is full of amazing Wats
[Buddist monasteries], including Wat Ounalom, Wat Phnom and Wat
Moha Montrei. Modern buildings surround these monasteries and
it's difficult to avoid a feeling that the old ways are being
lost.
Still, the vibrancy of the city is impressive considering the
fact that it was completely abandoned for three years in the
last 70s. During this period, the Khmer Rouge tried to return
the Cambodian people to their agricultural heritage and
evacuated all cities. The only exception, of course, is Tuol
Sleng, a high school used to torture and kill "enemies of the
state." Just beyond the city, one will also find the infamous
killing fields where thousands upon thousands were put to death.
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Sihanoukville
Sihanoukville is a small, sleepy village on the
Southwest edge of Cambodia. Fairly undeveloped, the area
is an oasis similar to the beaches of Thailand. The
difference, however, is the lack of tourists. Depending
on the time of year, the beaches can be more or less
empty and privacy assured. Rooms run between $5 and $15
a night and come with private bathrooms. If you are
looking to lounge professionally, Sihanoukville is a
very good place to do it. |
Angkor Wat
Stunning. There is
no other word for the temples of Angkor Wat. Angkor Wat is a
temple surrounded by hundreds of others. Each is unique and
worth a look. The most famous are Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta
Phrom. Angkor Wat is in the best shape as well as the most
known. The Bayon is impressive, but the constant mob of tourist
makes it a pain to visit. Ta Phrom is amazing because it has
been left to the jungle, which is to say trees and the structure
have become one in many areas. If you have seen Tomb Raider with
Angelina Jolie, you have seen Ta Phrom. Personally, I prefer
Angkor Wat to the Pyramids in Egypt.
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Roads From
Hell
Cambodian
roads are evil. There is simply no other way to put it.
The country is hit by monsoons every year and is still
recovering from the Khmer Rouge. This combination has
resulted in roads with huge potholes, missing bridges
and pretty much the worst elements of Dante's Hell.
Avoid them if at all possible!
About the
Author
Rick Chapo is with http://www.nomadjournals.com - makers
of travel journals. Writing journals are the perfect
travel accessories. Visit
http://www.nomadjournaltrips.com to read more travel
articles and travelogues. |
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