Cambodia had left a mighty good impression and I enjoyed my brief stay immensely. The Phnom Penh international airport was really a surprise and I think it was more pleasant then most airport in south East Asia with the exception of Singapore Changi Airport. Ha ha thou I am a Singaporean but I was not too bias on this one. The complex was huge and clean, signage was clear and custom was very efficient. This first impression really sweeps me off my feet and I started to feel that I will love this place.

My chosen accommodation was lovely. The rooms were pleasant and roomy. Just a little minus bit, there was a 99 KTV opposite the accommodation thus loud music could be heard if one listen carefully. Overall, I will strongly recommend all travelling to Phnom Penh to stay at Frangipani Villa.

Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh is a pretty new city and things seem pretty orderly. we completed the Royal palace and sliver pagoda in one morning. Generally, the roads are not as crowded the ones in Vietnam and thus it makes walking around more pleasant. Had a walk along the riverside before lunch, it was a windy day but it was the stench that was simply unforgettable.

After lunch went round to Wat Phnom for a look before hopping onto a tuk tuk for the killing fields of choeung ek. It was an eye opener for me as I have never seen so many skulks all together before. Due the lack of conservation, I am afraid that this attraction will soon be losing its luster.

Headed back to town for some shopping action at the Central market. Honestly speaking, shopping in Cambodia pale in comparison with Vietnam and Thailand. No shopping was done throughout my stay, very unusual really. Ended my day with a really delicious dinner at Comme a la Maison. I strongly recommended this french restaurant for all visiting Phnom Penh.

Kampong Thom, Sambor Prei Kuk

Left early the next morning for Kampong Thom, it is halfway along the way from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. We are heading for Sambor Prei Kuk one of the most impressive group of pre-Angkorian monuments in Cambodia. We hired a taxi for the whole day for this journey. My driver was really a reckless one and it was really heart stopping exciting sitting in the front seat. Our car was hardly over taken by others for the whole journey.

We had to travel on a dirt road for about half an hour before we could reach the Sambor Prei Kuk. Thou the ride was really a bumpy one but it was well worth the effort. The area is big and there are temples scattered in the forest. It was really a peaceful place but favours was added by our big walking group. We are accompanied by 3 guides and at least 5 girls who are eager to sell us shawls. I enjoyed my time walking from temple to temple and observed the serenity present all around.

Siem Reap, Angkor Wat

Got to Siem Reap by 5pm, was kind of glad that we got there safely as the taxi ride was rather hazardous. Siem Reap is a small and easy to navigate around. Area about Pasar Chaa has the feel of Holland Village back home.

Highlight of the trip is next, we got out of our hotel really early at 5.30am. As we had only limited time at Angkor Wat, we took a personal guide and van for the whole day. Was really looking forward to the dusk and dawn experience there. I was not disappointed and both experiences were charming. If only there could be just a little less crowd. Ha ha..

 Temples in Angkor Wat, Bayon.. so many to name, was magnificent in so many ways. Guess I will really love to revisit this place with a little more time and my own transport to experience a different version of this wonder. Self riding will be prefect!

Touple Sap, Floating village of chong kneas

Next morning, we headed for this floating village. We saw classrooms, basketball court to motor repair shop, minimarts. A mini village all on water. Something that I didn't see even with my extensive travel along Mekong delta in Vietnam. And it was a nice break from the temples and extended my river experiences.

We ended our trip with yet another nice dinner, this time it was at FCC. Ambient was A class but food was only satisfactory. The live band performing then, brightens up the whole experience.

I had a good trip and will like to see more of this country if I can. Not forgetting my great travel companions, especially the first timer - Edward. He is really something and he really make us laugh.

Just for Edward. Hey you can be really unbelievable sometimes but I certified you as my travel buddy. Cheers!