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CAMBODIA
It wasn't long ago that travel guides about Cambodia weren't much more than protracted warnings and lists of safety precautions, and for good reason: Following years of war, the chaos and genocide of Pol Pot's Khmer Rouge, and a long period of civil and political instability, Cambodia was until recently an armed camp closed to foreign visitors (or open only to travelers of the danger-seeking variety). But Cambodia is healing, and, though this is a process that will take years, the country is enjoying a period of relative stability under a coalition government. Cambodia offers travelers a host of experiences, from the legacy of ancient architecture to a growing urban capital and beautiful countryside.
Even the shortest visit is a window into a vibrant ancient culture and a chance to meet with a very kind and resilient people. We suggest a 2-night visit to Angkor Wat as a part of a trip to either Thailand or Vietnam.
Siem Reap
A 50-minute flight from Bangkok or Saigon, the reason people come to this small town in western Cambodia is to view the ruins of the great temples and city complex collectively known as Angkor Wat. Actually the area, which is about the size of New York's Central Park, is comprised of all sorts of temples and royal facilities. As well, the surrounding area is awash with sites that pay homage to the Great Empire, as the Khmer called it which reached it's zenith in the 12th century AD. Here our local host is essential and will get you started visiting the sight s soon after checking in. Your host, along with a private vehicle will be with you the entire time to assure you get the maximum out of your stay.
Optionally while in the Angkor area, we can arrange a special pre-dawn experience that will be high point of your entire visit to Cambodia. Depending on how early you want to rise, participation has several options and your local host will explain them all. The full experience begins with a departure from the hotel just after 4:00 AM to join the monks at the Phnom Krom Pagoda for their morning prayers and meditations. It takes about 20 minutes to climb the steps to the pagoda, which sits on a hill overlooking the Tonle Sap Lake. Once at the pagoda, you will meet the Abbot and an elder monk and begin going through the procedures for the morning ceremony.
Our local host will both translate and show you the correct method and manners for the occasion. Just before dawn, the monks begin a purification ceremony that includes chanting, prayers, a sermon (which your host will translate), and a final blessing with holy water by the Abbot. The ceremony concludes just as the sun begins to rise and spread light throughout the temple complex. At around seven o'clock, you will bid the monks goodbye, climb back down the hill and return to the hotel for breakfast with many fond memories of this rewarding experience. |
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