First try in UK leaving at pub, then on shuttle train at KL airport, then crossing into Cambodia (see last blog post) – eventually managed to leave G behind in Siem Reap in massage parlour!
He reckoned it was only 30 minutes foot massage (for US$3) but he seemed fairly blissed out afterwards – said it was because it cured his swollen ankles and calves after flight and then full day on train, but I’m not so sure! Especially when he said he wants to return.
Then he waved goodbye to me after the dancing girl show – so not sure who is trying to get rid of whom!
ANGKOR WAT AT LAST
Been waiting a while for this one –and just as stupendous as expected. Massive areas of surrounding countryside of Siem Reap just home to temple after ancient temple (12th century onwards). Some originally built by kings to praise Hindu gods after pronouncing themselves God Kings (must try that one – I am a God King, so you must all worship me and give me your offerings.) and then taken over by Buddhist monks and some maintained by them and others just let fall into disrepair and the jungle retook them. They were “discovered” in 16th century by Portugese but noone believed his tales until French found them again 200 years later and alerted the world. The whole area is now a World Heritage site (since 1992) and consequently overrun with tourists (mainly Chinese, Korean, japanese as well as westerners) but we had a good guide and the various temples were still amazing to see and wander around.
Angor Wat – the main attraction – crumbling sandstone but maintained by monks and now the conservationists
Other temples and their incredible friezes – such workmanship, so long ago.
This is what happens when the monks didn’t look after the temple – the jungle returned.
The authorities are leaving this one as it is – everyone loves it and there are plenty of other temples to maintain and restore.
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