Hello friends! A very long day yesterday taking a van from Bangkok, through the Cambodian border (an experience I would not recommend!). We are really talking third world–not in a bad way, but just grossly under resourced and inept. We had the good sense to ask our hotel in Bangkok to help with the transport and a wonderful Cambodian held our hands through the process. Otherwise, we’d probably still be at the border!
When we arrived, the flood waters that have been plaguing the north have somewhat resided (and headed to Bangkok, we hear). However, John has some pics to post that make it all look so exciting! I wondered what in the heck we were doing as our tuk tuk driver left the main drag and headed down into the remaining flood waters to take us to our hotel. I asked John on the way down, “I think we already paid for this hotel, right?” As it turns out, we are in one of the sweetest spots we’ve had yet, a sustainable hotel run by a Norwegian couple, who are very keen on returning to the community. They contribute in many ways to the children who grow up here, and the arts indigenous to the area. Plus, it’s got the customer (us) in mind!
Out we went this morning with Thol, our tuk tuk driver, to spend the next 5 hours walking around various temples, the most famous being Angkor Wat. It is an incredible place, and has the attention of several UNESCO countries who are involved in the renovation. A daunting task to say the least. These temples were built 9 centuries ago over several decades, and housed many Angkor kings. At least those who were not being invaded by the Thais. The jungle literally takes over the stones that are not being renovated. I’m not going to try to get creative with the placing of the photos tonight, but here are a few I think you might enjoy. Miss you all!
Teresa Van Haalen Ventures 