Phnom Penh, Cambodia

We arrived in Phnom Penh only to be greated by the chaos that awaits you as you leave the airport. Anybody who has been to any Asian country knows what I am refering to: dozens, if not a hundred, touts waiting for the westerner with a tired, vulnerable look, and they are ready to pounce on you before you know what is happening and wisk you away to the hotel of their choice at an incredibly high taxi rate so they can get a hefty commission. This is what we encountered, but we were ready for it, even being newbies and fresh on the Asia boat. The experience was a little unnerving and it did take me a couple of days to get my sea legs, but once I did, I fell in love with a country and its' people.

If I had to define Cambodia and the Khmer people as a whole, I would say they are a highly spiritual people, very devoted to their faith in Buddhism and to their families, and have a strong desire to rebuild their country and prosper. The lotus flower is a strong symble of their Buddhist faith.

At the heart of the capital city of Phnom Pehn, is the Royal Palace, a huge complex of Royal and Spiritual Buildings, and the residence of the King.

One cannot talk about Cambodia and not mention the harship this country has been through. During the communist regime of the Khmer Rouge, people were tortured and savagely killed. The Killing Fields, where many educated people and children of Phnom Penh lost their lives, are a solemn reminder of this.

The people, in spite of al they have been through, maintain a happiness, and a joy of living that is truly inspiring and is evidenced in the community atmosphere.

Please see more pictures at our web Album.

Picasa Web Album

Phnom Penh

Sep 13, 2006 - 11 Photos