Siem Reap and Angkor Wat - Last Day & Wrap Up

It's my last day here in Cambodia. A bit of a slow morning after the festivities last night. If you haven't read any of my previous blogs, well that's sad, but here is a round up of the do's and don't's I've put together.

Do's

Hire a bike. I never thought of this until I have already booked my tours. The surrounding areas are flat, and an easy ride. You can make your own way around the closer temples. They are available for hire from the hotel.

Go by Tuk Tuk. These are great for getting around the closer temples. My driver was so skilled, and I felt safe even in the traffic of Siem Reap.

Get some local guides. I used this at several temples. I enjoyed going through myself at my own pace, but some of the temples do require local knowledge to get the most out of your visit.

Don't's

Don't be shy. The local people are some of the friendliest I've met in my travels their command of English did surprise me, and because of their skills, made my travels easier and less stressful. Cambodia is not the scary place it might seem.

Get out there. Share your experiences with other travelers. You might get some good ideas of your next adventure.

The Hotel

Mekong Angkor Palace Hotel

An older style of hotel located up a short lane off one of the main roads of Siem Reap. Being off the main road allowed it to be quiet, without the constaint sounds of tuk tuk and trucks.

The room was extremely large. Could have used a bit more furniture to fill it up a bit. A sofa would have been nice. It was Clean and tidy, and the air conditioning worksed a dream. Great for cooling down after the long days.

The Resturant was pleasant. Breakfast was plan, but sufficient for the days start. The coffe kept running out, and staff needed to be reminded to replenish, but it was strong and hot.

I didn't try the pool. It looked enviting enough, but really just didn't have the time.

There are bigger, more luxurious types of accommodation available. And the prices refect that. There are also hostels for the travellers on a shoe string budget. You know, for the younger backpacker. This place more middle age couple but still adventurous. A nice fit for me.

Would I stay here again?

Yes I definetly would.

I hope you enjoyed reading about my travels. It was more difficult than I thought. Keeping up with what I was doing, and finding the time to do it was always hard. My hats off to people that blog on a more regular basis.

Well, it was off to the airport, for an uneventful flight back to my waiting family in Bangkok.

Until next time Siem Reap, yes I will return.

 

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Siem Reap and Angkor Wat - Part 7

My last full day here at Siem Reap.

I awake early, but my departure time today isn't until 9am. Still, I'm awake, so I gather my traveling bag and go down for breakfast. Yeah, I had a shower etc before leaving. Need to start the day all fresh. It won't last too long, it's going to be a hot one.

During breakfast, I attempt to do a bit of catchup on this blog. I'm so far behind. I write this, while also adding text to my previous day's blog. I decide I while try my best to write as I go. Let's see how that goes.

The plan for today is to travel by car quite a distance from town. Three temples, Bahteay Samre, Banteay Srey and Beng Mealea. The last one of with is apparently still engulfed by the jungle. I'm so looking forward to that. Then down south to the lake and check out the floating village. Yes you read that right. Not all temples today!

My blog is going to evolve a little bit. I will try and set it out into sections corresponding to the temples. Relevent photos will be at the end of each section, and they will have a comment or the like. Let me know what you think.

Banteay Samre

The first is quite small, and I move through this one relatively quickly. I don't want to say more of what I have already seen, but, without being able to see it yourself, I wouldn't be able to explain the slight differences.

Banteay Srey

Next, Banteay Srey. Well, this would have to be the most organized and set out display yet. There is a visitors centre, site display with all the history and restoration information and old photos. This was worth the visit alone. Interestingly, this temple was not commissioned by the Royals. It was done by an influential person who was close to the Royal Family. Not as many people trying to sell all the tourist stuff here. They have a well spaced out little market place in the grounds. Very organized, and they don't hassle you as much for a sale. I squeezed in an ice coffee before venturing to my next site.

Carvings around main entrance.

Carvings around main entrance.

Replaced statues.

Beng Mealea

It was a reasonably long drive to the last temple of the day. I'm told to expect something special during this visit. Beng Mealea, is the temple still covered in undergrowth, and has basically had no restoration done, other than stabilizing the area for safety. I have been looking forward to this site since it was explained to me.

Before venturing into the temple area, it was suggested by my driver, Lucky, to have lunch. It was already well after noon, and I had been at it for a while. He pointed me off in the right direction for food, and I sat down with a local dish, that filled the spot nicely. More water, and I was physically prepared for the trek.

It started with a longish walk along a path that seemed to be earth covering the uneven stones used in the construction of the entrance. Un expectantly, through an opening in the jungle, the main gate appeared. It's crumbled state showed no sign of an actual way to proceed, but off to the right side, a set of wooden steps and been erected. A few local guides gathered around them, urged me to their location. My information book that I had purchased at Angkor Wat, and given me the clues as to hiring a local guide. Because of he state of this sight, it required walking through a maze of collapse galleries and such, and only would you experience it all with their help.

A funny little guy, whose name I would never be able to pronounce, attached himself to me. So off with his ever repeated "be careful, be careful" and broken, limited English we went. Straight into the bowels of the destruction and mayhem of the ruinous buildings. My pitiful description of my trail, could never do any justice for what unfolded at every turn and climb. Through tunnels so dark you could not even see your hand in front of you. I like to call it my Indiana Jones adventure, because that is what it felt to me. I did certainly save the best for last. This is my idea of a ruin temple.

My guide took me every this way and that, when I thought we had come to the end, we moved off another way. Our journey lasted almost 4 hours! I thought I was exhausted before, but now, well words escape me. My shirt drenched with perspiration, I must have looked a sight. Although there where other visitors here, they were few and far between. I felt we almost had the place to ourselves. When we did pass, they stared at me with curiosity. Their tours didn't required such effort I'm sure.

So it did finish, and I paid my guide his asking of USD 10.00. Well worth it in my books. I staggered back to waiting Lucky. His beaming smile showed that I had met my expectations of this visit.

Lunch time.

The collapsed entrance.

My guide being a monkey climbing the wall vines.

Beneith the labyrinth.

Looking for Indy.

The Drive Back

As we drove away, some bad news. As my tour had taken much longer that expected, Lucky didn't think we would have time for the floating village. It was to be a long drive south, past Siem Reap itself, and he thought that as the roads are not in very good condition, we woulded make it in time to fully experience the village before night fall. As there was a required boat ride to see the whole area, he added that it's expensive and would have to be rushed. Although disappointed, I thought it good of him to explain the problem and give an alternative. He asked if I would like to go a bit off the beaten taken on our return to Siem Reap. I excepted his suggestion, and with a right turn, into the true country side we ventured.

I was a bit apprehensive at first by being taken out of the normal tourist area with someone I had only known for a sort while. But this soon passed as Lucky gave me insight into his country as we travelled. He had already spoken of his life as a soldier and his work life.

The roads we travelled were in such disrepair. Maybe they should have had the workers of years gone past,mas on the temples. They might have lasted a bit longer. The country side vista changed to that of fields of rice and fruit trees. The dwellings made of bamboo and leave walls thinned until no sign of life bar a few water buffaloes. We came to a small village. Here small groups a children played in the dirt. Laughter and smiles. A more simple way of life.

The bumps in the road continued and for some time I sat quietly just taking it all in. We where stopped by some Monks. They where collecting money for road repairs. I gladly gave my token. Perhaps, at another time, I would pass this way and benefit from my gift.

After being steadly shaken for hours, we made it back to the main road and drove towards Siem Reap. Suddenly, quite unexpected, Lucky Invited me back to his home for dinner. Unsure how to respond, I quickly accepted. He phoned his girlfriend to instruct her I would becoming, and to prepare some local dishes.

We returned to the hotel about 5:30 pm, and made arrangements to be collect at 7:30.

Dinner and a Night Out

I showed and changed. When the appointed time was approaching, I made my way down the the foyer. While waiting, I was met by my Tuk Tuk drive, Nigh. We spoke of my upcoming dinner appointment and if I would require his services the next day. We arranged for him to t.ake me to the airport. lucky arrived, but needed some time for business matters. He was always organizing something over the phone. Soon we left and a short drive later arrived at is home.

The area was very dark. Up a small lane, and into a housing complex made up of numerous small rooms. A group of small puppies played in the sand. Almost imediately I was great by his girlfriend and ushered into their home. A small single room with bed, small table and no chairs. I told them I was fine with the foor for sitting, but Lucky quickly gathered some crates for a makeshift chair. We chatted for a while until another of their friends arrive. We chatted more until his girlfriend arrived. 5 of us together in the small room, we ate, drank some of the local home brew rice wine, and talked.

The small was made full with 5 or 6 dishes of food. I was informed that these where some traditional types that up country village people ate daily. There was several fish, a beef and several veritable dishes. The aroma and flavors was very different from what I had been eating at the restaurants around the place. Strong and, well, just better. Food, beer, rice wine, and more food.

Lucky and Girlfriend ready for Halloween.

About and hour and a half later, the food mostly gone, I was further invited to go out with them to celebrate Halloween. Of fto another home first for a bit of face painting to get us ready, then to The Temple Club. This place was in full swing. Numerous beers, lots of loud music and dancing, the night came to a close. Another late night. I managed to find my way back to the hotel, and quickly fell to sleep.

A wonderful day.

 

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Siem Reap and Angkor Wat - Part 6

The next day, another seemingly full day of more temples. I'm told there are over 40 in the surrounding jungles. Once again an 8am start, and Nigh, my driver is ready and waiting for our start.

My itinerary includes Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Som, East Mebon and Pre Rup temples. The first two are relatively large, and built during the same period. Little restoration had be undertaken for these, and in fact, most of the temples. Ta Som, is very compact. Perhaps the smallest I have visited so far. Here there is a good example of the tree roots that are still growing through the giant stone blocks. This has caused the majority of the damage to all the structures. I've seen this before at Ta Prohm, but forgive me, I failed to mention it. One wonders of the power these small roots can impose on the structure, force them apart, and finally cause the collapse of great sections.

I move on to my fourth temple, and find this has been built on a man made island, in the middle of a man made reservoir. Constructed about a century earlier that the others, it was also build in a different style.

 

Finally, Pre Rup. This, again, was constructed in an earlier period and a different style. It's main features are it's imposing brick towers. 5 all told, and they can be seen dominating the surround plain.

After this shorter, but just as fascinating excursion, I was ready for a few drinks. First I had to arrange my next days tours which was done in no time. I will need extra funds for tomorrow, so an ATM will need to be found. Not a hard task, as they are on every street. I chose one inside a bank hoping it would be more secure from scammers. Time will tell on that. Money in pocket, up to Pub Street for a well earned beer or two, or even three.

I seated myself down at a bar called the Temple Club. Seemed appropriate seeing I have seen so many. I must be a member. Some draught beer of the the local was ordered, and here I sit watching life go by and do a bit of catchup for this blog. Some dinner, and I made my way back to the hotel for a well earned rest.

I am extremely excited for my plans of the next outing. No hints or clues. You can read my next installment to see what I have been up to.

 

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Siem Reap and Angkor Wat - Part 5

Again the need to see more temples. I might have to go and see a doctor after this. It cannot be healthy looking at all this.

My first full day in Siem Reap. I am so looking forward to what I have dreamed about for many years. I'm promised a full day, and have tried to prepare myself for all and sundry. My new hat on, camera on the hip and numerous spare batteries for phone and camera are packed. I must look a sight.

Breakfast done, and my driver is waiting for me. Nice, early by 20 minutes. I am use to waiting in this neck of the woods. He explains about our plains for the day, and asks if I have any special place I would like to go. All is good, and I put myself in his hands. Lets Tuk Tuk away.......

Given some general directions from the driver, I'm ready to go. Crossing the causeway is simple enough. Ticket checked twice. The camera is running on overdrive. So many photo opportunities. The grandeur of the construction technique astounds me. How in the hell did this thing get built? The temple and it's surround cover such a large area. The temperature is increasing by the minute and I don't have anything to drink. So much for best laid plans. Walk, walk, walk I go. Snap, snap, snap. Then, nothing. Oh, my battery has died. I haven't even finished my first temple yet. Oh well, quick change over and continue. This is definitely the best ruins I have explored in my life. It just goes on and on.

It can be a bit daunting, so many routes to follow. The signage isn't very helpful and the words written can be humorous, if unhelpful. Still, one manages to find their way. It should be pointed out here, that there are many locals trying to edge their way into your group (mine is a small group of one) and becoming your pseudo guide. Yes, they are very helpful, but beware the amount they ask for their fee at the end. That are not there for their health, it's a business for them. That being said, I got trapped by a female Monk. I'm not sure if that is the correct term for them, but, anyway, she lead me to a shrine, gave me some burning incense, and instructed me in the way of respecting the shrine. Asking for good luck for my Father, Mother, and work. After that, I received a coloured string tied around my right wrist. After thanking here, she folds backs cloth revealing a USD 10.00 note. With this she asked for a similar donation for the Monks. A bit taken back, but I did as requested. This was going to be expensive I thought.

2 hours later, and I'm spent. Dying of thirst and sweating like the proverbial. I made it back to the causeway and was met by a small child selling bottled water. "1 doll aaa" she chimed. Gladly. It went down without touching the sides. Bless her. I also partook in a bit of souvenir shopping. Normal stuff and I also bought a book detailing the history, architecture and religious changes throughout the period. (got ripped of with the book I found out later, but that's life)

A short search, and I found my driver at the appointed spot. Smiling and rehydrated, I pronounced I was ready to go.

A short meander down the road (can you meander in a tuk tuk?) found us at number 2 on todays list. Angkor Thom City. Although this location is about 4 times the size of Angkor Wat, it is more spread out over this larger area. The temples themselves are also in a much more dilapidated state. Much of it has been fenced off as unsafe for tourist. Even so, there is still much to see. I was dropped off at the first temple of this group, and instructed by my driver, Nigh, as to the route I should take, and where I will be able to find him at the end. The signage is still poor. Much of a hit and miss, but by following the herds of organized groups, you get the idea.

Again, it's hot and the trail, although flat between temple, does require an enormous amount of climbing on steps that have been designed for people with extra long legs. I don't know who worked out the dimensions these things, but it was not for normal people, that's for sure.

Around, over and through the ruins we go. Again time flys. 2 hours have passed, and again I am almost to die of thirst. Just towards the end of the journey, I'm offered to purchase bottled water. I take the large bottle this time, and guess what "1 doll aaa". Does everything cost one dollar here?

Nigh is waiting at the appointed spot, and we zoom away to our next stop.Oo

I visit Chau Say Thevoda, Ta Prohm and Banteay Kdei. These are all very interesting temples in their own right. No where near as large as the others I've seen today, but still we worth the visit. My camera still in over drive. My battery is lasting the challenge. Stopped for lunch at a local establishment in between temples 3 and 4. Tried the local fare again, but found it tasteless, even though I asked for them to spice it up a bit. Still, it went down ok. I needed the energy to press on.

Finally arrived back in town about the 3pm mark. Whew, it's been a long and exhausting day. The first beer didn't touch the sides. Neither the second and third. I did a bit on this blog, showered and went out for dinner. Decided to try some Indian food tonight. There was an interesting place straight across from the hotel. The food was typical for Indian, but I managed to find a bit of spice.

Exhausted, and with the knowledge tomorrow was going to be as big as today, I collapsed to bed and slept straight way.

Goodnight one and all.

 

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Siem Reap and Angkor Wat - Part 4

Good morning, well it could be afternoon. I write this early in the morning several days after the fact, but it continues my tails from just after arriving at my Hotel. Things are getting all mixed up for me as I have had some problems uploading these blogs and finding the time to sit down and put my thoughts to paper (iPad).

Let's see now, where was I?

After settling into my room, I decided to find a supermarket or the like to get some provisions. With directions in hand, I walked down the road on my first solo venture. The area I am accommodated in one of the main tourist areas I'm told. The shop fronts, signage and general look of the place is somewhat similar to Thailand. Not Bangkok mind you, no tall buildings to speak of, but the structures and abundance of people wanting to sell you their fare. Massage shops everywhere. And I mean everywhere! About 10 minutes walk and I find what I'm looking for. The shelves are full of all the familiar stuff. I grab what I want, and USD 8.00 later, I have 4 local beers, 2 cokes and 2 bottles of water. Enough for a quiet few hours until I'm leaving on my first tour. Back to the hotel, and on my way I discover another market almost next door to my place on the opposite side of the road. Go figure.

As previously mentioned, my driver from the airport has arranged for most, if not all of my outings already. At 4:30 I'll be going to a Temple for a sunset viewing. I'm really looking forward to it. I sit in my room, consume some of my provisions and chat with friends on Facebook until departure time arrives.

4:30 arrives and we are off in something they call a Tuk Tuk. No dissimilar to the one in Thailand, but they are pulled along by a motor scooter instead of being one vehicle. My drive speaks reasonable English, better than my Cambodian anyway, and after a short chat to decide exactly where I want to go, we're off.

Road rules. There don't seem to be any. They drive on the right and have a mix of left and right hand drive vehicles. All the scooters seem to be right hand drive. (what the...) Traffic lights are there just to decorate the streets. Lines painted on the road, well they are there, but not used. Looking behind you before turning or changing lanes, well, that's plane stupid.

Along our way the hassle and bustle of downtown Siem Reap, well just hustles and bustles. It's interesting seeing all the stuff happening around us as we pass by. Even though there are no rules, there is no feeling of any danger. It all just happens in a smooth, though disorganized way. We stop at what looks like the entrance to an Asian Disneyland. Ticket booths. I'm told I will have to purchase a ticket to get into then Temple Area. Youahve a choice of a single or 3 day visit. I choose the 3 day. I hand over the required USD 40.00, get my photo taken, and am handled a nice little pass with my picture on it. With that in hand, we zoom off, and are stopped within 10 meters to have it checked. Finally, with a smile, we are on our way.

Not far form the ticketing area, we arrive at Angkor Wat. Now I've seen photos of this place, but nothing prepared me for the majesty and how large it actually is. The sun is setting, but not in the direction I needed for my photos. A quick walk across the causeway, throught the gateway, turn around, and yes, perfect.

I knew I was coming back to this famous temple, so I spent most of my time, after the photos of coarse, watching the people. The place was crowded, more than expected. I love stating just off to the side and watching the strange things people get up to. I love it!

The sun has now almost disappeared, so it's back to the hotel. A quick shower, and out and about. In search of a hat, food and a couple of well earned beers.

Siem Reap, Iike many cities, has a Night Market. It is located just up the road from my hotel. 7 minutes walk, I'm told by the friendly hotel staff. So, I'm away and dangerous. Less than the quoted 7 minutes, I find my first market. Small, and all the usual stuff. T shirts, local garments, and the like. Seen it all before. Prices are very reasonable. No hats. Moving along. Another market. The sign says that this is the original market. I thought that's what the sign at the last place said. Anyway, just inside, yes, the hat I was looking for. USD 5.00 and I'm done. Not really a shopper by the way.

Moving along, I was looking for a place to eat. I had previously done some searching on Google Maps, and found a street called Pub Street. That should be interesting, and interesting it was. More that just one street, but several. Full of pubs and Restaurants. It took several trip up and down to find something I thought might be nice. Seated I ordered the local fare. Don't ask me the name, but some type of local curry with a bit of kick in it. Also on the menu was BBQ. Kangaroo, crocodile, emu and many other exotic meats. I later overhead that the chief was from Australia. A few beers to knock it down with and USD 8.00 out of pocket. Not too bad I say.

Although thelace was awash with people, it wasn't really rock'n. I decided to take myself on a little walk to see what else was the go. I walked and walked and wasn't able to find anything rock'n. A few places looked intergesting, but perhaps it was too early. Anyway, I had an early start for the next morning, so back to the hotel and to bed.

 

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Siem Reap and Angkor Wat - Part 3

My time in Bangkok has been wonderful. Two full days of spending time with family, friends and completing many tasks that needed to be done. It has been a while since my last trip, and I was in need of the relaxing atmosphere Thailand has to offer.

The usual eating and drinking took place, and I was able to help a friend out with her University group's tourism assignment. I founds this quite interesting. The requirement was to interview a foreign visitor to Thailand, and ask a series of questions relating to their holiday. Not a difficult task you might say, but it must be remembered that these students do not have a lot of personal contact with foreigners and English in not their first language. We met at a local coffee shop, and after a series of "test" runs, they were able to get the data they needed. I would very much like to see their final presentation of their findings, but I'm not sure if that will able to be arranged.

The day of travel to Cambodia has arrived. I awoke way too early. Must be excited about the adventure ahead. This gave me time to catch up on the blog you are now reading. I wonder how, you, as the reader, are enjoying this journal? I have had one positive comment to my ramblings, but if others are reading this, not too many encouraging words are coming my way.

As you may remember, I am taking a chance with my air travel by attempting to use Staff Travel for this trip. The full fare prices on Bangkok Airway was around the 3,300 Baht price range. I just checked again, and well, the prices have jumped to 6,600 Baht. Have I made the right decision to try and save some money. I still assume that if they are still selling tickets on their website, then some seats must be available for little old me. I hope this won't be the one of the shortest holidays on record. I do have a couple of later flights to try for, but at that price, I think I might have to cut my losses and cancel the trip. I wonder if I should go to the airport earlier, just in case? Let's think about that over coffee.

I have been tossing up regarding my mode of transport to the airport. On the last trip to Chiang Mai, I thought a bit of the "backpacker" style would be good for a different approach. This included walking and several train rides. It wasn't too much of a problem, but found that I arrived at the airport all hot and sweaty. Not the best way to be at the start of the journey. My other choice is by taxi, straight from our apartment to the terminal. Not the best for costs and traffic, but more leisurely. Another thing I must ponder.

As the famous John Denver once mussed, "My bags are packed, I'm ready to go......".

At the airport, all hot and sweaty. Yeah, you guessed it, took the train option. Wasn't too bad, I keep telling myself. What gets me most, I was half way, and, I realized I had forgotten my iPod. No tunes for me! I guess I'll live.

My high expectations of Bangkok Airways were once again met with flying colours. They look after staff superbly. Lead personally to the head of the line, and checked in with a evey so famous Thai smile. Love them! Why, I ask, cannot other airlines be this way?

I moved through security and Imigration without too much effort. The lines no where as long as my arrival to Bangkok. On to the boarding gate, and wait for departure. While waiting, I spent an enjoyable time cheating and posting on Facebook. Free wifi from the Airport Authority made this painless.

Time to leave came, and on the aircraft we all boarded. Much to my surprise, the plane was less than half full. I have the row all to myself, but my seat was located over the wing. I was hoping to have a good view point as we arrived into Siem Reap. While still standing and putting my bag into the overhead locker, the aircraft started to push back. There was at least 20 people still standing like myself. I don't think the cabin crew even knew this movement was about to happen. Some passengers dropped their bags on the heads of other already seated. One woman even seemed to be hurt from this. The cabin crew were still dealing with her when our taxi started. The pilot must have had a date waiting for him in Cambodia.

The flight itself was very smooth and quick. Rapid deployment of the meal, and removed just as quick. Then out decent commenced. The whole flight from gate to gate is just under 1 hour. On our approach I did manage to have a view of the surrounding area. It was all covered with water. Looking like a shallow ocean with a green reef just below the surface. This vista went on for as far as I could see. Just prior touch down, the water disappeared and the lush green field and jungle came into view. The landing itself was smooth, and a short taxi to the cute little terminal. Looking new and fresh, it reminded me of Kho Samui's airport.

The arrivals area was small and the line for the Visa on Arrival desk crowded with confused looking tourist. Myself included. While standing in line, a British couple made comment on the rushed departure. The husband thought it was quite fun. I don't think the misses agreed. She didn't seem to like anything that was going on. Oh well, these things must be expected. USD 20 later, a nice new visa stuck in my passport. Off now to Imigration. Full finger print scan. Both hands. Straight thought to the outside world. I was able to purchase a SIM card for USD 16 which gave me 6gb of data and USD 15 of calls. They sure like American Dollars here.

I was met outside the arrivals area by the hotel shuttle driver and whisked away to his car. Happy young lad, with pretty good English skills. Within the first 3 minutes of our journey, he had my tours for the next 3 days organized. Not having anything else planned, I thought, what the heck. Sounded all good to me. We arrived at my hotel in one piece, a miracle to be sure. I'll explain about the driving in a later post. It's amazing.

Checking in was without fuss. The hotel, Mekong Angkor Palace Hotel, was an older place, but seemed extremely clean and tidy. My room is huge, though a bit sparse with furnishings. A couch would have been nice. Had the space for it.

Enough for this post. Longer than I thought. Stay turned for the next part. It will have my first experiences of the temples and photos.

 

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Siem Reap and Angkor Wat - Part 2

Well, here I am at the airport in Melbourne. The starting point for my travels. After being dropped off by my son Daisuke, straight to the checkin counter. I thought there would be the usual lines, being told to return later and all the joys of Staff Travel, but no such luck. Straight into the Business Class line, then check in, no dramas. Business Class Boarding Pass, Express Departures Card and Immigration documents in hand, off for a coffee.

The departures check in area is so busy this morning. While strolling through the terminal, I was approached by a Customer Care person. I must have looked lost. Had a short chat with her. She is a volunteer who attempts to assist people who are overwhelmed by it all. Did I look at if I needed help? Must have. Maybe i just look that way all the time. A nice lady, who liked a bit of a talk. Just the ticket for her task. Nice moment in all this mayhem.

Having arrived to the airport nice and early, I have too much time to sit and wait. This is my usual experience though. Air travel always seems to be a bit of hurry up and wait. As previously mentioned, I must travel via Singapore on this trip. My usual flight direct to Bangkok with Jetstar isn't available today. Just a quick stop over if all goes well. I have about 3 hours to collect my bags and re check in for my Thai Airways flight. Fingers crossed.

On my way to Singapore, and I realize that Qantas Business Class is just so much better than Jetstar Star Class. All the way from the seats and space, down to the food and service. So nice to be pampered. I'm a lucky boy. The flight was pretty much uneventful, and before I knew it, we had arrived at my destination. A quick dance through immigration, and baggage collection, and I found myself at the check in counter for my Thai flight to Bangkok.

As my travels normally have some problems and adventures, this sector was to be no different. The flight was filling quickly, and the check in staff had the usual depressing attitude that I wouldn't get on. "Come back later", she said. So tail between my legs, I drag myself around the departure area for what seemed an eternity. My return time finally arrived, so back to the counter. Same girl, same sad face. She takes my ticket, and clicky clack on the keyboard, and "sorry sir, you ticket isn't valid."

What!

"Oh yes you have a listing, but your ticket hasn't got a valid ticket number."

Off she trots to check with her supervisor. The flight has now closed, and I thought of the prospect of purchasing a new ticket and a 3 hour wait for the next flight. For what seemed like days, I waited. Upon her return, she advises all is ok and I have been given the last seat. I must run for the flight, but hey, no chance of that. I'm an old man. Straight through immigration, to the gate and on the flight. Doors closed, and then we wait. Flight delayed by 20 minutes.

The flight itself was not too bad. Bit cramped, but at least I was on my way. We arrived into Bangkok about 30 minutes late. The airport was so crowed though, lines everywhere. Took about 1 hour to get through. Then the lines for taxis was longer than I have ever sent it. Again I remind myself, as least I'm here. Finally in the taxi and to the apartment. So happy. I'm pooped. By the time I settled, it was past 2 o'clock in the morning Melbourne time. Gee I love traveling. Off to bed with me. Tomorrows another day.

 

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Siem Reap and Angkor Wat - Part 1

I'm trying my hand at a bit of Travel Blogging. I'll use my upcoming trip to Siem Reap in Cambodia as the content and we will see how it goes. I want to show all my planning for the trip as well as the trip itself. I will be posting it in several parts depending on the activities I have experienced and the Internet availability.

Usually, I travel to Thailand to visit Keiko and Mika and spend the whole time catching up and enjoying their company while there. Now, as Mika has grown into a teenager, and Keiko's schedule running her restaurants has increased with the opening of number two Genpukan, l find that during the week I am a bit lost as for things to fill my day. On my last trip, I spent a few days in Chiang Mai, and found the experience fulfilling and worthwhile. This has opened the opportunity to do a bit of regional traveling, and still spend quality time with the people I love.

I have long had the urge to see the "lost" Temples at Angkor Wat. After some research, I discovered that next year, the whole Siem Reap adventure will be changing. The Cambodian Government is planning to restrict some of the sights made available to tourists. I also found that many people who have already been, said that the best time to visit was during the wet season. That might sound a bit strange, but apparently, the atmosphere and photo taking opportunities are at their best and less crowds also make for a better time.

So with this information in hand, I started planning for the trip. First job was to get a "pass out" from Keiko and Mika. Didn't want them to think I was abandoning them. With that in hand, on to the actual booking and reservation making.

Using my old friend Agoda, the online hotel booking site and some airline sites, the whole this was organized and booked in a few hours. I've made my accommodation the Mekong Angkor Palace Hotel. It is a 3 star place with good reviews, and a price well within my budget. 4 nights, superior double room with air-conditioning, only AUD 120 including breakfast. Hopefully the arranged airport transfers will work out.

Air travel has been organized through Staff Travel on Bangkok Airways. The seat availability looks good, and with it being off peak, I thought it was worth the uncertainty of standby travel. I'll not tell you the price I paid, let's just say it was nice. I'll check the loading again when it gets closer, and maybe buy a full price ticket if required. These have been priced about 3725 baht each way.

The travel web sites tell me that one can obtain a Visa on arrival at the airport for USD20. I hope that will turn out to be true. I'll need some passport photos which I'll get when I arrive in Thailand. Much easier and cheaper there. Also, the use of American Dollars is wide spread brought Cambodia, so I've exchange some cash here in Oz prior my departure. That will save on the double exchange, if I do it in Thailand. USD 500 should be enough for the short time I'll be there.

I'll be taking my DSLR camera, video camera and use my phone camera to document what I see. I must ensure that I have all the required chargers and spare batteries. Might be difficult to buy in Siem Reap. I'm also planning to take my iPad and a netbook with me. I'll transfer all the video and photos taken during the day to it. This will give me a backup if something adverse happens to the cameras etc.

I've also done a bit of research into the mobile phone SIM card situation in Cambodia. Seems they can be purchased easily and at a reasonable price. Should be able to do that at the airport. Might not be the cheapest, but I'll stay connected from the moment I arrive. It seems that wifi connectivity is not a problem. The hotel has it inclusive of the the accommodation fee, and it should be available at most restaurants and bars.

I think most of the preparation is now complete. Leaving for Thailand on Friday, and just the bag packing to go. I'm really looking forward to this whole trip. It's been a while since may last, and I have been missing my 2 girls up there.

Part 2 will be coming soon. Stay tuned.

 

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