The Angkor Region renowned for the many temples and shrines lies only a 15 minute bike or car ride from Siem Reap the closest town. The region has become a good news story in that it's now a major tourist destination I chose a car for my first trip into the historic time warp, however I soon opted for the far more invigorating experience of viewing the myriad of temples from a chauffeur driven motorbike.
Cambodia
Once known as the land of the killing fields. The Cambodian people have worked hard to set the country free from the shackles of a dictators past and the conflict that was the Vietnam War. Modern day Cambodia is trying as much as it is possibly to showcase the rich history that the country has to offer. While the people are friendly the scars of the Vietnam conflict is obvious. Men women and children are still being maimed by land mines that continue to litter the fields around the countryside. Many of the people who have felt first hand the effects of land mines frequent the Angkor region selling all manner of souvenirs to visiting tourists. Indeed with nothing in the way of social security it is the only way that some people can live. The catagorisation of the Angkor Region and the listing of Angkor Wat as a world heritage area is of paramount significance to the wellbeing and living standards of a country plagued by war and the effects of war.
Angkor Wat
The Khumer Empire thrived from the 9th century to the 15th century and the Angkor Region of the Khumer Empire is where the now world famous Angkor Wat was built. Remarkably the 12th century monument has managed to survive wars, banditry and land mines to become the 'Pride of Cambodia' and of her people. Tourists throng to see and feel the ancient tranquility that pervades the areas around the many temples that exist in the region. A tranquility magnified by the presence of orange robed monks that give the region its feeling of peace.
Make a Plan
When making arrangements to visit the area is pays to do a little forward planning. Ensure that you obtain the services of a reputable driver who will pick you up from your accommodation and deliver you back each day. Staying with the one driver allows travelers to get to know their guides, it can help. While the journey from Siem Reap is not a long one it pays to make a very early start to the day, there is so much to see.
As Cambodia recognises US dollars it's a good idea to have a number of one dollar bills at the ready as there will be a veritable wall of children and adults at the ready selling a multitude of touristic goods. They are some of the most aggressive sellers that I have ever come across. To just walk away from them will be difficult as their faces, especially their eyes contain the sadness of a nation.
Wear loose fitting clothing as the region is tropical. It can become stiflingly hot and humid. Other items that are a must are:
- Good walking shoes
- Hats
- Insect repellent
- Bottled water
- Camera – there is a picture opportunity at every turn
Siem Reap has:
- International airport
- hotels
- backpackers accommodation
- night markets
- taxis
- Restaurants (some with floor shows)
Ruins or Looters
It became obvious to me as I traveled through the Angkor Region that the jungle growth around the temples had in effect aided the temples and shrines to remain lost over time. However once the temples had been rediscovered they become open to looters and bandits. It appears that these people have no love or respect for their historical past as many of them have wantonly destroyed or looted in order to sell artifacts on the black market. Managers of the Angkor Region recognising that a problem existed have employed a security force to combat the situation. Guards may have saved the World Heritage listed Angkor Wat from a fate that left unchecked could have caused the destruction of this iconic area.
Angkor Wat is indeed a place that Cambodian can speak of with pride. The many other temples that exist in the area known as the Angkor Region add to the mystery of this past civilisation. The people of Siem Reap and the surrounding countryside are in themselves a reflection of the past trying to live in the present. It is a marvelous place to visit, to experience and to reflect on what has been happening for the nation that is Cambodia.
Source;
National Geographic Vol 198,No2 August 2000
Travel Notes by Author June 2010
Parania Wilson - Parania attained her degree with a double major in welfare and sociology then spent a number of years in welfare working in Mental Health, ...
