Ever since I was a small child I had wanted to explore the ancient ruins of Angkor Wat. During my travels around South East Asia I was finally able to live that dream. I found myself a guide in Siem Reap, and he took me around the ancient site.
Travel
Stories of my travels around the world.
The Angkor National Museum
After spending some time in Phnom Penh, it was time to move onto Siem Reap. Here I hoped to achieve a lifelong dream and visit Angkor Wat. But before that I had to prepare myself by visiting the Angkor National Museum.
Traditional Khmer Kickboxing
While in Phnom Penh I discovered that you could watch traditional Kun Khmer Kickboxing for free. I went expecting to see some amateur fights, but ended up seeing more than I expected. I got front row seats to professional bouts being screened to the whole country.
The Royal Palace of Cambodia
The Royal Palace of Cambodia sits at the centre of Phnom Penh, close to the Mekong River. Originally constructed in the late 19th century, it has since served as the residence for Cambodian monarchs – the only exception being the Khmer Rouge period.
Genocides Never Stopped Happening
In 1975 the Khmer Rouge began a systematic “purification” of Cambodia, resulting in a genocide that killed over 1.6 million people. These people were taken to remote locations outside the cities and buried in what are now known as the Killing Fields.
The Craziest House in Dalat
In Liverpool I used to go clubbing at a place called the Krazyhouse. But the Crazy House in Dalat is a very different experience. It serves as both a hostel and an architectural exhibit, another example of Dalat’s love for art.
The Boa Dai Summer Palace
Bao Dai, the last Emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty, built 3 palaces in Dalat. The third one, now known as Bao Dai Palace 3, is the most popular with tourists today. It sits as an example of French-influenced architecture and of the extravagant lifestyle enjoyed by the ruling classes.
A Hike Half Way Up Lang Biang
I always enjoy hiking when I can, and so I looked for a good place to do so while I was on the Dalat Peninsula. To the north of Dalat is a small town sitting beneath a mountain, both bearing the name Lang Biang.
The Secret Garden of Dalat
South of Dalat there is a place hidden within the woods. It is a garden filled with wooden walkways, benches and sculptures representing the local flora and fauna. Stepping through the gate feels like stepping into a Wonderland, though there is no white rabbit to follow here.
Dalat Clay Sculpture Tunnel
To the south of Dalat is a park full of clay sculptures, made using the locally sourced red basalt soil. As you move through the site, the sculptures tell the story of the Đà Lạt Plateau.