When I was 7 years old I sat in front of my first microcomputer, a Commodore 64. It had come with a detailed User Manual, which I had read from cover to cover. This would be the start of a journey that made me the man I am today.
Travel
Going to other places and doing things.
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.
Yet Another New Year in Bali
It seems I keep experiencing New Years this year. First with the Gregorian calendar, then the Chinese New Year, and now I’ve gotten to see what it looks like in Bali. This year I went to Nusa Penida and got to experience Isakawarsa, the Balinese New Year.
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.
I’m Going to a Burn in Bali
I won’t be posting for a while, since I’ll be out in the wilderness of Bali enjoying a Burn with my Russian friends. While Lampu isn’t an official regional, it’s still an event held under the Ten Principles of Burning Man, and I’m excited to see how it plays out.
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.