Long Overdue Cambodia Write-up

(Written: July 5, Posted: July 21)

Air Asia was delayed as usual. After an hour of waiting, our plane finally took off. I didn't notice much though. Between our cramped king bed and the Germany-Argentina game the previous night, Jeng, Nits and I didn't get much sleep. The two hour flight was mostly for catching some shuteye and building up energy for the day of touring ahead.

We finally landed. Greeted by "Welcome to Cambodia" in French, it was very apparent sign of imperial rule. We saved 20 USD for visa costs as Filipinos and Malaysians weren't required to pay for one.

Our driver from the Auberge Mont Royal Hotel, welcomed us with a huge plackard of sorts. Very hard to miss. Hehe. After checking in and settling down, we were eager beavers and started on our exploration of Siem Reap.

Our Hotel: Auberge Mont Royal Hotel

First stop: Floating Village

Highlight: Oppable
A group of Korean tourists were in the same floating resto as we were. I heard one dude in his mid 30s talking to his dad. And I autoamatically whispered "Oppa" (which can actually means "boyfriend" "honey"). Omg, he heard! Haha. Turning to me, he then shifted to English and asked where we were from. I blushingly replied "Manila". Then, fulfilling her dream of talking to a real Korean, Jeng turned to him and bowed: "Anyeaseyo". Totally funny!

Second Day: Temple Tour
It was very "Indiana Jones". Hehe. I felt like touring the lost city. Each crevice and each etch on the wall had a story tied to it.Our very knowledgable tour guide led us through each temple, imparting a bit of history and some myths which have been passed on through the generations.

Highlight: 2007
In one of the temples, I came across a fortune teller. For fun, I decided to give it a go. After giving him my name, my birthday, and handing over my palm for a quick look, he started off saying that I am the only girl in the family, that I'm strong and smart. I was impressed. He went on with predicting my luck in money and in love (this I liked a lot :p). And here's the kicker: I apparently will get married by 2006-2007. At this point, I wanted to say: "Dude. Seriously?!" Haha.

Last Day: Apsara
It was a chill and relax day. We tried the $6/hour foot massage and had a quick nap in the afternoon. Then off we went for a buffet dinner and to watch a traditional aspara dance show.

It was a great holiday indeed... On to the next one - Vietnam, anyone?