Pandoraspace

Cambodians, like many of us, are a paradox. They are brilliant builders, and at the same time, cruel destroyers.  

At the end of the journey, I again ask myself this question: “If Cambodia is a jar, what would it contain?” My answer:  Right now, Cambodia contains only hope. Hope that the horror of the Khmer Rouge atrocities would never be felt again and hope that the Cambodians would once again achieve the glories of their ancestors, the great builders of Angkor Wat.

Reality Check No. 4: The Toul Sleng Genocide Museum

From the time Toe and D found out that we wanted to go to the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum, they kept asking us if we were certain we wanted to go. Padma knew that it would be an upsetting experience but she was determined to learn more about the Cambodian people. While I doubted whether I could stomach the experience, my curiosity got the better of me and I decided to go Toul Sleng with Padma. My only condition was that no guide should accompany us. I did not want to hear anecdotes of the Khmer Rouge atrocities from the guide.

Despite all mental and emotional preparation for the visit to the museum, what I saw and experienced in Toul Sleng greatly disturbs me until today. I ask myself whether human beings are capable of such evil. (more…)

Reality Check No. 2: The Cambodian Royal Palace

The Cambodian Royal Palace is a huge complex with several buildings.  One of the more popular buildings is the Silver Pagoda, which is tiled with 5000 silver tiles weighing one kilo each. The Silver Pagoda houses a number of national treasures most of which were displayed in the open or in simple glass cases. (more…)

Tip No. 11: Get medical insurance for the trip.

Cambodia is just in the process of picking itself up from the aftermath of the reign of the Khmer Rouge, which was responsible for slaughtering intellectuals many of whom were doctors. For this reason, there are very few hospitals in Cambodia. Toe advised us to get medical insurance for the trip in the event that we would need to be flown out of Cambodia to receive medical treatment in a neighboring country.  Of  course, Padma and I are stingy like living on the edge.  So, we did not get any medical insurance.

Tip No. 12: Wear a hat and comfortable footwear.  I wore slippers (flip-flops).

Tip No. 13: Bring Off Lotion (mosquito repellant).

Tip No. 14: Do not fret over forgetting to bring a toothbrush or shampoo. Siem Reap convenient stores are well stocked with basic necessities and even wonderful treats.  Most convenient stores in Siem Reap cater to tourists, and for that reason, their shelves are stocked with toothbrushes, toothpaste, soaps, shampoos and batteries. More than that, those stores sell, imported cereals like Frosties, Huggies diapers, French wine, all sorts of cheeses and imported ice cream.