Our first stop was Angkor Thom, once a fortified city that still contains several temple structures. One of the good/bad characteristics about visiting historic places in Cambodia is the fact that visitors are generally free to climb and explore everything. So, the group spent several hours climbing around and within the ruins. I wondered whether the access permitted to the tourists (and hawkers) would expedite the erosion and demise of these magnificent buildings, but the free reign afforded a sense of discovery that would not be available in the West.
After a great lunch, the team made its way to Angkor Wat, one of the treasures of the ancient world. Massive, imperious walls, moats and buildings remind the visitor that this was once the seat of an ancient empire. Yet the grounds, vegetation, ornate frescoes, and resident monks give the place a peaceful, sublime quality. It is easy to see why Angkor Wat remains the singular emblem of Khmer culture and identity. Although we only had a few hours, we could have spent days wandering around the massive temple.
Sadly, today was the last day that the whole expedition team was together. Van had to catch an afternoon flight back to Ho Chi Minh City, and Raul and Selin left to return to Phnom Penh to make sure they were not late for an early morning flight. Their departures made me realize how quickly strong bonds had been made within the group. After an easy day following our hectic schedule over the previous nine days, the group was beginning to reflect on the richness of the expedition, the shared experiences, and the unique setting.
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