Angkor

I've come to my last day in Angkor, the ancient capital of Cambodia. About 1000 years ago, traders from China to the middle east once sang of "Cambodia the rich and noble" and it is not hard to imagine why based on this "city as temple". In light of recent warfare, tragedies, colonialism, Angkor is a testament to the once great genius of Khmer culture and power.

Angkor Wat is sublime - something to be seen and experienced. Angkor Tom, the Bayon, Bantei Srei, are all amazing amongst other gems. Someone once remarked that Buddhist iconography are most intelligently and most tastefully realized in Angkor and I think I would have to agree. In some ways, they surpass many of europe's architectural achievements from the same period (800-1400 ad). Truly one of the great man-made wonders of the world.

I've been exploring angkor with an english couple, an english girl and a canadian - who are all taking a year off to travel. They've been good company. We stayed at the Smiley Guesthouse, recommened in the guidebook but not mentioned was that it was surrounded on both sides by brothels.

The wine, cheese, and bread picnic near Angkor Tom was a memorable way to end our temple soujourn together. Tomorrow, I'm off to Bangkok to prep a southern Thailand trip.