Siem Reap, Cambodia: A dusty, poor, tourist city with charm...

Hello Everyone,

 

Siem Reap is the Cambodian tourist town that now serves as the depot for the tourists coming to see the ruins of the ancient city of Angkor.   Although the city existed before the French colonization and grew during the occupation, it has definitely been shaped by the modern influx of tourists.  But even with the tourism industry, the city still retains much of traditional Cambodia and its charm.  The "charm" may include dust, garbage, and destitute local people, but it also includes tuk-tuks, broad smiles, and the old ways.  It is the type of city that is far enough removed from western civilization that you really do feel completely isolated from everything that is familiar to you.  That was one of the experiences I was hoping to have on this trip.

 

It was a very fascinating place.  Ozell and I both agree that we would like to revisit and see more of Cambodia.

 

Here is just a generic pic of part of Siem Reap from a rooftop terrace of an ex-pat pub called "X-bar".  They actually had a skate board half pipe on the top level.  Lol

 

Cheers,

 

Sean