A little background and history
Located in South-East Asia, surrounded by Thailand, Laos and Vietnam and facing the Gulf of Thailand is a small country that might otherwise be forgotten.
Cambodia.
This small country is not particularly known to the Western World. In fact, I have come across individuals who have asked me “What’s Cambodia?” Clueless.
But this small country has been through so much hell that its little wonder that it hasn’t just given up and vanished.
Its neighbour, Vietnam, is more well known in global communities. The Americans involvement in the Vietnam War put Vietnam on the map in no time. However, it is estimated that almost two million people died in Cambodia during the Khmer Rouge regime when Pol Pot ruled the country. But no one knows about it. Well, who needs to know about Cambodia? After all, the US were never involved in it. Apart from the fact that they drobbed bombs on the country!
During the war, Cambodia practically disappeared off the map. No one has ever heard of little Cambodia. When asked about whether they have heard of the country, most will reply “Oh yeah, Cambodia. Right. I’ve seen that movie! The Killing Fields, right?”
Idiots.
My Adventures to Cambodia
During the course of many years, I have visited Cambodia in total of three times. Each of which has been a vast learning experience for me. Next month, I’m planning another trip over there. As you will soon discover, a lot of my weblog will be dedicated to this country close to my heart.
This country never fails to amaze me. From its corruption infested officials to the glories of the Angkor Wat, I find that each time I am there, I am humbled.
My next adventure there will last three months. I’m quite excited. I plan to go traveling around the country, from dirt covered province to dirt covered province. Perhaps there I shall report back on the interesting finds that I come across. Oh, the stories you’ll be hearing! I’m excited just thinking about it.
Perhaps what Cambodia needs is a fan. I intend to be that fan. Maybe I shall find other fans, and together we will rule the country and begin our reign of world domination!
Or not. One can dream. No?
I’ll leave you with this idylic photo of Cambodia to soften your heart
Oh, Angkor, when will you see your former glory days again? Perhaps when all those who leech onto you are D-E-A-D (that spells dead, by the way).
Hi, I am in Cambodia now for a temporary work attachment.
I was at Siem Reap trying to take great photos of the Angkor Wat.
Can i have your approval to use your photo. (the one that softens the heart, the angkor wat pic, with a man bundling up some water plants in the foreground). I am hoping i could use it for a corporate report about the tourism sector.
Let me know alright.
Cheers
Jason