In My Wildest Dreams

Tomb Raider

Yesterday was a very nice mellow day, most of which was spent by the pool, talking w/ other travellers about their adventures in this and other regions... I did go visit a wat (temple), though, in the morning. Went to ask the front desk where it was located before setting off. Knew it was close but upon asking found it was, in fact, just across the street. Went there, lit some incense for the large, golden Buddha and met a nice friendly monk who wanted to practice his English. Sarwat is his name. We talked for a bit and then I went off to tour the rest of the grounds, which are home to shrines for people killed by the Khmer Rouge and during the civil war. Was approached by a young boy who spoke very fine English. He is an orphan staying with the monks, so he gave me a brief, informative tour of the grounds, after which I honored his request for a donation to the Buddhist monks that take care of him, plus a special donation for his fund to attend computer school :). No, not swindled--I am convinced that all people here are in need of and deserve as much help as possible... :)

Last night we went to see the Askara dancers, a beautiful show of traditional Khmer dancing, which included a Khmer dinner. The costumes were breathtaking, and each dance was a story, usually a mythological one. Today we got up, ate our nice French breakfast that is included w/ the hotel stay, and went to see Angkor Wat on a tuk-tuk we hired, plus a trained guide. Both driver and guide were absolutely excellent!!!! The guide, Sarat, was extremely well-informed, told us much about the wall carvings and the mythology behind each. Angkor Wat, well, I can't put it into words. Just breath-taking.

Has been a long day. Tomorrow, market and massage.

Love,
Sara

posted by Sara @ 4:34 AM