Cambodia
A vacation destination well known for the Angkor Wat, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
A country otherwise infamously known for the Khmer Rouge (赤柬), heroin and marijuana, as well as famines and poverty.
A civilization, who once enjoyed great prosperity and culture, now torn by decades of civil wars and numerous landmines lurking country-wide.
However, what struck me most was the simplicity and happiness of its people, despite the lack of possessions that we have and take for granted. Whether it's a candy, a dip into a cool river, a volleyball game played on dirt and mud, or a simple wave to a stranger, these all put big smiles on their faces. They were so genuine and radiant, maybe even infectious.
"People take different roads seeking fulfillment and happiness. Just because they're not on your road doesn't mean they've gotten lost. "
- H. Jackson Browne
"Often people attempt to live their lives backwards; they try to have more things, or more money, in order to do more of what they want, so they will be happier. The way it actually works is the reverse. You must first be who you really are, then do what you need to do, in order to have what you want."
- Margaret Young
"Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared."
- Buddha

Sunrise at Angkor Wat
A mystic and tranquil moment.

Sunrise at Angkor Wat
5am, when the sun was still beneath the horizon and the sky was still dark.

Sunrise at Angkor Wat
Walking on this long, dark and silent bridge towards Angkor Wat. It rained the night before, giving the sky extra clarity. The reflections on the puddles of water were simply beautiful.
It felt like pilgrimage, totally awed by the immensity of nature and history.

Sunrise at Angkor Wat
The sun beginning to unveil itself.

Sunrise at Angkor Wat
A moment of reflection (no pun intended).

Ta Prohm, otherwise known as the Tomb Raider Temple

Ta Prohm, otherwise known as the Tomb Raider Temple
The famous tree on a temple.

Ta Prohm, otherwise known as the Tomb Raider Temple
A tree several hundred years old, resting upon a temple even more ancient in time.

Ancient temples and lush forests dominate the landscape, quiet yet powerful.

The Face of the Demon
Interestingly, according to Khmer myths, during a deal between the Gods and Demons, it was the Gods who broke the promise and stole the Elixir of Life, for the benefit of mankind of course..

Bayon Temple, Angkor Thom

Bayon Temple, Angkor Thom
Like the Greek and many ancient civilizations, one can have a glimpse into its past by looking at its mural carvings.

Eternal Introspection

Angkor Thom
Looking up to the heavens.

A curious girl and her unnamed fruit

Monks

Blossoming on level 3 of Angkor Wat

Banteay Srei, a temple dedicated to Shiva
Intricate carvings on pink/red/brown sandstone.

Angkor Thom

Angkor Thom, literally the "Great City"

Angkor Thom from afar

Phnom Bakheng
A short hike up the hill to watch the sunset. Turns out the most unforgettable part lies after the sunset.

Sunset at Phnom Bakheng

Sunset at Phnom Bakheng

Behind the scenes at Phnom Bakheng

Pool in hotel

求籤

Floating Village

Floating Village
Where over 10,000 fishermen and villagers live.

A Floating School and Basketball Court

The Future of Cambodia

Young Fishermen

Such a doll

Sun-drenched dark faces, water-soaked pale hands, and nonetheless big friendly smiles

Cows
So skinny that you can easily count their ribs.

Little Girl Holding Money

The Yearning
Yearnings that we all share. A yearning for life, for freedom, for acceptance, and for happiness.

And maybe a yearning for candies, too.
This is the beautiful face when you give them candies =) |