Managed to wake up early to see the sunrise over Angkor Wat, along with 500+ tourists. We slowly made our way around 8 or so other ruins including my fav Ta Prohm. The local kids constantly try to sell postcards, books and bracelets to tourists. Phrases like "hello lady, you like postcard" or "where you from? you like postcard?" while flattering, does nothing for me.
The country is amazing to visit, mainly because it is so vastly different from the states. The landscape alone is extremely unfamiliar. Flat grassy land as far as the eye can see and patches of trees here and there. Clearly Siem Reap relies a lot on tourism. While it is comforting to see nice accomodations in a third world country, it is also extremely unsettingly to drive by rows and rows of grand hotels all imposing western culture and style into a country that has a such a distinct and respectable way of life. It doesn't feel like the country is making investments towards pulling itself out of poverty, but rather, trying to build a facade that will make tourists feel at home.
Haven't found amazing food here so I've just been sucking down fresh fruit juices and shakes to supplement. The excessive heat and humidity has also decreased my appetite. I try so hard to love Asia but the weather is seriously unbearable. How does Angelina do it?
*Offensive and inappropriate picture. We plead the crazies, it was too hot to think straight.
No comments:
Post a Comment