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Published: March 13th 2010
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calm morning waters
Cazz enjoys the morning view from the boat My early night paid off and the 6.30am Saturday wake up wasn't too painful. Cazz, Anges, Phillipe and I were off to see the other side of the river and bike ride around the smallish province. We needed to be up early to avoid the heat. We left the flat at 7.30am ready to ride!
The 15 cent boat ride took us the 10 minutes across to the other side and we were all amazed that such a short distance could make the world of difference to the landscape. It was like stepping into the countryside. Very little english was spoken so we made use of our best Khmer and of course, many hand signals. We lingered up to the bike rental shop and decided that 2 hours would be sufficient. We rode off along the dusty, sand track loving every minute of our unfolding adventure.
We encountered many friendly villagers all smiling and (like the Bali bike ride) the kids just loved to scream out "hello" as you passed by them. It almost seemed like a secret competition amongst local kids- the more hellos you can get the better you are. We had a map but it was
Boat ride
The short ferry ride across the river cost 800 riel or about 18 cents. easy enough to navigate. We rode through the preparation of 5 weddings all blaring out loud modern Khmer music. We wondered why the music was so loud and discovered that it is like this due to the belief that loud music which can be heard by all community members means the family is proud to host the ceremony and has nothing to hide. The houses were very traditional- I don't have photos but most were made from wood and are built high off the gound. Modest but practical and it again made me think how affluent our society is. The family cow was often tethered to a tree in the front yard and kids ran naked or semi naked around the streets. From my outsiders perspective they looked so.... free! I loved every minute of my time across the river. We spoke tentatively about returning next weekend for a picnic. Whether it happens or not I don't mind. I won't forget it.
No set plans for tonight. We are not party animals like some of my family members believe (Grandad). I have been busy reading and have almost finished 'First They Killed My Father' a true story written from
Boat ride
Anges, Phillipe, Chloe feeling excited about the change of scenery the perspective of a five year old girl when Phnom Penh was evacuated by the Khmer Rouge in 1975. It's well written. If you ever have plans to come here it's definately worth reading.
I haven't seen or heard any world news since arriving here- a month ago on Wednesday. I feel semi removed from normality. I have no clue about world events. Message me and tell me what's been happening out there- although thanks to Nine MSN I know about the Bingle / Clarke break up. It makes me laugh that this is all I know about the world.
Be safe, be good.
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Brenda
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Bliss
Hi Chloe, it looks like bliss out there on your bike. No doubt the heat makes it a bit less blissful but how wonderful it must be to be experiencing all these adventures from 'within' so to speak! Continue to enjoy every moment and to experience all that is offered. I love you. Am off to mass, so must rush. Love again, Mum.