A Queenslander in Cambodia: Beautiful Cambodia

Before returning home, I got to do some sightseeing around Phnom Penh, and then (an 8 hour bus ride later), Siem Reap.

One of the most memorable visits was to the Killing Fields. It didn't feel respectful to take photos, but it was such an eye opener! I'm ashamed to admit I knew absolutely nothing about the horrors of the Cambodian Genocide where about a quarter of the population, or 2 million men, women and children, were brutally tortured and executed in the 1970s.

I also got to visit the National Museum, a floating village and the outside of the Royal Palace (apparently I wasn't covered enough to enter - in my modest knee-length dress with sleeves!)

Siem Reap was my favourite city and it was amazing to explore Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, as well as some of the thousands of other temples in the area. I also got to visit a cultural centre and silk worm farm, which was surprisingly very interesting!

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Cambodia. The absolute highlight was meeting the dozens of locals who were so happy and generous to open up their homes and share their stories with me. Like any good traveller, I did try to pick up a few phrases in the Khmer language, but my pronunciation was woeful!

Thanks again to the wonderful staff at CUFA who looked after me so well, to TSWG who sponsored the scholarship, and to Queenslanders Credit Union for supporting me every step of the way in applying for this opportunity, undertaking the required fundraising challenge and having time away from the office.

It was a 5am start to view the sunrise at Angkor Watt. Unfortunately, there was heavy cloud so we didn't get to see the sun until later in the day.

So many stairs!

I was captivated by this beautiful old tree at Ta Prohm (they filmed Lara Croft: Tomb Raider at this temple).

Magnificent face carvings at Angkor Thom, built in the 12th century.

I enjoyed a superb lunch at the cafe run by non-profit group, Friends International. I also picked up some souvenirs at their gift shop and would have loved to have had time to relax in their beauty salon. This is a must-stop destination for anyone visiting Phnom Penh.