Across the border into Cambodia and Siem Reap

Entrance to Angkor Thom: the demon is on the right!

Bayon Temple at Angkor Thom

Angkor Thom:Terrace of the elephants

After being sad enough to being excited at the prospect of a 'proper' bus we were left stranded just across the Cambodian border in a very basic "cafe" (on asking for the loo we were pointed into the jungle) for 2 hours and then eventually the most overcrowded  minibus yet arrived.

We eventually arrived in Siem Reap 4 hours late, tired and  hungry into  the surreally luxurious lobby of our hotel and the now traditional blessedly chilled flannel!

Angkor Wat

There followed four hectic days of tours and sightseeing along with Robert and Liz who joined us for this section of the trip. The sights, especially Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom were extensive and as memorable as we we hoped but the highlight at 6am was "Angelina's" temple, ie. Ta Prohm, from the original tomb raider film, really tremendously atmospheric. 

Yes, a carved face peeking through!

Cycling and walking tours got us out into the countryside and hills, and we also went on a boat trip from one of the 'floating villages' to Tonle lake.

Kompong Khleang

As you would expect with Robert and Liz we also got out for some good meals and even some drinkable wine. Had some real laughs too, Robert in the "pedicure" fish tank and Liz in the swimming hole by a waterfall having her toes nibbled by the wild version of the fish were highlights! We also had a fun evening in the Big Top watching a great modern dance and gymnastic display from Phare, a Cambodian circus troop set up for kids from particularly poor backgrounds. It was very nerve racking as the performers were very close and very sweaty!