Cambodia... despite it's tough times in the 70s thru 90s, has emerged from the struggles and above all has changed with the times. And is still changing. Though many Cambodians hold on to the traditional values, the young aka Generation X are becoming more MTV with not only influences from the West but from countries like Japan and Korea as well.
My love affair with Cambodia began in 2002 when I boarded the Nippon Maru as part of the Singapore contigent for the Ship for Southeast Youth Programme (SSEAYP). And though then it may have been 'About A Boy' today it has become more than just the boy.
The boy did well to tell me all about his country during the programme such that when it ended, I wanted Cambodia to be the first place I visit as part of keeping the memories of SSEAYP alive in me.
The moment I stepped foot on Cambodian soil, I truly felt the Cambodian warmth and hospitality. No doubt, all my friends said that it was just my feelings for the boy. But I knew better. And when I started 2003 with the first sunrise at Angkor Wat, I was hooked. I wanted to know more about the history, culture and life of the Cambodians. The food, good & cheap kept my tummy filled my first 7 days there.
On my 2nd trip back, I brought my mum and sister with me, and though they loved the charm of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, they were not as in love with the place as I was. Such that I had to visit a third time. There is so much to do and see there and not just the tourist sights. But off the beaten track.. which is more my style. On my 3rd trip, I managed to see the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the King's Palace.
A huge contrast I must say, the bleak and almost morbid Tuol Sleng vs the grandeur and pomp of the King's Palace. Of course, shopping is a must there and I definately spent the rest of my days shopping.. and experience yet another New Year's. This time, in the city with fireworks and a dance party. Simple yet upbeat.
In 3 days time, I embark on my 4th and definately not my last trip back to Cambodia. There's just something about the place that I could go on and on about. And this time on my list of must do - Killing Fields, Happy Herb Pizza, Shooting Range, Waterfalls, Kompong Som and my friend's farm. And as I will be with a friend who is visiting for the first time, I will be taking her to see the places I've been to, in the hope that she too may fall in love with Cambodia.
As I've said, the boy may have brought me there the first time, but it is the spirit of Cambodia that keeps making me want to go back for more. I thought I had left my heart in San Francisco but it is Cambodia that has got my heart now.
