City, Countryside, and Between

Although I'm more likely to end up settling in the big and busy capital city of Phnom Penh, this is the Cambodia I love -- the countryside. Traditional architecture includes the stilt house, built with a wooden frame and a steep thatched roof overhanging the walls. These stilt houses are up to 9 feet off the ground to protect against floods, while providing shelter for the family's domestic animals below the house.

Angkor Wat is a temple complex in Siem Reap, built for the king in the early 12th century as his state temple and capital city. The above picture was taken at Bayon, my favorite temple at Angkor Wat. The temple complex is absolutely phenomenal; in fact, it's one of the wonders of the ancient world. Around five hours from Phnom Penh, Cambodians have much pride in Angkor Wat, and it is even featured on the Cambodian flag. You can anticipate an entire post dedicated to Angkor Wat in the semi-near future..

Like in any nation, life in the city certainly contrasts life in the country. This scene is typical in Phnom Penh, where houses are built small, but upwards. Phnom Penh, meaning "full mountain," was known in the 1920s as the "Pearl of Asia." The capital is the wealthiest and most populous city in Cambodia, home to more than two million of Cambodia's population of over fourteen million. It is home to the country's political hub, and is a significant global and domestic tourist destination.

Khmer sunsets are stunning. When I lived at the WBI, I was blessed with an incredible view of the West and was amazed to see the sun set early every evening.

Love love love, Jewel