Cambodia

Our journey through Cambodia began in Phnom Penh, where the rivers meet and the country’s recent history is still deeply felt. Visiting the S21 prison and the Killing Fields was difficult but important, giving us a better understanding of what so many Cambodians have endured. At the same time, we experienced the city’s lively riverfront, markets and everyday life. We continued to Sihanoukville and Bamboo Island before a long local bus journey took us to Siem Reap. Angkor Wat and the surrounding temples became the great highlight of the trip and were far more overwhelming than photographs can convey. When unrest at Bangkok airport unexpectedly brought us back the following year, we also had the chance to reconnect with people from our first visit. To us, Cambodia is a country of painful history, extraordinary cultural heritage and personal encounters that made the journey feel close and real.