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Zero Chance  > Travel > Siem Reap, Cambodia
SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA - Siem Reap is a small town, nestled among rice paddy fields 4 hours drive on rocky roads north of the capital of Phnom Penh, Cambodia. It is home to the ancient Khmer Empire's great temple ruins. UNESCO has designated Angkor Wat as a World Heritage Site, but there are many other smaller complexes in the surrounding countryside that are just as significant, if not more beautiful to explore. In terms of archaeological significance, it rivals sites like the Pyramids of the Nile, Machu Pichu and the Mayan Ruins of Mexico. But unlike these other places, rampant development has not taken place and visitors are allowed to take in the unspoiled atmosphere up close. This will probably not be the case in a few more years.

Come with me and see Siem Reap through my eyes ...
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Zero Chance > This is the main gate from which the tours usually enter.  We left from here, once again going against the tide.
Zero Chance > Tuk-tuks are a favourite way for people to get around.  For USD10 you can hire these moto-cabs for several hours.  Since the temples are fairly close, this is a good way to get around.  But do remember to bring a face mask or scarf as the roads are very dusty and diesel vehicles everywhere.
Zero Chance > On the side of the lake by Srah Srang is a elementary school.  Children go for half days.  Not much in terms of facilities, but the children are eager to learn.
Zero Chance > Without babysitting services, older kids bring their younger siblings to school with them.  The iron bars in this window is a contradiction to the happy, smiling girl within.  Easy way to get a smile - shoot a picture and show her the results on the LCD screen.
Zero Chance > These 5 girls were enjoying a recess outside when I visited the school yard.  They were happy to pose for a group picture.
Zero Chance > After a break at the hotel to avoid the hot midday sun which is crap for photography, we drove to Bayon Temple.  This and Angkor Wat are the two biggest temple compleses in Siem Reap.  I refer to this as the temple of faces.
Zero Chance > On the exterior walls are these bas-reliefs depicting real life scene from an historic battle between the Khmer and the Cham from Vietnam.  There are other scenes of everyday life intersperse amongst the battle scenes - including going to market, cockfighting, childbirth and others.
Zero Chance > The giant stone faces of Bayon have become one of the most recognizable images connected to ancient Khmer art and architecture.
Zero Chance > Siem Reap, Cambodia photo
Siem Reap, Cambodia photo
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