Phnom Penh
Tuesday morning was an emotionally challenging time learning about the recent history of Cambodia. We visited the Tuol Sleng museum and the Killing Fields near Phnom Penh. I couldn't believe the things our local guide, Rahn was telling us about what the Khmer Rouge did in the late 1970s--in my lifetime! It challenged me to learn more about this country.
The afternoon was spent trying to cheer up, by experiencing the Russian Market in town. There were many bargains around, but I don't know how to haggle, so could have done better I think. On the way to and from the market we spotted many monks dressed in orange on motorbikes or walking. Here began my fascination with monks, and had to take a picture everytime I saw one.
In the evening, we were invited to experience a homestyle Khmer dinner at the house of our guide, Rahn. When we arrived, the local neighbourhood kids welcomed us with cheerful hellos, where-you-froms and what's-your-names, and we got to join in on the end of their English lesson. I met their teacher and gave the children some paper cranes I had made with some students in Shingo. There was so much food to try...all of it interesting and tasty. Rahn shared his story with us, and it was a very cool end to our stay in Phnom Penh.