The short ride

Saturday 12th July

Our incredible experience in Takeo expired today with another early morning start with 5.30am wake ups and last minute packing. By 6.30am we hit the road in our newly acquired mini buses named White Lightening and The Yellow Submarine; equipped with luxurious seating plans, a generous amount of leg room, loads of personal space and five-star scenic views and scents. We went round and picked up the NFO kids, saying our goodbyes yet again to all whom were there to see us off. A few tears were shed, by both Australians and Khmer, not to be last for this emotionally challenging day. Once traveling onto our first destination, Cheong Ek (otherwise known as the Killing Fields), we made a short pit stop for Coke and green frogs. We hit the atrociously pot holed ridden roads, causing a much slower journey then anticipated, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all - practically a free roller coaster ride. Bewildered by the sight of so many tourists, spotted meandering in their natural habitat, we made our way to an introductory movie, which most certainly came second to Lynne's impeccable and informative tour talk. Then we spent a solid hour or so slowly wandering the bumpy terrain of dug up mass graves, learning the many stories surrounding the site of sadness. Honoring the past and present, we visited the seventeen tiered memorial filled with human artifacts. Off again this time straight to Phnom Penh we arrived for a long awaited lunch. Then with another hit, we went straight across the road to Tuol Sleong Genocide Museum, commonly known as S-21. We learnt a lot today including that this refurbished high school was used as a torture facility used during the Khmer Rouge and held some most horrific atrocities known to man. The four buildings saw many of us in emotional distress, but luckily we were off soon enough to relax in our new hotel, The Paragon. Pleased with the air conditioning services, we happily walked down the riverfront in the early evening, soaking up the city atmosphere filled with a FIFA World Cup buzz, whilst passing the stunning Royal Palace and pagoda city. Back at the hotel we freshened up and then headed down to our restaurant for the night, The Titanic; a complete and utter privilege with delicious food and spectacular service. With the first leg of our road trip complete we also treated ourselves and the Khmer kids to ice-cream at the renown Blue Pumpkin. With high spirits we all crashed in our hotel rooms, needing a good nights sleep.

Jadviga