Day 10: Siem Reap, Siem Temples

Today was our first day in Siem Reap. We finally reunited with Helen and her friend/Scott's sister, Susan. (We interrupt this blog to say how much we miss Sharon. We miss her so much, Elliot keeps calling Susan, Sharon.) After breakfast, our group of 6 explored the temples of Angkor Wat. The Angkor Wat literally means Temple City. There were many temples in the area, but we visited 3 particular temples. Our guide, Lee, was very knowledgeable.



Angkor Wat: This is the most famous temple in Cambodia. It's image is EVERYWHERE: flag, money, signs, t shirts, etc. It definitely earned it's reputation. The temple was amazing, had 2 libaries, 2 ponds, 5 major towers, and stone carvings depicting Hindu and Buddhist mythology. There were over 1000 Apsara dancers carved into the walls. There is a regulation where no building in Siem Reap can be taller than the middle tower of Angkor Wat. This gives Siem reap a very small town, but extremely touristy feel.



Ta Prahm: The Tomb Raider temple! This temple has been taken over by nature. Trees growing through, on, around, and under the building blocks of this temple. It's very beautiful and kind of eerie. There is a dinosaur carved into the wall along with other animals and religious depictions... (Ancient Alien theory!) This temple was under major reconstruction by the Indian Government, and there were far less tourists present. It was a very peaceful and quiet area.



Bayon: Our favorite temple! Bayon has dozens of Buddha's faces in the form of towers with each tower having the Four Faces of Buddha: Charity, Compassion, Sympathy, and Equinimity. There were multiple levels to this temple. This was unique from the others because there were few limits and restrictions on exploring the temple. As long as a visitor is polite and non-destructive, exploration is encouraged. All of us got blessings at a shrine in the center of the temple from a monk. This was the most majestic temple (in Elliot's opinion)



For dinner we ate in the Old Market area of Siem Reap. This is a series of alleys with mainly Western-run restaurants all having the bright cambodian feel. We had Eucalyptus towels for the first time! Often before meals the restaurant will give you cold towels to wipe your face and hands. These were scented with Eucalyptus oil and were very appreciated. Remember, it's still blazing hot outside. We loved the pool on top of the Terrace des Elephants. Helen is going to decorate her garden like it. Welcome to Paradise.