*Sponsored post. All opinions are my own and not swayed by outside sources.*
While traveling to different corners of the world, I find that some places “speak” to us. This unknown, unexplored language of culture affects all the senses: audio, visual, noise, smell, and touch. The magical land of Cambodia always dominated my travel planning dreams, and when I actually stepped into this unique country and got familiar with its great culture, it kept a piece of my heart. The locals asking you try the tuk tuk ride, the monks translating important lessons for you, the gigantic and contagious smile on the farmers, families spending a happy time under the wooden Cambodian houses, or the huts of floating fishing village celebrating the light of love even without electricity! To be honest, I discovered new meanings of life while getting up, close, and personal with Cambodia’s greatest culture.
The Architectures and Cultural Landmarks
When you talk about Cambodian architecture, remember, you cannot keep the Khmer Empire apart. Be it the magnificent and majestic Angkor temple (Cambodia’s biggest pride) or hundreds of other architectures around Siem Reap, everything is the brilliance of Khmers. As I moved around this iconic temple or Wat, I couldn’t stop myself saluting at the brilliant engineering and architectural styles of that time. A local guide (who soon became a friend) explained me the meanings behind each symbol and structure I found in the temple; be it the gopuram, half-vaulted side-aisles, pyramids, or the cosmic mountains. Most of the landmarks in Cambodia are made of sandstone, timber, and reddish-brown stone.
The Artistic Grandeur
When I got myself clicked in sampot chang kben and sampot phamuong (the traditional attire of Cambodia), I found the artistic grandeur of Cambodia extremely surprising and yet fascinating. Weaving, silver and goldsmithing, jewelry making, making wood and stone sculpture and what not, Cambodians are master of arts and crafts. Cambodians are proud of their rich culture and so, they love depicting the same in their sculptures, clothes, and everything they create. And their love for Art doesn’t just stop here; it can be seen in their literature and cuisine too! Don’t believe? Then listen to the tales of reuang preng or taste the Prahok fried in banana leaves with fresh green vegetables and steamed rice! Do check the whole menu on some travel planning sites.
The Local Life
“jumreap sooa!” (Hello in Khmer). When a Cambodian girl wished me with her gorgeous smile while selling the fresh fruits and vegetables in the local market, it revealed the secret of Cambodian’s everlasting happiness -SIMPLICITY. A walk through the streets of Cambodia will make you understand their simple philosophy of life. These vibrant streets are full of lip smacking food and crafts. The natives largely rely of bicycles for traveling inside the cities while the public transport is also well-organized. Yes, they love festivities! Be it the Bonn Chaul Chhnam or Bonn Om Touk, everything is celebrated joyfully.
Want to explore more about Cambodia? It would be a great idea to tour to the country and create your own Cambodian memories.