Angkor What?

The short, domestic flight up north to Siem Reap from Phnom Penh is a bit like taking a bus. Admittedly we had to get up at 5.30am to allow for packing, breakfast and the transfer but by lunchtime we were checked in and chilling in our fabulous room in a truly gorgeous hotel. Dressed with lotus flowers, chilled fragrant towels offered every time you head inside from the sweltering heat, bottled water not just freely available but its consumption actively encouraged and charming, helpful and eternally smiling staff - these few days are going to be a real treat. 

Floating lotus buds

They even have their own local Monopoly sets complete with Hindu Gods and our hotel listed next door to our afternoon destination - Angkor Wat.

5k outside the town of Siem Reap lies the temple complex that occupies 77square miles and which has, at it's heart, the flagship Angkor Wat. Built mostly in the 12th Century not as a residence nor as a monastery, this huge and highly elaborate construction was built by King Suryavarman II purely to honour the Hindu Gods in the hope that they would in turn make him a more powerful king. 

The mathematics, calculation of size, scale, layout and the symbolism in the design is incredible. The heat was too! But not ones to miss any opportunity we strolled, climbed, photographed and marvelled our way round accompanied by our latest guide, Mr Lim (first name unpronounceable and consequently quickly forgotten so we settled on Mr Lim and that seems to be working). His commentary as we walked, often jaw to the floor, around this incredibly beautiful UNESCO World Heritage site was detailed and knowledgeable and clearly his years of experience ensured we got some of the best shots. Not sure they can be appreciated in miniature on a phone but I have a feeling these images will stay with Stephen and I for many a year to come. Never have we heard so many mythological Hindu stories captured by the 40,000 workers who built this edifice over just 37 years in so much carved stone detail. Feeling privileged to have been able to visit in person, I will be amazed if this site can remain open to the public for many more years, such must be the continued erosion caused by millions of tourists every year. Lucky us.

First glimpse, in the distance, across the vast moat and behind a terrace.

The Eastern Gatehouse, where royalty once entered, behind which the main temple is hidden.

Incredible detail in the carving that covers acres of walls.

High up, in the central tower - by now melting in the evening shade.

Carved collonade casting long shadows

A chance encounter - she must have been in her 80s at least

The money shot! Nice one Mr Lim - you timed that to perfection ....

.... And you take quite a neat shot too :-)