During our time in Kampot Province, Cambodia, our team has come across many things that would at first be considered different, or comical, but soon become normal to see here in this place. Please sit back, relax, and enjoy reading about our comical adventures here in the middle of almost nowhere, Cambodia.
Wildlife…
-Well, if I had seen any I would tell you. But we do have an abundance of cows here in Cambodia, oh and water buffalo! Because everybody's got a water buffalo, yours is fast and mine is slow (ode to Veggie Tales).
-You know how you see pictures of birds sitting on the backs of said cows and water buffalo? They really do that. Looks like a pretty nice perch.
-Pigs. Never ever did I know or expect pigs to be as noisy as they are. They sound more like dinosaurs actually, especially when they are about to be fed. Oh you're eating dinner? Don't worry about the pigs walking around the table, they'll pick up any scraps you leave, and maybe eat some plastic, too.
-Chickens don't have as many feathers. Some look normal, and others look like a cross between a vulture, a chicken, and a dinosaur.
-Warning about the ducks of Cambodia. Don't get close, or they will hiss at you, chase you, or try to fight you. Don't splash water on them, either. Just ask Megan.
-Only in Cambodia would it be normal to see a chicken and a duck fighting, and then to have the dog jump in on the fun as well.
-Don't pet a cow while it is eating, unless you want the possibility of it head butting you into the ground. This almost happened to me, but thankfully I used my ninja skills to get out of the way just in time. I learned my lesson.
Vehicles…
-Always keep a mechanic handy to bring around on a motorcycle with you in case of emergencies. They come to you, bring a bag of parts, and get the job done in the same day, even if the axle is broken and oil leaked all over the ground.
-Tractor engines are an acceptable form of transportation, just hitch a wagon to the back and enjoy the ride!
-Tuk tuks are handy for hauling many things, including massive amounts of people (aka build a huge wagon on the back of a motorcyle, and you have a tuk tuk), you can also transport cows, or another motorcycle in the bed.
-Honk your horn a lot while driving, it lets people know that you are there.
-Make sure you watch out for monks riding on motorcycles using mobile phones.
Weddings…
-If you ever have a chance, go to a Cambodian wedding. You won't be short of any entertainment at any turn.
-Girls…go rent a dress, and get your hair and make up done. Totally worth the $8 total for the true Cambodian wedding experience. But! Be forewarned…your hair will be completely coated with hair spray gel, and it will be teased. A lot.
-Men…you must dance. Literally, the dance floor (which is really dancing around a table) is a majority of men. Just don't be creepy.
Hope you enjoyed this little taste of Cambodia. I could tell story after story about this place, it truly holds a special place in my heart. I'm thankful for all of the laughs and good times that God blessed us with a long the way!
