As different as Cambodia and America are, there are just as many similarities! I have found it to be true that all people, no matter from what culture they come do enjoy having fun.
On Saturdays we have what we like to call “adventure” or “rest” days. This is our day of fellowship with each other to relax and get filled back up by the Lord in whatever way we please. The majority of us tend to pile up in a tuk tuk, ride to the grocery store, Heng Chay Lee, and buy crackers as well as jars of peanut butter to enjoy for the day. We then make our way to the infamous swimming hole (pictured below) which is still somehow left unnamed and spend our day laughing at stupid stuff, napping in the sun, doing flips off the dock, and splashing in the water as we ponder why exactly it is so warm.
So, without further ado here is my list of recommendations for your next trip to Cambodia:
1. Don’t be afraid to try street food. For 2,000 Real ($.50 USD) you can have the best ever chocolate and banana pancake.
2. When in Siem Reap just across the river from Pub Street you will come face to face with a wonderful cafe, Temple Coffee. They have huge comfy beds that serve as your “table.”
3. While wondering through almost any Cambodian city, you will see what feels like an endless sea of motos (traveling in all directions that seems to never stop). While I do not participate in such activity because of high danger risks, I would like to recommend atleast riding a bike through the extremely fluid chaos they call “traffic.” Haha, in all seriousness it works well and so far no injuries so PRAISE THE LORD FOR THAT!!
4. While on your glorious bike ride, the best way to truly experience what this place has to offer is by going to the market. This is not your average “market,” this is a wondrous dream full of sights and smells you couldn’t even imagine. So, go to the market and purchase all the fruit you could possibly eat in one day. It’s amazing and so incredibly fresh – definitely a choice you will not regret.
5. My favorite place to eat so far is this restaurant called Green Mango. They have foods that will remind you of home and the most amazing sweet tea it tastes like it came from Newks!
6. The most controversial place yet, full of unique combinations of noodles and rice, the cheapest place so far, Noodle Man. For only what is the equivalent of $1.75 you can enjoy one of Cambodians finest delicacies.
7. Last but definitely not least I would recommend going to the park around 5 in the evening and participating in a super fun Zumba class. Or something a bit more exciting for the adrenaline junkie you should go to zumba and dance your bootayy off then get out of there as soon as you can so you don’t have to pay.
The Lord has been so faithful in the short time I’ve been here. He has been showing me that He doesn’t even need me but instead He chooses me each day to take me on this incredible journey. I could not be more grateful for this season of devotion to Him and thank y’all so so much for your prayers and support. 🙂
