From all Angkor temples, Bayon was one of our favorites and the best known for being characterized by 200 carved smiling faces on its towers. Considered the “Mona Lisa of Southeast Asia”, some scholars state, the statues portray the face of Buddha, the smiles and closed eyes possibly represent “an all-knowing state of inner peace, and perhaps a state of Nirvana.” Others, however, believe the faces represent the ruler Jayavarman VII himself, as the resemblance is similar to other images of the king.Read more

It was around 11:30 PM when we got on board the night bus from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap in northern Cambodia. The closest city to the world famous Angkor Temple Complex, an archeological Park containing the remains of the different capitals of the ancient Khmer Empire. Designated a UN Heritage Site in 1992 and one of the top attractions we were anxious to visit since we started our 101 days trip through Southeast Asia.Read more

Koh Rong Samloem is one of those places you want to keep only for yourself. That’s why we call it the secret island. A hidden gem without tourists, roads, ATMs, and main electricity. All the resorts are powered by their own gasoline generators or solar panels. There is a permanent laid back vibe echoing through swinging lazy hammocks, palm trees, serene beaches with crystal water and beautiful landscapes.Read more