The Princess and the Palace

Today we skipped the normal ham and cheese omelet, and went for the AMA version of waffles. I was going to share a picture, but I was so hungry I ate them and forgot. Tomorrow.

We are now in Phnom Penh. Here is a map of the city.

Today’s morning tour started with our normal gitty up and wait.

Getting on the bus we met our tour guide Sokun. We had him for a morning and are excited if we can stay with him for the next few days. He is fantastic and speaks better English than me.

First stop was the royal palace.

Here is the palace. Compare this to the presidential palace in Vietnam.

This is where the king lives.

This is an urn where the ashes of former kings are stored.

Other buildings on the property.

As we left the palace we were overwhelmed with the beauty of the property. But now it was on to the national museum.

At the entrance were a group playing traditional music. Here is a sample for you.

So we left the museum and had lunch and a short, and I mean short time for a nap. Then it was back on the bus for a visit to the killing fields and the museum.

Here we go. Gitty up and wait.

Some of the many statues of Buddha from before Christ to the 12th century.

Then it was back to the vessel for lunch and a short nap. Then it was on to our afternoon tours. First stop was to be the killing fields around the city.

Here is the entrance to one of the many killing fields. Over 400 in Cambodia.

I do not believe in taking pictures of the graves or sites here. I will only relate it is a deeply moving experience. It reminded me of places we visited in Europe and Rwanda.

After a visit, walk and prayer we went on to a school that was used as a prison for Cambodians during this period.

While there we saw a picture of seven men who survived the torture and beatings. Here is their picture.

He was at the museum today. He is one of only two survivors left. He is 94 and shared his story with us.

Another moving few hours. Their philosophy is forgive but never forget.

Now it was time to eat. I tried to get the crew to taste some street food but no takers.

Back on the vessel, we were planning dinner in the chefs table. Our invite is above.

Here is the menu.

Before dinner a group of young adults entertained us. Enjoy the video.

Then dinner with our group. Our favorite waiter was there.

Good night to all.