It’s one of the poorest countries in the world, but few disagree that Cambodia is one of the most beautiful.

Wracked by war, poverty and political corruption for the past several decades, the people of Cambodia persevere against the odds and cling to hope that they will find peace & prosperity in the 21st century. The mighty Mekong River, the majestic ruins of one of mankind’s most advanced civilizations and the fabled “Killing Fields” are just a few of the famous landmarks in this southeast Asian monarchy wedged between 2 roaring economic neighbors (Thailand and Vietnam).

Join me after the jump for a look at this distinctive nation and its people.

(Cross-posted @ Daily Kos)
Join me after the jump for a look at this distinctive nation and its people.
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This is one of the poorest countries in Asia, and yet it is safe, pleasant and gloriously beautiful to travel. Angkor Wat is easily on the Top 5 list of the planet’s most stunning places for a tourist to visit. Sadly most visitors don’t scratch the surface beyond that. Vast areas of the country remain untouched for the intrepid traveler to enjoy without the ubiquitous white faces that clog Thailand.

Below lies the very first email travelogue I sent dating back to early 2003. Can you see the evolution of my writing style? I hope so.

X-MAS GIVING IN CAMBODIA

After a long morning of travel, I crossed the border from Thailand on X-mas day with time to walk around the town. The fairly small fishing “city” (?) was surprisingly different from anything I’d seen in Thailand. Found the kids to be especially cute and playful. Took many portrait photos of these very poor but happy people before retitring to the guesthouse for the night.

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