GIFS Trip To Cambodia

Morgan and Aaron were able to attend a class trip to Cambodia and explore the beauty of Angkor in Siem Reap. They stayed in a traditional Khmer guesthouse and spent three very full days learning about Cambodia's history, people and architecture. Mr. Bovuth was their guide and he explained the history of the Kymer Empire which reigned from 802 to 1432 and included much of Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and Thailand.

On Sunday, they visited the UNESCO world heritage site of Angkor Wat and the surrounding ruins of Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple, Ta Keo and Ta Prom. They watched the sunset over Angkor Wat and enjoyed dinner and traditional Apsara dancing in Siem Reap.

Monday: Sunrise at Angkor Wat, the temples of Preah Rup, Bateay Say. The unrestored temples of Preah Khan, Preah Neak Pan, Krol Kour, Tasom, East Mebon. A visit to the landmine and culture museum where they learned about the atrocities of Pol Pot's Kymer Rough regime and the genocide of over 2 million people. Sunset at Bakheng Mountain.

Tuesday: A sunrise boat tour of TonleSap Lake and floating villiage. A visit to Siem Reap High School, Sangkeum Centre ( a charitable organization) and the childrens hospital. They also saw the old market and watched the sunset at the Western Barray Reservior.

They both returned exhausted but full of joy and excitement. I loved hearing all the details and looking through their pictures with them. They are both hoping for another trip next year. We are thankful to Ms. Neaves for organizing and Ms. Gottsacker, Mrs. McAdams and Mr. Jones for accompaning the kids and giving them this wonderful opportunity.

Schedule info and floating villiage pics courtesy of Ms. Neaves.