For my first day in Phnom Penh, I hired a tuk tuk for the afternoon and spent some time visiting some tourist sights. A tuk tuk is basically a little open air cart driven by a guy on a moterbike. Traffic in Cambodia is crazy- I've seen one or two traffic signals, but haven't seen anyone who obeys them. It's basically a free-for-all of people on bicyles, motorbikes, tuk tuks, and cars and trucks. It's not uncommon to see an entire family (mom, dad, and two kids) on a bike the size equivalent of a vespa. Everyone is darting and weaving in and out, and at any given moment the person in front of you could stop, change lanes, or cut across all of the lanes to make a turn with no warning. Crossing the street is no different- you basically wait for small break in traffic and then start walking. Everyone just steers around you. (If my parents are reading this- not to worry: when I leave the hotel I'm covered in bubble wrap, wearing a helmet, and carrying an air bag).
View from the tuk tuk:
First stop was Wat Phnom,
View from the tuk tuk:
First stop was Wat Phnom,
There is an eyebrow hair of Buddha in here. You're just going to have to take my word for it.
I think he's asking me to leave here.
{December 8, 2008 1:07 PM} Kim said: So cool! Hope you're having fun and remember to look both ways before crossing the street...although maybe it would be better if you just didn't look. =)
{December 8, 2008 2:09 PM} Joanne Bartone Photographer said: FANTASTIC,WONDERFUL, AWESOME photographs!!!!! keep up the GREAT work - I WANT MORE!!!!!!!! BIG love, Joanne Bartone, Photographer www.joannebartone.com
{December 8, 2008 2:14 PM} Woy said: Honestly, these photos are sensational. I feel like I'm actually there seeing things with you.
{December 8, 2008 2:50 PM} Jeremy Ganss said: Hey Kim, I didn't know you were going on a wonderful world travel. . . Please be safe and bring me something back cool. :) I'll pay ya back for it. . .Would love to add a trinket to my office from there. . Already have, Africa, Greece, Egypt, Norway, Australia, Philippines - HOOK A BROTHA UP - YO. miss ya lots. . -jeremy
{December 8, 2008 5:16 PM} Kate said: I currently have THE BEST mental image of you wrapped in bubble wrap wearing a helmet and waddling across the street - kind of like Ralphie's little brother in his snow suit from "Christmas Story"!! HAHAHA!! Hope you're having a fabulous time!! xox.
{December 8, 2008 8:09 PM} Eileen said: Glad you made it safely. You're hilarious but I'm pretty sure that once you rip the airbag out of a car to be able to carry with you, it no longer functions correctly. :) We went to Spain last month. Great trip until I got sick. Beautiful pictures by the way. Love how you captured life there so that we could all see a little of what you are seeing. Hugs!
{December 8, 2008 8:16 PM} lyndsay said: breathtaking! I love all the perfect symmetry in the design of the buildings. It's amazing people's hands did that.
{December 8, 2008 11:03 PM} Scott said: Kimberly, Sorry about the difficulties during your travels to Phnom Penh, but wow, these are great photos. Keep 'em coming!
{December 9, 2008 11:52 AM} Dad said: Let me know if you need me to ship more bubble wrap or an extra helmet.....your photos are great!!
{December 9, 2008 1:18 PM} Leah said: Hey Kim these photos are absolutely amazing!!! I am so glad that you are finally getting to fulfill your dream of visiting Cambodia. Stay Safe. I'm sure the helmet and bubble wrap will help with that. HaHa.
{December 10, 2008 8:53 PM} Jaci Clark said: Oh my! These images are fantastic. I'm thoroughly enjoying them and your stories and can't wait to hear more in person! Hope you're accomplishing all that you set out to do. Cheers, Jaci