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| Angkor Wat |
Given that at one point we considered giving it a skip, I'm particularly happy that we decided to make what
turned out to be a remarkable trip to Cambodia in September 2003. Well, it wasn't all of Cambodia, just a quick trip
from Vietnam up to Siem Reap, the jumping-off point for the temples of Angkor. I won't go on and on about the history
of the place as there is plenty on the web that does an excellent job of this. All I would say is "GO!", while it is
still relatively intact. The place is truly amazing in its ability to inspire awe, and there are certain portions of
the complex that are being restored and maintained as befit a place of such enormous historical and cultural significance.
However, a large portion of the complex is slowly being consumed by neglect and the encroaching jungle. That and the
ever-increasing tourist hordes does not bode well for Angkor's future. That said, the tourist dollars are necessary
for assistance in maintenance of the site; just pray that it doesn't become some horrible Disney-ized destination. Please
don't take this as an attempt to discourage you from visiting. By all means do. Just do so SOON! Enjoy the
pictures!
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