|
After a hectic time in Siem Reap, trying to avoid truckloads of tourists, the perfect antidote is to travel south for some
seaside tranquility. Many will travel to the larger and more popular resort of Sihanoukville but I prefer to avoid the backpackers
and sex tourists and head for one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in Cambodia.
In the province of Kampot (itself a sleepy riverside town), but further down the coast, you will find sleepy Kep. Life
here goes...slowly. Plenty to do if you like exploring forests, walking in the jungle or trekking up to the Bokor hill station
in the National Park. Refresh yourself with cheap seafood and relax by swinging gently in your hammock before maybe taking
a stroll around some of the old abandoned French colonial villas. Pure bliss. i didn't want to leave but know that its just
a three hour taxi journey away, anytime I want it.
|
| Neglected French Colonial architecture in Kampot - the perfect backdrop |
|
| Like stepping back in time - Kampot and Kep |
|
| Sunset in Kep |
|
| The Kings old seaside home - now fallen into disrepair - Kep |
|
| Bokor's deserted casino, complete with red lichen |
|
| The casino - a sad reminder of Cambodia's colonial past - mesmerizing! |
The Bokor national park, a short drive from Kampot and Kep overlooks the sea, and ona clear day you can see Vietnamese islands,
often whose ownership has been hotly disputed. At the top of Bokor - an eerie sight - a ghostown with casino, church and hospital
decaying in the wind. Every schoolboy's (and girls) living history exploration site!
the original road was built by the French in 1922 (or rather it was built by prison inmates, at the behest of the French
rulers). They have long gone, butthey left behind a remarkable sight, including some of the most amazing architecture I have
ever seen.
Don't take my word for it - come and see for yourself.
|
| Spectacular views from the top of the Bokor Hill Station |
|
| Unbelieveable architecture - abandoned to the elements |
|
| The church at Bokor - part of this ghostly scene |
|
| Close up of the church wall - covered in that spooky red lichen |
|
| Another of Kep's beautiful sunsets |
|
