Cambodia - 2016: Wandering Phnom Penh

Off I march with map in hand and only a vague idea of what I'm doing. First stop is Wat Phnom, a temple on a hill close behind where I'm staying. This was apparently the spot where the city was founded in the 14'th century. It turns out that today is a holiday and most of the world is out making offerings at the temples and generally having a great day to picnic and party and hang out with family and friends. What a great day to get here! After Wat Phnom I walk for literally miles south parallel the river on one of the major streets, checking out the surroundings and aiming for a bookstore to get a birds of Cambodia book sold only in country (which turns out not to be the field guide I wanted) and which is fortunately open on the holiday! I then head for the river down a little street with shops selling crafts and goods made by various aid and self help groups, cafes (who can resist an apricot croissant) and bars and restaurants. Near the river are some really impressive buildings, most of which I have no idea what they are - a royal palace, the national museum, a centre of buddhist learning, and more. There are people everyone - walking about, sitting in the park, eating, buying food or childrens' toys at vendors, making offerings at the temples - it's a total holiday feeling. Dusk falls along the water and a full moon rises as boats with coloured lights carry tourists on evening cruises, and I slowly make my way along the riverside walkway back to my hotel, where I grab a quick meal and fall into bed completely exhausted at 9 PM. What a great first day!