Cambodia's Past and Present

Everyone knows the dreadful history of Cambodia with the Killing Fields of the Khmer Rouge and Pol Pott. Today we had a good read of the history in the guidebook and were surprised to learn that although Pol Pott died a few years ago, since then, there has been an awful famine, assassinations, coups and the legacy of landmines continues to blight people's lives. Orphans (see pic) gather at the entrances to temples to collect donations from visitors. Also, those injured by landmines can be found in and around the temples playing music for donations. One cannot help but be moved.
And yet, despite this truly horrendous history that continues to blight people's live, this is the land of smiles. Everywhere you go, the people are absolutely charming. Always ready to wave, greet, smile and ask how you are. They expect nothing in return and are just delighted that you have come all this way to visit their country. I shall miss Cambodia enormously when we leave.