Today’s student reflection is from Christine:
I was quite fascinated and amazed by the intricacy of the design of the temple we visited. Temples are one of the most historical parts of Cambodia and to be able to be guided by the Green Geckos who often go to the temples with their own family was a great experience as it was like they were showing part of their country’s history and culture.
We then moved on to a landmine museum where we learnt more about the history and aftermath of the Khmer Rouge and the purpose of this museum. It is eye-opening to learn about the history of the country we are visiting.
The silk farm was very interesting for all as the life process of a silk worm and how silk is made from the worms is extremely amazing. It was particularly interesting for me as in the markets that we visit, most clothes are made from silk and to see how it actually is made is fascinating.
After having a delicious dinner with our Geckos which included playing games around the table, we were able to experience a truly spectacular circus performance. My Green Gecko and I discussed what we liked about the show and we both liked the contemporary ideas of the performance as it was not just a number of individual performances but the whole circus performance followed a storyline.
Despite only just starting the tour, I have gained a new perspective and a sense of joy and gratefulness. I am excited to see what the rest of the trip brings our whole group and to share my experience with my family and friends back home.
The day’s itinerary was a mixed bag of experiences which somehow manage to coalesce to reflect what contemporary Cambodia is all about.
I found resonances in photos from the past couple of days which reflect patterns and perspectives on the various aspects of Cambodian history and culture. The first image, captured at Angkor Wat, shows the symmetry and craftsmanship in these temples. constructed many centuries ago, representing the Khmer empire’s powerful past influence. The second image features artillery displayed at the Cambodian Landmine Museum. reflecting the painful past of the Khmer Rouge genocide and decades of civil war that ensued. The third image, symmetrical to the others, shows the spools of silk produced at the Angkor Silk Farm, which we visited today, and which helps to maintain traditional craftsmanship, as well as providing training and opportunities for a fruitful future for the women employed there.
We started the day with a site offering a spiritual reflection of the land and its people, with a visit to another temple, much further out of town, at Banteay Srei. The temple is known as the ‘women’s temple’ as it was constructed in honour of the Hindu goddess Shiva, and features ornate and intricate carvings in the pink sandstone.
From here, we moved to the Cambodian Landmine Museum. As explained in the itinerary, the museum was founded by a Cambodian man named Aki Ra, who set about personally clearing areas contaminated with landmines, at the end of the civil war period in Cambodia. The project has evolved and continues to do the work it was initially founded on, as well as supporting a facility for children with disabilities, and has supported the construction of 32 schools in rural areas which would not otherwise provide education. Aki Ra’s story is an inspiring one, and we were amazingly fortunate to meet him on site during our visit. He explained that the future of his project involves continuing to remove landmines from contaminated areas, as well as expanding the education and care elements.
After lunch we visited the Angkor Silk Farm. From the mulberry trees, to handling (and eating!) the silkworms themselves, and being mesmerised by the swift and rhythmic work of the women at the loom, the entire production process is fascinating.
The evening meant we could see some of our Green Gecko friends again, seeing a performance of the Phare Circus. Founded in Battambang as an arts training organisation, the circus features contemporary acrobatics and uniquely Cambodian stories, which was much appreciated by all members of the audience.
Tomorrow we are off to get our hands dirty and no doubt our hearts full as we work alongside our Gecko friends at their Footprints farm.
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