Vietnam - Cambodia tour! =================

On the evening of December 1st, our journey commenced as we navigated through the bustling city, making our way to the international airport at Meenambakkam. Despite the peak-hour traffic, we successfully reached the airport by 8 pm. Entering the airport, we joined the enthusiastic group of Mantra Yatra tourists and smoothly proceeded with the check-in process. Our Singapore-bound flight departed on schedule, and we landed in Singapore early morning on December 2nd.

Singapore Changi Airport greeted us with its awe-inspiring ambiance, where we took a moment to enjoy our morning coffee. Following a seamless transition, our connecting flight to Ho Chi Minh City was scheduled for 10 am, and we arrived in Ho Chi Minh City by noon.

Welcomed by our tourist guide, we embarked on a cultural journey starting with a delightful lunch at Mama Masala Indian Restaurant before settling into our accommodation at Hotel Saigon. The day unfolded with visits to the Independence Palace and the War Remnants Museum, where we were deeply moved witnessing the harsh realities of chemical warfare.

As night fell, we dined at Makhan Bog Restaurant, reflecting on the poignant experiences of the day. On December 3rd, our exploration continued with a visit to the Viet Bamboo Coconut Shell Shop, offering a glimpse into the craftsmanship of products made from bamboo and coconut. A ferry ride down the Mekong River provided a serene and enjoyable experience, culminating in the evening's entertainment—an enchanting Water Puppet Show of Vietnam.

Transitioning to December 4th, we embarked on a road journey to Cambodia, reaching our destination in the evening and checking into the Frangipani Royal Palace Hotel at Phnom Penh. Dinner was savored at Dakshins Hotel.

December 5th unfolded with a visit to the Royal Palace and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a stark reminder of Cambodia's painful history. The day was emotionally charged, witnessing the photographs of prison inmates subjected to unimaginable cruelty. A visit to the Haweli India for lunch and New Season Indian Restaurant for dinner provided moments of respite.

On December 6th, we set out for Siem Reap, encountering a beautiful sculpture center on the way, showcasing intricately carved stone idols. The evening brought us to Hotel Soma Devi in Siem Reap.

Venturing into December 7th, our exploration led us to the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, a testament to the ancient Khmer kingdom's architectural prowess.

Angkor Wat is a famous temple complex in Cambodia, known for its stunning Khmer architecture. It was originally built in the 12th century as a Hindu temple and later transformed into a Buddhist temple. Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The complex is renowned for its intricate carvings, towering spires, and impressive bas-reliefs depicting various mythological and historical scenes.

The intricate carvings at Angkor Wat depict a wide range of subjects, including mythological stories, scenes from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, celestial beings, and historical events. The carvings also showcase depictions of daily life, religious rituals, and intricate details of flora and fauna. The bas-reliefs on the walls of Angkor Wat provide a visual narrative that reflects the cultural, religious, and artistic aspects of the Khmer Empire during its zenith.

December 8th included visits to Sahasra Linga and Kulen Waterfalls, adding a touch of natural splendor to our cultural journey.

On December 9th, we bid farewell to Siem Reap and boarded our return flight to Singapore, concluding our Vietnam-Cambodia tour. The memories created during this enriching experience will undoubtedly linger in our hearts.