Buoying Your Spirits in Siem Reap, Cambodia
Near Siem Reap, one man's murky river is another's underwater oasis. Here, the Tonlé Sap's muddy complexion is stunning against the azure sky, and its vast emptiness is curiously calming. Your rickety riverboat leaks just enough to cool your bare feet, but not enough to alarm you. As your body rocks, your fingers plunk the surface of the water. It’s hot, but significantly cooler than the setting Cambodian sun. You are consumed by the realization that you’re the only one for miles on this giant river-turned-lake. You celebrate the power of nature and adventure of travel with one elated dive. Concentric circles shoot across the water then fade within seconds. Momentary darkness. Flooding silence. Air bubbles tickle your face and your strong exhale leads you back to the surface. Floating position assumed, you close your eyes again and let the current guide your next few moments of sweet, chocolaty bliss.
By Courtney Scott | Photo: Courtney Scott | Feedback