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Cambodia 2015: Day 3 - Angkor Wat + BILEG orphanage

Cambodia 2015: Day 3 - Angkor Wat + BILEG orphanage

This morning, the BLi team paid a visit to the UNESCO heritage site, Angkor Wat, meaning "City of Temples". It was built by Khmer King Suryavarman II in the 12th century. Founded originally as a Hindu temple, it was later transformed into a Buddhist temple and has now become a symbol of Cambodia. 

 

After the cultural visit, we had to say goodbye to Ai Choo as she had to return to Malaysia for work. 

 

We travelled 3.5 hours in the late afternoon on a minibus (along some rather bumpy roads and flash heavy rainfalls!)- to Kampong Thom, where the BILEG orphanage is based. The travel time gave team members much needed time of rest, catching up on sleep, as well as seeing more of the country. It's amazing the stark contrasts in housing, even amongst the same road!

 

The orphanage was started up by Brother Castro in July 2004 and now has more than 40 children. We were warmly welcomed with a generously prepared dinner and spent a few short hours getting to know the kids and staff; worshipping and playing games with them. Although it was way past bedtime for some of the younger children, a lot of fun was had by all.