Mar. 7 – Kandal, Easy does it

Today is a light day of travel, because I want to rush back to spend more time with pa’s family. Plus, the sights today (Phnom Chisor and Tonle Bati) are nice to see, but not need to see.

Phnom (mountain) Chisor was worth the climb. The stairs up this mountain were twice the height of yesterday’s stairs (at Phnom Srei). On completing the steps, ma is excited until she sees another set of steps that take us higher. She looks at me and says (in her Cambodian accent), “You want to go up?” Translation: “I’m tired!” Smiling, I say “Yes”. Then I tell her she can wait here, but ma says “No, if you go I go”. Then adds, “I feel sorry for your guide in Siem Reap; he has no idea what he’s in for.” On top of the mountain are the ruins of an ancient temple with a gorgeous view of the town. I want to sit here a while and try to, but the unbearable heat of the sun ushers me back down.

We swing by Tonle (lake) Bati, which is a popular park with picnic huts floating in the water; very picturesque, but way too many vendors beckoning you to leave your car with them, eat their food, enjoy their hospitality, i.e. very little peace and quiet here. At this point, Maly is ready to head back to the city and enjoy the comfort of her family there.