The itinerary I had laid out before I left for my trip has been turned upside down as I’ve discovered that I prefer very off-the beaten path small towns rather than big cities. I prefer to travel around rather than remain situated in one place.  And most recently, I had an unscheduled visit to Cambodia  - a country filled with dichotomies that simultaneously make me laugh and cry.  Cambodia, and some smiling but hungry children there, have laid claim to my heart so for the time being, I seem to have landed in Phnom Penh to see if I can do something to lend a hand.  

But here’s where I’ve been:

August 6 - September 22: Bali, Indonesia.  I spent the first three weeks in Ubud and the last three weeks motorbiking around the island.

September 22 - November 3: Thailand.  I spent 1 week in Chiang Mai, 1 week in Chiang Rai, 2 weeks in Pai, 10 days motorbiking around Kanchanburi province and 4 days in Bangkok.

November 8 - I made an unexpected stop in Cambodia.  I attended Bon Om Tuk, the annual water festival in Phnom Penh, and then spent 3 days roaming around South Cambodia on motorbike.  Back in Phnom Penh, I was appalled to learn that a large number of Cambodians, including over 300 children, were living (barely) at the city dump which is also a toxic waste site.  I’m currently involved in some projects to feed the children and try to find long term solutions to improve their quality of life.

Initially, I had intended to also visit Vietnam and Laos before returning home in late February, but all those plans are currently on hold as I continue to volunteer in Phnom Pehn.