Arrival in Cambodia....
Trip Start
Apr 25, 2008
1
7
24
Trip End
Jun 07, 2008
Siem Reap,
Siem Reap,
Cambodia
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Walking from the plane to the terminal, we had were quite excited about being here - somewhere completely new and unknown for both of us.
The first thing we had to do at the airport was apply for our visa. We knew the process - fill in a form, hand over US$20, they take a photo and you're done. Should be simple. Mr Customs Guy took our forms (they were as unsmiling as the US customs people). He then told us 1000 Thai Baht (which is about US$32-33). I said "No, it's only US$20". He said OK - either one is OK. Thai Baht is easier." Baloney!! Thai Baht is easier for him to pocket something on the side. So I said we would pay the $20. No problems, he says. Grrrrrr...... I was glad we did our homework on this little scam they have running. Other tourists on our flight weren't so lucky although we did warn a few standing next to us.
As our driver took us to the hotel, we were amazed at the number of extremely large and grand hotels we passed, all elegantly lit up at night. Our driver spoke surprising good English and gave us some good touristy info about Siem Reap.
After checking into the hotel, Debbie and I went for a little reconnaissance trip through town, then went to bed. Well, Debbie slept - I stayed up til 2.30am reading through all our bits and pieces to work on an itinerary for us while we were here. I knew that we were going to be having full on days with lots to see, and wanted to make sure we could do things in the most efficient way. (Always the Project Manager, some would say....)
