Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Angkor Wat is one of those places that YOU MUST put on your bucket list. Not simply because it’s miraculous that is has survived the wars between religions, kings and the elements but because each and every temple you visit heaves with history. It vibrates through the walls, the silence when very few tourists are around. Each corner you turn your imagination takes you on a journey. I became obsessed with the temple doorways and meditation rooms, each one I passed or ventured into, I imagined who had been there before me, what their life was like, why were they there. Was it as a resident, a follower of the Buddhist, Hindu or Animist Leader or were they a destroyer? Seeking to over throw the previous ruler. Slicing Buddhas off walls and replacing with their own god like effigies? Slicing the tails of the protectionist lions on the hunt for hidden jewels? I also fascinated by the Apsara dancers lining the walls, no two with the same hair or clothing. How did the ancient carvers manage that? It is truly remarkable.