Helen Collier, 2010

Andy hi,
It was so good to bump into you at lunchtime today and hear your tales of your life well lived on the road less travelled. As promised, I'm finally writing my thank you and am happy for you to put it on your website.

My short time here in Cambodia has taught me that life is to be lived consciously, and shoes and travel itineraries should be bespoke, thanks to you guys!

I recently spent a perfect day with Bunchay Chem, visiting Siem Reap's temples. As someone who booked a flight to Siem Reap with little interest in and no knowledge of its temples, I could easily have become the only visitor in Siem Reap's history to have stayed for 3 weeks and not gone to a temple. In light of this admission, I am very grateful to you, for creating a fascinating day for me visiting 4 temples, talking and learning non stop about Khmer history and finishing the day with that spectacular, private sunset, sipping gin and tonic.

Bunchay realised pretty early on that my interest lay more in Cambodia's recent past, than its ancient history, and he told me incredible stories about his family's experience during the Khmer Rouge era. Each story he told, prompted 5 more questions from me - all of which he answered patiently whilst guiding me through jungle pathways to the next view of the extraordinary temples. I was so relieved that we left the coach loads of camera clicking tourists behind us and went off quietly on our own to lesser known areas. I loathe feeling like a tourist when I'm abroad and with Bunchay I just felt I was walking and talking with a friend, rather than following a tour leader.

I dread to think how little I would have learned from visiting the temples on my own or as part of a large tour. Seeing them with Bunchay brought the whole era with its religions and practices alive for me in a way that a guide book or mass group couldn't.

As with so many before me, I now leave Cambodia wanting more. And the great thing is, I know just who to call on my return, to tailor make my next itinerary for me.

Thank you.

Helen Collier

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