The Temples of Angkor

Angkor Wat is the largest temple complex in the world. RL and I consider ourselves so fortunate to have had the opportunity to visit this site as well as the many other temples in the surrounding area. One of these temples, Ta Prohm, was featured in the movie "Tomb Raider".


The temples are a photographer's dream with the magnificence and intricate details of the structures coupled with the ever changing effects of light.



We spent three hot, dusty days exploring the temples, built to worship the gods (mostly Hindu or Buddhist). We climbed to dizzying heights on steps so steep and narrow that I am thankful we left the country unhurt. We used flashlights to poke around in dark chambers. We stood in awe of the jungle that ever encroaches on the ruins. It was all worth it. The temples are pure rock that arise out of the dust with mystery and grandeur. They have been left alone for centuries. But that is not for much longer. The hotels are rapidly being built in Siem Reap, the town closest to Angkor Wat. Tourism is on the rise.

Our stay in Siem Reap was also fun. At night, we walked down to a district filled with bars, cafes, and restaurants. Angelina Jolie is a hero there. We ate one night at supposedly her favorite spot when she is in town, The Red Piano.

Here is a web site that will give you more information:

http://www.nationalgeographic.com/media/traveler/angkor.html

Beijing-Day 3

Beijing Day 3:

Silk Factory

Hutong Tour via rickshaw

Prince Gong's Palace

Lunch

Back to Hong Kong

The silk factory was very interesting and we purchased a silk bed coverlet for an excellent price.

The Hutongs are the traditional alleys and homes of old Beijing. Interesting, but not my favorite.

Bejing Day 2

Beijing Day 2:

Ming Tombs/Sacred Way

Cloisonne Factory

Tianamen Square

The Forbidden City

Jingshan Park

Summer Palace

Acrobatic Show

Beijing-Day 1

Day 1:

Arrival Beijing Peninsula Hotel
Temple of Heaven
Peking Duck Dinner

Kung Fu Show

Finally, after living in Asia/HK for over a year, RL and I visited Beijing. We arrived around noon and were met at the airport by our English speaking guide, Ellen Fan (pronounced Fawn) and our non-English speaking driver.

Our first site to visit was the Temple of Heaven. This is a temple complex where the emperor made prayers and burnt offerings to the gods and his ancestors during the winter solstice. The emperor, after all, was considered the son of the gods. This was very important to the people as it was believed it affected whether the coming year had a good harvest. The temple was off limits to common people and all women.

Before entering the gate to the complex, you first walk along a covered walkway where today local people, particularly the retirees, gather to practice tai chi, play musical instruments, sing or fly kites. It is extremely long and even makes a 90 degree turn.

There is not one building or temple that is the Temple of Heaven, instead, it is a walled-off area with the main buildings all connected on a north-south axis elevated pathway. It was believed that the north direction was associated with heaven and the gods. The main entrance would be through the south gate and you walk north, allowing the emperor to get closer to the gods and his ancestors. The Forbidden City is laid out like this as well.

By the way, the emperor never walked, he was always carried. Also, usually there would be three or more openings or three or more bridges, or three or more steps-- get the picture?--and only the emperor was allowed to use the center one... always. No one else. The one exception is the entrance to the Forbidden City. The empress was allowed through the center gate on her wedding day.

That evening, we were taken to a restaurant famous for Peking duck-- supposedly a must when you go to Beijing. It was really good, but I think I like the Peking duck better in Hong Kong or Shenzhen. BTW, the Chinese that work with RL agree with us.

And then, to finish the night, we attended the Beijing Kung Fu Show. A must see! Fantastic!