Last night, it rained so hard that the spattering sound on our tin roof kept us up most of the night. We didn't really mind though... we've been waiting for a rain storm most of this trip. Everyone warned us, "Oh, you shouldn't go to southeast Asia during the rainy season!" But, honestly, we've been begging for rain. Thus far, it has only rained once in Laos, once in Vietnam, and now once in Cambodia. "Rainy season" my ass.
We're in a sort of strange little town on the Cambodian coast called Sihanoukville. This is where Cambodians come to vacation, so the beaches were pretty much packed yesterday (Saturday) upon our arrival in the late afternoon. Today, however, we expect them to clear out as everyone returns home for the work week. That way, we'll be able to get down to the very serious business of getting a deep, dark tan.
Thus far, I really like Cambodia. The people are mellow but willing to help, and the ease of travel makes it more pleasant to get around in than Vietnam or Laos. We're going to hang out on the beach for another day or two before heading back to the capital for a stopover on our way to Siem Riep.
A few days ago, we passed the halfway point in our trip. Both of us agree that the first week was the slowest, probably due both to the fact that Laos is extremely calm and easygoing and that we were adjusting to the travelling lifestyle. The second week or so flew by in Vietnam, and I expect that things will only speed up from here. Both of us are pretty much in full-on travel mode, and we're finding things easier to get done. Travelling is a skill and we've been sharpening ours.
My main discovery since Vietnam has been my love of motorbikes. In all the countries we've been in, this is the main mode of transportation. At first, we were a bit scared to hop on the back of a motorbike driver's ride with our backpacks, but we're getting used to it. Actually, we're learning to love it. Scootering around town is so practical and is a good way to see things. I have fantasies of buying myself a little scooter to get around Paris in upon my return. Maybe I'll do that right after I win a lot of money or write a bestseller.
I love scooters. Quite a few people have them here in Austin and it has it's own little subculture of enthusiasts or something. Also, if you have a motorcycle or a scooter, you can park ON campus rather than practically 10 miles away.
And my dad used to have a Harley and the feeling of riding a motorcycle (and scooter, I assume) is like nothing else. I can see why people are so crazy about it.
Glad you're having fun.