There are places in the world that you’ve seen so many photos of, or heard so many stories about, that you expect in a way to be disappointed when you finally see them. I was born in Sydney Australia, but never ventured back there until I was 16. I’d always been fascinated with travel and saw numerous photos of the Opera House and by all accounts it looked stunning. Until I was on the ferry, making my way to manly beach, when I realised it was not as large, white or impressive as I had imagined.
It has been said that expectations are the root of disappointment and I agree to some extent. When I was traveling around Asia I found myself a little “templed out” – as in, I couldn’t have cared less if I ever saw another temple on my travels. But after volunteering in Cambodia, I knew that Angkor Wat had to be on my list of things to do. People had gloated about the sheer size and intricate detail. Everyone was impressed. I tried to brush away my expectations, but as soon as I stood before Angkor Wat I found myself both surprised and overwhelmed – not unlike that cute monkey pictured above.
It is all that they say and more – I love that I can say that to you and still your expectations will never exceed the reality of Angkor Wat. I have visited Angkor Wat again since and there is a substantial difference in the environment and the feel of the temples between the seasons (rainy and not). Like Cambodia, it is a place that I hope to visit throughout my life to see how it changes and evolves. I’m sure you’ve seen countless photos of the wonderful temples, so I decided to make my Postcards From Angkor focused around the things that are a little less static.
What is the most breathtaking place you’ve ever seen?
Angkor Wat is certainly up on my list, along with Ha Long Bay and Borobudur.
