We had an exciting day ahead of us which had to be started early. Some of us chose to start the day with a quick breakfast, others with Tai Chi, but either way were off on an adventure with a difference. We met that point of difference pretty quickly as we set foot on land and were introduced to our transport in the form of an ox cart with two ox to pull and one farmer “at the wheel.” We travelled through the rice fields of Kampong Tralach on our alternative transport and were able to get off and learn about how integral rice is to the Cambodian way of life. We were able to visit the “Green School,” where inspirational work is being done by locals to educate the local children, empowering them with the skill of speaking English free of charge.
Upon arrival we were met with a fantastic breakfast before having a fashion show put on to immerse us in the traditional dress of the local people.
We were travelling through a thinner part of the Tonle Sap River at this point; here we were able to see a lot of bird life including a variety of kingfisher, egret and heron species. After a couple of hours on the deck spotting birds, we had a fantastic lunch put on by the ever hardworking crew. We had some more time onboard before our next destination, so some of us chose to attend a photography workshop held by our Photo Instructor Emily Mount.
As per usual there is never a dull moment and we were off on our next adventure to Kampong Chhnang. Here we were able to see traditional pottery being done as it had for centuries. We returned to Jahan via long boats and we were able to pass people living in floating homes that formed their own unique villages.
It was a great day in which our expedition leader Tom O’Brien squeezed something fantastic into every minute. I think we were all asleep before our heads hit the pillows that night.
