When the tour company told me they had the best bus in Cambodia I knew they were lying, but at $10 it was far better than anything in Vietnam. The 6 hour bus journey was an endurance test as the driver insisted on playing Cambodian pop music videos the whole way. Perhaps because of the music or perhaps because he had never been on a bus before, either way I was still quite shocked when a local allowed his son to urinate down the aisle of the bus. Welcome to the zoo. For a mid journey snack, everything from grasshoppers to cock roaches, take your pick. Even after last nights tarantula I drew the line here.
When we arrived at our hotel it was all worth it. The Amansara is without doubt one of the most exclusive hotels in Cambodia. It used to belong to the Emperor, who used it as a guest house for visiting dignitaries.
With just 24 suites and at least twice as many staff the service was amazing. I have to admit though it was a little spooky when, staff who we had never been introduced to, would address us by name.
The Emperor even left his 1930's Mercedes to the hotel, still in working order its used to ferry guests to and from the airport. Given the poverty in Cambodia is may seem a little extravagent to stay somewhere like this, fair point but think of the jobs the hotel creates and the money it contributes to the local economy.
Highlights: Finding someting other than cock roaches for lunch
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