Guest Contributor: Adam Ford
Asia is a busy place so finding a little ‘me time’ can be tricky. But on a recent visit to Cambodia and Vietnam with Wendy Wu Tours, Adam Ford managed a couple of early morning moments to himself at two of Indochina’s most popular tourist sites.
I grimace a little as I set my alarm for our early start tomorrow. I’m so not a morning person, especially on holiday. But then, this will be no ordinary morning. Tomorrow we get to experience the age-old splendour of one of the world’s largest and most extraordinary religious sites – the heart and soul of Cambodia – Angkor.
So, an early start it is.
A Monk Explores Ta Prohm
All about Angkor Wat
Angkor is actually a series of temple complexes and our visit begins at the temple of Ta Prohm. Nowhere is it clearer how the Angkor site was literally swallowed up and hidden by the jungle for so many centuries. Giant tree roots encircle whole sections of the temple. This is one of the best-known parts of Angkor, thanks largely to the movie Tomb Raider and Angelina Jolie – and it actually does look a lot like a movie set!
Debate persists on Angkor’s ‘loss.’ Western awareness began in the mid-19th century. A million yearly visitors now explore the UNESCO-listed site near Siem Reap. Added in 1992, Angkor once spanned 1,000 sq km, built by Khmer King Suryavarman II in the 12th century for Hindu worship, later becoming a Buddhist center.
The Bayon, Angkor Thom
Sunrise in Angkor Wat
Sunrise is one of the most popular times to visit Angkor. Most early risers head straight for the main temple complex of Angkor Wat. There are only a handful of people at Ta Prohm when we arrive and I’m so glad we’ve started our day here. We almost have the site to ourselves! There’s a quiet, gentle stillness in the air as I come across a lone Buddhist monk crouched in one of the temple alcoves, praying silently. I stand to watch for a moment or two, completely spellbound by the experience.
Later we make our way to majestic Angkor Wat, with its central tower topped with the five distinctive conical spires. It’s breathtaking. The climb to the top of the central tower is very steep but well worth it for the spectacular views of the site. There are lots of stairs, so a good pair of walking shoes, plenty of water, sunscreen and a hat are essential items of kit for any visit.
Fast forward a week or so, and I rise early a second time on this trip. But this time there’s no alarm to wake me, just the gentle rocking of our traditional junk boat floating on the tranquil waters of Halong Bay in north-eastern Vietnam. I make my way up on deck. Wow.
Sunrise in Halong Bay
A visit to Halong Bay
A Vietnam visit isn’t complete without Halong Bay. Over 3,000 limestone islands rise majestically from the bay’s waters. Morning brings towering escarpments, deep blue-green water, and pink-tinged rocky peaks. The stunning scenery envelops us, with only the distant crew chatter breaking the deck’s morning silence.
Curiously, until not so long ago these boats were traditional brown Chinese junks with those distinctive batwing sails. For some reason, someone decided they needed a makeover and the junks have all been painted white. Consequently, they now look a little like Mississippi River boats with Chinese sails. Charming nonetheless.
Boats Moored at Limestone Island, Halong Bay
A trip well-travelled
There are lots of highlights of our cruise on the bay, including visits to a floating fishing village and the Thien Cung Cave complex. But for me, this magical morning moment is incredibly special. I spend maybe 15 minutes enjoying the quiet stillness before the rest of the boat starts to stir.
Sometimes early starts are worth it, even on holiday.
Adam Ford is the host of Tour the World on Network Ten – www.tourtheworld.com.au – and editor of The Big Bus tour and travel guide www.thebigbus.com.au.