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The Ultimate in Exotic Destinations: Vietnam and Cambodia

Guest post by: Gerard O'Donovan

Article Overview: The exotic destination of Vietnam lies in Southeast Asia’s center, bordering China in the north, Laos and Kampuchea in the West, and the Pacific Ocean in the east. Cambodia, bordering the Gulf of Thailand to the south, Thailand to the east, Vietnam to the West, and Laos to the North.

The Ultimate in Exotic Destinations: Vietnam and Cambodia

The exotic destination of Vietnam lies in Southeast Asia’s center, bordering China in the north, Laos and Kampuchea in the West, and the Pacific Ocean in the east. The entire country stretches from the Ha Tuyen province in the north to the Minh Hai province in the south, and includes thousands of enticing offshore islands and striking archipelagos.

Archeologists date Vietnam’s genesis to approximately 300,000 years ago. Official history, however, dates Vietnam’s beginnings to about 4,000 years ago. Although the French governed Vietnam from 1858-1954, the name “Vietnam” conjures images of the war with the United States, which ended more than twenty years ago. Today, Vietnam welcomes tourists from many nations to its lush, green interior, where striking cultural sights and sounds abound. With tropical temperatures year round and the welcoming smiles of its people, the country is a popular destination for tourists seeking an off the beaten track” journey that artfully blends the physical with the spiritual.

Cambodia, bordering the Gulf of Thailand to the south, Thailand to the east, Vietnam to the West, and Laos to the North, was founded from 802 to 1431 A.D., stretching during its peak as far as the Thailand-Burma Border in the west and Wat Phou of Laos in the north. Ancient Khmer rulers enforced unity among and enhanced prosperity, leaving behind exceptional monuments such as Angkor Wat and numerous unique sculptures and artifacts, as well as a people who pride themselves on showcasing their country are stunning contrasts.

The most popular Vietnam and Cambodian attractions include:

Vietnam Mount Fan Si Pan: the highest mountain in Indo-China, Fan Si Pan is located in the Lào Cai province in Northwest Vietnam. Dubbed "the Roof of Indochina", Fan Si Pan also boasts 2,024 floral varieties and 327 faunal species. Climbing Fan Si Pan is exhilarating and physical, a true once-in-a-lifetime experience not soon forgotten.

Angkor Wat: the best-preserved temple at Angkor, Cambodia, and the only temple to remain a significant religious center. A prime example of classical style Khmer architectural style, Angkor Wat has drawn high praise for the harmony of its overall design and the overarching sense of spirituality visitor’s experience.

Angkor Thom: One of the last and most enduring capital cities of the Khmer empire, Angkor Thom was established in the late twelfth century by king Jayavarman VII and is revered for its large scale construction, widespread use of special weatherized bricks known as laterite, and the “naga”, or cobra-carrying giant monsters on its towers.

Preah Khan: Another temple at Angkor, Cambodia, Preah Khan was also built in the 12th century for King Jayavarman VII and has remained largely unrestored, with vast trees and vegetation growing among its ruins. According to Wikipedia, “Since 1991, the site has been maintained by the World Monuments Fund. It has continued the cautious approach to restoration, believing that to go further would involve too much guesswork, and prefers to respect the ruined nature of the temple.” Preah Khan is a huge and interesting monastic complex that draws visitors from across the globe.

Neak Pean, an artificial island with a Buddhist temple also built during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, was meant to represent a mythical lake in the Himalayas known as Anavatapta, where the waters were believed to cure all manner of illness. Neak Pean was originally designed as one of several hospitals built by the king. Based on the ancient Hindu belief of balance, four pools connect, representing water, earth, fire and wind, with a central water source in the middle. Stepping into these pools was thought to balance the bather’s elements and cure disease. A statue of the god Bahala stands guard to prevent drowning.

East Mebon: A 10th century temple in Angkor, East Mebon was built during the reign of King Rajendravarman and stands today at the center of the now dry East Baray reservoir, dedicated to Shiva, the Hindu god, and honoring the parents of the king. Exquisitely sculptured, this temple includes freestanding stone elephants, two meters high, at the corners and religious scenes of revered gods elegantly carved on lintels.

Most travelers will never have the opportunity to see these wondrous sites. But now, 25 fortunate participants can partake in a two-week expedition that will literally change their lives forever.

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Article Tags: deepak chopra, Exotic Destinations



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