Bokor - Such a damn shame!!

Well I didn't head back to Phnom Penh as planned.. I actually stayed an extra two nights hehe.

Went on a full day excursion to Bokor Hill.. a National Park with a 1920s French Hill Station with a 'Palace' hotel, casino and Church. I was really looking forward to exploring the derelict buildings but unfortunately that was not to be!

Sokha, the guy who your Angkor admission fees goes to, apparently spent $100 million buying the site and is currently constructing a couple of hotels, casinos, cable car, golf course and even apparently a theme park on the site. National Park, Schmational park right Cambodia? He's hoping to turn it into a major tourist destination and there's even plans for a new Port to attract cruise ships!

Wasn't able to actually get inside the Bokor Palace because it was swarming with construction workers and scaffolding. Apparently doing conservation work. Original plans were to demolish it! ARGH! But they were convinced to keep it *sigh of relief*. God help me if they paint the freakin thing!! There's an 1868 French Colonial villa in town that looks brand new because they've painted it bright yellow. Old buildings should still have a bit of grime about them! Will post some photos soon.

Finished my leisurely stay in Kampot today :( In Phnom Penh for the night before heading to Pursat tomorrow to visit my sponsor child organisation. Not sure what the internet situation there is like so if you don't hear from me, don't panic!

x