When we researched (by that I mean, talked to other travelers) what one should do in Cambodia, one thing was sure: visit the temple ruins of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap. To me, that was only known as one of those world wonders one could erect in the classic computer game "Civilization", but we didn't have any more detailed knowledge than that. Now, after spending the day whizzing around the site with help of our trusty rickshaw driver Mr Happy, we can say this: it's big.

The temple of Angkor Wat was built in the 12th century, when the predecessor of Cambodia, the Khmer Empire, become a local power because they perfected rice planting. The God-King had the temple built to praise Vishnu, because apparently that was the deity he was associated with. The capital was formed around the massive complex, but only religious buildings where allowed to be built from stone. Alas, that is what remains today.

But, it didn't stop there. Ensuing god-kings of course had to build their own temple, plus, the empire changed to Buddhism and back to Hinduism a few times, so quite a few temples where built around the area, always moving the capital with it.

What Mr Happy showed to us was the "minor" tour, covering five different temples of different styles, ages, and dedications, including one which was used as a backdrop for the classic movie of Tomb Raider starring Angeline Jolie, which I honestly haven't seen yet.

I am sorry to say that I cannot give much more information than that. Entrance fee and Mr Happy's services where expensive enough, so we didn't do any guided tours. It was quite pretty though. Enjoy the pictures.