Thailand Conquered!

The name "Siem Reap" literally means "Thailand Conquered." That is how excited the Cambodia people were to have dominated this area, that had so much religious and political power for so many years. The differences between Thailand and Cambodia are significant. Having been to Cambodia before, I expected Thailand to be pretty similar. I had heard that Thailand was more developed, but the differences are night and day. Homes in Thailand actually look like homes. A majority of the population have access to clean water, and it probably even runs into their house. Homes in Cambodia look more like a tree hut. 70% of the population do not have access to clean water and it rarely runs into their house. Homes in Thailand have more than one room. This may include a bathroom, a kitchen and a bedroom. Homes in Cambodia include one room that does not include a bathroom or a kitchen. There are many cars and a few mopeds and tuk tuks in Thailand. In Cambodia, there are many mopeds and tuk tuks and a few cars. In Thailand, people look and dress pretty clean. In Cambodia, there is a vast difference between the poor and those who have money. And, not very many have money. You have to be careful you're not being cheated of your money in Thailand. I guess you have to be careful anywhere, but I sense a sincerity from the people in Cambodia. In both countries, the people really are so happy and nice. They want to help you and make sure your needs are met. Cambodia is one of the poorest countries in the world. That becomes so obvious when you come from a poor country to Cambodia, because the differences are so obvious. There really is a difference that is hard to describe between the poor and the poor. I love Cambodia! I love the people here. I love working with and being with them! I felt like I was coming home in a way!