One of the first things I did when I got to Siem Reap was rent a bicycle. I thought it would be cool to explore the temples at my own pace under my own power. Only then did I actually look at a map. I was surprised to learn that the scale was showing miles between locations...not a few hundred yards like I thought. What I didn't know ís that Angkor is not a collection of temples built together, it was a huge thriving metropolis of over a million people back when London was just a growing town of 50,000. So I had to rent a motorbike driver for the 3 days I needed to see everything. You can't rent your own scooter here.

This place is amazing and one of the coolest things I've ever seen! I am probably going to post way too many photos for the casual reader but I don't care....I'll enjoy looking at them later. Here's some info on the temples I saw...written more for me to read later.

Angkor Thom- One of the largest Khmer cities ever built...9 square km. Built in the late 12th century. Includes the temples of Bayon and Baphuon and the Eelphant and Leper King Terrace.

The Elephant Terrace - This 300 meter long terrace looks out over the royal square in Angkor Thom and was used for royal reception pavillions.

Leper King Terrace - 13th century terrace that extends into the royal square.

Ta Keo - Built in the late 10th to early 11th century. Built entirely of sandstone. Temple carvings had just begun when work stopped.

Chao Say Tevoda - Middle of the 12th century.

Ta Prohm: One of the most popular monuments to visit. This temple has been pretty much left they way they found it 100 years ago....in ruins. Much of it has collapsed and there are many trees slowly pushing the stones apart, causing more ruin but in a cool way. This Temple was used for the filming of the Angelina Jolie film Tomb Raider and another movie called Two Brothers which I've never heard of. Built in the late 12 and 13th century.

Bantey Kdei - In a ruined state much as it was discovered. Built in the late 12th to early 13th centuries.

Kbal Spean - Possibly 11th to 12 ceturies. Its highlight is sculptures carved right in the river-bed.

Bantey Srei - One of my favorite locations for some of the best preserved sculptures in all of Angkor. Dates to the 2nd half of the 10th century. Small temple but amazing carvings in the sandstone. A must see if you ever come here.

Phnom Bakheng - Sitting atop a hill with great views, this is one of the famous sunset spots of Angkor. Built in the late 9th to early 10th centuries.

Happy Birthday to my sister, Heather.