simon and olga do s.e. asia

Hi all,

Had one of the best adventures of our trip yesterday. A young moto driver called Borai at the Lazy Fish invited us to his village as a friend of his was getting married. Must say I was a bit wary at first especially as we had to hire a moto and go 60km out into the countryside. After an ‘interesting’ journey we arrived at Borai’s family house and met his mother, father, two grandmothers, brother, sister, assorted neighbours, two cows, pig and chickens. They live in a one room house on stilts (to protect against flooding, years ago to protect against tigers as well) walls of wood, tiled roof and split bamboo floor.

The Cambodian kitchen.

The Kids!

From here we went to the wedding, or at least part of it as we take it they span several days. We were ushered into the house to meet bride and groom (obligatory photos)…

Also so that all the important old folk could get a good look at us. According to Borai, having Westerners at your wedding would bring you good luck (and him some prestige we think) this made us objects of fascination. When a table was free we then sat down to a four course feast. Assorted starter snacks, followed by a beef and a fish dish, then a chicken – kept boiling the table, then a pork and prawn broth, cakes to finish and all washed down with beer with blocks of ice to keep it cold.

A band played a selection of traditional songs with a pop style backing (cheesy synths and guitar) with PA at full whack. The bride and groom presented guest with little bundles of after dinner cigarettes. Then we gave them a home made card (cake and all) with our gift inside.

Unfortunately we had to leave early (to get back to Phnom Penh before dark) missing the dancing. Grandmother (pictured) was very dissapointed. However she did say I looked like a Cambodian (something to do with my height I was told) which may be a compliment?! However I think they were more impressed with Olga (naturally).

It was a very memorable day and we are very much indebted to Borai and his family for their hospitality.

Love Simon and Olga.