Kampong Cham - Bamboo Bridge to Koh Paen | Cambodia

Setting off from Siem Reap early, we arrived in our next Cambodian destination of Kampong Cham, next to the Mekong River. This is a relatively quiet town compared to the last one, and not so dusty. It is famed for the bamboo bridge which is constructed every year for the dry season over to Koh Paen Island. Myself, Adam, Angela and Jo decided to hire out bikes and go for a wander. We came across the bridge and decided to cross it. I have never been so nervous. It makes this rattling sound as you pass over the slats, and I seriously thought I was going to end up in the Mekong. There were a few hairy moments, especially the busier it got at parts but we made it through to the other side.

We paid our $2 bridge fee and cycled up through the sand into what seemed like paradise. It was a lovely island, full of lush greenery and lots of fruit. We stopped and chatted to some of the local people and children. It was a stark contrast to Siem Reap.

We cycled through all the villages and kids kept shouting 'Hello' everytime they saw us pass. It was very cute. Jo gave some of the kids pencils, which they seemed really happy with.

We came across another temple, and were immediately surrounded by kids on bikes coming out of school. They followed us along, and we even stopped to help some get some fruit from a garden by throwing sandals. I failed, but Adam managed to get some.

We came across some more rice paddy fields.

Realising the time, we cycled furiously back to the bridge for sunset.

Across the way we met some monks. They were happy for us to take photos, but I was conscious not to touch them. Women cannot touch monks.

That night we went to a local house and were given homemade Khmer curry. I decided to be veggie for the night. Cuisine in Cambodia is very much fried noodles, fried or steamed rice and lots of curries.

Our host gave us some tarantula whisky, and his son put one of the dead spiders in his mouth. He has done this ever since he was a baby. It was actually not bad tasting, but I think I prefer Scottish whisky!