This was more than a sightseeing trip, this was emersion into a culture unlike my own.

This trip provided a well balanced insight into the Vietnamese/Cambodian culture, lifestyle, topography, religions, history and current lifestyle. Led by local guides, overseen by tour coordinator Ute, we were given an insider's view that left me re-examining my own culture and lifestyle and how we interact with other parts of the world. Our accommodations were top notch, the local foods were there for the tasting, and evenings were often filled with local entertainment. The visits to a local school, an orphanage and the Siem Reap Circus enlightened us on how today's youth are overcoming the challenges of the past. Visits to a country home not only provided us with insights on day-to-day living, but gave us a chance to interact with locals, discussing the past and our collective hopes for the future.

I rate this the best trip I have ever taken. It was not merely sightseeing, It stimulated reflection on my own country and culture for better and for worse. This was a chance of a lifetime.