“Why Cambodia?” This is a question that many people have asked us in the last years! Cambodia has a charm that rubs off on you! After the first visit, you will have the need to feel again colors, aromas, and flavors, the chaos of its cities or the tranquility of the villages, the serenity of the temples and the smiles of the people. All of this made us travel to Cambodia many times.
Like most Asians, Cambodian people keep everything inside. Years of suffering, injustice, problems, fears, emotions: it is difficult for them to open up. However, they never fail to give you their calmness, accompanied by the sweetest of smiles.
Cambodia is the country of children. It may seem trivial but you will immediately fall in love with their terrific eyes looking at you while facing their tough life always with a smile and innate kindness.
Little girl in Bakan – Pursat Province
Little girl in Kro Kor Town
Children in Bakan – Pursat Province
Little girl in Chak Khlanh Village – Prey Veng Province
Slum children in Phnom Penh
Little girl in a slum in Phnom Penh
The countryside with its dusty roads, temples, slums and amazing landmarks like the floating villages are as breathtaking as the Buddhist monks in their orange, red or saffron robes, when they come out of the pagodas in the morning.
Monk and little girl in Tuol Kouk district in Phnom Penh
Monks in Kro Kor Town
Kro Kor Town
Floating market seller in Kro Kor Town
Often one can spot a serious look in Cambodian faces, but mostly it is only shyness – just a click, a simple gesture and they will smile at the curious stranger looking enchanted back at them.
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This photo essay has been compiled by Dan Romeo and Flavia Müller, professional humanitarian photographers and founders of Cause Photo Travels.
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Note: all photos are copyright Cause Photo Travels/Dan Romeo and Flavia Müller