CATCHES BULLETS WITH HIS TEETH

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Black Behind The Great Wall (Uncut/Freestyle)

Dear Cousin,

Although I no longer consider myself Black, I wrote this letter using a color that could find you.

Whether you be from the Americas, the Caribbean or the Continent, know that your voyage behind The Great Wall will be unique. You can't walk in the Caucasian man's shoes.

We are brethren, so let us briefly cipher.

For the time being, China is the new world. The economy is thriving and if you are patient, play your cards right and stay focused, you can have a successful life there.

While traveling, know that racism is a silent warrior who will fight against you. Sometimes, direct, but in other instances, regardless of your profession, it is a hidden enemy that you must learn to recognize in battle, one you must defeat. This enemy will play tricks on your mind and can potentially stifle your nature. Believe that this enemy is real and lives beyond a legion of smiles.  

Don't be alarmed, you can get yours; cousins I've met, those who were successful, they mastered the language. Their proficiency with Chinese would ultimately lead to their success and stifling the warrior.

If you're new to Asia, and specifically China, move to one of the larger cities. Specifically, Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen or Guangzhou. The idea of being cut off from Western culture sounds appealing, but it can be overwhelming. No Chinatown you've visited will prepare you for life beyond The Great Wall.

Cousin, hopefully we can establish a forum between us. China is a great place for us to connect, it doesn't belong to any of us, and truthfully I have a few bones to pick when it comes to some family from the continent. I'm sure they have issues with me as well, but in the end, brothers and sisters have to work it out.

In the land of the Han people, you'll need Chinese friends to help you during your journey. Make an effort to find a Chinese friend, preferably one who has lived outside of China. He or she will be able to relate to you better, and won't have any agendas when developing a relationship with you.

As I stated, the Caucasian man's walk isn't for you. Doors open to him will be in accessible to you. Very few will understand your plight. You can befriend them, and many will reciprocate, proving themselves good people. This doesn't mean that they view you as a peer; they're enjoying their "White" status even more in China, so they won't see you as a threat.

Cousin, if you be female, know that China isn't friendly towards foreign women; regardless of ethnicity, Foreign women have a difficult time establishing amorous relationships. I had it broken down for me, I know this is vulgar, but perhaps best for our build, as told to me and later experiencing it for myself: "Chinese women have tight pussies." There is no shortage on this truth, and this is the reason why so many Caucasian men seek life in China. Yellow fever has very little to do with the appearance of Chinese woman. I can't speak on Chinese men, but you can use common sense.  

Plan on continuing your life in China. Whatever you do at home, whatever your passions are, then pursue them in there. Plan on continuing your life, not starting over.

If you have serious ambitions of learning the language, you can study part time, but you're better off going to China and enrolling in an intensive university program. You can get functional level knowledge of Chinese with six hours a week, but it won't give you mastery.

The illegal life is over. China is changing, for a decade, it was easy to get by on a student or tourist visa, that time is over. Avoid any suggestions or invitations for illegal work. Regardless of what anyone says, working illegally will create a number of other problems for you.

Drink little. It is a past time that both the Chinese and Caucasian man know well. Keep your mind sharp and use your intuition. You'll need this in instances when you're deciphering the culture behind the language. Always keep your third eye open.

While in the communist country, reflect on the color theory and why Chinese people don't refer to themselves Yellow.

In midst the millions of people around you, if it is the first time that you've left your country, you'll find a clarity and serenity of mind that you've never experienced before.

Hopefully, while you're there, travel to Hong Kong, which technically isn't in China; ostensibly for the next several years. Keep in mind, that while it is visually stunning, the international group of expats who make it their home, are at the top of their game. Visit, this place cousin and see it before it is gone. Play your cards right and we’ll meet there in the future.

If your still with me cousin, I'd advise you to skip China all together. Taiwan, is the China that you need to experience. Mandarin speaking, and utilization of traditional Chinese writing. As one website explained, it is China without the communism. It is a chillax version of China that you will enjoy.  

So, make your journey cousin, prepare and plan. As I've stated several times before,traveling is not a vacation. Tourists don't experience the nuances of the culture.

That's my freestyle cousin, been a minute since we rapped. Line by line, this is how I get down... And I'm out.

Your Cousin, ILLMATICAL

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Technically Speaking: Top 10 Apps for Living in Cambodia

Whether you're an English teacher fumbling through a lesson plan, bar hoping in Phnom Penh, trying to order food in a restaurant, traveling to a remote province on your moto, or a business owner struggling to get new customers, the most important piece of technology that you'll need in Cambodia is your smartphone.

I'm amazed, I still meet expats -- Millenials included, who don't own a smartphone!

You can make do without many things in life. The most experienced expat can use a technical hand.  

Here are a look at some apps that will help you during your journey. In Cambodia your smartphone is your lifeline, aside from your passport; your most important possession.

1. Google Maps - With your phone's GPS enabled, you'll easily be able to plan your route to destinations. Even though Cambodia is still a country in development, the majority of landmarks, univertisties, hospitals and hotels are on Google Maps.

Small villages and rice fields aren't all there, but all major highways and roads are visible. In addition, many of the roads and locations listed on Goolge Maps include their name written in Khmer.

This app will tell you how far your destination is in miles or kilometers, and provides an estimate for your journey, whether you're on foot or in a vehicle.  

There is app is free.

2. Google Translate - An invaluable resource for communication. While learning a new language, there will be instances where you'll need to communicate a question or sentence that doesn't involve body language.

This app is great if you know how to use it. Don't write long convoluted sentences or questions. Basic elementary English (same for Spanish or French) without past or future tenses of verbs are translated best.  

There is app is free.

3. English-Khmer by Khemera Soft - I'd especially recommend this dictionary app for English teachers or students learning Khmer. Google Translate works best for sentence or question translation; for individual words, a dictionary is the way to go.

While working as a teacher, I've used this app in situations where I can't teach or illicit a word in the lesson. Each word includes an IPA reference which is a necessity for teaching phonetics.

This app is currently $3.99

4. Speak Khmer by Khemera Soft - This is an amazing tool for learning the basics of the Khmer languange. It utilizes a communicative teaching approach, introducing basic words with photos. Each Khmer word includes a recorded pronunciation spoken by a native Cambodian.

An additional feature is the "Conversation" section, which includes sentences recorded in Khmer; topics ranging from travel, business and emergencies.

This app is free.

5. Manual by Little Pixels - Regardless of where you're living, you'll be moved by the beautiful landscapes and culture around you.  Your phone's built in camera app, nor Instagram offer the flexibilty needed to capture the images you need. Manual is an app that features advanced photography features. You can modify the ISO and shutter speed settings to get better photos.

This app is currently $1.99

6. Messaging apps - In Asia, chat apps are an integral component of personal and professional communication. A messaging app is less intrusive than an email address or phone number and primarily used as an alternative to your phone's SMS messaging. You're charged regular data rates, but you have the option of sharing images, voice recordings and a profile that is somewhat similar to Facebook. There is currently no charge for Wechat.

Equally popular is Whatsapp, offering many of the same features as WeChat.  Whatsapp is currently free for the first year and one US dollar a year there after. Google Hangouts is another alternative in the app messaging space, similar toWechat. There is no charge for this app.  

The messaging app you use, ultimately depends on your circle of associates.

7. Trip Advisor - This app isn't only for tourists. Experienced expats will appreciate the "restaurant" and "things to do" sections which have multiple listings based on your location.

This app is free.

8. OKCupid - Whether you're in a foreigner friendly section of the country or in a remote location in the provinces; your soul mate may only be an app away. On this side of the planet, it's best to try every possible option when it comes to meeting new people. Your new friend or weekend fling may be a neighboring city or adjacent country.

This app is free.

9. Facebook - In South East Asia, you have to know how to use Facebook. Groups associated with a particular city provide you with invaluable information. Many of these groups feature job postings, information pertaining to housing and opporutunies to network with seasoned expats.  

This app is free.

10. TapaTalk - This is an app that will allow you to access one of the most useful forums for expat life in Cambodia: Khmer440. With this app you can login and search forum topics, which have a wide range of valuable information. I'd advise you to search the message boards before posting a question previously asked. 

This app is free.

I'm sure many of you have you're own favorites, there are some that have helped me during my stay; this is just me, technically speaking.

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Mambo Emerges In Siem Reap

I'm in town for the weekend, attending Music & Art School of Siem Reap's first Salsa party. I track down the schools' coordinator, Fred Breerette; we agree to meet at the Brazil Cafe. As I emerge from my tuk-tuk and walk towards the cafe, I'm greeted by Latin rhythms; Fred's band is practicing and it sounds like Brazilian Samba. The cafe, an outdoor bar, with an adjoining music studio on the side, has its own pulse and vibe; definitely not something you'd expect to find in Siem Reap. As of March this year, Fred is the school's coordinator for music and dance; previously an art school director in Bordeaux, France. Fred's somewhere in his mid forties, with an olive complexion that doesn't come from tanning. He's decided to host the schools' first Salsa party in a location outside of the school, hoping to attract both Cambodians and foreigners. After a month of regular classes there are only a handful of regular students, but Fred sees that number increasing over the next few months. Despite the schools' recent show at the Hard Rock Cafe, many Cambodians are reluctant to try new forms of dance. "It's not part of the culture to go outside in the evening time, they stay home or with their families. Some Khmer people are shy" explained Fred. The school hasn't attracted many Cambodian students as of yet "It's mainly foreigners… I think we'll always have more foreigners." It was Latin music that attracted the schools' salsa teacher, Mateo Rozo to the cafe, where he met Fred a year ago. Mateo and I meet an hour before the party, where he is planning to first teach an introduction class. We're upstairs at the Party House Bar on Sok San Road, a two level open bar, with relaxed lighting and wooden floors not designed for social dancing, but serving the purpose. Mateo's a Columbian with, a warm smile; extremely personable. He seems eager to get started this evening. "I do this for fun. I miss the Latin culture… in Columbia, I use to go to Salsa places with my friends." Speaking of foreigners in Siem Reap, he adds "When they hang out, they just drink, or if they dance, it is Lady Gaga music… the Latin places, you are dancing with your partner, it is more contact, not in a sexual way, it's nice because you have to read your partner, it is a body language." Although Cambodian culture includes social dancing, there isn't much touching or physical contact between dance partners. Salsa music and Mambo dancing is thriving in neighboring Thailand and Vietnam. It is present in Phnom Pehn, however, it hasn't been fully embraced by Cambodians. This is attributed to the country still in the midst of rebuilding itself culturally. Alexandre Scarpati, the Director of Music and Art School, explained that in the sixties, Cambodia was one of the most influential countries in Asia. Speaking on the vision he has for ongoing Salsa parties he said" I want to create a social place… where people come together and have fun with art." Students trickle in after eight o'clock, one of the schools regular students, Najeeb, a twenty something male from India,  says "I like the music and he's [Mateo] a good teacher." Two young French ladies, although friendly, keep mostly to themselves, it's their first Salsa class. Surprisingly, there are two Khmer males in attendance who heard about the event through a Facebook group. We speak briefly and one mentions that some of the steps he's learned this evening  are similar to a traditional Cambodian dance. Mateo leads the group through basic Salsa steps, like any intro dance class, the students stumble through, trying to align their new moves with the tempo, but towards the end of the class, the students are partnered up and enjoying the music. The students filter out shortly after the class, for the remainder of the party, I dance with Marija, an experienced dancer from Croatia, known in the Mambo world as a "Salsera."  She spoke on the importance of Salsa dancing, especially for socialization. "The world stops in a way, problems are gone, it's just music, my dancing partner and me and a smooth exchange of emotions." Unlike other attempts of initiating Mambo dancing in Siem Reap, the Music & Art School's musical foundation, ensures that there will be a Latin presence in Siem Reap. As long as the music is present, then the dancers will follow, it is only a matter of time be for Cambodians are attracted to the emerging Mambo scene.

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HONG KONG: BLADE RUNNER CITY

"I’ve seen things you people wouldn’t believe…" 

Those words were uttered prophetically by Rutger Hauer in the 1982 science fiction film, Blade Runner; based in the future during the year 2019. Director Ridley Scott, created a futuristic city, reliant on buildings, all of which were based on his exposure to The Pearl of the Orient. 

Hong Kong is known as Skyscraper City; it has more high-rises than any city in the world. Unlike New York City, which is neatly divided by rectangular blocks; the streets and buildings of Hong Kong have their own rhythm; singing their own song. There is no symmetry in building design; each architecture does its own dance, completely autonomous to neighboring structures. Collectively, creating a skyline of organized confusion; a beautiful architectural struggle.  

Hong Kong’s aesthetics, surpass the film noir design of Blade Runner’s fictional city with an attractive color palette. Buildings adorned in two tone colors; hot pink on one leg and sky blue on the other. Cream edifices have conversations with baby blue towers. The city’s bedizenment; in the form of bright neon lights, penned in Chinese characters or English, with familiar brand names. 

Hong Kong, is a visual canvas, sketched by architecture and Feng Shui. Photographers and cinematographers bring this moving, modern canvas to life. The mountains of Hong Kong, they remain ever present, lurking behind Blade Runner City, reminding the viewer that a world does indeed lie beyond the architectural, man made masterpiece. 

Hong Kong is also known as “The City with No Ground.” Tunnels and walkways above highways, link buildings and  interconnecting streets. Platforms guide pedestrians to their paths with more regularity than sidewalks. Hong Kong brakes the 2-D plane of conventional cities. An elevator will take you a pool on the 20th floor, in the middle of a skyscraper.The 100th floor of the International Commerce Centre, host a lounge and observation deck named Sky100, which provides a sensational view of Victoria Harbor. Although breathtaking, photographers may opt to avoid crowds and seek rooftops in Central or Kowloon. 

The citizens of Blade Runner City, their personalities and style reflect the urban environment in which they reside. The majority of people are Chinese and similar to the film there is a fusion of languages. Cantonese is mixed with English; creating a modern day Cityspeak. Every one is in a rush in this real life dystopia; it feels like you’re a character in an ongoing film. The fashion and clothing are reflective of the tropical environment; loose and free flowing; all laced with a hint of Chinese culture. 

As a creator with working experience in the photography and design field; I can personally attest, that I have not seen anything like Hong Kong. I’ve lived in New York City, Beijing, Rio De Janeiro — none of them compare from a visual perspective. 

Modern day Hong Kong is a visual that has surpassed Ridley Scott’s cinematic masterpiece. Speaking of his performance in the film Blade Runner, actor Rutger Hauer said “30 Years ago, I saw the future…” He did, he was talking about Skyscraper City; he saw current Hong Kong. He saw Blade Runner City.

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CHINA: TECHNICALLY SPEAKING

I arrived in China a year ago with rudimentary knowledge of the language; a mute and an analphabet in a bewildering culture. Initially, I was dependent on others for simple tasks that involved travel and basic communication. Once I enabled myself technically, I was able to get settled and successfully function as an adult.

This article is about how I did it, well at least technically speaking; it's what I used and how, hopefully enabling the next traveler. 

SMART PHONE

As soon as you arrive, get your smart phone turned on immediately; you're going to have to have your phone jailbroken. You'll need a Chinese friend for this, not only to help you find a reliable technician, but someone who'll make sure you don't get ripped off. I paid 150RMB.

As far as phone service, I used China Unicom, the service is decent and I've found payment locations in every city that I've visited. The monthly plan is relatively inexpensive, without excessive use of the internet and my phone, my bill was rarely above 60RMB. 

When you're getting started in China, your phone will be the most essential piece of technology you own. 

WECHAT

After your phone service is enabled, you have to install Wechat. It's a phone app that utilizes text and voice message communication, and it is used by almost everyone in China. You'll find yourself using Wechat for business and personal relationships as well. In fact, there isn't one acquaintance I have made, that didn't involve a Wechat exchange. 

MAPS

I've downloaded a number of travel related phone apps, but truthfully, the most indispensable; is the Google map app. I've used it for excursions on foot and communicating with taxi drivers. Most websites will feature an address (地址) in Chinese characters, simply copy them into the, app and you're able to successfully plan a route to a destination.

SUBWAY MAP by TPS Holdings

This app will enable you to successfully traverse any major subway system. It works in conjunction with your phones location services, providing you with the best stations to use for your travels.

It's currently available in Guangzhou, Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Taipei and Hong Kong for only $1.99 USD. 

COMMUNICATION - GOOGLE TRANSLATE and PLECO 

I've used Google Translate to open a bank account, change hotel reservations and ask complex questions when my rudimentary language skills prevented me from communicating clearly. This app will allow you to create basic sentences, converting English to Mandarin with easy.

Pleco is a great dictionary app you can use when looking up the definition of a specific word or character. 

One of the benefits of this app is scalability. You can download additional dictionaries, support for various Chinese dialects, a speaking module that helps with pronunciation and an add on that shows the stroke order of characters. 

Technical support is decent, I had problems using this app when I traveled from mainland China to Hong Kong, due to the fact that my phone service was inoperable outside of China. Technical support is very good and they're currently working on a work around. 

INTERNET

One of the major hinderances of living in China is the internet access. There is a high probability that many of your favorite websites will be inaccessible. Fortunately, almost every expat in China uses VPN software to circumvent The Great Firewall.  What's even more interesting are the number of Chinese who use VPN software, accessing everything from Facebook to Twitter. So, on the record, Facebook is blocked, but off the record there are a number of Chinese people using it. 

In addition to secure web surfing, the software features a stealth mode, which secures all communication from your computer.  I used Astril's software and it was extremely reliable and inexpensive; as I write, it is only $6.00 USD a month. 

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Cambodian Nights: Illumination

After an evening with associates, disappointed by the women and dancing, I got on my moto and took flight; racing into the Cambodian night. 

An amber moon illuminated the jungled landscape. I stopped and digested the scene: the moon and unfamiliar constellations, illumining a body of water before me. I briefly studied the silence and beauty. 

This would be one of those moments replayed when my life flashed before me. 

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Behind The Great Wall: When I Stopped Being Black

When I packed my bags for China; this brother armed himself with with Black Power.  Amidst the bundle, were books on Black contentiousness and Black culture. I thought I was empowering myself, but truthfully, I came to China, with Black rage and unbeknown to myself, the misunderstanding of the American Negro.

In the United States, Africans Americans have been classified as Negros, Blacks and more recently, some have abandoned their African ancestry all together, settling to identify themselves solely as ‘American.’ At one point in time, the race story in America, it was White and Black, Europeans and Africans, White masters and Black slaves, two stories, and thanks to the “One Drop Rule,” any person with African blood or ancestry belonged to the Black race. 

These days, in America, there is a conflict with who or what is Black. The classification of Blackness, no longer applies specifically to African Americans. These days, in America, when it is convenient, perhaps for scholarships or to enter certain social circles, anyone can claim Blackness. For years, I’ve used Black and African American interchangeably. Over the last few years, in America, I’ve found myself in debates with members of various ethnic groups, discussing or qualify, who or what was Black; never who was African. 

Since I’ve arrived in Beijing, I’ve taken some time and reconsidered my Blackness.  Seeing other brown faces, brothers and sisters from Africa or of the diaspora; I’m reminded of my ancestry, but definitely belonging to a specific group. The Black classification has no bearing in China. A country that doesn’t adhere to the tenants of White supremacy and its classification of races — well not outright. 

For, African Americans, there has always been ambivalence regarding race categorization.  We’re Americans, the co-founders of the country, involuntary immigrants, or that is what we’ve been told; but we’ve been cut off from our African ancestry and culture. We’re descendants — strike that, were ascendants of Africa although many Africans do not view us as kin.

One thing remains clear, whether African American, African, Afro Latino or Caribbean — China provides an opportunity for many of us to escape White supremacy and colonialism. Africans living in China can define themselves and abandon the shackles of mental slavery; we no longer have to be Black. 

Although we have origins in different parts of the world, we have a similar struggle. We may not have taken the same route to get here; some came direct from the continent, surviving apartheid and colonialism, while others took a route through the African holocaust, via the Trans-Atlantic slave trade, forged in the Americas or the Caribbean; regardless, we’re here.

Ironically, behind The Great Wall, in a communist country, the red flag with yellow stars might be a symbol for African emancipation. Perhaps it is time, to wake up; maybe it’s time to start thinking and stop adhering to the classification of myself as a color.

Here in China; I can stop being Black and just be free.

Previously written while living in Beijing (2013)

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Travel and Language Learning: Real Talk

Too many travelers, don't have realistic goals when it comes to language learning. 

Individuals who've never learned another language, they fail to realize that it takes time and effort. Time and effort, which in many instances should be focused on your professional and monetary goals. 

While living in China, I made unrealistic objectives, deciding that I would master the language. I'd get excited about learning; study hard for several weeks and then find myself burnt out. 

One of the best pieces of advice that I received while traveling is this: Learn functional use of the language. This is found in most Lonely Planet traveling guides or a basic course; no more than four hours a week, providing you with the ability to handle money, shop, greet people and ask for directions. 

All of this can be learned in a short amount of time and once you've mastered this, you can decide if you want to delve further into the language. 

In many instances, when you're in a new country, you're trying to adjust to the culture and the language is only one facet.  

It is easy to get caught up in what others are doing, or get intimidated by expats who seem to have a commanding grasp of the language. I've found that many expats, trivialize their language learning journey. They'll swear it was osmosis; in actuality it was attendance at several schools, private tutors and hours of self study. 

Stay focused. If you want to master a specific language, consider a full time course and work part time. 

During my travels, I've come to realize that the most important lingo to master is The Language of The World; understanding people and human nature is universal. 

Everything else is gibberish. 

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Driving in Cambodia: The Road Warrior

I'll share some advice about driving in Cambodia. But truthfully, everything I leared about driving in Cambodia, this education started in Taiwan. Two pieces of information kept me alive in what I believe is the world's largest concentration of thoughtless and reckless drivers.

The first, from travel writer J. Fritz: Drive like everyone is trying to kill you! The second from an American who I met in transit: “Expect someone to do something stupid.” 

This has no reflection on Taiwanese people, personally I found them to be extremely polite in most instances. However, when you're on the road, Taiwanese people disregard courtesy and embrace a 'Me first attitude.'

If I could summarize my experience of driving in Taiwan, on a motor scooter, I'd have to reference the film Training Day. I was a rookie, who had to learn fast because my life depended on it. In addition, driving in Taiwan prepared me for the days ahead. 

The problem with Cambodia, is that there aren't any laws. Everything with a motor is on the road. On any given day, you'll see Khmer folks driving their tractors on the highway, a bus with its engine exposed and a pickup truck with twenty kids standing in the cab. Shit, if your lawnmower works, fire that sucker up and put your wife and child aboard. 

A United States inspection officer would have a heart attack if he came here. 

Driving here in Cambodia, on the dusty chaotic roads, I feel like a character in the film The Road Warrior. I don't have a car, so I can't be Max, but I'm on my motor scooter and each time I drive, I feel a looming threat of danger.

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Cambodia: The Thailand Visa Run

I just finished making my first visa run from the Kingdom of Cambodia. First of all, all of this should have been avoided and I should have been on my way to Phnom Penh, to extend my visa, but I'll get into that later.

Please note, I'm an American citizen. I didn't need a visa to enter Thailand for my visa run, I was eligible for tourist visa exemption. A list of countries that are eligible for tourist visa exemption are located here. In addition, you should make your run within five days of your visa expiration. 

When you arrive in Cambodia, regardless of entry point, make sure that you get the visa you have requested. I touched down in Siem Reap a month ago and requested a Business Visa (E-Visa); although I stood on the correct line and filled out the correct information on my form, I received a Tourist Visa. A recent conversation with a fellow American, leads me to believe this happens often.

As of October 1st, 2014, new price for a Business Visa is $35. The price for the Tourist Visa is $30. Before you leave immigration, make sure you have the visa you paid for. The information on your 30 day visa will be hand written by a immigration officer, but check the left hand side for a number printed on the paper, preceded by a letter. An E, stands for Business Visa and that T stands for Tourist Visa. 

For the Thailand run, you'll have to find a way to Krong Paoy Paet, which is the Cambodian city bordering Thailand. From Sisophon, it is less than an hour by shared taxi. You can negotiate rates, but I paid $5 for my seat and the same returning. 

Once you get to the border, you'll see two large buildings which look like they have no place being in Paoy Paet. They're actually casinos and they're located in between the Cambodia/Thailand border. 

1. If you look at the map above, you'll stamp out on the right hand side of the street. I'd advise you to get there early. I didn't wait more than 15 minutes on any lines during this entire process, but the guy I was with, a Cambodian who frequently visits the border, he said that if we waited until later during the day, we'd see long lines and would have waited hours for this process to be complete. 

2. After you stamp out of Cambodia, you'll walk past a window (very close) that says BORDER PASS. Ignore this, it is for Cambodians. Keep walking on the right hand side until you have an opportunity to cross the street. You'll see a building and a number of people standing on line. Avoid them, I think most of them were Thailanders waiting for some type of documentation. Walk upstairs and you'll be able to stamp into the Kingdom of Thailand. 

3. Once you do this, you're in Thailand and you have to walk around to the other side of the street. If you look at the drawing above, it is pretty easy to understand. 

4. On the other side of the street, on the second floor, you'll stamp out of Thailand. 

5. Once you do that, you'll have to head to the police station in the picture above, so you can get your new Cambodian visa. Be very specific about what visa you want and be very polite. (AKUN Your ass off!)

6. Once you have your new visa, you'll have to stamp back into Cambodia. 

That's it. Your visa run is complete. Had it not been for my Cambodian associate, this would have been a headache. Like I said earlier, it seems that immigration has the bad habit (perhaps only in Siem Reap) of providing the wrong visa. 

The visa run was useful though; now I know how to get to Thailand. In a month, I'll probably be headed to Phnom Pehn, for my visa extension, unless I get an agent to do that for me. 

If anything doesn't make sense, hit me up on twitter @catchesbullets 

Stay Fly!

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Phone Biz

If you're planning on staying in Cambodia for several months, avoid the thirty day plan you're presented with at the airport. The SIM cards at the airport are tourist SIM cards and if you try to add money to your card, you may have some difficulty. 

Or you can purchase the phone card for immediate use, because you'll definitely need it and then plan on ditching it as soon as you need more minutes. 

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Siem Reap: Nightlife (Or lack of)

After visiting the legendary temples of Angkor, you want to investigate Siem Reap's nightlife. 

Siem Reap doesn't really have a "nightlife," there is an area called Pub Street, which is a block or two of western style bars, massage parlors (including those that have fish that massage your feet) and other stores that cater to tourist. 

What kind of people will you find in the pubs? You won't find any of the Cambodian natives, nor will you find any seasoned expats, except European men in their early sixties who seem to be hanging around waiting for attention from prostitutes. 

You can't enjoy yourself in this location, you're harassed by tuk-tuk drivers who want to give you a ride or pitch their rate for the temples. 

Personally, I'd advise anyone visiting Siem Reap to check out Pub Street, without any expectations. 

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Move To Cambodia: Book Review

After poking around on various Couchsurfing and Facebook groups, making inquiries about my own move to Cambodia, I was pointed towards Lina Goldberg's book, MOVE TO CAMBODIA.

I purchased the Kindle edition and I was satisfied with the overall fundamental advice. I found the author's opinions, from a female perspective distracting and unnecessary at times.

Much of what is in this book, can be found on her website and other locations online if you're willing to spend some time researching the subject.

Until my book on Cambodia is ready, this is a good beginning. 

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#cambodia

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#cambodia #jungle #ruins

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Siem Reap: Visiting the Temples

Excellent! You've decided to take a trip to Cambodia and see Angkor Wat and other legendary temples. Unfortunately, you're not sure how long you'll need to stay, where you should stay and how much it will cost. 

Keep reading, this post is going to shed some light on where you're staying, how many days you'll need and how much you'll spend daily.

If you check the map above, the location on the bottom left is where you'll find a number of hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, stores, massage parlors and pubs catering to tourists. 

More than likely, the place you're staying is in this location. Look at reviews and check Google map for an exact location. Everything in this general area is close. 

Most hostels and guesthouses have cafes where you can purchase your meals, all in the $2 - $5 range. 

Getting to the temples, that is another story. Don't even plan on visiting everything in one day. I'm in relatively good shape and after four hours of tomb raiding, you'll be ready to relax.

I'd advise you to purchase a three day pass, starting your visit early in the morning.

Day One: Angkor Wat

Yes, this is absolutely awe inspiring and you could spend hours at the main gate, studying the engravings, but the majesty of the monument will overwhelm you.

Travel: You can bike from your hostel to Angkor Wat. I saw plenty of people doing it. I paid a tuk-tuk driver to drop me off for $3 dollars. He picked me up later for the same price. 

What to wear: Shorts, a light shirt, sunglasses and a sunhat. If you know to make and rock a turban, you'll be fine. The sun is out in force. If you don't have creamy skin that enjoys the sun's rays, get some sunblock. Forget the sandals. 

What to bring: Bring two bottles of water. 

Day Two: Angkor Thom 

This leg of the tour consists of the Bayon, Baphuon, Phimeanakas, Terrace of the Leper King and Ta Prohm. 

Personally, I found Ta Prohm to crowded and I believe you'll see better locations on the third day. 

Travel: You're going to need a tuk-tuk driver. He'll drop you off at the Bayon and you spend several hours before you head to Ta Prohm.  In addition, you can leave your book bag in the tuk-tuk while exploring. I'd advise against cycling. Again, after the tour is over, you're going to be ready to relax. 

What to wear: Make sure you're wearing mosquito repellent. Although it is hot, you're visiting temples in a forested area that includes marshland. Long sleeve shirt and light pants. Don't even think about wearing sandals. 

What to bring: Water and light snacks, which you can leave in the tuk-tuk.

Day Three: Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Som, East Mebon and Pre Rup

By the end of my tour on day two, I considered skipping the third day. I thought I had seen enough, but I decided to push myself and I'm glad I did. Personally, I believe that this leg of the tour is the best. You won't find as many people and these locations are breathtaking, some are just as majestic as Angkor Wat. 

Travel: Cycling between these locations isn't practical. You'll need a tuk-tuk driver. 

What to wear: Again, you're traveling in a rural area, far from downtown Siem Reap. You'll get a glimpse of Cambodia's beautiful jungle landscape. Prepare for sun and mosquitos. 

What to bring: Water and a light snack. 

Final Notes: You can educate yourself on the temples and their history by simply looking at some Youtube videos. If you really think you need a tour guide, you'll find them in front of the temples where a rate can be negotiated. 

Don't get scammed. In the temples, you'll find wandering book vendors who try to overcharge you for books, you'll also find individuals who pull a "come worship with me scam," where they hand you a stick of incense and ask you to pray to a statue, then demand a payment. 

Finally, I'd advise against bringing a bulky camera. You can get so much done with the phone on your camera.