Item 20: Visit a new country (or many!)
During the pandemic, I got obsessed with e-learning and ended up volunteering with different groups to practice making modules and using authoring tools/software. One of them was an NGO based in Cambodia, People Stories Charity. Last year they tried to launch a project bringing tourists to see Siem Reap while also promoting awareness about their advocacies, mainly education as a way to transform lives.
I signed up cos I’ve tried going to Cambodia twice in the past, first was 20 years ago (gasp!) but only lasted, uhm, give or take 30 mins crossing the border from Bangkok to Poipet for a visa run. The next was about 10 years ago (gasp!) but then I got so sick with some strange illness, I had to skip the trip. They ended up changing the dates for the project but I already booked flights so I went anyway.
I aimed for a full experience and while I would say it’s been lovely, it’s also been very sobering. Like one minute you’re in your soft girl era lounging by the pool drinking your cocktails while planning temple runs and then the next you’re in a remote village where children have to walk long distance on muddy roads to access a school. How to deal with thoughts and feelings related to that? I have no idea. 🤷🏻♀️ I am still processing.
In any case, coming to Siem Reap feels like it has long been over due. It’s called me so many times and after 20 years, I’m happy I’m finally ticking it off from my list. 💕
PS If you havent seen the stories where I dropped the link but you’re curious, here’s more about @peoplestories_charity 🔗 http://peoplestoriescharity.org