We woke early today and left Phnom Penh and took a private coach to the city of Battambang. The journey was 6hrs and on the way we stopped at a local potter in Kampong Chhang to learn about the craft of pottery making at local workshops.
The potter created pots without a wheel and with her own hands.
Michelle got in on the act and shaped the pot, before we both got the opportunity to leave our names as evidence of our creativity!
The potter was a lovely smiley lady, who showed us her national dress and also how to balance the water pots on her head.
In order to get in on the act, Michelle was able to get dressed in a sarong and headdress and balanced one of the pots on her head.
Shaun, one of our English compatriots on the tour picked up the water carrier and then performed his best ballet holds standing on one leg!
Post some R&R on the coach, we arrived mid-afternoon in Battambang and the joy of a hotel pool.
This afternoon we took full advantage of the hotel’s pool and sun lounger and relaxed in the sunshine. After a beer at the Classy (real name of hotel!) rooftop bar we headed out by tuk-tuk for dinner at a local homestay.
Battambang is the second city of Cambodia, but feels a long way from Phnom Penh, with a much more local country feel. It’s a pretty riverside town with French colonial architecture and relaxed & friendly Khmer people.
At the homestay dinner we were treated to an array of great Cambodian delicacies including fried eggplant with a spicy dip, before moving on to a light curried chicken bbq with sticky rice and noodles, before finishing with mango and pineapples. The host, a local lady and her family were so friendly and welcoming introducing us to their three young children who were dressed in pyjamas ready for bed as soon as we left around 9pm.
Tomorrow we are up early again for a morning cycle trip around Battambang on a food tour.
@travellingwiththeateam 