Some relationships are forged in fire, at Journeys Within we use the mid-day Cambodian sun…
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After a hectic busy season of working to make each Journeys Within tour unforgettable, our booking director Linda suggested the hardworking team get out of the office and hit the open road.
And so the whole office staff, along with our beloved Siem Reap guide Sina, hit the trails on bike and headed for West Baray. West Baray is a water reservoir about 15 kilometers from Siem Reap which was a vital part of ancient Angkor’s hydrological system. Now, the baray acts as a local swimming hole, where water-side, shaded mats complete with hammocks make it the perfect afternoon retreat from the heat.
After a pit stop at Sina’s family home to pick some fresh mangoes and say a quick “Soo suhdei” to his mother, the group was off down a dirt road and on our way.
For those who haven’t been to Cambodia at the peak of dry season, it can be hard to describe the strength of the sun. To say it beats down on you with its scorching rays is an understatement. Not even SPF 50 could protect me from the inevitable and awkward cycling tan lines. That being said, the group happily trudged on, stopping only to drink water and to joking hassle Linda about the folly of her brilliant plan.
Not too long into the trip, an impromptu turn by Narla had us off-roading up a ditch. It soon became apparent that not even Sina knew exactly which direction would take us back to a recognizable road. On previous map-less bike trips I’ve been a part of this would have meant long detours, backtracking or worst of all, driving in circles. Traveling with the JW team, most of whom speak Khmer, proved more than advantageous; we asked for direction and were kindly put back on track.
All was forgiven once we actually reached the baray. Along with providing much needed shade and hammocks (is there anything better than an afternoon in a hammock?) the selection of food on site made the sweaty ride worth while. Siem Reapers and the odd adventurist tourist hit the baray on weekends to lunch in groups and give their kids a chance frolic in water.
While I was the only one to take a dip, covered in a sarong out of respect for Khmer customs, it was nice to see the gang relax and enjoy themselves. Usually seen in front of a computer screen — in Linda’s case two — responding to hundreds of emails a day, it was a treat to see the gang relax and take in the scenery.
After a much deserved break from our bikes and a tasty barbeque lunch, we got back on the dusty road home together renewed; not only to face the rising temperatures, but also reminded of the kinds of pleasant experiences we look to create for our guests.