Saigon to Cambodia (November 2013)

Every trip to Southeast Asia consists of at least two things: delicious, yet questionable food and epic bus trips. The cheapest and easiest way to get around Southeast Asia is via bus, whether you like it or not. The bus ride from Saigon to Phnom Penh, Cambodia takes about 6 hours and includes a border crossing, ferry ride and sometimes a very impressive tire change.

Since we flew to and from Hanoi due to a time crunch, this was the first big bus journey of our trip. Not sure what to expect, we booked a ticket at the bus station with a couple hours to grab one last bowl of pho and do a little more shopping. The bus was nicer than expect. It wasn’t crowded so we each got our own row and plenty of breathing room. The ride to the Cambodian border was quick and painless. Only problem, no one explained to us what happens at the border. Our passports were taken, we were vaguely motioned in various directions, but managed to get through the Vietnam exit and through Cambodian customs without any major complications. Visa in hand, we made a quick stop of “dinner”. We’re pretty acclimated to eating unusual foods at this point, but this particular place drew us to the pringles and oreos (universal travel snacks) section of the market. Back on the bus for about 30 seconds, we’re pulling over again. By far the most impressive tire change I’ve ever seen.

There’s a distinct difference between Vietnam and Cambodia when you cross the border. The poverty in Cambodia is heartbreaking, but it’s incredible to witness the kindness and sense of unity that you feel immediately. One man took about 30 minutes to remove, fix and replace our bus tire with about 10 other locals helping in any way they could, whether providing light or tools. Even Grandma came out to supervise and tend to the children running around the work area.

Once we were up and running again, we drove another hour or so before joining a fleet of shipping containers on a small ferry across the river. It was interesting having no idea what this journey would entail, but it definitely made what could have been a dreadful 6 hours pretty entertaining and eye opening. Welcome to Cambodia!!