Friday 23 October cont. Phnom Penh

S21 school is now a UNESCO site. It's history is a sad reminder of what we as a race are capable of doing to each other, all in the name of some lunatic despot's idealistic greater good that never eventuates.

Our guide Pun has told us his family's story that is typical of the time. He is 1 of 8 children. Two older brothers were arrested for being accused of being spies, and after being tortured, said that their father was in the CIA. Both brothers were then friends. The father was then arrested and after being tortured was beheaded. None of the family were spies but the Kgmer Rouge didn't care. More than 2 million Cambodians during a a result of torture, starving or disease in this period.

Pun couldn't take us through one of the rooms that houses rows of shackles used on prisoners as he learned that his father had been shackled during his imprisonment prior to execution. There are so many current Cambodians who are suffering PTSD but there is little to no assistance provided. I left the place feeling helpless. We then went back to the boat for lunch and I'm the afternoon did a tour of the King's palace. He is 73 and never married. His mother is 90 and about to celebrate a birthday. the Royal family are figureheads only but highly regarded.

We weren't allowed into the big reception area as they were getting ready for a reception for the Queen mother. The Royal residence was beside the huge reception room. Was a bit of a surprise to see French chateau in the compound, but apparently Bonaparte built that during a visit!We were able to wander through the keep were jewels and outfits and gifts from other countries were housed. Also saw the silver temple which was pretty impressive.

We were serenaded by local musicians as we left and made of easy too our coach to get us back to the boat.

Before dinner we were entertained by local.musicians and a children's dancing troupe.

Time for dinner which was Cambodian themed, and then up to the lounge to listen to Dennis the onboard pianist and dinner. Enjoyed a mudslide cocktail. There was a 'Karen from Adelaide' copy (like we experienced on a Princess cruise to NZ) who loved the sound of her own voice and insisted on getting up to sing with him. After the third time, I left the loinge. It's been a long and during day so my bed was calling.