Hungarian photographer Antal Gabelics has been a longtime resident of Cambodia. Here, he gives us an insider’s view of the country and shares his stunning kaleidoscopic series of Angkor Wat, Angkor Mandala Sequence, in the slideshow above.
Cambodia is like no other place because…
Cambodia has a very colorful yet complicated history, which has created one of the most fascinating cultures I’ve ever immersed myself in. One of the unique features is the preservation and respect of the ancient temples that I’ve come to know and love.
What first brought me here…
Moving to Cambodia was an adventurous change and a great job opportunity to work alongside an American photographer named John McDermott. I had lived in Indonesia for a year prior and had already fallen in love with the cultural differences between the Western world and Southeast Asia.
And what keeps me here now…
I’ve stayed in Cambodia because I find it interesting to see and experience how the past has influenced modern society here. I’m curious about how the culture is developing while still overcoming a lot of repression and conflict. However, right now I’m finishing up my Cambodia-based projects in preparation for a new adventure.
My first visit to Angkor Wat…
Was breathtaking. It is incredible to imagine people one thousand years ago, creatively designing and physically building this massive monument. The attention to detail in the carvings and statues, the hand-placed stones — it’s all amazing.
My favorite part…
I love the remote areas of the complex. Angkor Wat is surrounded by a city of ancient temples, and while it is understandably the most infamous tourist stop, the less visited temples have this romantic exclusion and quietness that is mystifying. These great, manmade temples are met with the sounds and sights of nature, sitting in the jungle surrounded by giant trees, allowing the visitor to get an idea of what it might have been like all those years ago.
One thing only a local would know…
The quiet, magical temples I mentioned are more so hidden in the jungle. Only locals and those who take time to really explore would know how to get to them.
My insider tips to first-time visitors…
For adventure and sight seeing, I would recommend taking your time exploring the temples and backroads. There is so much to see and the quiet gems are often missed by visitors in a rush. There are great cycling tours through the temples, motorbike tours through the countryside, trekking to the nearby Mount Kulen. For tourists who aren’t familiar with the area or the language these are the safest, best options for getting the most out of your trip. Another important thing for visitors to consider is the great amount of poverty and corruption in Cambodia, and how to avoid unintentionally contributing to it. I suggest reading about tourist scams that exploit local children, and finding ways to support the local people in sustainable, ethical ways.
Other must-visit destinations in Cambodia…
For those interested in the very influential and recent history of Cambodia, visit Phnom Penh’s museums and historic sites. Kampot, Kep and the islands off the Cambodian coast are great places to enjoy relaxing beaches and peaceful nature. There are all kinds of accommodations, from bungalows to high end hotels, so there’s something available for everyone.
Local words and phrases to know…
Hello: Suesadai. How are you?: Sok sabai. Excuse me/sorry: Somtoah. Thank you very much: Or-koon Charan. Good luck: Samnang laor (a kind phrase for parting ways).
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