Dust, Mud and Potholes to Battambang

Sisophan – Battambang = 68km

We thoroughly enjoyed our one night stopover in Sisophan which was a great introduction to Cambodia. We actually first visited Cambodia 12 years ago but it was a quick 8 day trip through the tourist traps of Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. It didn’t leave a positive impression of the country back then so we wanted to come back again and get off the tourist trail……….and so far we are really pleased we did.

Up early yesterday to hit the road to Battambang on Highway 5. Had no idea what riding conditions to expect but I think we covered all conditions. In fact I can honestly say I’ve never been so dirty in all my life. By the end of the day we felt like we had just done a 68km tough mudder bike endurance event.

We have since read that the Japanese are pumping US200million into the upgrade of highway 5 and this development was well under way.

We rolled through dusty villages, dodging potholes, waving and talking to the happiest and friendliest people. Kids on bikes would ride along side us practising their English so the day flew by. Then we hit a town where there had been rain and we wondered why we bothered showering that morning.

The hose down required both person and bikes.

So after riding the last 7/8 days and nearly 400km on the clock we are staying here 2 nights before hitting the road tomorrow making our way south through Cambodia. Having an absolute blast. They say that Thailand is the “land of smiles” but so far Cambodia takes the cake.