From Phnom Penh to the Vietnam Border

Embarking (again) on a road trip can be an exhilarating experience, filled with unexpected twists and turns. Recently, I had the opportunity to experience an exciting journey from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, to the nearest border of Vietnam. Armed with a rented car, an old Nexxus, and a spirit of adventure, I set out on an 8-hour drive that promised to be both challenging and rewarding. Join me as I share the highlights of my unforgettable road trip.

My transportation for the trip was an old Nexxus that I rented for the day. While it may not have been the most luxurious or modern car, it proved reliable and comfortable throughout the journey. As I settled into the driver's seat, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation for the road ahead.

Accompanying me on this adventure was a local driver whom I had hired to navigate the unfamiliar roads. His warm smile and friendly demeanor put me at ease from the moment we met. Despite the inevitable communication barriers, we established a basic understanding through gestures and simple phrases. His presence added a touch of authenticity to the journey, making it an even more immersive experience.

As expected, language differences posed a significant challenge during the trip. While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, the regions we traversed were less frequented by international visitors. Consequently, communication often became a game of charades, with hand gestures and improvised sign language helping us bridge the gap. Although it required patience and creativity, it also made for some entertaining moments and strengthened our bond. I could have downloaded a translator on my phone. I always missed something; I could not perfectly do the traveling without missing something important.

The 8-hour drive was a feast for the senses. The road led us through a tapestry of breathtaking sights, from lush green landscapes to picturesque villages. As we cruised, I couldn't help but marvel at the vastness of the Cambodian countryside and its natural beauty. We passed rice fields, coconut plantations, and small roadside markets bustling with locals going about their daily lives.

After hours of driving, we finally reached the nearest border of Vietnam. The anticipation of crossing into a new country heightened my excitement. As we parked the car and made our way to the immigration checkpoint, I felt a mix of nerves and anticipation. With my passport in hand, I eagerly presented it to the immigration officer, who efficiently stamped my entry into Vietnam. It was a moment of triumph, marking the successful completion of one leg of my journey.

A road trip from Phnom Penh to the Vietnam border was an adventure filled with unforgettable experiences. Although I was just sitting the entire journey, hehe. Every aspect of the trip added to its charm, from the old Nexxus that faithfully carried me through the winding roads to the friendly and accommodating driver who accompanied me. There was a casino at the border, but I'm not sure, we looked around the vicinity for food and found some! Tea is life there. 

Of course, he drove me back to Cambodia, and when I arrived there, I decided after 2 hours to go to Thailand. I will save this story on my next blog. 

For the fare, I paid $100 for the back and forth. It was a fair deal.