Monasteries
Vibrant paintings or golden images of the "Enlightened One” are never far from view in Cambodia, and the best place to see them--and view Buddhism in action--is at a monastery, which not only is a place of worship, but at times, is also a vibrant community where youth and exuberance mingle with age and agility; where the local community feasts and fêtes; where one can feel the heartbeat of a nation, celebrate the living, and mourn the dead.
Instantly recognizable and an integral part of the monastic landscape, are of course the monks who, in vivid attire, radiate life within an often lifeless environment.