One interesting headline on climate change and Cambodia centres on the incredible Angkor Wat ruins, visited by millions of tourists every year. Researchers actually believe that the collapse of the 15th Century civilisation that once inhabited Angkor Wat was climate-related, brought about by drought and extreme flooding.
Fast forward to 2023, and Cambodia is facing droughts and floods, which are increasing in their frequency and severity due to rising global emissions. Cambodia’s history can tell us a lot about its future.
The Ball took in the glory of Angkor Wat at sunrise in a rare moment of contemplation on a hectic journey, before driving to the border town of Poipet. Checking out of Cambodia required plenty of time waiting in line and following the strict orders (no telephoning, no photography, no chatter) of the Cambodian border authorities. All of this prudence changed when they met The Ball. Cheering, laughing, headers, signatures, as well as photos and videos were all permitted now. What a difference a ball can make… well, not any ball perhaps, but definitely The Ball.
After quickly being granted permission to enter Thailand, The Ball and the Spirit team made their way to the train station (200 metres away), bought tickets and boarded a train for the 7-hour trip to Bangkok.
By the time we arrived at our accommodation it was very late. Exhausted, and some with food poisoning, our team had earned a well deserved rest before the journey continues in Thailand.
