The Time-Turner Series || Hidden Gems of Quiet City of Banlung, Cambodia

This is a slightly different Time-Turner post, mostly because I have never really written a dedicated post about my trip to Banlung. This was mostly because this is a tiny city, with population less than 20,000 and is really quiet. Moreover, while we were here, we were so busy that we had absolutely no time to take any break. And as a result, couldn't really roam around much. However, after so many years, I still remember the place vividly and look back at the time fondly. That is why it deserves a time-turner post. The Time-Turner series is my opportunity to pen down the lingering memories and impressions of a place I have visited. It helps me relive the experience a bit and also reflect upon the aspects of the place that stood out the most to me. For more Time-Turner posts, follow this link: The Time-Turner Series. I went to Cambodia in December 2017 on a CSR project managed by Team4Tech for Adobe. After an initiation in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, we shifted base to Banlung, the capital city of the Ratanakiri province of Cambodia. We were to spend 5 days training the staff of CareCambodia on various project management processes and also to kick-start technical initiatives, such as a Digital Magazine for the students and by the students of several schools in Banlung. We started from Phnom Penh in a comfortable minivan and the 8.5 hours we spent on the road were spent mostly in listening to music and admiring the gorgeous countryside. We drove past countless lotus fields and traditional Cambodian houses on stilts. We took a short 1.5 hour break at Krong Kracheh (I think this was the place, but not sure) and after this break, as we moved northward, the condition of the roads deteriorated and the ride became quite bumpy. By the time we reached Banlung and turned into the parking of our hotel, Yeak Loam Hotel and Spa, we were dying to get out of the vehicle. The hotel was much more luxurious than the one we had a Phnom Penh. However, the food options were kind of limited. Martin, our project director had arranged us to have breakfast, lunch and dinner at two specific cafes, Cafe Alee and Green Carrot. He made us decide on what we wanted to have for our meals one night in advance. He would then make sure that by the time we reached the cafes, the food would be ready and waiting for us. This helped us optimize our time. Overall, our time in Banlung was very busy and the days were tiring and yet fulfilling. By the time we got back to the hotel, we were so exhausted that we fell into dreamless sleep. Moreover there was this sense of satisfaction that we were achieving something every day. The work was managed so efficiently that at the end of the project I was surprised at achieving what we had managed to achieve. I discovered so many new things about myself during these few days spent at Banlung. While most of our time at Banlung was spent working, we did manage to take an afternoon off and head to the Lake Yeak Laom. I remember Martin waiting for us under one of the Canopies while we walked around the lake. Some of our team members went for a swim in the lake as well. Danielle was a good swimmer, and she was able to convince Nidhi and Astha to get in as well. I stayed put. As did Ty. Another outing that we managed to steal was a walk around the city. We found a beautiful Japanese Market from where I bought some pretty trinkets. There was a huge market, where we were able to buy Jasmine Green tea. It was quite an interesting place after all. We just did not get enough time to explore it. The Cafes that we ate at - Cafe Alee and Green Carrot - were quite amazing. I had the best pancake of my life at Cafe Alee and Green Carrot served an amazing mango shake. I remember eating rice with chopsticks for the first time in my life. At Cafe Alee, our frequent table mates were a couple of dogs who begged for food in the most dignified way possible.The black dog in particular was amazing. It would come and sit with its back straight and chest out right next to Martin and completely avoid looking at him. Martin would pet him and often give him some morsels to eat. As soon as Martin stopped paying attention, the black dog would put its paw on Martin's leg to attract his attention. Our last breakfast at Cafe Alee was quite amazing. We were happy to be heading back to Phnom Penh and yet sad that we would not be eating such amazing food and meeting the dogs again. The staff at Care Cambodia was quite inspiring. Our translator Mr Nhoeb Khan was an amazing person - humble, grounded, and talented. I will forever remember him and his wonderful team. There was so much to write about Banlung. Now I wonder why I did not do it earlier. When I think back, so many memories come rushing in. Details start forming, like the memories of that night when there was supposed to be a meteor shower. We lay in beach beds looking up. We even managed to get the lights around the swimming pool switched off. We watched for one hour, and only I managed to see only one shooting star. And that too no one believed that I actually saw it. It was hilarious. I loved the city. Yes, no doubt about it. And it is quite natural. This was where I stayed the longest while in Cambodia. And it was my work in this city that taught me so much about work and about myself. For me, Banlung will always be a special place. It will forever keep inspiring me.



This is a slightly different Time-Turner post, mostly because I have never really written a dedicated post about my trip to Banlung. This was mostly because this is a tiny city, with population less than 20,000 and is really quiet. Moreover, while we were here, we were so busy that we had absolutely no time to take any break. And as a result, couldn't really roam around much. However, after so many years, I still remember the place vividly and look back at the time fondly. That is why it deserves a time-turner post. 


This is a slightly different Time-Turner post, mostly because I have never really written a dedicated post about my trip to Banlung. This was mostly because this is a tiny city, with population less than 20,000 and is really quiet. Moreover, while we were here, we were so busy that we had absolutely no time to take any break. And as a result, couldn't really roam around much. However, after so many years, I still remember the place vividly and look back at the time fondly. That is why it deserves a time-turner post. The Time-Turner series is my opportunity to pen down the lingering memories and impressions of a place I have visited. It helps me relive the experience a bit and also reflect upon the aspects of the place that stood out the most to me. For more Time-Turner posts, follow this link: The Time-Turner Series. I went to Cambodia in December 2017 on a CSR project managed by Team4Tech for Adobe. After an initiation in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, we shifted base to Banlung, the capital city of the Ratanakiri province of Cambodia. We were to spend 5 days training the staff of CareCambodia on various project management processes and also to kick-start technical initiatives, such as a Digital Magazine for the students and by the students of several schools in Banlung. We started from Phnom Penh in a comfortable minivan and the 8.5 hours we spent on the road were spent mostly in listening to music and admiring the gorgeous countryside. We drove past countless lotus fields and traditional Cambodian houses on stilts. We took a short 1.5 hour break at Krong Kracheh (I think this was the place, but not sure) and after this break, as we moved northward, the condition of the roads deteriorated and the ride became quite bumpy. By the time we reached Banlung and turned into the parking of our hotel, Yeak Loam Hotel and Spa, we were dying to get out of the vehicle. The hotel was much more luxurious than the one we had a Phnom Penh. However, the food options were kind of limited. Martin, our project director had arranged us to have breakfast, lunch and dinner at two specific cafes, Cafe Alee and Green Carrot. He made us decide on what we wanted to have for our meals one night in advance. He would then make sure that by the time we reached the cafes, the food would be ready and waiting for us. This helped us optimize our time. Overall, our time in Banlung was very busy and the days were tiring and yet fulfilling. By the time we got back to the hotel, we were so exhausted that we fell into dreamless sleep. Moreover there was this sense of satisfaction that we were achieving something every day. The work was managed so efficiently that at the end of the project I was surprised at achieving what we had managed to achieve. I discovered so many new things about myself during these few days spent at Banlung. While most of our time at Banlung was spent working, we did manage to take an afternoon off and head to the Lake Yeak Laom. I remember Martin waiting for us under one of the Canopies while we walked around the lake. Some of our team members went for a swim in the lake as well. Danielle was a good swimmer, and she was able to convince Nidhi and Astha to get in as well. I stayed put. As did Ty. Another outing that we managed to steal was a walk around the city. We found a beautiful Japanese Market from where I bought some pretty trinkets. There was a huge market, where we were able to buy Jasmine Green tea. It was quite an interesting place after all. We just did not get enough time to explore it. The Cafes that we ate at - Cafe Alee and Green Carrot - were quite amazing. I had the best pancake of my life at Cafe Alee and Green Carrot served an amazing mango shake. I remember eating rice with chopsticks for the first time in my life. At Cafe Alee, our frequent table mates were a couple of dogs who begged for food in the most dignified way possible.The black dog in particular was amazing. It would come and sit with its back straight and chest out right next to Martin and completely avoid looking at him. Martin would pet him and often give him some morsels to eat. As soon as Martin stopped paying attention, the black dog would put its paw on Martin's leg to attract his attention. Our last breakfast at Cafe Alee was quite amazing. We were happy to be heading back to Phnom Penh and yet sad that we would not be eating such amazing food and meeting the dogs again. The staff at Care Cambodia was quite inspiring. Our translator Mr Nhoeb Khan was an amazing person - humble, grounded, and talented. I will forever remember him and his wonderful team. There was so much to write about Banlung. Now I wonder why I did not do it earlier. When I think back, so many memories come rushing in. Details start forming, like the memories of that night when there was supposed to be a meteor shower. We lay in beach beds looking up. We even managed to get the lights around the swimming pool switched off. We watched for one hour, and only I managed to see only one shooting star. And that too no one believed that I actually saw it. It was hilarious. I loved the city. Yes, no doubt about it. And it is quite natural. This was where I stayed the longest while in Cambodia. And it was my work in this city that taught me so much about work and about myself. For me, Banlung will always be a special place. It will forever keep inspiring me.


The Time-Turner series is my opportunity to pen down the lingering memories and impressions of a place I have visited. It helps me relive the experience a bit and also reflect upon the aspects of the place that stood out the most to me. For more Time-Turner posts, follow this link: The Time-Turner Series. 
This is a slightly different Time-Turner post, mostly because I have never really written a dedicated post about my trip to Banlung. This was mostly because this is a tiny city, with population less than 20,000 and is really quiet. Moreover, while we were here, we were so busy that we had absolutely no time to take any break. And as a result, couldn't really roam around much. However, after so many years, I still remember the place vividly and look back at the time fondly. That is why it deserves a time-turner post. The Time-Turner series is my opportunity to pen down the lingering memories and impressions of a place I have visited. It helps me relive the experience a bit and also reflect upon the aspects of the place that stood out the most to me. For more Time-Turner posts, follow this link: The Time-Turner Series. I went to Cambodia in December 2017 on a CSR project managed by Team4Tech for Adobe. After an initiation in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, we shifted base to Banlung, the capital city of the Ratanakiri province of Cambodia. We were to spend 5 days training the staff of CareCambodia on various project management processes and also to kick-start technical initiatives, such as a Digital Magazine for the students and by the students of several schools in Banlung. We started from Phnom Penh in a comfortable minivan and the 8.5 hours we spent on the road were spent mostly in listening to music and admiring the gorgeous countryside. We drove past countless lotus fields and traditional Cambodian houses on stilts. We took a short 1.5 hour break at Krong Kracheh (I think this was the place, but not sure) and after this break, as we moved northward, the condition of the roads deteriorated and the ride became quite bumpy. By the time we reached Banlung and turned into the parking of our hotel, Yeak Loam Hotel and Spa, we were dying to get out of the vehicle. The hotel was much more luxurious than the one we had a Phnom Penh. However, the food options were kind of limited. Martin, our project director had arranged us to have breakfast, lunch and dinner at two specific cafes, Cafe Alee and Green Carrot. He made us decide on what we wanted to have for our meals one night in advance. He would then make sure that by the time we reached the cafes, the food would be ready and waiting for us. This helped us optimize our time. Overall, our time in Banlung was very busy and the days were tiring and yet fulfilling. By the time we got back to the hotel, we were so exhausted that we fell into dreamless sleep. Moreover there was this sense of satisfaction that we were achieving something every day. The work was managed so efficiently that at the end of the project I was surprised at achieving what we had managed to achieve. I discovered so many new things about myself during these few days spent at Banlung. While most of our time at Banlung was spent working, we did manage to take an afternoon off and head to the Lake Yeak Laom. I remember Martin waiting for us under one of the Canopies while we walked around the lake. Some of our team members went for a swim in the lake as well. Danielle was a good swimmer, and she was able to convince Nidhi and Astha to get in as well. I stayed put. As did Ty. Another outing that we managed to steal was a walk around the city. We found a beautiful Japanese Market from where I bought some pretty trinkets. There was a huge market, where we were able to buy Jasmine Green tea. It was quite an interesting place after all. We just did not get enough time to explore it. The Cafes that we ate at - Cafe Alee and Green Carrot - were quite amazing. I had the best pancake of my life at Cafe Alee and Green Carrot served an amazing mango shake. I remember eating rice with chopsticks for the first time in my life. At Cafe Alee, our frequent table mates were a couple of dogs who begged for food in the most dignified way possible.The black dog in particular was amazing. It would come and sit with its back straight and chest out right next to Martin and completely avoid looking at him. Martin would pet him and often give him some morsels to eat. As soon as Martin stopped paying attention, the black dog would put its paw on Martin's leg to attract his attention. Our last breakfast at Cafe Alee was quite amazing. We were happy to be heading back to Phnom Penh and yet sad that we would not be eating such amazing food and meeting the dogs again. The staff at Care Cambodia was quite inspiring. Our translator Mr Nhoeb Khan was an amazing person - humble, grounded, and talented. I will forever remember him and his wonderful team. There was so much to write about Banlung. Now I wonder why I did not do it earlier. When I think back, so many memories come rushing in. Details start forming, like the memories of that night when there was supposed to be a meteor shower. We lay in beach beds looking up. We even managed to get the lights around the swimming pool switched off. We watched for one hour, and only I managed to see only one shooting star. And that too no one believed that I actually saw it. It was hilarious. I loved the city. Yes, no doubt about it. And it is quite natural. This was where I stayed the longest while in Cambodia. And it was my work in this city that taught me so much about work and about myself. For me, Banlung will always be a special place. It will forever keep inspiring me.



I went to Cambodia in December 2017 on a CSR project managed by Team4Tech for Adobe. After an initiation in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, we shifted base to Banlung, the capital city of the Ratanakiri province of Cambodia. We were to spend 5 days training the staff of CareCambodia on various project management processes and also to kick-start technical initiatives, such as a Digital Magazine for the students and by the students of several schools in Banlung. 


This is a slightly different Time-Turner post, mostly because I have never really written a dedicated post about my trip to Banlung. This was mostly because this is a tiny city, with population less than 20,000 and is really quiet. Moreover, while we were here, we were so busy that we had absolutely no time to take any break. And as a result, couldn't really roam around much. However, after so many years, I still remember the place vividly and look back at the time fondly. That is why it deserves a time-turner post. The Time-Turner series is my opportunity to pen down the lingering memories and impressions of a place I have visited. It helps me relive the experience a bit and also reflect upon the aspects of the place that stood out the most to me. For more Time-Turner posts, follow this link: The Time-Turner Series. I went to Cambodia in December 2017 on a CSR project managed by Team4Tech for Adobe. After an initiation in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, we shifted base to Banlung, the capital city of the Ratanakiri province of Cambodia. We were to spend 5 days training the staff of CareCambodia on various project management processes and also to kick-start technical initiatives, such as a Digital Magazine for the students and by the students of several schools in Banlung. We started from Phnom Penh in a comfortable minivan and the 8.5 hours we spent on the road were spent mostly in listening to music and admiring the gorgeous countryside. We drove past countless lotus fields and traditional Cambodian houses on stilts. We took a short 1.5 hour break at Krong Kracheh (I think this was the place, but not sure) and after this break, as we moved northward, the condition of the roads deteriorated and the ride became quite bumpy. By the time we reached Banlung and turned into the parking of our hotel, Yeak Loam Hotel and Spa, we were dying to get out of the vehicle. The hotel was much more luxurious than the one we had a Phnom Penh. However, the food options were kind of limited. Martin, our project director had arranged us to have breakfast, lunch and dinner at two specific cafes, Cafe Alee and Green Carrot. He made us decide on what we wanted to have for our meals one night in advance. He would then make sure that by the time we reached the cafes, the food would be ready and waiting for us. This helped us optimize our time. Overall, our time in Banlung was very busy and the days were tiring and yet fulfilling. By the time we got back to the hotel, we were so exhausted that we fell into dreamless sleep. Moreover there was this sense of satisfaction that we were achieving something every day. The work was managed so efficiently that at the end of the project I was surprised at achieving what we had managed to achieve. I discovered so many new things about myself during these few days spent at Banlung. While most of our time at Banlung was spent working, we did manage to take an afternoon off and head to the Lake Yeak Laom. I remember Martin waiting for us under one of the Canopies while we walked around the lake. Some of our team members went for a swim in the lake as well. Danielle was a good swimmer, and she was able to convince Nidhi and Astha to get in as well. I stayed put. As did Ty. Another outing that we managed to steal was a walk around the city. We found a beautiful Japanese Market from where I bought some pretty trinkets. There was a huge market, where we were able to buy Jasmine Green tea. It was quite an interesting place after all. We just did not get enough time to explore it. The Cafes that we ate at - Cafe Alee and Green Carrot - were quite amazing. I had the best pancake of my life at Cafe Alee and Green Carrot served an amazing mango shake. I remember eating rice with chopsticks for the first time in my life. At Cafe Alee, our frequent table mates were a couple of dogs who begged for food in the most dignified way possible.The black dog in particular was amazing. It would come and sit with its back straight and chest out right next to Martin and completely avoid looking at him. Martin would pet him and often give him some morsels to eat. As soon as Martin stopped paying attention, the black dog would put its paw on Martin's leg to attract his attention. Our last breakfast at Cafe Alee was quite amazing. We were happy to be heading back to Phnom Penh and yet sad that we would not be eating such amazing food and meeting the dogs again. The staff at Care Cambodia was quite inspiring. Our translator Mr Nhoeb Khan was an amazing person - humble, grounded, and talented. I will forever remember him and his wonderful team. There was so much to write about Banlung. Now I wonder why I did not do it earlier. When I think back, so many memories come rushing in. Details start forming, like the memories of that night when there was supposed to be a meteor shower. We lay in beach beds looking up. We even managed to get the lights around the swimming pool switched off. We watched for one hour, and only I managed to see only one shooting star. And that too no one believed that I actually saw it. It was hilarious. I loved the city. Yes, no doubt about it. And it is quite natural. This was where I stayed the longest while in Cambodia. And it was my work in this city that taught me so much about work and about myself. For me, Banlung will always be a special place. It will forever keep inspiring me.



We started from Phnom Penh in a comfortable minivan and the 8.5 hours we spent on the road were spent mostly in listening to music and admiring the gorgeous countryside. We drove past countless lotus fields and traditional Cambodian houses on stilts. We took a short 1.5 hour break at Krong Kracheh (I think this was the place, but not sure) and after this break, as we moved northward, the condition of the roads deteriorated and the ride became quite bumpy. By the time we reached Banlung and turned into the parking of our hotel, Yeak Loam Hotel and Spa, we were dying to get out of the vehicle. 


This is a slightly different Time-Turner post, mostly because I have never really written a dedicated post about my trip to Banlung. This was mostly because this is a tiny city, with population less than 20,000 and is really quiet. Moreover, while we were here, we were so busy that we had absolutely no time to take any break. And as a result, couldn't really roam around much. However, after so many years, I still remember the place vividly and look back at the time fondly. That is why it deserves a time-turner post. The Time-Turner series is my opportunity to pen down the lingering memories and impressions of a place I have visited. It helps me relive the experience a bit and also reflect upon the aspects of the place that stood out the most to me. For more Time-Turner posts, follow this link: The Time-Turner Series. I went to Cambodia in December 2017 on a CSR project managed by Team4Tech for Adobe. After an initiation in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, we shifted base to Banlung, the capital city of the Ratanakiri province of Cambodia. We were to spend 5 days training the staff of CareCambodia on various project management processes and also to kick-start technical initiatives, such as a Digital Magazine for the students and by the students of several schools in Banlung. We started from Phnom Penh in a comfortable minivan and the 8.5 hours we spent on the road were spent mostly in listening to music and admiring the gorgeous countryside. We drove past countless lotus fields and traditional Cambodian houses on stilts. We took a short 1.5 hour break at Krong Kracheh (I think this was the place, but not sure) and after this break, as we moved northward, the condition of the roads deteriorated and the ride became quite bumpy. By the time we reached Banlung and turned into the parking of our hotel, Yeak Loam Hotel and Spa, we were dying to get out of the vehicle. The hotel was much more luxurious than the one we had a Phnom Penh. However, the food options were kind of limited. Martin, our project director had arranged us to have breakfast, lunch and dinner at two specific cafes, Cafe Alee and Green Carrot. He made us decide on what we wanted to have for our meals one night in advance. He would then make sure that by the time we reached the cafes, the food would be ready and waiting for us. This helped us optimize our time. Overall, our time in Banlung was very busy and the days were tiring and yet fulfilling. By the time we got back to the hotel, we were so exhausted that we fell into dreamless sleep. Moreover there was this sense of satisfaction that we were achieving something every day. The work was managed so efficiently that at the end of the project I was surprised at achieving what we had managed to achieve. I discovered so many new things about myself during these few days spent at Banlung. While most of our time at Banlung was spent working, we did manage to take an afternoon off and head to the Lake Yeak Laom. I remember Martin waiting for us under one of the Canopies while we walked around the lake. Some of our team members went for a swim in the lake as well. Danielle was a good swimmer, and she was able to convince Nidhi and Astha to get in as well. I stayed put. As did Ty. Another outing that we managed to steal was a walk around the city. We found a beautiful Japanese Market from where I bought some pretty trinkets. There was a huge market, where we were able to buy Jasmine Green tea. It was quite an interesting place after all. We just did not get enough time to explore it. The Cafes that we ate at - Cafe Alee and Green Carrot - were quite amazing. I had the best pancake of my life at Cafe Alee and Green Carrot served an amazing mango shake. I remember eating rice with chopsticks for the first time in my life. At Cafe Alee, our frequent table mates were a couple of dogs who begged for food in the most dignified way possible.The black dog in particular was amazing. It would come and sit with its back straight and chest out right next to Martin and completely avoid looking at him. Martin would pet him and often give him some morsels to eat. As soon as Martin stopped paying attention, the black dog would put its paw on Martin's leg to attract his attention. Our last breakfast at Cafe Alee was quite amazing. We were happy to be heading back to Phnom Penh and yet sad that we would not be eating such amazing food and meeting the dogs again. The staff at Care Cambodia was quite inspiring. Our translator Mr Nhoeb Khan was an amazing person - humble, grounded, and talented. I will forever remember him and his wonderful team. There was so much to write about Banlung. Now I wonder why I did not do it earlier. When I think back, so many memories come rushing in. Details start forming, like the memories of that night when there was supposed to be a meteor shower. We lay in beach beds looking up. We even managed to get the lights around the swimming pool switched off. We watched for one hour, and only I managed to see only one shooting star. And that too no one believed that I actually saw it. It was hilarious. I loved the city. Yes, no doubt about it. And it is quite natural. This was where I stayed the longest while in Cambodia. And it was my work in this city that taught me so much about work and about myself. For me, Banlung will always be a special place. It will forever keep inspiring me.



The hotel was much more luxurious than the one we had a Phnom Penh. However, the food options were kind of limited. Martin, our project director had arranged us to have breakfast, lunch and dinner at two specific cafes, Cafe Alee and Green Carrot. He made us decide on what we wanted to have for our meals one night in advance. He would then make sure that by the time we reached the cafes, the food would be ready and waiting for us. This helped us optimize our time. 


This is a slightly different Time-Turner post, mostly because I have never really written a dedicated post about my trip to Banlung. This was mostly because this is a tiny city, with population less than 20,000 and is really quiet. Moreover, while we were here, we were so busy that we had absolutely no time to take any break. And as a result, couldn't really roam around much. However, after so many years, I still remember the place vividly and look back at the time fondly. That is why it deserves a time-turner post. The Time-Turner series is my opportunity to pen down the lingering memories and impressions of a place I have visited. It helps me relive the experience a bit and also reflect upon the aspects of the place that stood out the most to me. For more Time-Turner posts, follow this link: The Time-Turner Series. I went to Cambodia in December 2017 on a CSR project managed by Team4Tech for Adobe. After an initiation in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, we shifted base to Banlung, the capital city of the Ratanakiri province of Cambodia. We were to spend 5 days training the staff of CareCambodia on various project management processes and also to kick-start technical initiatives, such as a Digital Magazine for the students and by the students of several schools in Banlung. We started from Phnom Penh in a comfortable minivan and the 8.5 hours we spent on the road were spent mostly in listening to music and admiring the gorgeous countryside. We drove past countless lotus fields and traditional Cambodian houses on stilts. We took a short 1.5 hour break at Krong Kracheh (I think this was the place, but not sure) and after this break, as we moved northward, the condition of the roads deteriorated and the ride became quite bumpy. By the time we reached Banlung and turned into the parking of our hotel, Yeak Loam Hotel and Spa, we were dying to get out of the vehicle. The hotel was much more luxurious than the one we had a Phnom Penh. However, the food options were kind of limited. Martin, our project director had arranged us to have breakfast, lunch and dinner at two specific cafes, Cafe Alee and Green Carrot. He made us decide on what we wanted to have for our meals one night in advance. He would then make sure that by the time we reached the cafes, the food would be ready and waiting for us. This helped us optimize our time. Overall, our time in Banlung was very busy and the days were tiring and yet fulfilling. By the time we got back to the hotel, we were so exhausted that we fell into dreamless sleep. Moreover there was this sense of satisfaction that we were achieving something every day. The work was managed so efficiently that at the end of the project I was surprised at achieving what we had managed to achieve. I discovered so many new things about myself during these few days spent at Banlung. While most of our time at Banlung was spent working, we did manage to take an afternoon off and head to the Lake Yeak Laom. I remember Martin waiting for us under one of the Canopies while we walked around the lake. Some of our team members went for a swim in the lake as well. Danielle was a good swimmer, and she was able to convince Nidhi and Astha to get in as well. I stayed put. As did Ty. Another outing that we managed to steal was a walk around the city. We found a beautiful Japanese Market from where I bought some pretty trinkets. There was a huge market, where we were able to buy Jasmine Green tea. It was quite an interesting place after all. We just did not get enough time to explore it. The Cafes that we ate at - Cafe Alee and Green Carrot - were quite amazing. I had the best pancake of my life at Cafe Alee and Green Carrot served an amazing mango shake. I remember eating rice with chopsticks for the first time in my life. At Cafe Alee, our frequent table mates were a couple of dogs who begged for food in the most dignified way possible.The black dog in particular was amazing. It would come and sit with its back straight and chest out right next to Martin and completely avoid looking at him. Martin would pet him and often give him some morsels to eat. As soon as Martin stopped paying attention, the black dog would put its paw on Martin's leg to attract his attention. Our last breakfast at Cafe Alee was quite amazing. We were happy to be heading back to Phnom Penh and yet sad that we would not be eating such amazing food and meeting the dogs again. The staff at Care Cambodia was quite inspiring. Our translator Mr Nhoeb Khan was an amazing person - humble, grounded, and talented. I will forever remember him and his wonderful team. There was so much to write about Banlung. Now I wonder why I did not do it earlier. When I think back, so many memories come rushing in. Details start forming, like the memories of that night when there was supposed to be a meteor shower. We lay in beach beds looking up. We even managed to get the lights around the swimming pool switched off. We watched for one hour, and only I managed to see only one shooting star. And that too no one believed that I actually saw it. It was hilarious. I loved the city. Yes, no doubt about it. And it is quite natural. This was where I stayed the longest while in Cambodia. And it was my work in this city that taught me so much about work and about myself. For me, Banlung will always be a special place. It will forever keep inspiring me.



Overall, our time in Banlung was very busy and the days were tiring and yet fulfilling. By the time we got back to the hotel, we were so exhausted that we fell into dreamless sleep. Moreover there was this sense of satisfaction that we were achieving something every day. The work was managed so efficiently that at the end of the project I was surprised at achieving what we had managed to achieve. I discovered so many new things about myself during these few days spent at Banlung. 


This is a slightly different Time-Turner post, mostly because I have never really written a dedicated post about my trip to Banlung. This was mostly because this is a tiny city, with population less than 20,000 and is really quiet. Moreover, while we were here, we were so busy that we had absolutely no time to take any break. And as a result, couldn't really roam around much. However, after so many years, I still remember the place vividly and look back at the time fondly. That is why it deserves a time-turner post. The Time-Turner series is my opportunity to pen down the lingering memories and impressions of a place I have visited. It helps me relive the experience a bit and also reflect upon the aspects of the place that stood out the most to me. For more Time-Turner posts, follow this link: The Time-Turner Series. I went to Cambodia in December 2017 on a CSR project managed by Team4Tech for Adobe. After an initiation in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, we shifted base to Banlung, the capital city of the Ratanakiri province of Cambodia. We were to spend 5 days training the staff of CareCambodia on various project management processes and also to kick-start technical initiatives, such as a Digital Magazine for the students and by the students of several schools in Banlung. We started from Phnom Penh in a comfortable minivan and the 8.5 hours we spent on the road were spent mostly in listening to music and admiring the gorgeous countryside. We drove past countless lotus fields and traditional Cambodian houses on stilts. We took a short 1.5 hour break at Krong Kracheh (I think this was the place, but not sure) and after this break, as we moved northward, the condition of the roads deteriorated and the ride became quite bumpy. By the time we reached Banlung and turned into the parking of our hotel, Yeak Loam Hotel and Spa, we were dying to get out of the vehicle. The hotel was much more luxurious than the one we had a Phnom Penh. However, the food options were kind of limited. Martin, our project director had arranged us to have breakfast, lunch and dinner at two specific cafes, Cafe Alee and Green Carrot. He made us decide on what we wanted to have for our meals one night in advance. He would then make sure that by the time we reached the cafes, the food would be ready and waiting for us. This helped us optimize our time. Overall, our time in Banlung was very busy and the days were tiring and yet fulfilling. By the time we got back to the hotel, we were so exhausted that we fell into dreamless sleep. Moreover there was this sense of satisfaction that we were achieving something every day. The work was managed so efficiently that at the end of the project I was surprised at achieving what we had managed to achieve. I discovered so many new things about myself during these few days spent at Banlung. While most of our time at Banlung was spent working, we did manage to take an afternoon off and head to the Lake Yeak Laom. I remember Martin waiting for us under one of the Canopies while we walked around the lake. Some of our team members went for a swim in the lake as well. Danielle was a good swimmer, and she was able to convince Nidhi and Astha to get in as well. I stayed put. As did Ty. Another outing that we managed to steal was a walk around the city. We found a beautiful Japanese Market from where I bought some pretty trinkets. There was a huge market, where we were able to buy Jasmine Green tea. It was quite an interesting place after all. We just did not get enough time to explore it. The Cafes that we ate at - Cafe Alee and Green Carrot - were quite amazing. I had the best pancake of my life at Cafe Alee and Green Carrot served an amazing mango shake. I remember eating rice with chopsticks for the first time in my life. At Cafe Alee, our frequent table mates were a couple of dogs who begged for food in the most dignified way possible.The black dog in particular was amazing. It would come and sit with its back straight and chest out right next to Martin and completely avoid looking at him. Martin would pet him and often give him some morsels to eat. As soon as Martin stopped paying attention, the black dog would put its paw on Martin's leg to attract his attention. Our last breakfast at Cafe Alee was quite amazing. We were happy to be heading back to Phnom Penh and yet sad that we would not be eating such amazing food and meeting the dogs again. The staff at Care Cambodia was quite inspiring. Our translator Mr Nhoeb Khan was an amazing person - humble, grounded, and talented. I will forever remember him and his wonderful team. There was so much to write about Banlung. Now I wonder why I did not do it earlier. When I think back, so many memories come rushing in. Details start forming, like the memories of that night when there was supposed to be a meteor shower. We lay in beach beds looking up. We even managed to get the lights around the swimming pool switched off. We watched for one hour, and only I managed to see only one shooting star. And that too no one believed that I actually saw it. It was hilarious. I loved the city. Yes, no doubt about it. And it is quite natural. This was where I stayed the longest while in Cambodia. And it was my work in this city that taught me so much about work and about myself. For me, Banlung will always be a special place. It will forever keep inspiring me.



While most of our time at Banlung was spent working, we did manage to take an afternoon off and head to the Lake Yeak Laom. I remember Martin waiting for us under one of the Canopies while we walked around the lake. Some of our team members went for a swim in the lake as well. Danielle was a good swimmer, and she was able to convince Nidhi and Astha to get in as well. I stayed put. As did Ty. 


This is a slightly different Time-Turner post, mostly because I have never really written a dedicated post about my trip to Banlung. This was mostly because this is a tiny city, with population less than 20,000 and is really quiet. Moreover, while we were here, we were so busy that we had absolutely no time to take any break. And as a result, couldn't really roam around much. However, after so many years, I still remember the place vividly and look back at the time fondly. That is why it deserves a time-turner post. The Time-Turner series is my opportunity to pen down the lingering memories and impressions of a place I have visited. It helps me relive the experience a bit and also reflect upon the aspects of the place that stood out the most to me. For more Time-Turner posts, follow this link: The Time-Turner Series. I went to Cambodia in December 2017 on a CSR project managed by Team4Tech for Adobe. After an initiation in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, we shifted base to Banlung, the capital city of the Ratanakiri province of Cambodia. We were to spend 5 days training the staff of CareCambodia on various project management processes and also to kick-start technical initiatives, such as a Digital Magazine for the students and by the students of several schools in Banlung. We started from Phnom Penh in a comfortable minivan and the 8.5 hours we spent on the road were spent mostly in listening to music and admiring the gorgeous countryside. We drove past countless lotus fields and traditional Cambodian houses on stilts. We took a short 1.5 hour break at Krong Kracheh (I think this was the place, but not sure) and after this break, as we moved northward, the condition of the roads deteriorated and the ride became quite bumpy. By the time we reached Banlung and turned into the parking of our hotel, Yeak Loam Hotel and Spa, we were dying to get out of the vehicle. The hotel was much more luxurious than the one we had a Phnom Penh. However, the food options were kind of limited. Martin, our project director had arranged us to have breakfast, lunch and dinner at two specific cafes, Cafe Alee and Green Carrot. He made us decide on what we wanted to have for our meals one night in advance. He would then make sure that by the time we reached the cafes, the food would be ready and waiting for us. This helped us optimize our time. Overall, our time in Banlung was very busy and the days were tiring and yet fulfilling. By the time we got back to the hotel, we were so exhausted that we fell into dreamless sleep. Moreover there was this sense of satisfaction that we were achieving something every day. The work was managed so efficiently that at the end of the project I was surprised at achieving what we had managed to achieve. I discovered so many new things about myself during these few days spent at Banlung. While most of our time at Banlung was spent working, we did manage to take an afternoon off and head to the Lake Yeak Laom. I remember Martin waiting for us under one of the Canopies while we walked around the lake. Some of our team members went for a swim in the lake as well. Danielle was a good swimmer, and she was able to convince Nidhi and Astha to get in as well. I stayed put. As did Ty. Another outing that we managed to steal was a walk around the city. We found a beautiful Japanese Market from where I bought some pretty trinkets. There was a huge market, where we were able to buy Jasmine Green tea. It was quite an interesting place after all. We just did not get enough time to explore it. The Cafes that we ate at - Cafe Alee and Green Carrot - were quite amazing. I had the best pancake of my life at Cafe Alee and Green Carrot served an amazing mango shake. I remember eating rice with chopsticks for the first time in my life. At Cafe Alee, our frequent table mates were a couple of dogs who begged for food in the most dignified way possible.The black dog in particular was amazing. It would come and sit with its back straight and chest out right next to Martin and completely avoid looking at him. Martin would pet him and often give him some morsels to eat. As soon as Martin stopped paying attention, the black dog would put its paw on Martin's leg to attract his attention. Our last breakfast at Cafe Alee was quite amazing. We were happy to be heading back to Phnom Penh and yet sad that we would not be eating such amazing food and meeting the dogs again. The staff at Care Cambodia was quite inspiring. Our translator Mr Nhoeb Khan was an amazing person - humble, grounded, and talented. I will forever remember him and his wonderful team. There was so much to write about Banlung. Now I wonder why I did not do it earlier. When I think back, so many memories come rushing in. Details start forming, like the memories of that night when there was supposed to be a meteor shower. We lay in beach beds looking up. We even managed to get the lights around the swimming pool switched off. We watched for one hour, and only I managed to see only one shooting star. And that too no one believed that I actually saw it. It was hilarious. I loved the city. Yes, no doubt about it. And it is quite natural. This was where I stayed the longest while in Cambodia. And it was my work in this city that taught me so much about work and about myself. For me, Banlung will always be a special place. It will forever keep inspiring me.



Another outing that we managed to steal was a walk around the city. We found a beautiful Japanese Market from where I bought some pretty trinkets. There was a huge market, where we were able to buy Jasmine Green tea. It was quite an interesting place after all. We just did not get enough time to explore it. 


This is a slightly different Time-Turner post, mostly because I have never really written a dedicated post about my trip to Banlung. This was mostly because this is a tiny city, with population less than 20,000 and is really quiet. Moreover, while we were here, we were so busy that we had absolutely no time to take any break. And as a result, couldn't really roam around much. However, after so many years, I still remember the place vividly and look back at the time fondly. That is why it deserves a time-turner post. The Time-Turner series is my opportunity to pen down the lingering memories and impressions of a place I have visited. It helps me relive the experience a bit and also reflect upon the aspects of the place that stood out the most to me. For more Time-Turner posts, follow this link: The Time-Turner Series. I went to Cambodia in December 2017 on a CSR project managed by Team4Tech for Adobe. After an initiation in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, we shifted base to Banlung, the capital city of the Ratanakiri province of Cambodia. We were to spend 5 days training the staff of CareCambodia on various project management processes and also to kick-start technical initiatives, such as a Digital Magazine for the students and by the students of several schools in Banlung. We started from Phnom Penh in a comfortable minivan and the 8.5 hours we spent on the road were spent mostly in listening to music and admiring the gorgeous countryside. We drove past countless lotus fields and traditional Cambodian houses on stilts. We took a short 1.5 hour break at Krong Kracheh (I think this was the place, but not sure) and after this break, as we moved northward, the condition of the roads deteriorated and the ride became quite bumpy. By the time we reached Banlung and turned into the parking of our hotel, Yeak Loam Hotel and Spa, we were dying to get out of the vehicle. The hotel was much more luxurious than the one we had a Phnom Penh. However, the food options were kind of limited. Martin, our project director had arranged us to have breakfast, lunch and dinner at two specific cafes, Cafe Alee and Green Carrot. He made us decide on what we wanted to have for our meals one night in advance. He would then make sure that by the time we reached the cafes, the food would be ready and waiting for us. This helped us optimize our time. Overall, our time in Banlung was very busy and the days were tiring and yet fulfilling. By the time we got back to the hotel, we were so exhausted that we fell into dreamless sleep. Moreover there was this sense of satisfaction that we were achieving something every day. The work was managed so efficiently that at the end of the project I was surprised at achieving what we had managed to achieve. I discovered so many new things about myself during these few days spent at Banlung. While most of our time at Banlung was spent working, we did manage to take an afternoon off and head to the Lake Yeak Laom. I remember Martin waiting for us under one of the Canopies while we walked around the lake. Some of our team members went for a swim in the lake as well. Danielle was a good swimmer, and she was able to convince Nidhi and Astha to get in as well. I stayed put. As did Ty. Another outing that we managed to steal was a walk around the city. We found a beautiful Japanese Market from where I bought some pretty trinkets. There was a huge market, where we were able to buy Jasmine Green tea. It was quite an interesting place after all. We just did not get enough time to explore it. The Cafes that we ate at - Cafe Alee and Green Carrot - were quite amazing. I had the best pancake of my life at Cafe Alee and Green Carrot served an amazing mango shake. I remember eating rice with chopsticks for the first time in my life. At Cafe Alee, our frequent table mates were a couple of dogs who begged for food in the most dignified way possible.The black dog in particular was amazing. It would come and sit with its back straight and chest out right next to Martin and completely avoid looking at him. Martin would pet him and often give him some morsels to eat. As soon as Martin stopped paying attention, the black dog would put its paw on Martin's leg to attract his attention. Our last breakfast at Cafe Alee was quite amazing. We were happy to be heading back to Phnom Penh and yet sad that we would not be eating such amazing food and meeting the dogs again. The staff at Care Cambodia was quite inspiring. Our translator Mr Nhoeb Khan was an amazing person - humble, grounded, and talented. I will forever remember him and his wonderful team. There was so much to write about Banlung. Now I wonder why I did not do it earlier. When I think back, so many memories come rushing in. Details start forming, like the memories of that night when there was supposed to be a meteor shower. We lay in beach beds looking up. We even managed to get the lights around the swimming pool switched off. We watched for one hour, and only I managed to see only one shooting star. And that too no one believed that I actually saw it. It was hilarious. I loved the city. Yes, no doubt about it. And it is quite natural. This was where I stayed the longest while in Cambodia. And it was my work in this city that taught me so much about work and about myself. For me, Banlung will always be a special place. It will forever keep inspiring me.



The Cafes that we ate at - Cafe Alee and Green Carrot - were quite amazing. I had the best pancake of my life at Cafe Alee and Green Carrot served an amazing mango shake. I remember eating rice with chopsticks for the first time in my life. At Cafe Alee, our frequent table mates were a couple of dogs who begged for food in the most dignified way possible.


This is a slightly different Time-Turner post, mostly because I have never really written a dedicated post about my trip to Banlung. This was mostly because this is a tiny city, with population less than 20,000 and is really quiet. Moreover, while we were here, we were so busy that we had absolutely no time to take any break. And as a result, couldn't really roam around much. However, after so many years, I still remember the place vividly and look back at the time fondly. That is why it deserves a time-turner post. The Time-Turner series is my opportunity to pen down the lingering memories and impressions of a place I have visited. It helps me relive the experience a bit and also reflect upon the aspects of the place that stood out the most to me. For more Time-Turner posts, follow this link: The Time-Turner Series. I went to Cambodia in December 2017 on a CSR project managed by Team4Tech for Adobe. After an initiation in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, we shifted base to Banlung, the capital city of the Ratanakiri province of Cambodia. We were to spend 5 days training the staff of CareCambodia on various project management processes and also to kick-start technical initiatives, such as a Digital Magazine for the students and by the students of several schools in Banlung. We started from Phnom Penh in a comfortable minivan and the 8.5 hours we spent on the road were spent mostly in listening to music and admiring the gorgeous countryside. We drove past countless lotus fields and traditional Cambodian houses on stilts. We took a short 1.5 hour break at Krong Kracheh (I think this was the place, but not sure) and after this break, as we moved northward, the condition of the roads deteriorated and the ride became quite bumpy. By the time we reached Banlung and turned into the parking of our hotel, Yeak Loam Hotel and Spa, we were dying to get out of the vehicle. The hotel was much more luxurious than the one we had a Phnom Penh. However, the food options were kind of limited. Martin, our project director had arranged us to have breakfast, lunch and dinner at two specific cafes, Cafe Alee and Green Carrot. He made us decide on what we wanted to have for our meals one night in advance. He would then make sure that by the time we reached the cafes, the food would be ready and waiting for us. This helped us optimize our time. Overall, our time in Banlung was very busy and the days were tiring and yet fulfilling. By the time we got back to the hotel, we were so exhausted that we fell into dreamless sleep. Moreover there was this sense of satisfaction that we were achieving something every day. The work was managed so efficiently that at the end of the project I was surprised at achieving what we had managed to achieve. I discovered so many new things about myself during these few days spent at Banlung. While most of our time at Banlung was spent working, we did manage to take an afternoon off and head to the Lake Yeak Laom. I remember Martin waiting for us under one of the Canopies while we walked around the lake. Some of our team members went for a swim in the lake as well. Danielle was a good swimmer, and she was able to convince Nidhi and Astha to get in as well. I stayed put. As did Ty. Another outing that we managed to steal was a walk around the city. We found a beautiful Japanese Market from where I bought some pretty trinkets. There was a huge market, where we were able to buy Jasmine Green tea. It was quite an interesting place after all. We just did not get enough time to explore it. The Cafes that we ate at - Cafe Alee and Green Carrot - were quite amazing. I had the best pancake of my life at Cafe Alee and Green Carrot served an amazing mango shake. I remember eating rice with chopsticks for the first time in my life. At Cafe Alee, our frequent table mates were a couple of dogs who begged for food in the most dignified way possible.The black dog in particular was amazing. It would come and sit with its back straight and chest out right next to Martin and completely avoid looking at him. Martin would pet him and often give him some morsels to eat. As soon as Martin stopped paying attention, the black dog would put its paw on Martin's leg to attract his attention. Our last breakfast at Cafe Alee was quite amazing. We were happy to be heading back to Phnom Penh and yet sad that we would not be eating such amazing food and meeting the dogs again. The staff at Care Cambodia was quite inspiring. Our translator Mr Nhoeb Khan was an amazing person - humble, grounded, and talented. I will forever remember him and his wonderful team. There was so much to write about Banlung. Now I wonder why I did not do it earlier. When I think back, so many memories come rushing in. Details start forming, like the memories of that night when there was supposed to be a meteor shower. We lay in beach beds looking up. We even managed to get the lights around the swimming pool switched off. We watched for one hour, and only I managed to see only one shooting star. And that too no one believed that I actually saw it. It was hilarious. I loved the city. Yes, no doubt about it. And it is quite natural. This was where I stayed the longest while in Cambodia. And it was my work in this city that taught me so much about work and about myself. For me, Banlung will always be a special place. It will forever keep inspiring me.



The black dog in particular was amazing. It would come and sit with its back straight and chest out right next to Martin and completely avoid looking at him. Martin would pet him and often give him some morsels to eat. As soon as Martin stopped paying attention, the black dog would put its paw on Martin's leg to attract his attention. Our last breakfast at Cafe Alee was quite amazing. We were happy to be heading back to Phnom Penh and yet sad that we would not be eating such amazing food and meeting the dogs again.


This is a slightly different Time-Turner post, mostly because I have never really written a dedicated post about my trip to Banlung. This was mostly because this is a tiny city, with population less than 20,000 and is really quiet. Moreover, while we were here, we were so busy that we had absolutely no time to take any break. And as a result, couldn't really roam around much. However, after so many years, I still remember the place vividly and look back at the time fondly. That is why it deserves a time-turner post. The Time-Turner series is my opportunity to pen down the lingering memories and impressions of a place I have visited. It helps me relive the experience a bit and also reflect upon the aspects of the place that stood out the most to me. For more Time-Turner posts, follow this link: The Time-Turner Series. I went to Cambodia in December 2017 on a CSR project managed by Team4Tech for Adobe. After an initiation in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, we shifted base to Banlung, the capital city of the Ratanakiri province of Cambodia. We were to spend 5 days training the staff of CareCambodia on various project management processes and also to kick-start technical initiatives, such as a Digital Magazine for the students and by the students of several schools in Banlung. We started from Phnom Penh in a comfortable minivan and the 8.5 hours we spent on the road were spent mostly in listening to music and admiring the gorgeous countryside. We drove past countless lotus fields and traditional Cambodian houses on stilts. We took a short 1.5 hour break at Krong Kracheh (I think this was the place, but not sure) and after this break, as we moved northward, the condition of the roads deteriorated and the ride became quite bumpy. By the time we reached Banlung and turned into the parking of our hotel, Yeak Loam Hotel and Spa, we were dying to get out of the vehicle. The hotel was much more luxurious than the one we had a Phnom Penh. However, the food options were kind of limited. Martin, our project director had arranged us to have breakfast, lunch and dinner at two specific cafes, Cafe Alee and Green Carrot. He made us decide on what we wanted to have for our meals one night in advance. He would then make sure that by the time we reached the cafes, the food would be ready and waiting for us. This helped us optimize our time. Overall, our time in Banlung was very busy and the days were tiring and yet fulfilling. By the time we got back to the hotel, we were so exhausted that we fell into dreamless sleep. Moreover there was this sense of satisfaction that we were achieving something every day. The work was managed so efficiently that at the end of the project I was surprised at achieving what we had managed to achieve. I discovered so many new things about myself during these few days spent at Banlung. While most of our time at Banlung was spent working, we did manage to take an afternoon off and head to the Lake Yeak Laom. I remember Martin waiting for us under one of the Canopies while we walked around the lake. Some of our team members went for a swim in the lake as well. Danielle was a good swimmer, and she was able to convince Nidhi and Astha to get in as well. I stayed put. As did Ty. Another outing that we managed to steal was a walk around the city. We found a beautiful Japanese Market from where I bought some pretty trinkets. There was a huge market, where we were able to buy Jasmine Green tea. It was quite an interesting place after all. We just did not get enough time to explore it. The Cafes that we ate at - Cafe Alee and Green Carrot - were quite amazing. I had the best pancake of my life at Cafe Alee and Green Carrot served an amazing mango shake. I remember eating rice with chopsticks for the first time in my life. At Cafe Alee, our frequent table mates were a couple of dogs who begged for food in the most dignified way possible.The black dog in particular was amazing. It would come and sit with its back straight and chest out right next to Martin and completely avoid looking at him. Martin would pet him and often give him some morsels to eat. As soon as Martin stopped paying attention, the black dog would put its paw on Martin's leg to attract his attention. Our last breakfast at Cafe Alee was quite amazing. We were happy to be heading back to Phnom Penh and yet sad that we would not be eating such amazing food and meeting the dogs again. The staff at Care Cambodia was quite inspiring. Our translator Mr Nhoeb Khan was an amazing person - humble, grounded, and talented. I will forever remember him and his wonderful team. There was so much to write about Banlung. Now I wonder why I did not do it earlier. When I think back, so many memories come rushing in. Details start forming, like the memories of that night when there was supposed to be a meteor shower. We lay in beach beds looking up. We even managed to get the lights around the swimming pool switched off. We watched for one hour, and only I managed to see only one shooting star. And that too no one believed that I actually saw it. It was hilarious. I loved the city. Yes, no doubt about it. And it is quite natural. This was where I stayed the longest while in Cambodia. And it was my work in this city that taught me so much about work and about myself. For me, Banlung will always be a special place. It will forever keep inspiring me.



The staff at Care Cambodia was quite inspiring. Our translator Mr Nhoeb Khan was an amazing person - humble, grounded, and talented. I will forever remember him and his wonderful team. 


This is a slightly different Time-Turner post, mostly because I have never really written a dedicated post about my trip to Banlung. This was mostly because this is a tiny city, with population less than 20,000 and is really quiet. Moreover, while we were here, we were so busy that we had absolutely no time to take any break. And as a result, couldn't really roam around much. However, after so many years, I still remember the place vividly and look back at the time fondly. That is why it deserves a time-turner post. The Time-Turner series is my opportunity to pen down the lingering memories and impressions of a place I have visited. It helps me relive the experience a bit and also reflect upon the aspects of the place that stood out the most to me. For more Time-Turner posts, follow this link: The Time-Turner Series. I went to Cambodia in December 2017 on a CSR project managed by Team4Tech for Adobe. After an initiation in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, we shifted base to Banlung, the capital city of the Ratanakiri province of Cambodia. We were to spend 5 days training the staff of CareCambodia on various project management processes and also to kick-start technical initiatives, such as a Digital Magazine for the students and by the students of several schools in Banlung. We started from Phnom Penh in a comfortable minivan and the 8.5 hours we spent on the road were spent mostly in listening to music and admiring the gorgeous countryside. We drove past countless lotus fields and traditional Cambodian houses on stilts. We took a short 1.5 hour break at Krong Kracheh (I think this was the place, but not sure) and after this break, as we moved northward, the condition of the roads deteriorated and the ride became quite bumpy. By the time we reached Banlung and turned into the parking of our hotel, Yeak Loam Hotel and Spa, we were dying to get out of the vehicle. The hotel was much more luxurious than the one we had a Phnom Penh. However, the food options were kind of limited. Martin, our project director had arranged us to have breakfast, lunch and dinner at two specific cafes, Cafe Alee and Green Carrot. He made us decide on what we wanted to have for our meals one night in advance. He would then make sure that by the time we reached the cafes, the food would be ready and waiting for us. This helped us optimize our time. Overall, our time in Banlung was very busy and the days were tiring and yet fulfilling. By the time we got back to the hotel, we were so exhausted that we fell into dreamless sleep. Moreover there was this sense of satisfaction that we were achieving something every day. The work was managed so efficiently that at the end of the project I was surprised at achieving what we had managed to achieve. I discovered so many new things about myself during these few days spent at Banlung. While most of our time at Banlung was spent working, we did manage to take an afternoon off and head to the Lake Yeak Laom. I remember Martin waiting for us under one of the Canopies while we walked around the lake. Some of our team members went for a swim in the lake as well. Danielle was a good swimmer, and she was able to convince Nidhi and Astha to get in as well. I stayed put. As did Ty. Another outing that we managed to steal was a walk around the city. We found a beautiful Japanese Market from where I bought some pretty trinkets. There was a huge market, where we were able to buy Jasmine Green tea. It was quite an interesting place after all. We just did not get enough time to explore it. The Cafes that we ate at - Cafe Alee and Green Carrot - were quite amazing. I had the best pancake of my life at Cafe Alee and Green Carrot served an amazing mango shake. I remember eating rice with chopsticks for the first time in my life. At Cafe Alee, our frequent table mates were a couple of dogs who begged for food in the most dignified way possible.The black dog in particular was amazing. It would come and sit with its back straight and chest out right next to Martin and completely avoid looking at him. Martin would pet him and often give him some morsels to eat. As soon as Martin stopped paying attention, the black dog would put its paw on Martin's leg to attract his attention. Our last breakfast at Cafe Alee was quite amazing. We were happy to be heading back to Phnom Penh and yet sad that we would not be eating such amazing food and meeting the dogs again. The staff at Care Cambodia was quite inspiring. Our translator Mr Nhoeb Khan was an amazing person - humble, grounded, and talented. I will forever remember him and his wonderful team. There was so much to write about Banlung. Now I wonder why I did not do it earlier. When I think back, so many memories come rushing in. Details start forming, like the memories of that night when there was supposed to be a meteor shower. We lay in beach beds looking up. We even managed to get the lights around the swimming pool switched off. We watched for one hour, and only I managed to see only one shooting star. And that too no one believed that I actually saw it. It was hilarious. I loved the city. Yes, no doubt about it. And it is quite natural. This was where I stayed the longest while in Cambodia. And it was my work in this city that taught me so much about work and about myself. For me, Banlung will always be a special place. It will forever keep inspiring me.



There was so much to write about Banlung. Now I wonder why I did not do it earlier. When I think back, so many memories come rushing in. Details start forming, like the memories of that night when there was supposed to be a meteor shower. We lay in beach beds looking up. We even managed to get the lights around the swimming pool switched off. We watched for one hour, and only I managed to see only one shooting star. And that too no one believed that I actually saw it. It was hilarious. 


This is a slightly different Time-Turner post, mostly because I have never really written a dedicated post about my trip to Banlung. This was mostly because this is a tiny city, with population less than 20,000 and is really quiet. Moreover, while we were here, we were so busy that we had absolutely no time to take any break. And as a result, couldn't really roam around much. However, after so many years, I still remember the place vividly and look back at the time fondly. That is why it deserves a time-turner post. The Time-Turner series is my opportunity to pen down the lingering memories and impressions of a place I have visited. It helps me relive the experience a bit and also reflect upon the aspects of the place that stood out the most to me. For more Time-Turner posts, follow this link: The Time-Turner Series. I went to Cambodia in December 2017 on a CSR project managed by Team4Tech for Adobe. After an initiation in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, we shifted base to Banlung, the capital city of the Ratanakiri province of Cambodia. We were to spend 5 days training the staff of CareCambodia on various project management processes and also to kick-start technical initiatives, such as a Digital Magazine for the students and by the students of several schools in Banlung. We started from Phnom Penh in a comfortable minivan and the 8.5 hours we spent on the road were spent mostly in listening to music and admiring the gorgeous countryside. We drove past countless lotus fields and traditional Cambodian houses on stilts. We took a short 1.5 hour break at Krong Kracheh (I think this was the place, but not sure) and after this break, as we moved northward, the condition of the roads deteriorated and the ride became quite bumpy. By the time we reached Banlung and turned into the parking of our hotel, Yeak Loam Hotel and Spa, we were dying to get out of the vehicle. The hotel was much more luxurious than the one we had a Phnom Penh. However, the food options were kind of limited. Martin, our project director had arranged us to have breakfast, lunch and dinner at two specific cafes, Cafe Alee and Green Carrot. He made us decide on what we wanted to have for our meals one night in advance. He would then make sure that by the time we reached the cafes, the food would be ready and waiting for us. This helped us optimize our time. Overall, our time in Banlung was very busy and the days were tiring and yet fulfilling. By the time we got back to the hotel, we were so exhausted that we fell into dreamless sleep. Moreover there was this sense of satisfaction that we were achieving something every day. The work was managed so efficiently that at the end of the project I was surprised at achieving what we had managed to achieve. I discovered so many new things about myself during these few days spent at Banlung. While most of our time at Banlung was spent working, we did manage to take an afternoon off and head to the Lake Yeak Laom. I remember Martin waiting for us under one of the Canopies while we walked around the lake. Some of our team members went for a swim in the lake as well. Danielle was a good swimmer, and she was able to convince Nidhi and Astha to get in as well. I stayed put. As did Ty. Another outing that we managed to steal was a walk around the city. We found a beautiful Japanese Market from where I bought some pretty trinkets. There was a huge market, where we were able to buy Jasmine Green tea. It was quite an interesting place after all. We just did not get enough time to explore it. The Cafes that we ate at - Cafe Alee and Green Carrot - were quite amazing. I had the best pancake of my life at Cafe Alee and Green Carrot served an amazing mango shake. I remember eating rice with chopsticks for the first time in my life. At Cafe Alee, our frequent table mates were a couple of dogs who begged for food in the most dignified way possible.The black dog in particular was amazing. It would come and sit with its back straight and chest out right next to Martin and completely avoid looking at him. Martin would pet him and often give him some morsels to eat. As soon as Martin stopped paying attention, the black dog would put its paw on Martin's leg to attract his attention. Our last breakfast at Cafe Alee was quite amazing. We were happy to be heading back to Phnom Penh and yet sad that we would not be eating such amazing food and meeting the dogs again. The staff at Care Cambodia was quite inspiring. Our translator Mr Nhoeb Khan was an amazing person - humble, grounded, and talented. I will forever remember him and his wonderful team. There was so much to write about Banlung. Now I wonder why I did not do it earlier. When I think back, so many memories come rushing in. Details start forming, like the memories of that night when there was supposed to be a meteor shower. We lay in beach beds looking up. We even managed to get the lights around the swimming pool switched off. We watched for one hour, and only I managed to see only one shooting star. And that too no one believed that I actually saw it. It was hilarious. I loved the city. Yes, no doubt about it. And it is quite natural. This was where I stayed the longest while in Cambodia. And it was my work in this city that taught me so much about work and about myself. For me, Banlung will always be a special place. It will forever keep inspiring me.



I loved the city. Yes, no doubt about it. And it is quite natural. This was where I stayed the longest while in Cambodia. And it was my work in this city that taught me so much about work and about myself. For me, Banlung will always be a special place. It will forever keep inspiring me. 

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Different types of fried meat balls and eggs were also being prepared and served at various places in Cambodia. In general, food, at least what we tried was good and street food looked safe in most places. However, general advice is to be careful and choose places where food is being cooked fresh and selling out fast.Exploring the great Variety of Food in beautiful country, Cambodia || Why Cambodian towns like Siem Reap & Phnom Penh are special for people who want to experience diverse food options

















































































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