SIDEWALKS ARE NOT FOR WALKING

JULY 29 - In several years past, I've written about Siem Reap sidewalks. There is no limit to their uses, and seemingly no ordinances to control.

Many Siem Reap sidewalks, as well as streets, have been improved in recent years and they would be really fine--and safe--for walking now.

However, their use has remained largely the same...for displaying wares and parking vehicles. Walkers must navigate the edges of the streets while dealing with beggars and sidewalk hawkers and avoiding bicycles, motorbikes, tuk tuks, cars and trucks. This is where a picture is worth a thousand words! Check out both sides of the street.

Pat Lyon was the original author of the email title and the idea some 7 or 8 years ago. It continues to fascinate me that Khmer haven't caught the idea that their beautifully tiled sidewalks could be safe inviting walkways for tourists as well as their own children and families.