The Essay Collection

As someone from the Philippines, Cambodia was never a destination on my list. It was a country that felt quiet, almost hidden from the mainstream travel feeds, until my partner surprised me with a ticket to Siem Reap. I arrived with no expectations. But the moment his motorbike circled the ancient stone faces of Bayon Temple, any sense of unfamiliarity vanished. I was completely mesmerized. Stepping onto that raw, earthy ground, an overwhelming wave of recognition washed over

There are stays that make us feel at home, and stays that are simply comfortable. But there are rare sanctuaries that feel uniquely profound; places rich in history, artistry, Cambodian identity, and a deep sense of belonging. Maison Polanka is entirely that kind of stay; it is a living testament to a family’s devotion to Cambodia. To understand the soul of this place, one has to look back to 1992, when the modern story of Siem Reap was just beginning to be rewritten. Photo f

Traveling is an exercise in beautiful instability. It shakes the ground beneath your feet, replacing predictability with a surge of adrenaline. In the blur of unfamiliar faces, shifting landscapes, and new cultures; we often look for comfort and I never expected to find a hidden cafe in Hoi An. It was one rainy afternoon, a quick search led me to An Nhan – Exquisite Cultural Gallery and Coffee. The moment I stepped through the gates, the scent of the rich, grounding aroma of