February 21, 2015: Sad Farewell

Thursday was a quieter day around each project site with finishing touches (install toilet, fishing concrete, roof and doors) being complete by Mr. Son and ourselves.

Following a few photo ops, hugs and thanks we were off to lunch and then to a local school (Our School) located in Chamcar Bei where a school tour awaited. At the school we also provided donation of school supplies, books and tooth brushes. Additional donations of clothing were donated to EC for distribution to families in need at a later date. Funds were also provided to purchase filters for school water filtration systems.

Friday, we say good by tongue Spring Valley Resort (our home for the last two weeks) and begin our trip back to Phnom Penh.  Our lunch today was at "Friends Romdeng" restaurant where everyone was treated to tarantula (even a live one).

Where have the last two weeks gone? This is my third International Volunteer Experience (IVE) with DWC and first as a team leader. Without question, the last day is the most difficult. It is a time to reflect on the activities of past two weeks and to know that our contribution may be small in scope but huge in the hearts of those we have connected with. 

As we depart on extended vacation, or for home, we will carry in our hearts those experiences, memories and friendships, to be shared with family and friends (at home), reflected upon and cherished for a long time.  Equitable Cambodia (specifically Vy) is instrumental in ensuring the success of both our experience and also project completion. Maintaining communication lines between the DWC Team, contractors and families and ensuring all in country arrangements are in order. Vy, thank you so much. Lastly, I would like to thank our team:

• Tom, Bill and Evey (Kamloops, BC)
• Lindy (Prince George, BC) 
• Lynda, my sister (Nanaimo, BC). 
• Betty (Toronto, Ont.) 
• Liz (Clearwater, BC) 
• Jeries and Chelsea (Newmarket, Ont.)

Your desire and passion to help others has made this possible. I am truly grateful to have shared this IVE with you. A special thank you to all of you.

Don Brimacombe
DWC Volunteer Team Leader
Cambodia: February 2015

February 9, 2015: Ferris Wheels and Muddy Feet!

First day on project started with a carnival type atmosphere. What started as a photo opportunity, turned into an unexpected early morning ferris wheel ride at a small carnival on route to Odong community.

Then it was on to begin construction of two irrigation gates. The gates will be used to manage water flow while providing access across the many irrigation channels. 

Our extended travel to Kep (32 - 36hrs) over the last two days did not deter anyone from enthusiastically getting started with both hands and bare feet. Prior to lunch, footings were excavated for both gates, rock was placed and cement mixed. Then it was off to the Vine Restaurant for lunch.

The afternoon started as everyone expected with placement of the concrete pipes when unfortunately one of the near by gates was opened and resulting in the flooding of our work site. Amazing to see everyone's quick response to remedy the situation (creating a new ditch block up stream and dewatering the project sites). A slight delay. Huge effort by everyone today rewarded with a well deserved swim at Kep beach (muddy clothes and all) and a refreshing Angkor Beer.

Don Brimacombe

DWC Volunteer Team Leader 

Cambodia: February 2015

Saturday, Nov 15: Hello Cambodia!

Our party of five arrived scattered throughout the day and each of us was greeted by a tuk-tuk at the airport that took us on a winding ride through the streets of Phnom Penh to our hotel for the night. I must say this was quite an authentic introduction to the ‘big city’ and everyone was thrilled to take in the sights, sounds, and smells as we veered through traffic in the typical Cambodian manner. Sandra and Cathy arrived in the afternoon and were able to explore a bit, while Scott, Todd, and Sarah arrived at the hotel just before midnight; just enough time to kick back and reward ourselves with a cold beverage before bed as we looked out at the Tonle Sap River.

Sarah Armstrong 

DWC Team Leader 

Cambodia, November 2014

Saturday, Nov 15: First to arrive in Phnom Penh!

Arrived in Phnom Penh and was met by the hired tuk tuk driver at the airport. What transpired in the next 45 minutes was a mixture of fear, chaos and exhilaration!

Though there are designated lanes, they seem to be there simply as a guideline - there is definitely more motorcycles on the road than anything else so any little space that can fit a moto will be filled. And every once and a while, someone will decide to go the wrong way just because they can! And amazingly no one seems to get riled up over the ones going the wrong way. Full families of four passed by on their moto, apparently seven is the limit before the police will take any notice!

Amazingly all seem to happily coexist and I have a feeling that there are far few accidents than we see back home. In any case, it was a wonderful introduction to Cambodia. As some of the group was arriving late at night, we were to spend the night in Phnom Penh. 

After meeting my roomie for the next few weeks, we decided the hit the streets! We watched a Cambodian dance show complete with masks and shadow puppets - it was interesting to watch but likely more relevant had we understood the story! Afterwards we stopped for dinner to a noodle soup house where they had a burner on the table. You ordered the ingredients you wanted in the soup, and then they would bring them to the table where you would add them into the broth to cook! The spring onions were delicious but the "beef" was some sort of elastic tripe which proved more difficult than not to eat - but it was an experience and I think I'm going to like Cambodia - the people are friendly and quick to smile despite having crazy driving skills!!

Cathy Colborne 

DWC Participant

Cambodia, November 2014