ANGKOR THOM, CAMBODIA

Who: Michelle Schiller of Thornton, Carol Morganti of Loveland, Erich Schiller of Thornton, Joanne Singer of Denver and Marvin Morganti of Loveland.

Where: Bayon Temple, ancient ruins from the 12th century AD in Angkor Thom, just north of Angkor Wat, Cambodia.

Best meal: The food was excellent in all four countries we visited in Southeast Asia. For a break from the sticky rice, we ate at the Zanutti Restaurant in Bangkok and had an incredible Italian dinner for less than $20.

Best deal: Overseas Adventure Travel’s “Ancient Kingdoms” tour — 20 days with tour guides, all transportation, hotels, admission to the sites and most meals included. We got in on a special offer for free airfare as well.

Best time to go: It is always hot and humid. We went the end of May and early June, the beginning of the rainy season. It was uncomfortable later in the day, but our group started early in the morning for most of our touring. We lucked out with the rain — it rained mostly at night or brief showers when we were inside.

Best travel tip: Be flexible and openminded, especially when visiting the people in their homes. You can experience the joy in their lives in spite of the poverty and tragedies they face.