Sunday, March 14, 2010

Coffee In Phnom Penh

So much for weaning myself off coffee. Tried and failed. Unfortunately (or fortunately), there aren't good coffee joints near the office. On the workdays that I can't tapau coffee from Wild Honey or Black, I'll just do without it. I rather not have caffeine at all than drink what passes for coffee from the office pantry. I suppose I can do without coffee. But what's the fun then?

One luxury I enjoy, it's the pleasure of leaning back in an armchair to sip a leisurely cup of coffee. This, I did, many times over, at the hotel and at little cafes in the city. It's one way of watching the world go by with a full licence to stare at humans. I revel in being able to have random thoughts float around the mind for an extended period of time without having to focus on anything in particular. The feeling of being on vacation, even if it's for a day, is deeply felt. I'm very glad that there is nothing particularly urgent to go home to. The freedom is exhilarating. The choices are always mine to make and not because circumstances dictate otherwise. For as long as possible, this is something I'll never give up or trade for anything in the world.

Since the weekend belongs to me, the work laptop has been stowed along with the severe black clothes. Out came the dri-fit stuff and birkies. How else to beat the heat and humidity in the city?! Now, I feel like a proper tourist. But I also want to explore the hidden alleys that the usual tourists don't go to. I've got to soak in the sights and sounds of Phnom Penh before it's time to leave.

4 comments:

tuti said...

totally soak in the leisurely part, imp! you worked hard for the trip. you deserve it. ahhh. i love it. to be able to be a tourist without care. and.. take care, lol!

imp said...

tuti: totally. :)

celcilia_tjioe said...

Have a safe trip there, imp! ;)

imp said...

celcilia: safe! thanks! am back now!