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Writer's pictureTommi Martikainen

From Kuopio to Cambodia

In a world where the Earth is both vast and interconnected, it's easy to forget the stark differences that exist between distant lands. But as I embarked on a journey from the quaint Finnish town of Kuopio to the bustling streets of Phnom Penh, I was about to experience firsthand just how diverse our planet truly is.


The tale I'm about to share is not just a travel story; it's a testament to the incredible variety of cultures, landscapes, and ways of life that coexist on our shared planet. It's a reminder that even two places seemingly worlds apart can hold equally unforgettable experiences.

As I stood on the platform of Kuopio railway station, surrounded by the quiet charm of this Finnish town, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement mixed with trepidation. I was about to embark on my first far-eastern holiday, alone, with nothing but a sense of adventure to guide me. Little did I know, this journey would test not only my courage but also my perception of the world around me.


With the help of a travel agency aptly named "Fast and Furious," I found myself on a plane bound for Cambodia, a country steeped in history and mystery. As the aircraft soared above the clouds, I couldn't shake the feeling of anticipation building within me. What would await me on the other side of the world?




Touching down in Phnom Penh, I was immediately enveloped in a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and sensations unlike anything I had ever experienced. The vibrant chaos of the city streets, the intoxicating aroma of street food wafting through the air, the warmth of the Cambodian people—all of it was a world away from the tranquility of Kuopio.

But amidst the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh, I found myself confronted with a challenge I hadn't anticipated: the challenge of solitude. As a lone traveler in a foreign land, I felt the weight of my isolation bearing down on me, threatening to overwhelm my senses.

Yet, it was precisely in this moment of vulnerability that I discovered the true purpose of my journey—to find my inner self amidst the chaos of the unfamiliar. With each passing day, I pushed myself to embrace the unknown, to venture beyond my comfort zone, and to open myself up to the beauty of discovery.



From exploring the ancient temples of Angkor Wat to immersing myself in the rich tapestry of Khmer culture, every moment spent in Cambodia was a lesson in humility and resilience. As I watched the sunset over the Mekong River, casting a golden glow across the city skyline, I realized that I had found something far more valuable than mere souvenirs or photographs—I had found a deeper understanding of myself and the world around me.

So, to anyone contemplating a journey to a distant land, I offer this piece of advice: embrace the differences, embrace the challenges, and embrace the opportunity to discover the extraordinary in the ordinary. For it is through travel that we truly come to appreciate the richness and diversity of our planet—and the boundless potential that lies within every one of us.

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