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Striving to understand one of the most gruesome atrocities of the 20th century as well as its lasting impact on a nation and a culture, the Cambodian Landmine Museum is an institution that serves as both a historical point of reference as well as a reminder of the ever present threat to peaceful existence in an Asian country once divided by war and strife. Conveniently located a mere 6km from the site of Cambodia's ancient capital, Angkor Wat and its majestic ruins, this renowned museum and educational centre devoted to preserving the memories of the past for future generations, was declared open to the masses back in 1999. Situated less than 7km from Banteay Srey the Landmine Museum is managed and operated by a former child soldier, who took up arms as a member of the Khmer Rouge and the Vietnamese Army, but transformed his ideals and life purpose to run an institution dedicated to preventing violence against innocents. Offering visitors an all encompassing and unforgiving look at the world of landmines and the other deadly instruments causing irreparable harm to humans to this very day, the museum explores the gamut of devices still embedded beneath pastoral Cambodian landscapes. The highlight attractions at the museum include the audio visual presentation that delves into the disastrous aftermath of landmines and unexploded instruments while exploring museum curator Aki Ra's valiant efforts in demining the Cambodian countryside over the years. A gallery of weaponry that includes grenades, CS gas canisters, guns, rocket launchers, bullets, mortars and bombs confiscated during demining initiatives is also open to visitors as is an extensive database on landmines. The museum garden on the other hand provides a practical example with deactivated mines hidden beneath the surface for visitors to uncover on a nervous walk across the space. This exercise conveys the daily threat to life posed by the buried devices. The processes of manufacturing the devices and elements of landmine design as well as positioning are also explained by tour guides with visual aids, while visitors can also engage with landmine victims who call the museum home. Serving as a rehabilitation centre for these individuals the centre also pays homage to the work of demining volunteers who are saving lives by risking theirs. Travellers on the hunt for an elegant Siem Reap hotel should look no further than Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor. Ideally situated within 8km of the nearest airport this stylish rest is one luxury hotel Siem Reap counts among its finest accommodation providers. Google+
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