🌿 The Smiling Stones: Solo Trip to Bayon Temple, Angkor Thom! 🗿

#asiabudgetchallenge
### **📍 Destination:**
**Bayon Temple** (Angkor Thom Complex, Cambodia) – The iconic **"Face Temple"** with 216 mysterious stone faces smiling at you from every angle. A masterpiece of Khmer architecture!

---

### **💰 Budget Breakdown (USD – Half-Day Trip from Siem Reap):**
- **Angkor Pass:** Already covered if visiting Angkor Wat (1-Day: $37 | 3-Day: $62)
- **Transport:**
- **Tuk-tuk from Siem Reap:** ~$15-20 (round trip, includes wait time)
- **Bicycle Rental:** ~$5 (if staying nearby)
- **Food/Water:**
- Coconut water (temple stalls): $1
- Packed lunch/snacks: $3-5
- **Extras:**
- Local guide (optional): $10-15
- Donation for incense: $1

**📌 Total Cost:** ~$20-$40** (excluding Angkor pass)

---

### **💡 Solo Traveler Tips:**
✅ **Best Time to Visit:** **7-9 AM** (soft light, fewer crowds) or **3-5 PM** (golden hour glow).
✅ **Getting There:** Enter through Angkor Thom’s **South Gate** (photo-worthy giant statues!) → 5-min walk to Bayon.
✅ **Must-See Spots:**
- **Upper Terrace:** Close-up of the iconic faces (perfect for portraits!).
- **Bas-Reliefs:** Hidden stories of Khmer history carved on walls.
- **Quiet Corners:** Explore side galleries for solitude.
✅ **Photography Tips:**
- Use a **wide-angle lens** for face towers.
- Play with shadows at noon for dramatic shots.
✅ **Dress Code:** Light, breathable clothes (no bare shoulders/knees).
✅ **Avoid Crowds:** Skip midday tours – visit **Ta Prohm or Baphuon** instead, then return to Bayon later.

---

### **📸 Instagram Hashtags:**
#bayontemple #angkorthom #cambodia #solotravel #lostcity #khmerempire #stonefaces #templevibes #wanderlust #ancientwonders

---

**🌞 Ready to Meet the Smiling Giants?** Follow the whispers of history, and let Bayon’s enigmatic faces guide your journey! ✨

*(No icons, clean & minimal!)*