Stories

A “Free” Shot That Cost Me Everything Let me start by saying I consider myself a fairly seasoned traveler. I’ve dodged overpriced tuk-tuk rides, avoided fake gem scams, and even successfully haggled with a Bangkok street vendor who tried to charge me $10 for a bottle of water. But nothing—NOTHING—prepared me for the financial hurricane…

I still remember the first night I met Srey. The neon lights of Street 136 reflected off the wet pavement, and the thick, humid air was laced with cigarette smoke, grilled meat, and cheap cologne. Phnom Penh had a raw, intoxicating energy one that whispered promises of adventure, excitement, and maybe even love. I had…