Floating on the moat. At Angkor Wat

A floating bridge made of polythene air bags seems to be attracting local tourists to Angkor Wat, as the picturesque original stone bridge undergoes repairs, writes Chea Vannak. A temporary floating bridge completed in May over the moat leading to Angkor Wat, while the original is currently closed for repairs, is proving to be popular among tourists visiting the UNESCO heritage site.

Roeung Ry, a professional photographer who takes pictures for tourists for a fee, said his business has never been better. “Many tourists want to see the main Angkor Wat temple from the floating bridge. I guess it’s something new and they’re thrilled standing on it and posing for pictures,” said Mr Ry.

“I don’t think they feel it is dangerous standing on a plastic bridge that’s floating on water,” he added. The Apsara Authority, the government body that manages the Angkor Archaeological Park, cooperated with Sophia University in Japan to build the structure, allowing visitors access to the historic site.

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