during the expedition, highlighting both the allure and challenges of adventure travel in that era. At the start of the narrative, the author expresses excitement and trepidation as they finally arrive in Saïgon, reflecting on their long preparations and the status of their beloved automobile, the Diétrich. This opening portion emphasizes the anxieties of the travelers, particularly regarding their vehicle's condition after mishaps during transit. As they survey the familiar yet daunting terrain ahead, they engage in discussions about the impracticality of their journey. The text sets the stage for the adventure that follows, filled with mishaps, encounters with local cultures, and the rituals of preparing for a trek into an exotic yet unpredictable frontier, as the group starts their expedition to Ang-Kor filled with hope and zest. (This is an automatically generated summary.)