Phnom Penh, Cambodia
From Wikiasiantravel
Being the capital, Phnom Penh is the largest and most populous city of Cambodia. It serves as the center for commerce, politics, and cultural experience of the country. Because of the former colonizers, Khmer and French influence is much noted especially with the structures.
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Sights to See
- Toul Sleng Genocide Museum((S-21) - The former detention area during the Khmer Rouge rule where 17,000 men, women and children were kept in custody and tortured. Only 7 people survived to recall the tragic memories.
- The Royal Palace - serves as the Royal residence. Although it is close to the public, one can visit the Wat Preah Keo or Silver Pagoda and the surrounding grounds.
- The River Front- a great area for people watching especially during at night when the cool breeze can be experienced as well as a grand nightlife. Many festivals and events are held here as well. Location is at Sisowath Quay. Beware of beggars and hawkers though. You can stay in one of the cafes or restaurants to avoid them.
- National Museum - Houses some Khmer collections of pottery and statues and stone phalluses called lingas. Because majority of the display have poorly translated labels, it is advisable to hire a guide to give you a tour in English or French.
- The Killing Fields - on the outskirts of the city, is a memorial of the thousands of people who died by persecution under the rule of the Khmer Rouge. This is not really a site to behold but a great sobering experience which makes one to reflect on the cruelty that a man is capable of. A stupa has been built encasing skulls of people of all ages.
Shopping Spree
Central Market (Pasah Thmay) - a remarkable huge building with a central dome, where varied products are classified by zones. You will find some local crafts, flowers, jewelries, stationeries, souevenir items and cloths for bargain. Some local foods are notably sold at a cheap price in some stalls. There is no A/C so can be hot and humid sometimes.
Russian Market (Psah Toul Tom Poung) - Been famous by its name for the Russian goodies that used to abound there. Lately, it has become a major attraction for the silk products sold there. Area has limited space so not good for claustrophobics. Also have caution in buying jewelries and electronics as they could be fakes.
Accommodations
Five and Four Stars Hotel
- Raffles Hotel Le Royal
- Intercontinental Phnom Penh
- Hotel Cambodiana
Two and Three Stars
Backpackers and Budget Lodge
- Boddhi Tree Cafe
- PKD1- located at No. 40 St. 136. Rates are from US$ 10-15 a night.
Dining Places
Frizz Cafe-Restaurant- serves Cambodian as well as Asian and Pacific Rim Cuisine for breakfast or brunch. It is among the numerous restos in the River Front at this address 335 Sisowath Quay. Contact by phone thru # +855 (0) 23 220 953 or email at info@frizz-restaurant.com. Website is also available at www.frizz-restaurant.com
Topaz - French style dining that is not only famous for business folks but also romantic couples. Address is at 100 Sothearos Boulevard with contact number +855 23 21 1054. They are open from 9a.m. to 11 p.m.
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