Phnom Penh is a city that has seen and gone through much in its history. Before World War 2, it was known as the "Pearl of Asia", attracting many visitors from all over the world. During the Khmer Rouge era, the city and its residents suffered much, with many dying as a result of the atrocities committed by the then-government. Having said that, the city, and the country as a whole, have done much to move on with life, rebuilding the country and creating investment opportunities. Indeed, as one walks along the streets of Phnom Penh, you will find that you will mostly see locals who are getting on with their lives, seemingly unaware of the terrible things that have happened not too long ago.
Backpackers love this city, as most of the infrastructure is still left in their original facade, mostly untouched by modernisation and development. Being a former French colony, you will find many French influences in the buildings. The Central Post Office, Raffles Le Royal, and Central Market, are just a few examples that demonstrate how the French left their mark on this city.
Do some research and you will know that the country has preserved some of the sites used during the Khmer Rouge regime. These places of interests are must-dos when in this city, as one learn about the difficulties the locals went through during the war, and how much ordinary Cambodians suffered. It is all the more amazing as you realise that Cambodians have moved on so quickly, accepting the realities of life and how they have to continue life as usual in order to survive.
Backpackers love this city, as most of the infrastructure is still left in their original facade, mostly untouched by modernisation and development. Being a former French colony, you will find many French influences in the buildings. The Central Post Office, Raffles Le Royal, and Central Market, are just a few examples that demonstrate how the French left their mark on this city.
Do some research and you will know that the country has preserved some of the sites used during the Khmer Rouge regime. These places of interests are must-dos when in this city, as one learn about the difficulties the locals went through during the war, and how much ordinary Cambodians suffered. It is all the more amazing as you realise that Cambodians have moved on so quickly, accepting the realities of life and how they have to continue life as usual in order to survive.
It is also relaxing to sail along the river and look back at the city lights in the evening, as the sun sets behind you. As day turns to night, one can slowly see the city lights getting turned on, and locals getting ready for the vast crowd by the riverside, A.K.A. Sisowath Quay. It is at this place where the nightlife happens in Phnom Penh. Expats, backpackers, and locals gather nightly by Sisowath Quay for dinner, before having a pint of beer by a rooftop bar. It is quite easy to find a rooftop bar by the riverside and chill!
It is also not too difficult to find French cuisine in Phnom Penh. Mind you, the food taste really good as well! There are really good, and accordingly expensive, French dining scattered throughout the city. Frankly speaking, some of them taste as good as the real deal back in Paris!
Affordable local food is of course readily available, with many eateries throughout the city vying for business from locals and tourists alike. Sisowath Quay is where you will find the most eateries, though the quality varies, since it is a tourist hot spot. Venture out further, and you are likely to be in for a treat! Take your time to explore the city, and we guarantee that you will be richly rewarded, culturally and gastronomically!
Check out below for more information on the attractions Phnom Penh's got to offer!
It is also not too difficult to find French cuisine in Phnom Penh. Mind you, the food taste really good as well! There are really good, and accordingly expensive, French dining scattered throughout the city. Frankly speaking, some of them taste as good as the real deal back in Paris!
Affordable local food is of course readily available, with many eateries throughout the city vying for business from locals and tourists alike. Sisowath Quay is where you will find the most eateries, though the quality varies, since it is a tourist hot spot. Venture out further, and you are likely to be in for a treat! Take your time to explore the city, and we guarantee that you will be richly rewarded, culturally and gastronomically!
Check out below for more information on the attractions Phnom Penh's got to offer!
