As 2015 makes way for 2016 the people of the Kingdom of Cambodia have really a lot to smile about. Already enjoying more economic, political and social freedom than any other country in South East Asia, Cambodia is now the fresh hot destination for tourists, foodies and property investors.
After three trips in two months (Christmas, Chinese New Year and one in between) I am almost convinced that Phnom Penh is one of the most pleasant cities in the world.
Here are three tips for a great trip:
- Accommodation: The branded hotel chains have not yet made it to Phnom Penh. Around USD60 will get you a clean and comfortable boutique room with breakfast. Avoid the riverfront area (Sisowath Quay) instead stay in the quiet, central and upscale districts near BKK ( Boeung Keng Kang) and Tonle Bassac.
- Dining: Eating well in Phnom Penh is easy especially if like me you like fish, seafood and vegetables (try the spinach). No need to consult your guide book or trip advisor just eat where the food looks fresh and clean. Food (especially Chinese) is good in Phnom Penh although eating out is a tad pricier than Vietnam, Thailand or Malaysia due to the “local” currency the US Dollar.
- Transport: Although PP is not a huge city, the heat and often humidity rule out walking to where you want to go. The transportation of choice for most tourists is the remork moto (tuktuk). Find an honest-looking driver and book him on a daily or half daily rate for the rest of the trip. Between USD10 to USD15 for a 6 -hour day is fair.
All images and text copyright Kerk Boon Leng February 2016
Kerk Boon Leng Photographs & Notes 
Bro
Beautiful write up & love the photos. Might join u on your next trip.
Ganendrah
Ganendrah you will love Phnom Penh. I will tell when I plan my next trip. Cheers
Handsome your pictures, remind me why I love this country and why it reminds me of what our home nation should be.
Ruben, you are lucky to live in Phnom Penh.
A lovely collage but perhaps the messenger, the dark historian he is, has wittingly given Hun Sen a pass, smack on his 31st anniversary. A notch below Mugabe but ahead of Museveni in duration, old Hun is all-encompassing on Kerk’s page and demonstrates that feudalism is underground while slavery is still in vogue, not to mention the Rouge has re-invented the “wheelchair” (pun intended) in plain sight. https://www.hrw.org/report/2015/01/12/30-years-hun-sen/violence-repression-and-corruption-cambodia
“I not only weaken the opposition, I’m going to make them dead and if anyone is strong enough to try to hold a demonstration, I will beat all those dogs and put them in a cage.” – Hun Sen, January 20, 2011
Tom, lighten up man. I want to highlight the often neglected beautiful side of Phnom Penh.
great pictures as usual. You capture the people as they are. thanks my friend
Food connoisseurs should give Phnom Penh a try
As always, enjoyed reading your excellent write-up and the beautiful candid photos. Please keep it coming!
Thanks Mr Mok, please let me know when you want to plan a trip there.