Phnom Penh

Just over a decade ago, the capital city of Cambodia was lawless and traces of this lawlessness can be seen throughout this hectic place. In 1975, the entire city was quickly evacuated and left abandoned by the cruel Khmer Rouge. It can be intimidating to some travelers, but Phnom Penh definitely deserves some attention. If you look closely around the newly developed hotels and convenience stores you will still see some beautiful and historic abandoned French-inspired homes sprinkled around. There is an eerie feeling within this boomtown, possessing a tragic past, boasting a rich and interesting history, but filled with friendly residents with a laid-back mentality. I’m in love with this city and the complete “fuck it” attitude it perspires. Phnom Penh is surely a turbulent adventure to remember.
Although I did not witness it during my visits to Phnom Penh, I heard rumors about the sex tourism that supposedly takes place in the city. There is a section of Phnom Penh that is modeled after the wild city of Pattaya, Thailand with many hostess bars with workers solely there for the purpose of making an extra buck.

Where To Stay
The backpacker community hangs around close to the riverside of the capital city, but for all visitors this is the ideal location to stay. It is within walking distance of the palace and temples, and offers shopping and lots of bars and restaurants.

What To Do

• The Killing Fields
  The Killing Fields is a mass grave where the frightening Khmer Rouge killed over a million people from 1975-1979. It is an extremely sad place to visit, but it reminds us of the terrors that the generous Cambodian people went through only three decades ago.

• The Royal Palace and The Silver Pagoda
  Although no longer “home” to the royal family, this palace boasts incredible architecture and gorgeous temples. The Silver Pagoda is located on the palace grounds.
• The Central Market
  The market is in a huge art-deco dome in the center of the city. It is a great place to shop for souvenirs or clothing and wander around. Make sure to bargain with the merchants because the prices are always really inflated! Don’t be afraid to walk away – chances are another merchant in the market has the same exact item.
• Cambodian National Museum
  This museum is a beautiful temple-like building located near the Royal Palace and is just over 3,000 sq m of exhibition galleries displaying Khmer artifacts. Open daily between the hours of 08:00-17:00.
• Wat Phnom
  While walking around the city, definitely make a stop at Wat Phnom, a simple temple with green surroundings. Those visiting Wat Phnom should dress modestly since it is a religious monument.