Walking tour around Phnom Penh

Cambodian sunset.... from the roof of the hotel tonight.

February 22
I ventured out around 8:30 am on foot to Central Market. It was a long, long walk....an hour in the heat! There were many offers from passing tuk tuks and motorbikes, but I declined them all.

The Central Market is a large building constructed in 1937 in the shape of a dome with four arms branching out into long hallways with countless stalls of goods. Initial design and layouts are from French architects. When it first opened in 1937, it was said to be the biggest market in Asia and still is. The entrance to the market is lined with souvenir merchants selling everything from T-shirts and groceries to a great place for a meal. The inside (dome) houses a dazzling display of jewels and gold. Electronic goods, stationery, secondhand clothes and flowers are also sold.

I watched a jeweller make a mold out of wax. He explained that the mold is dipped in silver/gold to make the ring.

From there I walked to Tonle Sap Lake. Five provinces circles the area of Tonle Sap Lake, 90% of the people earn their living by catching fish and farming. More than three million people live around the bank of the lake.

From there I passed the The Independence Monument. It was built in 1958 for Cambodia's independence from France in 1953. It is in the form of a lotus-shaped stupa, of the style seen at the great Khmer temple at Angkor Wat and other Khmer historical sites.

During national celebrations, The Independence Monument is the center of activity. A ceremonial flame on the interior pedestal is often lit by a royal or high official on these occasions, and floral tributes line the stairs.

A few things I saw along the way....

Graduation day

The wires attached to the power lines.... yikes!

I made it back to my hotel very tired, sweaty and hot. Found 2Hands Professional Blimd Massage for only $6. It was amazing and I felt like Gumby by the time I left.

Showered and feeling like a million bucks, I went to dinner. Walking back to the hotel, I meet a man who had a 3 week old Fish Owl as a pet.

February 23
Today, I fly to Siem Reap. So I spent the morning relaxing and getting packed. Headed to the airport in the world's slowest tuk tuk. Everyone and everything was passing us! The flight was only 45 minutes and uneventful. Checked in to the hotel and headed out for dinner.

I walked to an area called Pub Street. The area is very similar to Koa San Road in Bangkok. Flashing lights and colourful people are all over as night fell.


Mango passion fruit ice cream Siem Reap's version of Stonecold

Khmer Red Curry....spicy

Burger King?? Yes, even in Cambodia

2 kg mangos for only $2! I'm in heaven!!!

The next two days are going to be very busy as I have booked a private tour to Angkor Wat. Stay tuned!