As I am heading back to the Philippines soon, I've decided to dedicate a whole post to a month and a half's worth of my observations and thoughts on the city that I have somewhat called 'home' this summer. Well, I wouldn't go as far saying that it's my 'new home', but I do admit that Phnom Penh has made a 'new' lasting impression on me.
Note: these are just things that have definitely stuck with me during my stay here. I don't mean any negativity here, so don't judge. Remember, these are merely observations.
Observation 1 - The streets here are confusing. Though they are numbered, a majority of them do not follow any sort of pattern or order. For instance (and I am just really making street numbers up as for the life of me, I can't remember any of them because they are THAT confusing) walk down one street, and you'll be greeted with intersections at St. 110, 117, 124, 135, etc. If you don't have a map or guide, you're at a huge risk of getting lost. So you know, have at least one of those things before coming here. Oh, and you can call this Observation 1.5 - there are definitely those streets that are so uber narrow that it seems impossible for a car to fit through. I mean, it's nothing really new, but with the confusing street numbers? Just be glad that almost all of the actual street names are translated in English and you can get some idea of where you're at.
Observation 2 - Lexus cars. There are quite a lot of them. And not just Lexus ones really. A whole herd of luxury cars can be seen on the streets of Phnom Penh. Granted, there are still a large number of motorbikes, but I swear, it's as if luxury cars are, well, not so much of a luxury here.
Observation 3 - Quite a lot of the buildings by the city's centre do resemble those that you can find in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Not that surprising as Vietnam is just a few hours away, but I definitely couldn't help but feel a little homesick at the sight of these thin, colourful buildings. However, as you do go further out of the centre, the houses do grow in size - and by that I mean, there are tons of mansion-type homes along the streets, decorated with elaborate gates and high walls. As in, damn! By Cambodian standards (and I may go as far in saying Asian standards), those mansions are like the ones you find in magazines and Hollywood films. The houses in our neighborhood here? Towers, mesmerizes and just takes your breath away with it's beauty. Not to say that those stick-figure homes aren't worth looking at.
Observation 4 - There are a large number of restaurants here, and it fits the saying 'there's something for everybody.' Indian, American, Chinese, Italian, Cambodian - you name it, there's pretty much a 90% chance that there's a restaurant serving your preferred cuisine here. It's just a matter of being able to find it. I am a tad bit gutted that I haven't had a chance to try out every restaurant the city has to offer but then again, my diet's probably thankful for that.
Observation 5 - the colourful Tuk-tuks that are everywhere you look, and their very persistent drivers. The Cambodian tuk-tuks are what I would consider a cross between a Philippine jeepney and a Thai tuk-tuk. Some sort of Asian transport hybrid that appeals and serves the needs of both locals and foreigners. There's enough space for you to put everything and still be able to move around, but it's compact enough that it doesn't take as much space on the road. And of course, each tuk-tuk is different from the other in terms of aesthetics, so definitely keep an eye out for those that are adorned with all sorts of flowers, religious images and more modern, eccentric designs.
Now, their drivers. Hmm... I am definitely not kidding when it comes to their persistence, and it's not really a bad thing. They do strike up friendly conversations with you, but they can shove a leaflet in your face and sweet-talk you into taking a tour with them. They can be a bit difficult to ignore, especially if you're walking along Sisowath Quay, but they'll leave you alone once you tell them you're not interested. Don't be afraid to say no and walk away. In terms of price? Don't be afraid to haggle - heck, make sure you haggle! That is key! If you know yourself that where you're headed to isn't that far away, do make sure that you're not paying more than the ride's worth.
Observation 6 - A whole load of Phnom Penh's landmarks are so uber clean! As in, pristine and seemingly newly opened establishments that you can't resist staring at. Sure, there's still that rustic charm to it, but you know, the surroundings are very much well maintained. And of course, the huge amount of Cambodian flags and images of the King and Queen adorning said landmarks. These guys are really patriotic, and aren't afraid to show it :)
Observation 7 - speaking of well-maintained surroundings, well, the areas further from said landmarks aren't exactly that clean. Quite a lot of the streets are filled with litter and dirt, which is a bit of a disappointment, what with the whole 'pristine and majestic' thing they've got going on with the likes of the Royal Palace and Supreme Court. It is partly due to the large amount of construction going on in the city centre and partly due to the vehicles coming in from unpaved provinces, but you won't find as many street sweepers cleaning up the streets. Make sure to properly clean your face off after a whole day of sightseeing. Much of their 'gardens' along the roads aren't really tended to, and unlike in Vietnam, you won't find as many tall, old trees. But of course, the city's only starting to really develop and urbanize, so I'm sure that'll change in the near future or so.
Observation 8 - the friendliness of the people is infectious! During my stay here, I didn't meet a single person who was ill-mannered or had a frown on their face. Everyone seemed to have woken up on the right of side of bed, or perhaps they just go about their day with a smile plastered on their faces. Whatever the reason is, it was really nice seeing those smiles on a daily basis. Especially when the weather turned sour with the rain.
You may, or you may not, agree with me on these observations, but remember, these are my thoughts. Don't judge me if you don't agree with any of them. Don't let my opinions shape yours. Instead, use them as a guide and make your own. Perhaps you can enlighten me with yours?
Alas, my top tips for when you're here in Phnom Penh?
1. Stay hydrated - bring water with you as you will undoubtedly get dehydrated, especially if you're visiting during the summer months (March-mid June). If you're going to visit the city's attractions on foot, you will definitely need a nice, cold bottle of water. Prices can be a bit outrageous for a bottle of water, so do bring your own if you're on a budget.
2. The currency here can be a bit confusing, so you may be better off paying in dollars when making purchases. That being said, your change will be mostly in Riel so you can use those instead if you're making small purchases (i.e. drinks or small snacks).
For reference: $1 = 4000 KHR
3. Haggle, haggle, haggle! I cannot stress that enough! If you're at places such as Central Market, Russian Market or Olympic Market, be sure to bargain. And if they won't agree with your price, don't be afraid to walk away, as 100% of the time, the item(s) you want are a few stalls down at a more reasonable price. And they may be willing to bring it down a tad bit more.
4. Be respectful - no bad mouthing their religion, culture or members of their Royalty. Enough said.
5. Keep your camera on you at all times! Do not, and I repeat, do not leave it behind in your hotel room as you will regret it! And I don't mean this in a negative way at all. There are so many gorgeous sights here, from the main landmarks in the city centre to the lesser known attractions in the smaller streets that are worthy of your attention. Every opportunity you can get to capture your adventure here, take it! Although crime doesn't seem to be much of an issue here, be sure to keep your valuables secure though. You never know.
I know that I have probably missed a few observations and tips, but these are the ones that are more prominent in my mind. Hopefully you consider any of them on your trip here! And do share any of your observations and tips with me, especially if things have changed before I'm able to make my way back!
As always,
Happy discovering!
