Located at the junctures
of the Mekong, Bassac and Tonle Sap Rivers, Cambodia's
capital, Phnom Penh, has a population of about 1.5 million. The city retains its traditional and colonial charm in spite of
the years of wars. French colonial style villas alongside tree-lined
boulevards remind the visitors that the city was once the gem of
South East Asia. During the current political changes an economic
boom has surged, with new hotels, bars, nightclubs
and restaurants opening up around the city.
"The Paris of
the East" as it was once known, became a ghost town
during 5 years after the forced evacuation in 1975 by the infamous
Khmer Rouge. Today the capital has revived, retaining
some of its pre-war charm. Motorbikes and transport for the masses,
and a relaxing ride in pedicap, or"cyclo"
is one way to get acquainted with some of the highlights of this
once beautiful city. The numerous colonial villas and parks are
being restored. Taxis are a good way to discover the city for short
excursions.
Phnom Penh still holds an
undeniable charm despite its tumultuous and violent history. It
is home to some impressive Wats or temple-monasteries
that include: Wat Ounalom, Wat Phnom
and Wat Lang Ka. You can also visit the spectacular
Silver Pagoda, 1 of the few places in Cambodia
where artifacts exemplifying the richness of Khmer culture
can still be seen. Other displays of Khmer crafts
can be found in the National Museum and
the Royal Palace, King Norodom
Sihanouk's official residence. |
