Phnom Penh- A Buzzing Hub

Formerly known as the pearl of Asia, Phnom Penh is the capital and largest city of Cambodia. This capital city is located at the convergence of the river Mekong and the Tonle Sap. The French and Khmer architecture dot the city apart from the colonial villas. It is one of the crowded and easiest places to get around. Phnom Penh is a worthwhile destination showcasing beautiful boulevards and alluring riverfronts.

History
Phnom Penh derives its name from the Wat Phnom temple. The city was named as the capital of Cambodia by an emperor of Khmer empire. Prior to this, the capital of Cambodia was Angkor Thom. Cambodia had to fight several wars with Vietnam over Phnom Penh for many years. With aid from various countries, Phnom Penh has become what it is today. Phnom Penh now has state of the art hotels and restaurants for tourist generating heaps of foreign money.

Popular Places
Sisowath Quay is a beautiful and pleasant place to visit in the town. It is a boulevard along the banks of the river Mekong and Tonle Sap. You should visit The Royal Palace and also the majestic pagodas at the palace grounds. The temple of Emerald Buddha is also worth a visit.

Wat Phnom is a must see; it is a temple that has a special place in Phnom Penh’s history. One can also see the Cambodian National museum, Independence and Liberation Memorials and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.

Getting Around
You can rent motorbikes to move around the city, but should take care of the bad condition of roads. Taxis are also an option one can use. One should experience the traditional Tuk Tuk, it is a cheap option compared to taxis and you could witness the scenic beauty of the city along the journey.

Cycle rickshaws are a best option for small distances. A guide would be of great assistance moving through a crowded and unsafe city like Phnom Penh, where chain snatching and various crimes occurs daily (chain snatching is just a tip of iceberg).

Places of Entertainment
Heading to Sisowath bay for carnival like environment is an interesting way of enjoying. It is a nice place to visit and lively till late night. One can also visit some of the markets for shopping; where literally everything is available. You can choose river cruises to enjoy sunset. One can also visit art galleries showcasing Cambodian arts and handicrafts. Some Cambodian films are another option for enjoying the place.

Accommodation Options and Languages Spoken
There are many suitable accommodation options available in Phnom Penh.

Few guesthouses with good facilities and services are located around riverside. If you are on a comfy budget, you would get plenty of decent and comfortable options in the riverfront area. There are also plush hotels around the city. Most of the hotels are air conditioned and provide high-speed Internet access in each room, laundry, breakfast.

You can find the budget hotels of Phnom Penh around Boeung Kak Lake. You can find some guesthouses, but it is necessary to ensure that the ones you choose are not unhygienic.

Khmer is the official language beside English, French and Thai are well understood over here.

Currency
The official currency of Cambodia is Riel; the American dollar is also widely used. One can obtain the present exchange rates for Cambodian Riel via news or internet.

Group accommodation in Phnom Penh | Cheap hostels & budget hotels