Formerly known as “the Paris of the East”, Phnom Penh was built at the confluence of the Mekong, Tonle Sap and Bassac rivers. Although its turbulent past, including once being an important part of the French colonial empire, continues to exert a strong influence on today's Phnom Penh, the city is moving forward. On its wide streets, people smile and chat in a relaxed manner and friendliness is rare in big cities.
Phnom Penh is still a charming mix of old and new but it's also booming, so it's time to visit. The city is charming, with gorgeous colonial architecture, sparkling palaces and pagodas, and a top (but not bankrupt) culinary scene. Great for a first base before exploring the surrounding historical sites and beautiful Cambodian countryside. Big malls are starting to add up so you can also visit them for fun hunting.
Contemporary art and culture in Cambodia is thriving, with young artists organizing regular exhibitions in the city's galleries and modern art centers. The Java Café and Gallery opens in new window, the Bophana Audio-Visual Resource Center opens in new window, and the French Cultural Center all showcase the work of the country's most exciting artists, some of whom have studied abroad. The beautiful Royal University of Fine Arts is a comfortable open space to rest. Nearby are shops selling a variety of silver and resin products, replica paintings and gemstones.
Even though the weather was scorching hot in April, the rest was pleasant. The rainy season runs from June to October, with rains that tend to fall heavily but are brief, so much activity is still possible. The streets are very quiet during Pchum Ben, the festival of ancestral spirits, in September and during the Khmer New Year festival in mid-April, when the people of Phnom Penh return to their hometowns. Visit pagodas, both in the city and in the suburbs, at this time - filled with incense and colorful offerings. The Water Festival is held from mid-October to November with a dragon boat race on the river segments.