Kingdom of Cambodia

Finally, after the long awaited opportunity to visit the Kingdom of Cambodia,  I managed to set foot on to the soil of this kingdom.  Though it was a business trip but the excitement to be in such an exotic part of the world enveloped me.  The Ketsana Typhoon has been hostile to the northern part of Cambodia killing at least about 9 people.

Compared to her neighbor, Vietnam, there are lesser motorcycles on the streets but more 4WD mostly LEXUS, TOYOTAS and within a short span of 30 minutes, 3 HUMMERS are seen cruising the dusty city streets. Though Cambodia has her own currency, RIAH, USD remains the main monetary mode of business exchange . There is a substantial number of Vietnamese working in Cambodia due to the lure of being paid in USD instead of the Vietnam Dong. (USD 1 – VND 18,300 vs USD 1 – Riah 4,000)

After having finished attending to our official business appointments, we checked ourselves in at the Phnom Penh Hotel.  The guest services and the general perception of the hotel is considered as great for  a place like Cambodia. Charging at USD60.00 per night with a USD 2.00 for extra charges I’d say that this hotel is a decent place to rest your head where the pillows are a therapy to the worn and weary traveler.

Since we managed to visit all our planed customers in Cambodia on the first day, we took the opportunity to explore the local area and find out what the local scene is like in this exotic place. Just 15 minutes walking distance away is Phnom Penh’s Local Central Market.  Offering a myriad of local produce ranging from, vegetables, sea catch, poultry, jade, shades and other local ornaments.

English is widely spoken here as compared to Vietnam, making communication a lot easier. Taxis are not common; the only means of taxi equivalent is the local version of Tuk tuk.

Spending an hour or two  exploring the streets of Cambodia is totally insufficient.  I am planning to make a long delayed back packing trip in Cambodia particularly in the northern region; Siem Reap. Anyone interested?