A Top Day in Phnom Penh

Starting the day with a steaming bowl of kyteow (rice noodle soup) at a local restaurant like the Seven Bright, near the post office, or in a busy market like Psar Thmei, is the perfect wake-up call. Phnom Penh is an emerging shopping destination and there is no better place to browse than Psar Tuol Tom Pong (Russian Market), piled to the roof with factory-outlet clothing at the affordable end of the supply chain, plus a whole range of handicrafts, textiles, silverware and bootleg booty. Bargains in the bag, it is time for a dose of culture at the National Museum, the world's most wonderful collection of Khmer sculpture. It's not only the collection that impresses, as the building is a stunning sight and a great place to relax and contemplate the sacred stones. From here it is just a short walk to Friends Restaurant, a real landmark in the city, serving delicious tapas and fusion food to help street kids into a new life in hospitality. If it's not too hot, it's time to walk down Sothearos past the Royal Palace, one of the most beautiful areas of the city. Swinging on to Ph 240, I'll have a wander past the cafes, boutiques and bars along this stretch and see if somewhere catches my eye. As the sun begins to drop, it's time to take advantage of some happy hours around town. Some folks like the sumptuous surrounds of the Elephant Bar at Hotel Le Royal, but FCC is more relaxed and has stunning views over the river. Settle down from 5pm and enjoy the show. Dinner might be at the local-yokel but very tasty Goldfish River Restaurant, and may very well include their signature crab with black pepper. Then a swift beer or five in the Green Vespa, one of the friendliest drinking holes in the city. Finally it's on to one of the later spots in town, like Elsewhere or Equinox, to round things off nicely.

Author: Nick Ray

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