Around Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, is different from the other capital cities I have been to. Unlike other big cities Phnom Penh is very laid back without any crazy jams and big malls. Normally the stores are situated in a 2 floor building which is owned by either a local or an expat. There are a lot of expats living in Cambodia who owns a business or two. We asked the personnel in our hotel where the nearest hotel is and they said that there is only one mall in Phnom Penh and its quite far. Good thing a Foreigner heard us asking and they told us that there is a newly opened mall nearby called Aeon and to our bad luck it was closed because of an occasion. 

Since there are no decent malls we opted to go the Russian Market to eat lunch and buy some souvenirs. You can actually get lost inside since the pathway is very narrow. Nevertheless you can buy a lot of things in the Russian Market from cheap dresses to figurines you just need to haggle because once you open your mouth and speak in English they will give you ridiculous prices. The trick is when you ask for the price and they gave you a steep one just walk away but then they will ask you how much you want to buy it. Go for a much lower price you can think of and you could either get the price you wanted or meet halfway. 

Russian Market or Psah Toul Tom Poung is  called such because during the 1980’s most of the Russians go here to shop for it has a more varied selection of souvenirs and silks. It is the best place to buy silks or fabric in a much lower price and I got mine for only $5.00 

Actual Budget: 

Souvenirs                                                                                               $38 USD/PHP  1,634 

- silk scarf, medium sized buddha figurine, Angkor Wat figurine

  20 pcs. key chain, 4 pcs. fridge magnets, and ash tray 

Lunch                                                                                                     $4 USD/PHP 184

- Khmer Noodles and Avocado Shake for 2        

                                                                                                        

The Independence Monument 

It’s a must for them to wear a helmet for protection. The road is really crazy in Phnom Penh they do not have lanes (just an observation)           

Wood and Metal Carvings, Pearls and Jewelries

Khmer Noodles. The best way to eat is to eat like a local. 

Khmer Noodles. It reminds me of Pad Thai in Thailand. Khmer Noodles is composed of egg, meat and some veggies with sweet soy sauce. A really nice food indeed.