I love Phnom Penh! And I didn’t expect to! It is after all a big city. It’s hot and sticky and crowded and noisy and the smells aren’t always pleasant. But the people are. And the streets are numbered grids which means I can wander a long way from home and actually be able to find my way back. I’m in a great location…a five minute walk from the riverfront shops and restaurants, around the corner from the Royal Palace, a ten-minute walk to the night market. Speaking of markets, I took a short-cut last night and found myself in the middle of one. Live fish, fruit and vegetables of every description, huge chunks of animals (not sure what), and people, lots and lots of people frantically bargaining for their nightly meal or their livelihood, depending which side of the barter they were on.
I had the most delicious meal last night – aloo saag! Yes, it’s Indian and I’m in Cambodia but India does vegetarian a whole lot better, and it had been soooo long… Tonight? Maybe Lebanese! Anything is possible in this amazing city.
Despite the valiant efforts of at least a hundred tuk-tuk drivers, I managed to walk to Wat Phnom this morning. It stands on the only “hill” in the city (it’s really only a bump) and the believers go there to pray for luck. I said a little prayer myself, given that I had to cross the street to get back. In this town, it could be your demise. I’m proud to say that all went well and I’m even getting cocky. Crossed the street at least three times today with impunity!
Wow all very amazing pictures, stay safe & enjoy.