You can be forgiven for thinking that Siem Reap already has a surfeit of markets, although you might be hard pushed to distinguish one from the other after the first couple. However the latest addition to that ever-growing list — the Made in Cambodia street market — is not just another market, and if you … read the full post

Don’t let the absence of magnolia trees put you off La Magnolia d’Angkor Boutique Hotel. Walking along the neat, tree-lined driveway, through the smart and airy reception to the spacious terrace with its gorgeous pool it’s easy to see why, less than three months after opening, this lovely little Siem Reap hotel has gathered quite … read the full post

Some forms of transport are inextricably linked with a particular place. Think yellow school buses in the United States, or a London black cab. Introduced to Phnom Penh streets in 1936, three-wheeler cyclos are recognisably Cambodian. They are still the vehicle of choice for women returning from the market with piles of groceries and older … read the full post

The Cambodian cooking classes advertised by Sojourn Boutique Villas and tour operator Beyond Unique Escapes both come highly recommended — so highly that I’ve managed to use my inability to choose between the two as an excuse to do neither for quite some time. So, when a visiting friend booked us onto a half-day course, … read the full post

If there are two things dear to the heart of Phnom Penhites, it’s eating and shopping. Not always in that order but, if possible, at the same time. Which goes a long way to explaining the popularity of the weekend Night Market on Phnom Penh’s riverside. Throw in some loud music and a chance to … read the full post

UPDATE, Tuesday, March 5: Electricity supply has now returned to normal in all parts of Siem Reap city, according to our various sources. *** UPDATE, Sunday, March 3: Lengthy power outages continue to affect most of Siem Reap, and authorities have not yet given any firm date as to when services can be expected to … read the full post

If you’re after spotlessly clean lodgings in Phnom Penh’s BKK1 area, locally-owned, midrange Hilary’s Boutique Hotel offers 15 well-appointed rooms with floors you could eat your breakfast off, plus a pool, on-site restaurant and friendly service. Owned and run by tour guide Veng and his family, Hilary’s is tucked away behind a high white wall … read the full post

There is nothing like a visit to thriving city centre market to make you feel really connected with the local culture. While Bangkok has Chatuchak, Saigon has Ben Thanh, and Phnom Penh has the art deco Psar Thmei, what does Siem Reap have to compete with these mercantile icons? The answer is Psar Leu, a … read the full post

Close to Siem Reap, with its own unique appeal and much quieter than your average Angkorian ruin, Banteay Kdei offers the perfect antidote the crowds at Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm. It is also conveniently close to the Big Three so you can easily add it to your one-day itinerary, enjoy a little … read the full post

One of the joys of Southeast Asia is when the familiar jumps out at you from an unexpected source. Riding around Phnom Penh, I’ve realised how many celebrities are (unwittingly) lending their endorsement to hair and beauty salons, tailors and restaurants. Once noticed, it’s difficult not to get slightly obsessed about collecting examples. A consequence … read the full post