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Showing posts from October, 2024

Toul Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21)

In the heart of bustling Phnom Penh, Cambodia, lies a chilling symbol of a history that can never be forgotten - The Toul Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21). The complex, formerly a high school, encapsulates the devastating impact of the Khmer Rouge regime during the 1975-1979 period when approximately 1.7 to 2 million people were tragically lost. As soon as you step foot into this haunting place of memory, you are enveloped in a palpable silence that speaks volumes of the horrors inflicted within its walls. Each room narrates a gruesome chapter of the Khmer Rouge's brutal regime, whereby an estimated 20,000 people were imprisoned and tortured here. Walking among the tiny cells and instruments of torture evokes a profound awareness of the horrors of war and humanity's capacity for brutality. The museum's exhibition is extremely confronting, yet it is crucially important. Exhibits of haunting black and white prisoner photographs, confessional documents, and self-penned b...

Sisowath Quay (Riverside)

Sisowath Quay, also known as Riverside, is a bustling, vibrant street in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. This lively promenade is one of the city's most iconic attractions, positioned along the western bank of the mighty Mekong River. From the magnificent Royal Palace to the elegant French colonial buildings, its beauty lies in its fusion of history and modernity. The Riverside pulsates with life from dawn till dusk, offering an incredible array of sights, sounds, and tastes. As the sun rises, you'll witness locals partaking in morning exercises or enjoying a leisurely stroll with their families. Street vendors set up their stalls selling a delicious variety of Cambodian food, including the traditional Num Pang (baguette sandwich). Beyond the food, Sisowath Quay is also a shopper's paradise. Unique boutiques showcase the best of Cambodian design and craft, offering items such as woven silk, silver jewellery, and artistic sculptures. A quick trip to the bustling night market...

Russian Market (Psah Toul Tom Poung)

Located in the heart of Cambodia's vibrant capital, Phnom Penh, resides a place that vividly encapsulates the country's rich culture and tradition - The Russian Market (Psah Toul Tom Poung). This market is one of Cambodia's busiest, frequented by locals and tourists alike. The name Russian Market was coined during the 1980s when most foreigners in Cambodia were Russians. However, it's locally referred to as Psah Toul Tom Poung. One of the hallmarks of the Russian Market is the multitude of items available, which range from handcrafted souvenirs to stunning silverware. Apart from this, it is also a haven for antique collectors, with various retail spots dealing in priceless artefacts and near-extinct memorabilia. Gastronomy enthusiasts will also enjoy the plethora of local food stalls within the market, offering a chance to indulge in authentic Cambodian cuisine. From the ever-popular noodle soup, Phnom Penh Noodle, to the savoury fried rice, Bai Cha, the R...