Water Melons - Dist 8, HCMC - Vietnam

Sunset clouds - HCMC, Vietnam

Phu My Hung - District 7 - HCMC

Pagoda at binh Duong Water Park - HCMC

Guest Post By Pushpitha Wijesinghe

Cambodia’s capital and largest city Phnom Penh has experienced an eventful history but in recent years has been making successful efforts towards development. The political, commercial and cultural focus of Cambodia, Phnom Penh is without doubt the nation’s most prominent city. Tourism has flourished in modern Cambodia with the nation taking its place among the leading tourist destinations in the world.

Formerly known as the ‘Pearl of Asia’ Phnom Penh inherits a rich cultural legacy which can be clearly seen in the different architectural styles of the city’s buildings, with discernible traditional Khmer, Angkorian style and French influences in its architecture.

Phnom Penh was made the capital of Cambodia by the Khmer king Ponhea Yat. The city retained this status for a span of 73 years from 1432 to 1505. However it was only in 1866 that it was made the seat of government, by Norodom I, and the Royal Palace was constructed. The French colonial era was a significant period for Phnom Penh with schools, hotels, banks and public offices being established. The Vietnam War era and the regime of the Khmer Rouge were dark days for the city, but recent times have seen major reconstruction efforts, foreign investment and profitable tourism.

Riverfront Park is an important tourism site in Phnom Penh, easily accessible from different sectors of the city. Situated at the convergence of the Tonle Sap, Mekong and Bassac rivers, the park offers a breathtaking view of the waters. Perfect for a leisurely stroll, Riverfront Park also provides a dazzling view of the sunrise at dawn. Designated walking trails and convenient seating arrangements add to the pleasure of visiting the park. Special facilities for the entertainment of children can also be found at the park. A multitude of restaurants offering international delicacies and shops offering a great variety of local products can be found on the borders of the park.