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| Toum Tiou 2 |
Today, my journey aboard the Toum Tiou 2 Discovery Cruise was packed with excitement and discovery as we explored Phnom Penh, the vibrant and bustling capital of Cambodia. After several days of winding our way along the Mekong River, the arrival at Phnom Penh felt like an immersion into the heart of Cambodia’s culture, history, and vibrant energy.
This day was a blend of exploration—spanning grand royal palaces, sacred pagodas, and ancient museums—as well as fun local experiences, including a tuk-tuk tour of the city’s most iconic sights. By the end of the day, we’d not only gained a deeper understanding of the country’s fascinating history, but we’d also experienced the warmth and hospitality of the Cambodian people.
Breakfast on Board: A Calm Start to a Busy Day
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| Mooring port at Phnom Penh |
We woke up early on board the Toum Tiou 2, with the sun gently rising over the river. The early morning calm was the perfect prelude to the busy day ahead. The ship had already docked along the riverfront of Phnom Penh, and after a brief period of stretching our legs on the deck, it was time for breakfast.
The breakfast spread on the Toum Tiou 2 was as sumptuous as always. From fresh tropical fruits like papaya and pineapple to freshly baked pastries, there was something for everyone. The panoramic views of Phnom Penh’s skyline made the experience even more magical. We ate as the city slowly came to life round us—street vendors setting up their stalls, local tuk-tuks whizzing by, and the river traffic moving in and out of the docks. It was the perfect way to prepare ourselves for a day of sightseeing.
A New Local Cambodian Tour Guide
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| Passenger and Guide on Bus |
At 8:00 AM, we were greeted by our new local Cambodian tour guide, who would accompany us throughout the day. He was an enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide, eager to share his passion for Cambodian history and culture. He had a warm smile, a bright spirit, and an infectious love for his city. He introduced us to the morning's itinerary and promised we’d be covering some of the most iconic and beautiful sights in Phnom Penh.
As we boarded our air-conditioned bus, our guide gave us a quick introduction to the history of Phnom Penh. He explained how the city was founded in the 15th century, originally as a small settlement on the banks of the Mekong River, and how it grew over the centuries to become the cultural and political capital of Cambodia. His storytelling was vivid, painting a picture of the rise and fall of the Khmer Empire and the resilience of the Cambodian people through its turbulent history.
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| Bus parked outside Post Office |
Our first stop in Phnom Penh was the historic Post Office, a charming colonial-era building with distinctive French architectural influences. As we admired the intricate design of the building, with its arched windows and grand facade, some in our group took the opportunity to exchange money at a nearby currency exchange. The Post Office, though relatively quiet, had a sense of old-world charm, with a few locals sending parcels and postcards, adding to the atmosphere of a bygone era. It was a quick but visit, a perfect introduction to the city's blend of colonial history and modern life.
Exploring the Royal Palace Complex
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| Guide at Royal Palace |
Next on our tour was the Royal Palace, located in the heart of Phnom Penh. This grand complex is not only the residence of Cambodia's king but also a beautiful testament to Khmer architecture, art, and design. As we walked through the lush gardens we saw a variety of trees, including the Couroupita guianensis (Cannonball Tree) and Ravenala (Traveller's Tree). Our guide explained how the palace was originally built in the 1860s by King Norodom and how it has served as the royal residence ever since.
The grounds of the Royal Palace were vast and beautifully maintained, with manicured gardens and fountains that gave the entire area a serene, almost ethereal quality. At the heart of it all stood the Throne Hall, a grand building adorned with golden spires and intricate carvings. Though the royal family was not in residence during our visit, the palace’s beauty and grandeur more than made up for it.
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| Tour group at Royal Palace |
As I walked past the hall, I couldn't help but pause and admire its elegance. The high ceilings, shimmering golden details, and intricate carvings on the walls exuded a sense of regal splendor even from the outside. Through the open doors, I caught a glimpse of the throne, gleaming atop its raised platform, commanding quiet respect. The cool marble floors and the rich tapestries lining the interior seemed to whisper of Cambodia’s royal history and cultural heritage.
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| Royal Palace |
Next, we made our way to the Silver Pagoda, located within the Royal Palace complex. The Silver Pagoda is so named for the 5,000 silver tiles that cover its floor, which are said to have been laid in the 19th century. The tiles gleamed as we walked through the pagoda’s tranquil space, and inside, we were surrounded by an array of religious artifacts, including an impressive emerald Buddha made of Baccarat crystal. The pagoda also houses many stunning gold and jeweled statues, including a 90-kilogram gold Buddha encrusted with diamonds.
Our guide shared how the Silver Pagoda is one of the most sacred sites in Cambodia and serves as a place of both spiritual reflection and royal ceremonies. We admired the art, the architecture, and the sense of calm that enveloped the place. It was a peaceful respite in the middle of Phnom Penh's bustling streets.
National Museum of Cambodia
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| National Museum of Cambodia |
Our next stop was the National Museum of Cambodia. This museum is an absolute treasure trove of Cambodian history, with collections that span over a thousand years, from the Khmer Empire to more modern periods. As we stepped inside, the traditional Khmer architecture of the building itself was stunning. The museum was designed in the early 20th century and featured a beautiful central courtyard.
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| National Museum of Cambodia |
Inside, we were able to explore an impressive collection of ancient sculptures, pottery, and artifacts, many from the Angkorian period. We walked through each exhibit, gaining insights into Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage, the rise and fall of the Khmer Empire, and the diverse ethnic groups that have shaped the region’s history over the centuries.
The museum also showcased Khmer art, some of which was used in royal ceremonies or religious rites, including depictions of gods and mythological figures. It was awe-inspiring to see so many pieces that had survived centuries of turmoil
and still retained their elegance and beauty.
Lunch at Titanic Restaurant
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| Titanic Restaurant |
By lunchtime, we were ready for a well-earned rest and a chance to try some authentic Cambodian cuisine. Our group headed to the Titanic Restaurant, a charming local eatery located near the market. The restaurant is filled with antique-style furnishings, including wooden tables, old-fashioned light fixtures
The food was absolutely delicious. We started with a bowl of lok lak, a traditional Khmer dish of stir-fried beef, marinated with lime, pepper, and garlic, served with rice and a side of crispy fries. The amok, a fragrant and creamy fish curry, was a highlight of the meal. Sreymom explained that amok is considered the national dish of Cambodia and has been enjoyed for centuries. To round off the meal, we sampled kralan, a sticky rice dish cooked in bamboo, with coconut and palm sugar for a sweet, satisfying end to the meal.
Discovering the Vibrancy of Central Market
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| Central Market Dome |
After lunch, we took a short drive to the Central Market (Phsar Thmei), an iconic Art Deco building and one of the largest markets in Phnom Penh. The market’s vast, domed structure, designed in the shape of a cross, immediately caught my attention. Not only is it a stunning architectural feat, but it also stands as a testament to the city’s French colonial history. Inside, the market buzzed with vibrant color and energy. Vendors offered everything from local clothing and intricate jewellery to fresh flowers, produce, and one-of-a-kind souvenirs The air was filled with the rich aromas of street food and fragrant spices, while the vibrant colors of textiles and trinkets contrasted with the lively chatter of the market.
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| Central Market |
As we wandered through the stalls, I couldn’t help but be immersed in the energy of the place. We picked up a few handcrafted items and snapped photos of the bustling scene, each corner offering something new and intriguing. In the market, there were several areas where large blocks of ice were being sawn into smaller pieces. The atmosphere felt like a true reflection of Cambodian life, where commerce, culture, and history blend effortlessly. The Central Market was not only a great spot for shopping but also a fantastic opportunity to experience the heart of Phnom Penh in all its vibrancy.
Tuk-Tuk Tour Around Phnom Penh
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| Tuk-tuks |
After the Central Market, we were ready for the highlight of the day—an exciting tuk-tuk tour around the sights of Phnom Penh. Tuk-tuks, those open-air three-wheeled vehicles, are a fun and iconic way to explore the city. We all piled into our individual tuk-tuks, ready for an exhilarating ride through the streets of the capital. The city’s landscape was a mix of modern high-rises and traditional colonial buildings, temples, and pagodas.
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| Independence Monument |
During our tuk-tuk tour, we drove past the Independence Monument, a striking 57-meter-high stupa designed in the shape of a lotus, commemorating Cambodia’s independence from France in 1953. This iconic landmark stands as a powerful symbol of national pride and resilience. Just nearby, we caught a glimpse of the statue of His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk, a tribute to the beloved King Father, who played a pivotal role in Cambodia’s independence and modern history. As our tuk-tuks zipped through the streets, we also passed the NagaWorld Resort, a sprawling luxury complex that seamlessly blends modern entertainment with traditional Cambodian hospitality, offering yet another example of Phnom Penh’s vibrant mix of old and new.
A Visit to Wat Phnom: Phnom Penh's Sacred Heart
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| Wat Phnom |
We then hopped into our tuk-tuks and made our way to Wat Phnom, a large and historic hilltop temple that is considered the spiritual heart of Phnom Penh. According to local legend, the very founding of the city is tied to this sacred hill. The story goes that in the 14th century, a woman named Penh found a statue of the Buddha in a tree near the hill, leading her to build a small shrine in its honour. Over time, this humble shrine grew into the majestic Wat Phnom temple, which now stands as one of the most revered religious sites in the capital.
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| Tour group in front of Ponhea Yat Stupa |
As we approached, we could see the temple rising above the city skyline, perched atop a small hill, surrounded by lush greenery. The tuk-tuk ride took us to the base, where we began our ascent up a long flight of stairs, passing by small shrines and statues of Buddha along the way. The steps were flanked by large stone lions, a common feature in Cambodian temples, symbolizing protection and strength. The climb itself was a peaceful experience, with the sound of birdsong and the rustling of leaves accompanying us as we made our way to the top.
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| City View |
At the summit, we were rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Phnom Penh, with the bustling city stretching out below us and the Mekong River flowing gently in the distance. The peaceful atmosphere of Wat Phnom provided a tranquil contrast to the vibrant energy of the city below. Inside the temple, we admired the serene statues of Buddha, each beautifully crafted and adorned with offerings of fresh flowers and fragrant incense. The temple’s interior was adorned with intricate murals depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology, including vivid tales of the Buddha’s life and his path to enlightenment.
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| My Tuk Tuk |
After taking in the serene beauty of Wat Phnom and allowing ourselves to fully absorb the peaceful atmosphere, we slowly made our way down the hill, feeling both refreshed and deeply contemplative. Climbing back into our tuk-tuks, we set off towards the Toum Tiou 2, eager to continue our river journey. The river held more adventures in store, and we couldn't wait to see what the next chapter would bring.
Classical Khmer Dance and Music
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| Cultural performance |
Back onboard the Toum Tiou 2 we were treated to a wonderful cultural performance on the sundeck. The Aspara Association, a local cultural group dedicated to preserving traditional Cambodian arts, performed an exquisite show of classical Khmer dance and music. The dancers, adorned in intricate costumes, performed graceful movements set to traditional music, telling stories through their expressive gestures and fluid choreography.
The performance was a highlight of the day. The music, played on traditional instruments like the roneat (xylophone) and the tro (fiddle), filled the air with haunting melodies. As we sat on the sundeck, watching the performance unfold against the backdrop of Phnom Penh’s skyline, we felt transported to another time—a time when the art of dance and music played a central role in Cambodian culture.
Dinner on Board
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| Delicious Dinner Dish |
After the performance, it was time for dinner. The chefs aboard the Toum Tiou 2 had outdone themselves once again, offering a delicious spread of both local and international dishes. We enjoyed a variety of Cambodian specialties, including fish amok and beef lok lak, along with fresh salads, crispy spring rolls, and an array of desserts. The meal was the perfect end to a day filled with exploration, and the atmosphere on board was lively and full of laughter. The meal was the perfect conclusion to a day filled with exploration, and the atmosphere on board was lively and full of laughter.
A Fun-Filled Karaoke Session
As we finished our dinner, the fun didn’t stop there. A karaoke session on the upper deck followed, where passengers and crew alike took turns at the microphone. It was a night of music, laughter, and camaraderie—a wonderful way to bond with fellow travelers and celebrate the memorable experiences of the day.
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| Karaoke session |
As we sang along to familiar tunes, the relaxed atmosphere on the boat, with the lights of Phnom Penh twinkling in the distance, created the perfect setting to wind down after an exciting day.
As we shared stories of our adventures, I reflected on just how much we had seen and learned about Cambodia. From the grandeur of the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda to the lively tuk-tuk ride and the cultural performance, Phnom Penh had revealed its rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. The day had been filled with discovery, connection, and wonder, and I felt incredibly fortunate to have experienced it all from the comfort of the Toum Tiou 2.
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| Toum Tiou 2 |
Phnom Penh had truly lived up to its reputation as Cambodia's vibrant, bustling beating heart. Tomorrow, we would continue our journey along the mighty Mekong on the Toum Tiou 2, but for now, I was content—reflecting on the sights, sounds, and experiences of a day well spent in the capital. With a deep sense of fulfillment, I settled in for a restful, peaceful good night's sleep, ready for the exciting adventures that awaited us the next day.
Toum Tiou 2
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