Phnom Penh
We only had a very brief stay Phnom Penh. Outside the central tourist area, I noticed that the people lived in poor & filthy conditions. I think the country is struggling to find its economic and political role after the disastrous civil war, even though it finished nearly 40 years ago.
The photos on this page are grouped into those showing general sights of Phnom Penh, The Royal Palace & the awful Killing Fields.
Once known as the Pearl of Asia, I think that Phnom Penh has a lot of catching up to do compared to the neighbouring countries, particularly Vietnam. Though the centre is modern, the suburbs don’t look as though much money has been spent on them.
The Royal Palace
Built in the traditional classical style in the 1860’s, this is a very striking complex of buildings. The Cambodian King still lives here – but tourists are not allowed anywhere near where he lives. While we were walking round, I noticed some dignitaries being driven out of the main gate. As the driver stopped at the gate, the rear window was wound down and someone was giving money to several lackeys who had rushed up to the car. Somehow I don’t see King Charles handing out fivers to the guards or bystanders as he passes out of Buckingham Palace!
The Killing Fields
The genocide of the Khmer Rouge during the late 1970 was one of the staggering low points of modern history. They killed about a quarter of the country’s population, well over 1 million people before Vietnam stepped in to stop the madness.
For some strange sad reason the Tour company organised two trips on the genocide – one to the Museum & the next day to one of the Killing Fields. Very grim experiences.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, Security Prison 21
Chum Mey – one of the few survivors from S 21 selling a book on his experiences
Commemorative Monument at the Killing Field of Choeung Ek
