Imperial PalaceUnlike Hanoi, Phnom Penh has a regal atmosphere about it - a worthy capital of a nation descended from the great Khmer civilization. Khmer architecture itself is the very embodiment of majesty from the elaborately adorned tiered-roofs of the palace to the tall spires of the many temples dotting the city. Its wide boulevards become the centre of activity in the evenings when people turn up for a stroll or a jog, exercise or play sports, or even just sit and chat with friends. for a drink from a vendor and a chat with friends. Statues watch protectively over the people and monuments confer the last aesthetic touches upon the city.
Central Market
However, its poverty is also simultaneously evident: derelict shophouses doubling up as homes can be found just behind the royal palace - a stark contrast to the grandeur and extravagance of the palace. Children without shoes and clothes play in the dirt and mud whilst their parents try to make a living by whatever means possible - behaviours hardly befitting of such an imperial city.
Phnom Wat
Stagnant. The royal palace and temples give the impression of time having stopped in this land - when the great and glorious Khmers were still at the height of their power, still adorning the land with great monuments. But the same is true of the other side of the penny. 'Stagnant' is quite a good word - as if the city were neither falling back into obscurity nor progressing forward from its poverty.
Central Market
Phnom WatStagnant. The royal palace and temples give the impression of time having stopped in this land - when the great and glorious Khmers were still at the height of their power, still adorning the land with great monuments. But the same is true of the other side of the penny. 'Stagnant' is quite a good word - as if the city were neither falling back into obscurity nor progressing forward from its poverty.
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