Getting around Phnom Penh

Where will you be working? The ‘pavements’ are usually taken up by cars and bikes.

Stephanie is correct, side walks are occupied by food sellers, cars, motorbikes, so pedestrians have to go on the road to pass, which is quite a job as pedestrians are considered totally unimportant. I had several disputes with drivers that totally ignored me (and I'm not that thin).

The only nice walk I know of (but that doesn't bring you jobs or housing) is along the river, starting at the Royal Palace and going all the way to Wat Phnom, a beautiful "boulevard" along the river, I love to walk that part.

Good luck.

Joe

Nothing yet secured but looking at around the Royal Palace area perhaps? Are there some areas that have better pavements than others?

Nothing yet secured but looking at around the Royal Palace area perhaps? Are there some areas that have better pavements than others?

Hi Joe,

Thanks for your reply - that's really helpful (but a little disconcerting). I've never ridden a motorbike but keen to have independence to get around without having to rely on others. How often do you walk to get around (to the shops, restaurants, bars etc)? Should I give up the idea that I can walk most places I want/need to go to?

Thanks in advance!
Lindsay

Hello Lindsay.

If you've never ridden a motorbike, for sure don't start doing it in Cambodia!!!
Traffic is a disaster with half of the people driving against traffic and thinking traffic signs are mere recommendations.

When I settled in PP after 2 years Sihanoukville I sold my motorbike and only use Pass App rickshaws.

I walk everywhere in my area Russian Market, safe but you have to be aware of traffic.

Hope this helps.

Joe

Hi Joe,

That's really good to know - thanks! I guess that's the main thing that it's possible to walk around the Russian market area (where I'd be hoping to live).

It sounds quite similar to Saigon with minimum usable pavements and it'll be a case of figuring out when to use tuktuk/taxis and where when we know the area(s) better.

Thanks so much for the helpful info and advice!

Lindsay

You're most welcome Lindsay.

Cheers

Joe

Lindsay I’ve only been here a week but I’ve been using PassApp all day every day and had no problems. You don’t have to negotiate prices, most drivers have limited English, they arrive quickly wherever you are and it’s quite comfortable. It’s a set price so if they get a little lost or traffic is bad it doesn’t cost you extra.

I live in Russian Market and travel around for work. It’d be so annoying without PassApp.

Remember a few things. Pedestrian crossings are only for decoration. Red lights are also decorative at night and sometimes during the day. There is a fine skill in learning to cross the street but once you get the hang of it your heart rate will stabilize. The foot paths are for off street parking and food stalls. Also many of the pavers are not bedded properly. I spent 6 months walking around Phnom Penh when I first got here. A great way to orientate yourself and you will find many interesting things. As with any city it’s quite safe. Don’t get drunk and wondering down dark alleys as with any city.

Ha..ha..

Thumbs up my_guzzi.
Did pretty much the same.
No one bothers pedestrians.
Except the persistent tuk tuk.

Walking around on foot orientates.
Most streets are "number" based.
The are certain quarters popular with the locals.
Nearest the casino is popular for evening walks.
With locals dancing & gyrating to tunes of Ricky Martin!
Of course for the very civic rumba Cha Cha stuff.

Food selections abound especially near the Riverside.
There is ample international fare everywhere.
Beer is the cheapest beverage (draft USD 1/-).
So expect some action on & off the tarmac.

As they say "When in PP ride like the wind"!