PHNOM PENH CAMBODIA

This month, Coldwell Banker Around the World is venturing to a place where antiquity and the modern world collides: Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodia.

“A friendly smile here goes a long way,” shares Crispian Knowles, manager of Coldwell Banker Cambodia. With a rich and ancient history, Cambodia is home to some of the most famous temples in the world — most notably Angkor Wat, considered a wonder of the world. And after a day of exploring ancient temples, you could easily spend the night wandering through the culinary scene. Though not as famous for its cuisine as some of its neighbors, Cambodia has plenty to share, from hole-in-the-wall establishments to high-end bistros, to food stalls at markets. You can enjoy plenty of delicious local specialties, including a variety of dishes featuring Khmer noodles, and partake in the quickly growing “coffee culture” scene.

“The country is developing quickly. I appreciate the diversity it brings,” notes Ms. Khim Tith Azha, sales supervisor of the Coldwell Banker Cambodia team. While the country has deep historic roots, new growth is sprouting up everywhere and more is anticipated. The population is young, with the average being only 15 years old. With this dynamic, shifts in lifestyle are occurring. For instance, it used to be common for Khmer families to live in practical single-family homes. Now, however, buyers are seeking out luxury properties in gated communities, condos and detached single-family dwellings. https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/coldwell-banker-around-the-world-april-2021

Foods Phnom Penh is known for: Nom banh chok/Khmer noodles (rice noodle soup topped with a fish gravy and crisp vegetables), amok (street food steamed in banana leaves), bai sach chrouk (marinated pork and rice, a common breakfast), and prahok ktis (creamy dip/ condiment used for vegetables and steak, also known as “mudfish sauce”).

Common local modes of transportation: Motorbikes (scooters) and the original tuk-tuks (motorized three-wheel taxis). There has also been a large rise in cars, particularly SUVs.

Key Facts

POPULATION OF CAMBODIA: 16,900,000

LANGUAGE(S) SPOKEN: Khmer

CLIMATE: Tropical

CURRENCY: USD / Khmer Reil

Industry Facts

TYPES OF ARCHITECTURE: Cambodian architecture has become synonymous with Khmer architecture and, more precisely, to the iconic constructions of Angkor temples during the growth and peak of The Khmer Empire. The architecture and construction industry in Cambodia is a main priority and a basic foundation of social development.

MAIN INDUSTRIES: Textiles and tourism.

AVERAGE HOME PRICE IN PHNOM PENH: $114,164 (468.4 million riels), according to the National Bank of Cambodia as of Nov. 2022.