🇰🇭 A Weekend Getaway in Southeast Asia — Detailed 2D1N Phnom Penh

While Phnom Penh may not be as famous as Siem Reap (Angkor Wat), Cambodia’s capital has its own charm with plenty of unique spots to explore—perfect for a relaxed weekend trip. 🏨 Accommodation: Stayed at Courtyard by Marriott Phnom Penh (one of the few international chains here). Great location and modern rooms. 💸 Currency: Riel (KHR) and USD are fixed at 4000:1 (some shops use 4100:1). USD is widely accepted, and small change is given in riel. 🚗 Transport: Mostly used Grab for tuk-tuks—quick and convenient, reaching all mentioned spots within 20 mins. Day 1️⃣ 🌟 Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21 Prison) – A harrowing site from the Khmer Rouge era, originally a school turned prison. The $10 ticket includes a $5 audio guide (highly recommended). The visit takes ~2hrs and leaves a heavy emotional impact. 🌟 Wat Phnom – The birthplace of Phnom Penh (built in 1373 on a 27m-high hill). Legend says it was founded after Lady Penh discovered a Buddha statue here. A quick 30-min stroll suffices. 🍴 Lunch @ Kinin – A lush garden setting serving delicious Khmer and Western dishes. ☕️ Cā Feve Coffee & Eatery – Just 3 mins from Kinin. Try their salted coffee and tiramisu! Afternoon break (escaping the heat at the hotel). 🌟 Phnom Penh Night Market – Dinner spot by the Mekong River. Some stalls sell fried insects (for the brave!). A pleasant place to wander and enjoy the evening breeze. Day 2️⃣ ☕️ Morning coffee Tube Coffee Riverside – Famous for matcha drinks and Instagram-worthy décor. The 2nd-floor riverside view is stunning. 🌟 Royal Palace – $10 entry. Follow the map for a ~1hr tour. Best visited in the morning (closed 11AM-2PM). The palace square is also photogenic. 🍴 Eleven One Kitchen (BKK1) – Authentic Khmer cuisine, including red tree ants for the adventurous. 🛍️ Chip Mong 271 Mega Mall – The city’s newest/largest mall (home to Cambodia’s first Zara). Not particularly cheap (no tax refunds), but decent for a quick browse. #PhnomPenh #CambodiaTravel #OffTheBeatenPath #WeekendGetaway #SoutheastAsia