Phnom Penh

Derive from a folk story of a woman named “Penh” finding a tree with a handful of Buddha images lodged in one of its nooks. She retrieved the images and had a hill (Phnom) built to house them: Penh's Hill, or Phnom Penh. That’s how this charming town was so called. Located at the imposing confluence of the Mekong and the Tonle Sap rivers, Phnom Penh amazes tourists with its atrocious history during the late of 20th century through its stunning French colonial buildings and  relics in National Museum. Other attractions include the Royal Palace, temples, markets and boat tours and a bountiful supply of excellent cafes and restaurants for gourmands, bars for night owls and spas for those who need to unwind. Phnom Penh is a charming spot, so don't make the mistake of allowing just a day or two here.

Getting there: There are national and international flights to Phnom Penh as well as comfortable overnight buses from other provinces and neighboring countries.