AsiaLIFE Cambodia May 2016

052016 ISSUE113

note from the editor AsiaLIFE Group

Marissa Carruthers Cambodia has all the ingredients needed to attract a journalist to its shores. Its turbulent history and economic status, coupled with its chequered present and rapid race for development act as a magnet for reporters from far and wide, with the capital full of fresh-faced journalists through to seasoned pros.

For this month’s cover feature we take a look at the print media landscape in Cambodia, and some of the people who daily sift through misinformation, unearth corruption and misdoings, and write unbiased stories on issues that affect those living in the Kingdom. We also take a look at Cambodia’s allure, and what it’s like working as both a foreign and local reporter.

And as the newpaper landscape drastically changes across the world, with newspapers folding, redundancies being dished out constantly, falling circulation figures and budgets being cut, we look at the changing dynamics of media in Cambodia, and what lies ahead.

Elsewhere in the issue, May is a busy month for the arts scene as the Tini Tinou International Circus Festival gets underway and Cambodian Space Project team up with friends to hit the road for their latest project, Motown to Mekong. We’ve got all the inside gen on these two exciting events.

Any expat in Phnom Penh will be familiar with Bassac Lane – if you’re not, then where have you been hiding?

Within a short space of time, the forgotten back alley has transformed into a bustling hangout with bars, boutiques and diners mushrooming. Joanna Mayhew takes a stroll down Bassac Lane to find out how its radical revamp came to be.

AsiaLIFE has also had a mini make-over, with more food reviews, a bar review and several other new sections for you to enjoy. On that note, I’ll let you get on.

Group Editor-in-Chief / Director Cambodia: Mark Bibby Jackson mark@asialife.asia

Group Director Sales & Marketing / Director Vietnam: Jonny Edbrooke jonny@asialife.asia

Managing Editor Cambodia: Marissa Carruthers marissa@asialife.asia

Director Thailand: Nattamon Limthanachai (Oh) oh@asialife.asia

Associate Editor: Joanna Mayhew

Art Director Cambodia: Thang Pham L.C.

Siem Reap: Sarah Brown

Photographers: Charles Fox & Lucas Veuve & Lim Sokchanlina

Accountants / Distribution Seang Seiha 012 887 118 Distribution: Son Veasna 096 222 7231 Printing: Sun Heang Printing House

Sales Director Cambodia: Chantha Sorn chantha@asialife.asia Sales Officer: Chhorn Ny chhanny@asialife.asia 015 604 405 Accountants: Sorn Rathana

Special thanks to: Darren Gall, Paul Dodd, SOS International, Ryan Drewe Taylor and Cambodian Living Arts for their contribution.

052016 ISSUE113

On the Cover Design & Art Direction: Thang Pham L.C. AsiaLIFE is a registered trademark.

No content may be reproduced in any form without prior authorisation of the owners. © 360º Media.

AsiaLIFE Media Vol. 97

| APRIL 2016

LIFE SAVING

HEM

CZECH-

MATE

CAMBODIA’S ABANDONED

VILLAS

PICKING UP

STEAM INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS PUBLISHING HOUSE

www.asialifemagazine.com

4 AsiaLIFE Cambodia

FOR SALES ENQUIRIES: Ratana Sorn Tel: 010 222 240

Next time you're in Vietnam, check out the latest issue of AsiaLIFE or download it from www.asialifemagazine.com

052016 ISSUE113

front

08 Events 11 Trending

getaway

42 Hill Thrills And City Comforts

food

44 Sevensea

12 Openings 14 News 16 Top 5 20 Day In The Life

45 Good Dream 46 Double D

22 Photo Essay

47 City Drinks: Tini

26 Q&A: Kongngy Hov

on the cover

28 Hold The Front Page

storyboard

34 Back Alley Boom 36 Biting The Dust

style & design

48 The Smallest Details

back

53 Listings

38 Mystery Musical Tour

50 No Excuses

78 Phnom Penh Map 86 Pub Quiz

40 Tini Tinou Time

28 6 AsiaLIFE Cambodia

34 36

42

Until 22 MAY

8 AsiaLIFE Cambodia

New Views of Fashion @French Institute of Cambodia, Phnom Penh.

Robam @Meta House, Phnom Penh.

Showcasing the work of photographer Laure Vasconi at the end of her residency, sharing her offbeat look at the Cambodian fashion industry.

A group exhibition

by Chhan Dina, Chhim Sothy and Suos Sodavy born from the artists' mutual respect for each other’s work. The exhibition celebrates Cambodia’s rich culture of dance by abstract explorations of motion.

Until 26 MAY

Poetic Topographies by Eng Rithchandaneth and Kong Dara Sa Sa Art Projects and SA SA BASSAC is launching Poetic Topographies, a two-person exhibition of new work by emerging artists Eng Rithchandaneth and Kong Dara, curated by Vuth Lyno.

Until 4 JUN

6 MAY 7.30pm

Come Back Brighter @Old Royal Cinema, Kampot.

Entry: $10 Epic Arts, with artists from Kampot Traditional Music School, presents a performance of traditional and modern dances that use storytelling through physical theatre, video and movement to give the audience snapshots into Cambodia’s golden era, tragic past and exciting future.

The Canadian International School of Phnom Penh is fully accredited by the province of Alberta allowing graduates to apply to universities worldwide.

Call to take a school tour!

New preschool opening soon in Tuol Kork!

023 900 399 info@cisp.edu.kh www.cisp.edu.kh

AsiaLIFE Cambodia 9

8, 13 - 15 26 - 29 MAY MAY 6pm - 10pm

Himawari Hotel Apartments @The Oyster Restaurant Entry: $10.50 - $21 Himawari Hotel Apartments honours mothers with a 20 percent discount off the a la carte menu at The Oyster Restaurant, including a stalk of rose for mum. Or treat her to a luxurious staycation, including buffet breakfast and a set dinner at $175 per night until May 8. The venue is also celebrating the King’s birthday from May 13 to 15 with a seafood buffet dinner from 6pm to 10pm.

Concert VIII @iCan School, Phnom Penh.

Entry: $7

Voodooboogaloo Headed by Cambodian Space Project, this Kampot-based festival takes in trash culture, garage rock 'n' roll, spicy food, horror B-movies, especially vintage Khmer ghost movies, and burlesque boogaloo. The three-day fun-filled festival takes place in the sleepy riverside town of Kampot. See Facebook for more details.

Clothes Phnom Penh

Dance World Cambodia presents its eighth concert as a prelude to exam week. The performance includes classical ballet excerpts from Giselle, Sleeping Beauty and other favourites, corps de ballet performances as well as lyrical, modern and hip hop pieces.

OVERVIEW of The wardrobe N°1

22 MAY 3pm

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Jungle &Jardin is a new brand but first of all a creative studio in Phnom Penh,

making contemporary clothes for women and a line of unisex shirts.

FashionNoLaunch , just a wardrobe evolving day by day with iconic pieces of @Samsaracollection Villa, fashion and classics freely revisited by the designer Anne-Charlotte Costille .

Phnom Penh.

Jungle & Jardin present the début collection of a brand new French designer, Anne-Charlotte Costille with a preview show, cocktails and live music.

30 MAY 6pm

Ballet Boost A globally recognised ballet syllabus with the prestigious Russian Ballet Society is now offered in the Kingdom, thanks to Dance World Cambodia. The accredited examinations will be held annually for students using the Legat Method, which is one of six traditional methods being taught worldwide.

Founded in 1923 in England by Russian dancer Nickolai Legat, it remains at the forefront of traditional ballet training today.

The exams take place between May 22 and 26, with a public performance on May 22. Visit, danceworldcambodia.com for details.

Fashion Fix

Young French designer AnneCharlotte Costille is launching her fabulous fashion collection with a stunning show in the tropical gardens at Samsara Villa. As well as showcasing the women’s contemporary clothes, funky fashions and line of unisex shirts, the Jungle&Jardin event also includes a cocktail reception and music provided by a live band. The event takes place on May 30 at Samsara Villa, 43Z Street 466, Phnom Penh, from 6pm. To receive an invite, register at visit jungle-jardin.com.

Princeton School Taking Admissions NOW for Term 4 (Starting Monday, 18th of April) Princeton School 2016 Special Offers Join us now with NO CAPITAL FEE until August 2016!

Princeton Program We offer both half and full day programs for 4 age groups Toddler (2-3 years old) Pre-Nursery (3-4 years old) Nursery (4-5 years old) Pre-School (5-6 years old) Summer and winter camp programs Kids Clubs Open for children of all ages. Sign up now - 3pm to 4pm weekdays.

Mandarin Chinese Club Spanish Club Hip Hop Dance Club Arts & Crafts Club

Clothes

Phnom Penh

CALL 017 373 376 for more information OR visit us at No. 4A, Street 75, Sangkat Sraschark Phnom Penh.

LIKE us on Facebook: Princeton School Phnom Penh VISIT our website: www.princeton-school.com

OVERVIEW of The wardrobe N°1

Jungle &Jardin is a new brand but first of all a creative studio in Phnom Penh, making contemporary clothes for women and a line of unisex shirts.

No collection , just a wardrobe evolving day by day with iconic pieces of fashion and classics freely revisited by the designer Anne-Charlotte Costille .

Princeton School Ad AsiaLIFE 27.03.2016.indd 1

3/28/16 3:55 PM

Best Cakes Around

For custom-made cakes catering to any occasion, Blanc a L’Aise Boutique Café has it covered. As well as designing dream cakes, the Phnom Penh-based diner also offers all-day dining with Western and Asian cuisine, freshly baked pastries, as well as barista coffee and tea, and also doubles up as a venue for business meetings and private parties. Set in a bright and breezy setting, customers can also enjoy the tiled, outdoor patio space surrounded by topiary.

29 Street 288. Tel: 081 828 288. Open daily from 7am to 10pm.

THE NIGHT DRESS

Less is more, Some rich colors, high hands and fluid fabrics, radical lines, strong but delicate details make the singularity and the feminity of this wardrobe.

THE KNOT KIMONO

Poppy Goes to Hollywood

The much-anticipated Poppy Goes to Hollywood premiers on the big screen this month. The latest outing from Cambodian director Sok Visal throws the spotlight on the LGBT community for this laugh-a-minute adventure, which follows Mony, a jobless loser who aimlessly stumbles through life, bullying people to make a living. That is until he is forced into hiding after witnessing a murder, where the only way to avoid his attackers is by going underground as a ladyboy.

Poppy Goes to Hollywood hits national cinemas on May 5.

THE FOLD PANT & THE CARACO

We use as well hand made clay beads from Claycult in Siem Reap, as unexpected buttons.

AsiaLIFE Cambodia 11 THE JUMPSUIT

OPENINGS

BY KIMCHHAY CHANRY

CAFÉ SUSHI

SUSHI DELIGHTS

With a passion for real Japanese cuisine, Café Sushi offers a healthy selection of homemade fresh food and reasonably priced wine and sake.

Located on Sothearos Boulevard, the cosy café is a sister shop to the popular Café Sushi in Sihanoukville. Classic dishes on the menu take in Nigiri sushi and sashimi, noodles, tuna from Japan and salmon from Norway and Singapore, and fresh sea fish from Sihanoukville. Food is perfectly served to diners with hot sake—using grilled blowfish fin and super-chilled sake. Adding to the menu, some special dishes include soft shell crab roll, fried oyster gyoza, California roll, spicy salmon roll and dragon roll or roasted eel. Each dish costs between $3 to $4, with authentic Japanese tea also on offer.

6HEo Sothearos Boulevard, Phnom Penh; Tel: 023 900 185.

Open Monday to Saturday, from 11am to 2pm and 5pm to 10pm.

COUSIN’S BURGER & COFFEE

BOUNTY OF BURGERS Cousin’s is a place to discover the taste of fresh, handmade burgers, at affordable prices and a fantastic mix of recipes. Popular options include The Signature ($5) with French raclette cheese and an original sauce, the Cocoric burger ($5) and The Cousin’s Burger ($4.50). Add into the mix some fresh salads, traditional soups and homemade desserts, with a range of smoothies and coffees, and this burger joint offers so much more. Featuring a deep forest green wall, the table sets are stable and comfortable, making customers feel relaxed and cosy while kicking back, chilling out and enjoying some delicious cookies.

16 Street 200, Phnom Penh, Tel: 012 528 126.

Open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 10pm and Sunday from 11am to 10pm.

DOUBLE D Bustling Bassac Lane’s latest addition comes in the form of Malaysianfusion restaurant, Double D. With traditional dishes given a definite modern twist, this contemporary diner looks set to appease many appetites.

With a simple and comfortable atmosphere, the menu takes in a range of special main dishes, such as What the Duck – hoisin-marinated duck, roasted, sliced and served with steamed muntao buns, garnished with chili, spring onion and cucumber – The Mighty Double D and Laksa King.

The restaurant also has bar and lounge, which serves soft drinks, wine and beer, and offers a cosy setting to spend intimate moments with friends. For this month, get all drinks (coffee, beer, soft drink) and main food for $7.

M114 Bassac Lane, Phnom Penh, Tel: 069 227 907.

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 11am to 2pm and 6pm to 10pm.

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DOUBLE DELIGHTS

CANADIAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

ELEMENTARY EDUCATION Canadian International School of Phnom Penh (CIS) is a fully-accredited international school that offers students a universally accepted diploma with competitively priced tuition fees. The purpose-built facility includes classrooms equipped with interactive white boards, iPads, laptops, two large playgrounds, a covered soccer pitch and basketball court, a track, and unique library. The preschool programme caters for students aged 18-months-old to four-yearsold. Academic programming is also offered up to Grade 6 with a goal of nurturing innovative and creative students through inquiry-based learning. CIS will add new grades each year until the first class graduates. With a curriculum taught in English, students have the choice of learning French, Khmer or Mandarin. CIS also has a French immersion programme.

Elite Town Street, Diamond Island, Phnom Penh. Tel: 023 900 399.

Open Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm, Saturday from 8.30am to 11.30am.

YOUNGER COSMETIC ACUPUNCTURE

VITALITY TREATMENTS

Those seeking natural, nonsurgical acupuncture treatment need look no further than Younger Cosmetic Acupuncture, which offers a wide range of traditional Chinese treatments. From face-lifts to dealing with skin disorders, weight loss, pain and massage, Younger Cosmetic Acupuncture has it covered. Each of the natural, non-chemical treatments helps to rebalance the body’s energy system, reduce wrinkles, double chins and pain, and helps to tone the body while smoothing skin with a fine needle. The Orange Coffee Scrub is already proving popular, helping to ease the ageing process.

One treatment costs $25, a full package is $504 for one area, $904 for two areas and $1,440 for unlimited areas. A guest treatment half package is $276 (one area), $528 (two areas) and $756 (unlimited areas).

Himawari Hotel Apartment, 313 Sisowath Quay. Tel: 023 214 555.

Open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 11.30am and 12.30pm to 7pm, Saturday 9am to noon.

T GALLERIA

SHOPPING ZONE T Galleria has opened its doors in Siem Reap as Cambodia’s largest duty free luxury department store, offering visitors a retail, hospitality and leisure experience. The store will open in phases until June, bringing a total of 170 brands to the 86,000 square foot space, including leading international fashion and accessories from Burberry, Fendi and Gucci, watches and jewellery from Bulgari, Tiffany & Co and Carl F, wines and spirits, and beauty and fragrances brands, such as Bobbi Brown, as well as a selection of locally handcrafted artisan products. Set within a verdant park and adjacent to the Angkor National Museum, home to some of the region’s most acclaimed historical artifacts, T Galleria by DFS, Angkor is a celebration of local culture and heritage within an elegant, contemporary setting.

968 Vithei Charles De Gaulle, Siem Reap. Tel: 063 962 511.

Open daily from 9am to 10pm.

AsiaLIFE Cambodia 13

May 2016

News & Events All Aboard

The much-anticipated passenger trains from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville started rolling in time for Khmer New Year. The Royal Railways Company’s passenger trains are up and running, connecting Phnom Penh with Sihanoukville. This is the first time in 14 years that people can jump on board the carriages after the services were halted due to the derelict state of the rail roads. The train on the Southern Line, which runs for 266km, slicing through the Kingdom’s tranquil countryside, carries about 400 people across five carriages. These are divided into two classes: regular coach class, which is cooled by fans, and upmarket VIP wagons boasting AC. Averaging at a speed of 33km/h, the trip takes about eight hours. For more information, visitroyal-railway.com.

Biking Boost

Newly-created YAANA Ventures has taken a stake in Grasshopper Adventures, in a deal inked by YAANA CEO Willem Niemeijer and Grasshopper Director Adam Platt-Hepworth. Signing the deal, Niemeijer said Grasshopper and YAANA were ideal partners due to, “a shared vision and belief in responsible tourism which drives a commitment to authentic local travel.” The partnership aims to expand Grasshopper, which currently runs bicycle trips in 15 Asian countries, including in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, and handles about 17,000 visitors annually. YAANA will support Grasshopper through investment, managerial expertise, marketing support and human resource training. Headquartered in Siem Reap, Cambodia, Grasshopper Adventures offers day tours in seven locations throughout Southeast Asia and multi-day tours between one and two weeks in 15 countries across Asia. Their goal is to introduce thousands more visitors to the pleasures of cycling around Asia.

gave people the opportunity to find out more about the airports.

Smiling Day is VINCI Airports’ flagship event for customer care, loyalty-building and passenger service. This year, airports in Chile, France, Portugal and Cambodia took part. Smiling Day sees all airport staff reaching out to passengers and offering them an especially friendly welcome. Éric Delobel, who has just taken office as CEO of Cambodia Airports, says, “Smiling Day allows our passengers to have a closer and better grasp of the wealth of expertise needed for running an airport. On another note, staging Smiling Day here at Cambodia’s airports has always been enjoyable as the event coincides with the Khmer New Year and its festive ambience, which adds a locally cultural twist.” In 2015, the number of passengers going through Cambodia’s international airports totaled 6.4 million. Phnom Penh and Siem Reap international airports provide nearly 500 regular flights per week.

Air Smiles

First Khmer Female Dive Instructor

Cambodia Airports took part in a day-long Smiling Day event, which took place in 25 airports across the globe. The event also

Sopheak Keo has been certified as Cambodia’s first female Professional Association of Dive

Instructors (PADI) Dive Instructor.

Sopheak started diving around three years ago after she was hired as a translator for CMAC underwater demining project.

Scuba Nation was running the basic diving training and were so impressed by her that they took her on a try dive and offered her a job after the project finished.

She was immediately hooked and quickly went through the Open Water course. She recently graduated from the Instructor Development Course. The two-week course is an intensive daily round of lectures, exams, pool and open water work during which the candidates are constantly evaluated. It culminates in two days of six written exams, presentations and exercises, assessed by a specially flown-in PADI examiner.

Sopheak says, “I’m so happy and I can’t believe it yet. I’ve worked harder for this than anything else in my life and it really is a dream come true.”

OPENING HOURS 11:30am - 11:00pm

HAPPY HOURS 5:00pm - 7:00pm

+855 63 966 986 +855 15 966 986 +855 17 376 038

info@mahobkhmer.com www.mahobkhmer.com

14 AsiaLIFE Cambodia

Tourism Hike

The latest figures from the Ministry of Tourism reveal a continuing upward trend in people landing in Cambodia.

In January, a total of 466,086 people arrived in the Kingdom via all its ports, airports and land borders, compared to 460,577 in January 2015. Of these, the vast majority arrived as tourists (411,637) while 26,040 arrived on business and 28,409 for other purposes. Once again, visitors from the rest of Asia make up the great majority of arrivals in Cambodia (331,690) albeit around 4,000 fewer than the previous January. More Vietnamese (70,435) than anyone else entered the Kingdom, followed by the Chinese (66,764) and South Koreans (59,945). Asia and the Pacific have also supplied Cambodia with the greatest volume of business travellers (21,503). Just under half of those come in from the ASEAN region and almost a quarter of them from China.

Entrepreneur Hub

From Jun. 6 to 10, aspiring entrepreneurs will gather in

Phnom Penh for five days, alongside the founders of Impact Hub Phnom Penh, Alberto Cremonesi and Laura Smitheman. These business hopefuls will attend Unreasonable Lab Cambodia, a five-day intensive training programme which aims to prepare them to secure their first customers and contracts. It will also be attended by experienced entrepreneurs and investors from across Cambodia acting as mentors for the wouldbe start-up entrepreneurs.

“What will be unique about these startups is they will be tackling Cambodia’s biggest problems,” says Unreasonable Lab Cambodia founder Mélanie Mossard. Participating startup entrepreneurs and staff will get guidance in testing the core ethos of their businesses, advice from 15 business mentors, talk to their potential customer base and build prototypes. To participate, email alberto.cremonesi@impacthub. net or melanie.mossard@ impacthub.net before May.

Poetic Topographies

Sa Sa Art Projects and SA SA

BASSAC’S latest exhibition, Poetic Topographies, runs until Jun. The exhibition features the work of emerging artists Eng Rithchandaneth and Kong Dara and is curated by Vuth Lyno.

Dara’s work offers remapping as a strategy for deciphering and challenging the power at play within politics of cartography and identity. Eng explores her concern for unbalanced development in Cambodia. For more information, visit sasabassac.com.

French Companies Honoured

Confirel and Endorphine Concept were recognised for their contribution to the sustainable economic development of Cambodia at the inaugural Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Awards.

French Ambassador JeanClaude Poimboeuf says, “I am very delighted to see so many French companies not only participating in these awards but significantly contributing to the advancement of Cambodia. In so doing, they are strengthening the deep bond between our two countries.” The 2016 CSR Awards were initiated by the French Foreign Trade Advisors in Cambodia and aim to highlight best practices implemented by locally-based French companies.

Speaking at the ceremony, Christophe Forsinetti, President of the French Foreign Trade Advisors of Cambodia, says, “French companies in Cambodia recognise that it is important to do their part in improving social, ethical, labour and environmental conditions as well as supporting good governance at all levels.”

Exotissimo, Total Cambodge,

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*discount only available on individual treatments. Not applicable to packages, beauty treatments and Caudalie treatments

It takes the biscuit how many bakeries there are in the capital. Writer Kimchhay Chanry takes a look at the Top Five. Photography by Lim Sokchanlina.

16 AsiaLIFE Cambodia

Java Café & Gallery Having opened in 2000, Java Café & Gallery is a stalwart on the scene and boasts two outlets in the capital, which are usually rammed full. The Independence Monument branch is a popular haunt for expats wanting to enjoy a coffee, smoothie, food or sweet treat overlooking Hun Sen Park. On the ground floor sits the bakery, which takes in a choice of fresh-out-of-the-oven bread, scones and cakes. The signature menu includes cinnamon roll, scones served with butter, pumpkin cranberry scone, ginormous muffins served with butter and cheesecake and dark chocolate ($2 to $5). Java also serves great coffee, which perfectly complements cakes and cookies, which take in chocolate chip, white chocolate and walnut and oatmeal-raisin ($1).

56 Sihanouk Boulevard and 20A Street 337.

The Shop Undoubtedly one of the capital’s best bakeries, The Shop has been serving the city yummy delights for almost two decades. Offering a large selection of delicious homemade bread and cakes, customers can enjoy the freshness of the baking, with all products used being natural. The menu takes in a range of tasty treats, including tarts, cookies and mousses. For those who like to start the day with a croissant, The Shop makes butter croissants, pain au chocolat, raisin croissant, bolus, brioche and almond brioche, all for 3,000 riel. Popular pastries and cakes include eclairs, passion fruit and chocolate mousse. The tarts are also mouthwatering and come in different flavours — passion chocolate, raspberry, lemon chocolate and apple almond.

38 Street 240 and 39 Street 337, Phnom Penh.

My Friend’s Café & Bakery My Friend’s Café and Bakery is a simple affair that serves up some of the best buttery croissants around.

It also home bakes gluten-free bread for customers with allergies, and uses a secret recipe to produce the delicious selection of brownies, cinnamon twists and carrot cake, which use gluten-free baking with raisin, walnut and carrots for a healthy snack. Having opened two years ago, the venue also prides itself on its range of breads, with a hot favourite being the chewy nut bread and the sour dough – a yeast-free bread. My Friend’s Café and Bakery also brings secret recipes from Australia along with a lot of successful experimenting in the kitchen. Couple that with friendly staff, a good choice of coffee and a range of reasonably priced meals, and diners will need an excuse to leave.

17 Street 294, Phnom Pen

AsiaLIFE Cambodia 17

Tous Les Jours Tous Les Jours, which means “everyday�, is a great place to chill out and enjoy a range of quirkier bread and cakes. The South Korean bakery has been open for about seven years in Cambodia, with eight outlets in Phnom Penh and one in Siem Reap. Filled with the sumptuous smell of baking bread, the French-Asian outlet boasts the sweet taste of cream, butter, coffee and whole nut. A recent launch new products for Khmer New Year presents 10 new breads and four cakes. One of most interesting breads is Tuna Floss, which has a dried and salted tuna stuffed inside and black seaweed rolled outside plus almond nuts to top off the taste.

Aeon Mall, 298 Monivong Boulevard, 751 Street 128, 66 Street 63, Sihanouk Boulevard, 311 Street 254, 307-309 Street 271 and between Street 108 and Russian Boulevard.

Eric Kayser For the best cheesy bread (3,000 riel) in town, head straight to Eric Kayser. The traditional French bakery boasts a total of five suave outlets in Phnom Penh, offering a lengthy of delicious breads and pastries. Fresh, homemade bread and recipes from France make it one of the best bakers in town. Delicately displayed, the range takes in macaroon with lemon, coffee, chocolate, raspberry, blueberry, pistachio, vanilla and caramel. And the breads come with different flavours, such as monge, bagnette rustique and bagnette malesherbes, each crispy on the outside and soft on the in. A popular option is the monge tarte, the finest cake with creamy filling and blueberry and raspberry jelly on top. Eric Kayser is a must to enjoy the real taste of fresh, homemade baking and French bread and cakes.

Aeon Mall, Vattanac Capital Mall, 26 Street 240, 29EO Street 63, and 10 Street 456.

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Tuk Tuk Driver

KI NEANG “T

By Kimchhay Chanry.

Photo by Lucas Veuve.

he men often get jealous of me because I get a lot of customers from the hotel,” says Ki Neang with a laugh.

Sat perched on the back seat of her fairlynew vehicle, the 51-year-old, who hails from Kaoh Thum, in Kandal province, tells how she fell into tuk tuk driving after spending years selling clothes at Toul Tom Poung market.

“The selling was not good there so I knew I needed to find another business,” she says.

When a cousin opened up New Midtown Hotel on nearby Street 155, to the north of Toul Tom Poung roundabout, two years ago, Ki saw an opportunity. “I thought why not be a tuk tuk driver there?” she says.

The family snapped up a tuk tuk, and Ki started her new job, making a name for herself in what is traditionally seen as a man’s world.

“Many of the men tell me to stay at home because driving a tuk tuk is for a man,” she says, adding that her rivals often undercut her prices by knocking a dollar off each ride to deter her.

Every day, Ki, who has taught herself some English so she can communicate with foreign passengers, rises well before the call of dawn to start driving at 4am – usually customers to the market. Then she sets up shop at her hotel base, driving guests to their destinations. When business is quiet, she heads to bustling Toul Tom Poung Market to pick up more fares.

With a large family of mouths to feed, the mumof-four mostly works through the day and into the evening, finally finishing work at about 8pm when she returns home to eat with her husband, blind older sister, sick parents and children – of which one is deaf and another cannot speak.

Tuk tuk driving obviously runs in the family, with two of Ki’s sons taking it in turns with her to be stationed at the market and hotel. Her other son works as a policeman in Preah Vihear and the youngest stays at home, while her husband is a teacher.

“The job can be hard at times,” she says.

“Days are long and tiring but the condition with my family’s income is poor so I have to support them. But my customers are fond of me and trust me. I like that.”

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Baby Baboon A baby baboon abandoned after birth is being brought up by staff at a zoo in Mysore, India, who have given it a toy monkey to cuddle.

Giant Catch A 15ft alligator that weighed 363kg was shot dead at a hunting ranch in Florida after setting up camp in its pond and feasting on cattle.

nd drinks m ad e f r o m t h e F o od a

Hermaphrodite Kittie The hunt is on to find a nine-week-old kitten in Merseyside, UK, a new home after it was born with both male and female genitalia.

Proposal Cliffhanger A man scaled 600 feet up Morro Rock, California, to propose with the volcanic outcrop as a backdrop and had to get rescued by helicopter.

Village Sale An entire village - including a 21-bedroom mansion, 43 houses and a pub - is up for sale in the UK for $32,000 after the owner died.

GOING UP GOING DOWN Tiger Terror A tiger evacuated from a rescue farm was found wandering the streets, after deadly floods around the Texas city led to its escape.

Spy Love China has launched a campaign, to warn people of the dangers of trusting handsome foreigners who might have secret agendas.

Name Sunk UK ministers reject the runaway winner of an online poll to name a new $320,000 polar research vessel: Boaty McBoatface.

Great Escape A 6ft-tall escaped prisoner was found hiding in a dishwasher, wearing only boxer shorts and handcuffs at his girlfriend’s East Texas home.

Python Record A 26ft python found by construction workers building a new fly-over in Penang, Malaysia, is thought to be the longest snake ever caught.

AsiaLIFE Cambodia 21

Photo Essay

M

oul Monor is a Khmer-French photographer who spends his time between Paris and Phnom Penh. Through this project, he has captured Phnom Penh's nightlife, travelling the streets by bike between 9pm and 3am in 2011 and 2012. The work is inspired by photographer BrassaĂŻ, who photographed Paris by night in 1928.

Monor works with a 35mm film camera and has a passion for black and white film. In 2014, he founded a traditional photographic laboratory in Phnom Penh, providing photo printing lessons in Khmer. He also rents the darkroom to professional photographers.

For more information, visit moulmonor.com or atelierargentique.com.

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KONGNGY HOV Founder and director of My Dream Home, Kongngy Hav is building affordable solutions to housing for Cambodia’s poor, through the creation of eco-friendly, interlocking bricks.

Writing by Joanna Mayhew. Photography by Lucas Veuve.

Tell me about your business.

At [social business] My Dream Home, we produce interlocking bricks that allow poor and middle-income people to build affordable, easy-to-construct and environmental housing.

Building affordable housing for the poor [means that] for the poor we will build the same standard. The poor [shouldn’t] have lower quality.

Why did you start the company?

The Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction statistics say we need 1.1 million new houses for low- and middle-income people. And this doesn’t include rooms or houses for garment workers. This is also parallel to Cambodian demographics, because 70 percent of the Cambodian population is under 30-years-old, so in five to 10 years they will marry and need houses. If we look at the way Cambodia constructs, we use a traditional method that’s usually expensive and not environmentally friendly.

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Cambodian forests are now scarce, and there is land grabbing. Another factor is urban planning is not so clear, and when people try to migrate from rural areas to the city, they just illegally take the land, but this [does not] provide a good safety standard for them.

NGOs are involved but there are less than 5,000 houses built

by NGOs to help the poor, so it’s not enough. For the private sector, they target from middle class up. This is why I thought of creating a social business.

How do interlocking bricks work?

The system is similar to Lego bricks. People can use less cement to bond [them] together.

We also design [them] smooth so people don’t need to plaster, and it saves time. Compared to a traditional brick, it’s more than two times faster to build a wall. With my brick, we don’t need high-skilled labour.

When people buy [bricks], we provide short training about how to construct a home, so this also reduces the cost. The brick is resistant to strong wind, fire and insects. And it [functions] as insulation, so it keeps the temperature inside a bit cooler than outside. The bricks are environmentally friendly because they’re made from soil, and a little bit of cement and other stabilizers.

And even though our brick is more expensive than traditional brick, if we calculate together the labour, cement, sand, time, we are more competitive. We can save in total 20 percent to 40 percent off the house.

Why are you passionate about this issue?

I used to live in a poor province, in Kampong Thom, near a garment factory, so I know how hard it is for garment workers.

I couldn’t afford to rent and lived in my brother’s house.

But compared to the garment workers, I was very lucky.

Also, I was saved by a group of garment workers in 2009. When I was driving, I [crashed] and was unconscious. They helped bring me home. At that time my motorbike was very new, and I didn’t lose it. [Normally], when you get in accidents alone at night, people take any property.

But that was a very kind group; I didn’t lose anything. That touched my heart. There’s still some [damage] on my motorbike. I want to leave it, to remind me to pay back those who helped me. When I touch the gear, I remember, and it keeps me going forward.

What is your background?

My background is in sociology and then I started my MA in development studies, so I don’t have any background in business. But I received training on social entrepreneurship in 2013, and then got a scholarship provided by H&M to study in Germany. In Cambodia, I joined [Social Enterprise Cambodia’s] Bootcamp (training course). It was very useful, [as] it connected me to different investors.

What’s challenging about running a social enterprise?

NGOs have support. But in my case, I started by spending my own money. [I went] two years [without] even a dollar’s income. I told my idea to many people, but no one believed in me. I spent around $2,000, so everything that I can save [on] clothes, food, entertainment [I did] for two years – I didn’t even visit a movie once. But for me, happiness is not about money; it’s about giving impact.

My goal is to make my brick a national standard for affordable housing, and then start to increase more production and selling to the poor. If I’m just selling to the rich, I’m not happy. We talked with the ministry, because they want it to be a national standard brick. It’s not decided yet. But it’s good news they are now talking about my business.

What keeps you dedicated to the work?

Even though now I am a director of this business, I still don’t have my own house. I want to build my dream home and show people that they also can build. Cambodians earn around $100 per month. A house nearby Phnom Penh will cost $42,000, which means [it will take] more than a lifetime to earn. This also applies to me.

Even though I went outside [of the country] to study, I don’t have money to buy a house – I just live in my parents’ house.

But at least I have a shelter, compared to others. That’s why it inspires me. I will show the world that it’s not the problem of the others, but it’s also my own problem.

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Cambodia has been a hotbed for journalists for decades, with reporters from across the globe stationed in the Kingdom. Editor Marissa Carruthers takes a look at its appeal. Photography

by Charles Fox.

AsiaLIFE Cambodia 29

I

t was a balmy day in February and Cloud Bar in Phnom Penh was packed with a group of about 70 foreigners from across the globe. The smell of barbecued meat wafted through the air along with chatter of the latest scoop, predictions on the upcoming elections and that day’s headlines.

“Most were under the age of 35,” says Overseas Press Club Cambodia (OPCC) treasurer Luke Hunt of the journalists who attended the organisation’s barbecue.

“That speaks volumes about Cambodia’s place in the world. Cambodia has a vibrant journalist scene.”

For decades, the country has attracted journalists from far and wide, both fresh and seasoned, to report on its tumultuous history and recent race for development. From the civil war and the Khmer Rouge reign to the Vietnamese invasion for liberation, the UN peace-keeping mission, and the first democratic elections, through to land-grabbing, illegal logging, corruption, human rights, political turmoil, protests and the rapid growth of the country today, the Kingdom of Wonder is a hotbed for roving reporters searching for a scoop.

“Southeast Asia as a whole is a great place to be as a journalist,” says seasoned reporter, Hunt. “I read a column the other day saying someone was arrested in Indonesia because they didn’t believe in God while in Vietnam someone was arrested because they did believe in God. You’ve got Muslims and Buddhists and Christians, rich and poor, developed and undeveloped.

Everything is so extreme; it’s extraordinary, and at the centre is Cambodia.”

Passing the Baton

“In the old days, it was mad,” recalls Hunt. “People don’t appreciate how different Cambodia was back then. The roads buckled and broke, and threats continued, not from the government but from Khmer Rouge bandits, who were running wild.”

Stationed in Vietnam as a correspondent for Agence France-Presse (AFP), Hunt

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ventured across the border into Cambodia in 1994 after a trio of Australian, French and British backpackers were abducted by the Khmer Rouge in Kampot and later shot during a botched $50,000 ransom demand.

He returned to the country several times in the 1990s before being appointed AFP’s bureau chief for Cambodia, joining the flurry of foreign correspondents permanently stationed there for global news agencies. “In those days, there was AFP, Associated Press, Reuters, Deutsche Presse-Agentur, you name it.

These were fulltime foreign correspondents on full salaries.

You don’t have that anymore.”

During this time, Hunt worked alongside some of the country’s stalwart journalists, including Reach Sambath, who was one of the first Cambodians to work for a news agency, working with AFP since 1991, covering the country’s first democratic elections, a coup, the collapse of the Khmer Rouge and Pol Pot’s death. He went on to become the spokesman for the Khmer Rouge tribunals but died in 2011 at the age of 47 from a stroke. “I worked with some terrific journalists,” says Hunt.

In July 1992, the Phnom Penh Post published its first edition, paving the way for independent media in Cambodia, and throwing open wider doors to both local journalists and foreign reporters wanting to base themselves in the country. The Cambodia Daily followed suit in 1993, with the third Englishlanguage national newspaper market hitting the streets in April 2014 in the form of the Khmer Times.

The Hook

“There aren’t many places in the world where you can step in as a young, unproven journalist and get the opportunity to, fairly quickly, cover weighty issues,” says Phnom Penh Post editor-in-chief, Chad Williams, who previously worked at the Hollywood Reporter.

It was this factor that got freelance reporter and photojournalist, Lauren Crothers, hooked when she spotted a vacancy at The Cambodia Daily after her one-

year contract at the Toronto Star ran out. “The news here was so interesting,” says Crothers, who landed in the Kingdom in September 2010.

“There was a whole Shakespearean drama being played out on the political landscape, I got to cover the Khmer Rouge tribunals, which had been a pipedream. I’ve also always been interested in human interest stories and social justice, and there’s so much of that here. I feel for any journalist, particularly young ones, there’s a lot to sink your teeth into.”

The country’s volatile history, economic standing, fast development and tainted human rights record, coupled with cheap and relatively easy living, have led to a swathe of young foreign journalists clamouring to sell a slice of Cambodia’s news.

“There are some incredibly talented journalists here, working probably on far less than elsewhere in the world,” says Colin Meyn, The Cambodia Daily’s editorin-chief. “But they have the opportunity of writing news stories that are intriguing and on a scale that would take them years to cover elsewhere in the world.”

Throw into the mix the global downturn in print media, with redundancies rife in newsrooms across the world and newspapers folding or moving towards digital platforms – UK national newspaper The Independent shifted all operations online in February, a move expected to be mirrored by other publications in the future – while Cambodia continues to enjoy a strong print media culture, and it’s little wonder the Kingdom of Wonder remains top of the list for freshfaced journalists looking to kick-start their careers.

“The industry has been in a free-fall for the last few years,” says Crothers, who worked at The Cambodia Daily for four years before going freelance. “Here, I feel it has been sheltered from that newspaper earthquake and the aftershock that has rippled across the world. There are still opportunities in Cambodia.”

Freedom of the Press

“It’s very important a country has good, reliable news. People make decisions on it,” says Prak Chan Thul, Cambodian correspondent for news, Thomson Reuters.

Currently, Cambodia enjoys a relatively free press in comparison to neighbouring countries. A Reporters Without Borders report released last month revealed Cambodia has moved up 11 spots to 128 out of 180 countries in the annual press freedom global ranking.

This put it ahead of Thailand, Laos and Vietnam, with those countries placed 136th, 173rd and 175th respectively. The report flagged up concerns surrounding the safety of those covering sensitive issues, such as illegal logging and trafficking, as well as the media being indirectly controlled by the government. It adds that defamation and damaging the country’s image are the most frequently used charges.

However, there are gaps when it comes to Khmer and English-language media, with officials rarely tampering with the latter. “Often the government pay more attention to what’s written in Khmer and that can create more difficulties for them,” says Hunt. “There is a culture among Cambodian journalists of fearlessness,” adds Meyn, despite legal threats and intimidation.

Prak, who became a journalist in 2002 to satisfy a need to “witness what’s going on in my country firsthand”, says as a Cambodian journalist, he feels “free to report”. Although, there have been occasions where he has received official letters accusing him of “not being nationalistic”. “I don’t feel threatened for my life or anything,” he adds.

However, a Reporters Without Borders report paints a different picture. Published in November, it named Cambodia as the most dangerous place to work as an environmental journalist. The Hostile Climate for Environmental Journalists paper highlights four reporters killed in the country since 2010 – all Cambodian.

In 2014, Taing Try was investigating illegal logging in Kratie province when he was AsiaLIFE Cambodia 31

shot in the head by a soldier.

In a separate incident, Suon Chan was beaten to death while reporting on illegal fishing in Kampong Chhnang.

In 2012, Hang Serei Odom was discovered in the trunk of his car with axe wounds to the head after researching illegal logging in Ratanakiri, and environmental activist Chut Wutty was shot dead by military police while accompanying two The Cambodia Daily journalists to logging sites in Koh Kong.

“That situation was a reminder that we take a lot for granted here,” says Crothers, whose former Daily colleagues witnessed Chut’s murder.

“For foreign reporters here, by and large, we can do our jobs without any real interruption.

Cambodians are dealing with a completely different environment. I’m always aware of the privilege of being a foreign journalist in Cambodia.

We don’t have the same risks.”

While English-language papers, such as the Daily and Post, pride themselves on trawling through masses of misinformation to unearth the truth, and report news objectively, the Cambodian media often lags behind.

Common complaints include self-censorship to avoid conflict with officials, advertisers and organisations, heavy political bias, and reporters accepting cash payments at press conferences and seeking out stories only to spike them in order to extort money from those involved.

The Future

While the death of print media in the Kingdom may well be further down the line than in other parts of the world, change is on the horizon. Many newspapers have embraced the web and social media, and Khmer news websites, such as Fresh News and Thmey Thmey, are mushrooming.

“We are in the same position as most of the world,” says Williams. “The future is definitely digital, it just seems 32 AsiaLIFE Cambodia

no-one has figured out how to monetise the web yet.”

A swelling young population, who are hungry for information and have instant access to the internet, has also led to a huge surge in Facebook pages devoted to news. “Facebook is powerful,” says Prak. “People like to receive their information via Facebook because it’s easier and they can access it on their smartphones and tablets, even the government realises its importance."

Citizen journalism has also seen a sharp rise within the Cambodian market, with people using their phones and tablets to film situations as they unfold and posting them online. “The most exciting development in journalism at the moment is the young people in the media looking for new ways to disseminate the news,” says Meyn.

This citizen journalism also feeds the local appetite for gory, crime-related news and gossip – issues the Khmer media focus on. “The Khmer press are writing for their audience,” says Prak.

“A lot of Cambodians don’t want to read about economics or politics because it may be hard to understand or they don’t see how it impacts them; they want to read about crime or look at road traffic accidents. That is the demand from the local market.”

With the commune elections set for next year, ahead of the general elections of July 2018, the media frenzy in Cambodia is set to mount from 2017 as international interest peaks. And as the younger population’s interest in their country and decision-making grows, the media has a vital and responsible role to play.

“Independent media is really important,” says Crothers. “A transparent, open and free media is one of the major pillars of society. Readers deserve to be able to access that resource and trust what they are getting has the proper due diligence.”

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With a growing number of businesses, Phnom Penh’s Bassac Lane has moved from an up-and-coming hotspot to one of the city’s mainstays. Writing by Joanna Mayhew.

Photography by Lucas Veuve.

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On a recent Saturday night, down a nondescript turnoff in the capital, an energetic rockabilly band – set up in the middle of an alley, under fairy lights strung across the small stretch of space – entertain a smattering of expat and Khmer imbibers, as well as dancing neighbourhood kids. Residents ease their motorbikes through the crowd to access their homes, and patrons move seamlessly with their drinks between chic microbars specialising in gin, daiquiris and craft beer.

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hile perhaps seeming a bit surreal, this small, charming passageway – now known as Bassac Lane – has become a very real and integral part of the Phnom Pehn's nightlife.

This transition has happened over a short time period. Less than three years ago, the tight maze of paths was lined with nondescript homes and shop fronts.

And nearby Street 308 had just started to have the beginnings of foot traffic with the opening of pizzeria Piccola Italia, followed

by Mama Wong’s and Red Bar.

Building Blocks

The alleyway’s makeover was the brainchild of New Zealand brothers George and William Norbert-Munns, founding developers of Bassac Lane. Starting with the opening of Seibur – the tiniest of the microbars – in October 2013, the duo rolled out five bars and one eatery in just a year-and-a-half.

“After Meat and Drink opened (in February 2014), there was a real vision to create a street and a destination,” says George.

“That’s something we’ve always seen as lacking in Phnom Penh – somewhere with lots of bars people can be entertained in.”

With these businesses, the rundown passageway was transformed into a pristine locale. Though all the microenterprises have a common je ne sais quoi about them, they each offer varied décor and beverages, from motorcycle-themed drinking hole Hangar 44 to vintage antique-accented Harry’s bar.

“Each place was built to give different types of customers what they want,” says George.

This is not the brothers’ first experience working in laneways. In 2012, they opened Bar Sito in alleyway 240 ½, followed six months later by Public House restaurant.

However, due to difficulties with neighbours, the pair set their sights elsewhere, keeping a keen eye on Tonlé Bassac for some time before building Seibur. “It was quite sleepy; rent wasn’t as expensive as neighbouring Boeung Keng Kang 1,” says George. “We saw real promise and potential for the area.”

With consistent crowds each weekend, the lane’s success is hard to deny. And a growing number of players joining the passageway promises to expand and prolong this boon. The area now boasts a treasure trove of small new shops, including a tannery, clothing store, Malaysian restaurant – seating just 15 people – and hair salon. “They all sort of complement each other,” says Dollhouse salon owner Ryan Drew Taylor of the lane’s tiny offerings.

“Bassac Lane needs a variety of businesses to flourish,” adds Luke Ding, who co-owns Malaysian restaurant Double D with Taylor.

“It’s all the service industry at the end of the day.”

Trending Small

Businesses say the lane culture is taking over in many parts of the world, as customers move away from larger, chain-style enterprises. So it is no surprise Cambodia has followed suit. “After all the mega-sized bars and clubs in this city, people have been wanting a well-curated space to savour their cold tipples and share a laugh,” says Patrick Uong, cofounder and co-owner of Hangar 44, a joint operation with Moto Cambodge.

The microenterprises provide for a more personalised experience and allow groups of friends to feel bars are their own. Adds Uong. “It's a friendly outdoor meetinghouse made up of six bars. How rad it that?”

The passageway has also become a destination for live music, with bar owners hosting bands every six weeks, featuring everything from brass groups and DJs to punk and acoustic. In the future, owners also hope to collaborate on street parties.

“We’re trying to promote Bassac Lane as a whole. It’s good for me; it’s good for everyone else,” says Ding.

“We're not competing against each other. We collaborate,” adds Uong.

“But we do try to raise the bar – no pun intended – to grow the industry.”

Despite rapid changes in the capital, business owners feel the lane will be popular for the long haul, in part because of the variety it offers. “It puts Phnom Penh on the map, that Phnom Penh has something to offer apart from the riverside, casino and museums,” says Ding. “It’s starting to move away from traditional tourism-based activities to a more bar-type culture.” He adds that an advantage of small businesses is that they can remain flexible and responsive to the changing needs of the market.

So far, the lane has mostly attracted expats and tourists, but with the opening of a locally owned bar, this may start to change. Uong, too, hopes to attract more of a Khmer crowd.

“That's my 2016 mission,” he says. As opposed to Street 240½, the area also has potential to expand further geographically into the back-alley neighbourhood, according to Taylor. “We just need somebody to try,” he says.

Considering Bassac Lane’s founding developers seem to have a knack for risk taking, this doesn’t seem far off. “It hasn’t gone to its peak yet,” says Ding. “It’s nowhere near it.”

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Wanting to explore the Cambodian countryside with a hit of adrenaline attached, editor Marissa Carruthers tries her hand at dirt biking.

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A

look of surprise flickers across Kickstart Dirt Bike Adventures coowner Dave Scott’s face when I reveal I’ve never sat in the driving seat of a scooter, let alone a motorbike, in my life. The sheer shock on mine is evident when he rolls out the beast of a dirt bike on which I’m about to spend the next five hours hurtling around Siem Reap’s countryside.

To even the semi-seasoned pro, my bike – a Honda CRF 150F – is a baby reserved for amateurs. To me, as I watch it being loaded onto the back of the truck, it’s intimidating, and as I climb into my protective gear and squeeze into the chunky helmet, I quickly start to question what on Earth I’ve got myself into.

A 10-minute drive later to a dusty track on the outskirts of Temple Town and it’s time to swallow my nerves. Scott, a British bike fiend, talks me through the basics, making it sound so simple, before letting me loose. My first attempt sees me tootle, very slowly, not too far into the distance before losing control as I try and step down a gear to turn around.

With a skid, surrounded by a large cloud of orange dust, I land with a thud on the ground – a move I was to become familiar with during the next 30

minutes as I drove up and down the track, gaining confidence with changing gears and picking up the pace.

“Safety is number one,” Scott says as he pulls up next to me, seemingly comfortable that I’m ready to hit the roads.

He then runs through a list of ride rules and regulations, such as hand signals to abide by, slowing down when passing through villages, keeping to single file and, most importantly, respecting the roads.

“We don’t want to ruin the dirt bike reputation, and Cambodia is not the place to get injured,” he adds.

Kick-starting Dreams

Hailing from the congested English capital of London, Scott harboured a passion for motorbikes from a young age.

But it wasn’t until he moved to Cambodia more than 15 years ago and went on a trip with a Khmer friend to Anlong Veng in Oddar Meanchey province that he first dabbled with dirt bikes.

“I started getting more and more into it and started using them to explore the country,” he says.

Within a year, he had travelled to all four corners of Cambodia, and everywhere in between, via dirt bike, and was hooked.

After spending several years working for a dirt bike tour operator, Scott and Cambodian

biking buddy and experienced mechanic, Jek Keyla – commonly known as Mr La – decided to follow their dream. In March last year, they launched their own dirt bike business in the form of Kickstart.

Offering a series of bikes, from the robust and reliable Honda XR 250 and Honda CRF 230 used for standard tours, to the high performance Yamaha WRF 250/450, Honda CRF 250/450 and KTM EXC 250/450, the rides range from half-day to intense 11-day trips, depending on the group and experience.

“Cambodia is a dirt biker’s paradise and is so unique,” says Scott. “It’s got some of the best roads in the world and such a variety of conditions, from flat fast single tracks through the forests to technical mountain trails on the border regions. You’ve also got the Khmer hospitality and the amazing culture.”

Adrenaline Adventure

We pull up at our first stopoff – a crumbling temple about a one-hour ride from Siem Reap city centre – and the adrenaline’s pumping through my veins. I’ve managed to get the hand of the gear changes, and it feels like I’m racing along the tracks that twist and turn through dense jungles and open paddies, swerving to avoid giant potholes that taint the

roads, and slowing down on slippery, sandy paths. As we wind through villages children scream “hello” as we overtake them on their push bikes.

“Living in Siem Reap, you can be on great trails within 10 minutes,” Scott says, adding popular afternoon and weekend rides take in the Tonle Sap Lake floodplains, around Phnom Krom Mountain and on to Koh Ker. Longer tours go as far afield as the jungle tracks of the Cardamom Mountains, which Scott says has the most technical rides, and Kampot and Kep, with a day for rest and recuperation on Rabbit Island.

Exhausted after almost five hours on the road, we take a short break at an expanse of water. “Do you see Angkor Wat,” Scott asks, pointing across the shimmering West Baray towards a faint silhouette on the horizon before adding it's a rarity as the haze usually hampers the view.

Feeling lucky to both have seen the temple at such a distance, and having successfully explored Siem Reap’s countryside at an exhilarating pace, with just a few minor bumps under my belt, we return to Kickstart’s HQ to dust down and enjoy a refreshing and much-needed cool beer.

For more information visit kickstartcambodia.com.

AsiaLIFE Cambodia 37

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A bus rammed full of musical minds from across the globe hits Cambodia’s roads this month to explore the links between American and Cambodian rock ‘n’ roll, culminating in an exciting creative collaboration. Editor Marissa Carruthers finds out more.

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hen Cambodian Space Project (CSP) put out an appeal for creatives to jump on board the Boogaloo Bus to join them on a magical mystery tour into the unknown, checking at a string of Cambodia's art and cultural hubs along the way, the response attracted the out-of-the-box creativity they were seeking.

“We’re certainly filling up seat space with a very creative team, and have had some interesting offers,” says CSP co-founder Julien Poulson of the band’s latest collaborative project, Motown to the Mekong. As well as filmmakers, musicians, dancers, photographers and visual artists from Shanghai, clowns, an artist who uses pancakes as their canvas and a transcendental mediator also put themselves forward for a ticket on the bus.

Throw into the mix Australian author, Clinton Walker, who is exploring the story of Cambodia’s lost rock ‘n’ roll and its potential connections with music of the Vietnam War-era entertainers, and the expertise of legendary Detroit producer Jim Diamond, of The White Stripes and The Dirt Bombs, and the result of this melding of musical minds look set to be explosive.

The 14-day adventure takes in a range of workshops throughout Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Battambang, including a series of meet the producer sessions with Diamond offering insight into writing and marketing material for international audiences, performances, studio sessions and matinee shows in the Cambodian countryside.

The project, which is backed by the US Embassy, has the ultimate aim of inspiring enough creativity to pen and

produce an album of work at one of their final stop-offs, Temple Town's dedicated recording studio, 60 Road.

The common theme along the way is the music, which will draw on Motown classics as well as American popular songs of the 1960s and 1970s, and Cambodian songs influenced by the American songbook. “We want to create music reflective of a particular chapter in Cambodia's culture history,” says Poulsen, adding material collected during the journey will also be used in a CSP tour film and for a new musical theatre production the band is working on.

“I don’t know what the outcome will be, but that’s part of the beauty,” adds Walker, who has penned the biographies of icons such as AC/DC’s Bon Scott.

“It’s exciting to see what direction it will take as there is a combination of different

skills, and music is a collective activity, which comes from having good chemistry.”

Having met through their shared love of Southeast Asian music from the 1960s and 1970s at one of CSP’s gigs in Australia, Poulsen and Walker hit it off, pledging to work together on an ‘unusual’ project in the future. “I’ve always been interested in things coming out of nowhere, so this seemed perfect,” says Walker. “This is my first time in Cambodia so I’m very much looking forward to it.”

Diamond is another musical treasure who will be adding to the agenda. As the man behind the signature Detroit sound and owner of the US city’s world-famous Ghetto Recorders, Diamond has brought a fresh approach to the recording process by turning back in time. Today, the studio’s collection of vintage gear and analog

recording equipment entices and garners respect from bands from across the world.

Diamond met CSP in 2013 in Detroit and their similar interests saw them click, with him producing ‘Electric Blue Boogaloo’ in 2014 and joining the band on tour as bassist.

“A friend gave me a cassette in the 1990s recorded in Cambodia of rock ‘n’ roll,” Diamond recalls of his first introduction to the music. “I listened to it and thought, ‘Wow, what is this?’. There was this crazy fuzz guitar; it was out of this world. I’ve been listening to rock ‘n’ roll since I was four so I am excited to bring the sounds from my part of the world and merge them with the Cambodian genre of music.”

As popularity across the globe grows for the sounds and songs of Cambodia’s Golden Era, within the country there is a growing hunger

among the younger generation to find out more about the American music that inspired the lively movement, planting the seed for the Motown to Mekong Project.

“This is a trip back in time to rediscover and explore the American songbook and how that music, particularly the sounds of Motown, met and merged with the sounds of music along the Mekong,” says Poulsen. “We're looking at either covering or writing new songs that best illustrate the magic of West meets East in rock 'n' roll.”

The first event takes place on May 7 in Battambang with a wrap party planned at Otres Market on May 30. For full details on where the bus tour is stopping off, visit Motown to the Mekong on Facebook.

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Tini Tinou International Circus Festival marks its 10th anniversary with a feast of acrobatic feats from six troupes hailing from five countries. AsiaLIFE takes a look behind the scenes.

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aw-dropping juggling, awesome acrobatics, flame-throwing, tomfoolery, bodies hurtling through the air – this is all in an evening’s work for the troupes performing at Tini Tinou International Circus Festival.

Last year’s event – the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia – attracted more than 4,500 people across a total of eight sold-out nights in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Battambang, with audiences clamouring to catch a glimpse of the breathtaking Cirque du Soliel-esque shows. And with this year’s festival having kicked off in Phnom Penh on Apr. 28, it looks set to be even better than its popular predecessor.

“Cambodia is leading the region in contemporary circus, with three years of nightly performances by Phare in Siem Reap, and 20 years of regular performances by Phare Ponleu Selpak (PPS) in Battambang,” says Dara Huot, CEO of Phare, The Cambodian Circus, which organises the festival.

“Tini Tinou is a natural extension of this and we’re pleased to bring contemporary performers from all over the

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world to see and participate in our vibrant arts scene.”

Troupes from Australia, Canada, Indonesia, Nepal, and France have flown into the country to work and perform alongside Cambodian artists from Phare. Australia’s national youth circus, The Flying Fruit Fly Circus, will premier its show, Stunt Lounge; Collectif Open Ticket from France will perform Sans Queue Ni Tete (Nonsense), and Canada’s Inner Ring Circus will wow the crowd with a juggling duo act. Phare will also debut, Influence. In a series of intricate Each night features a different full-length performance.

The streets of the three cities will also be taken over by a series of pop-up events, with artists from Nepal, Indonesia, and Afghanistan putting on free, improvised shows throughout the festival.

And the culmination of the collaboration between the artists, who take part in a series of daily workshops ranging from juggling and trampoline to street performance, will also be showcased on the streets.

Circus Roots

“The art is in our blood,” says

PPS’s artistic director, Khuon Det, referring to the tradition of Cambodia circus.

Circus has a long history in Cambodia, with evidence dating back to the 6th century in intricate carvings depicting circus performances and characters found etched into walls of the almost 300 small temples dotted around Kampong Thom province.

Signs of circus dwindle after this, but re-emerge in the 11th century on the bas reliefs of the glorious temples of Angkor, including Bayon, Taprum, Preas Sdach Konlong Lean and Baphoun. Civil war in the 14th century brought the Angkor era to an end, and took with it the art form. But it resurged in the early 19th century, with drawings of circus found in Kompong Trolach Leu pagoda.

A war with Thailand halted shows, with circus revived by King Norodom Sihanouk in 1960. Just 15 years later, it died another death, being outlawed, along with all other art forms, by the Khmer Rouge.

Following the 1979 toppling of the regime, the National Circus School in Phnom Penh re-opened, sparking the start

of its revival. The return of the circus trickled back into the countryside too, with a smattering of performances at village festivals to mark national holidays and important events.

In 1994, PPS was launched as a multi-arts centre in Battambang, offering free classes in visual and performing arts and circus to underprivileged children living in the area.

The proud product of the circus school is Phare, The Cambodian Circus, with troupes putting on spectacular shows in Siem Reap and Battambang daily, helping to shape contemporary circus.

Tini Tinou Time

In 2004, Tini Tinou – “here and there” in Khmer – made its debut. Artists from across the world were invited to visit Cambodia to teach at workshops and collaborate on projects, culminating in a performance that was showcased to the community.

Six years later, the annual festival was scrapped due to lack of funds. But, like the revival of the traditional art in the country, it made a return

in 2014, and was an instant hit with all shows selling out, and people demanding more. Last year’s festival was an instant hit, and this year’s is already hotting up, with audiences already impressed by what they see.

“Most artists don’t speak the same language and they come from very different backgrounds,” says Huot.

“These workshops are an extraordinary way to transcend cultural barriers, learn new skills and form strong bonds.

"Giving this opportunity to Cambodian performers and international artists, who travel a long way to take part in this festival, opens the doors to more working relationships in the future, and strengthens Cambodia’s reputation as a leader in the creative and performing arts field in the Southeast Asia region”.

Tini Tinou is in Phnom Penh on May 1, Battambang from May 3 to 6, and Siem Reap from May 8 to 10. For information, visit tinitinou.com.

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Thailand’s northern hub of Chiang Mai offers tourists endless adrenaline-inducing activities, as well as places to pamper themselves afterwards. Writing by Joanna Mayhew. Photography by Todd Brown.

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A

fter excitedly waiting my turn, I was finally ushered into the highfenced enclosure. As the gate clicked closed, I began to regret my decision. Just two metres away sat a full-size adult tiger, eying me warily. My assigned guard – armed only with a wooden stick to fend off any attacks – nonchalantly encouraged me to hug the unwelcoming animal. Though petting a tiger had been a childhood dream of mine, it suddenly seemed a very inane and greedy ambition.

In the same large pen, five other oversized beasts paced or lazed in the sun, begrudgingly putting up with their human visitors who tailed or tugged on them in turn. Luckily, despite the guard proceeding to aggravate the creatures just for fun, I exited the cage a few minutes later in one piece, with tigercuddling photos in tact.

But this stop at Chiang Mai’s Tiger Kingdom just scratches the surface on ways to endanger your life in the thrill-seeking city, which promises action-packed days and indulgent recoveries for those willing to play along.

On the same stretch of road in Mae Rim, about 45 minutes northwest of the city centre, you can view a crocodile show – and billboards readily advertise eager tourists posing with their heads tucked snuggly inside the reptiles’ mouths – explore snake farms, go downhill mountain biking, visit a shooting range, and sign up for paintballing and bungee jumping.

Earlier in the day, we had ziplined at an off-the-beaten-

track outlet that distinguishes itself by allowing you to zipline upside down, as well as perform other tricks that more reputable (translates as safe) outlets would not allow.

And, perhaps gluttons for punishment, we even indulged in Xorbing. For this particular brand of torture, tourists are strapped to the inside of a giant, inflatable ball, and rolled down a hill and into a lake. Having survived the discombobulating ride, customers then have to half paddle, half shift their way back to shore, while avoiding falling in the stagnant water.

Nod to Nature

Thankfully, more authentic – and decidedly less ethically ambiguous – adventuring is also in abundance throughout the lush countryside. At Bua Thong “Sticky” waterfalls, visitors can climb straight up the face of the gushing fountain. Located about an hour north of the city, Bua Thong is well worth the trek.

The five-layer cascade, situated amidst picturesque national forest, has mineral deposits that make its surface extremely easy to grip with bare hands and feet, allowing you to play Spider-Man for a day. And as primarily a local hangout, it gives a good opportunity to get off the tourist trail. The Mae Sa waterfalls, though not sticky, also make for a nice hike, and guests can cool off in any of the waterfall’s impressive 10 layers.

For more extreme climbing, Crazy Horse Buttress offers some of northern Thailand’s best outdoor rock climbing and caving, with more than 200

climbs and 17 crags dotted throughout the wooded area.

Named after their foremost protruding rock resembling a horse’s head, the jagged limestone formations offer spectacular climbs suited for everyone from beginner to expert. Those who are new to climbing can arrange for professional guides, as well as transport, through Chiang Mai Rock Climbing Adventures.

If opting for a more chilled nature fix, head to Huay Tung Thao Lake, another local hangout, tucked in among northern Thailand’s rolling hills, where you can laze beside the shallow, serene water in bamboo huts serving up local curries and iced sweet milk teas.

Or explore Buddhist monastery Wat Phrathat, built in the 1300s.

Located on the outskirts of town, the shimmering gold temple offers stunning shrines and lookouts from the top of Mount Suthep.

Taking to Town

But plenty also awaits visitors in Chiang Mai proper, which emanates out from the walled city. The old city, enclosed on all four sides with restored redbrick gates and a moat, is worth spending hours wandering in, through temples dating back to the city’s founding and winding alleyways lined with chic boutiques and bars. On the square’s eastern edge, seek out

restaurants serving up northern specialty khao soi – boiled egg noodles and yellow curry topped with crispy noodles.

The Sunday Market, open from about 4pm, extends from Tha Phae Gate and into the walled city for about a kilometre.

The sprawling outdoor market is filled with street entertainers, handicrafts and food stalls ladling up Thai dishes for less than a dollar, and serving strawberry smoothies and sticky rice and mango. Though the market can be rammed with foreign and local tourists around holidays, most Sundays are more leisurely, and shoppers can score deals on jewellery, fabrics, intricate lamps, art and even parrots.

As the icing on the cake, Chiang Mai also boasts the amenities of a modern city: shopping, movie theatres, and eclectic eats. Promenda and Central Festival malls host a myriad brand of name stores, along with indulgences such as Starbucks and Coldstone Creamery. And those seeking a break from curries should head to Street Pizza, Salsa Kitchen or The Duke’s for a Western-sized feed.

With a nice mix of history, modern comforts and pristine nature, Chiang Mai should be able to tick most people’s travel bucket lists. But in the country’s adventure capital, you may have to assess the risks for yourself.

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SEVENSEA Rainbow Bridge (near Koh Pich), Phnom Penh.

Tel: 023 229 922. Open daily from 6.30am to 10.30pm.

Combining some of Cambodia’s finest seafood with top treats from around the world is proving to be a winning recipe at Sevensea. Editor Marissa Carruthers and photographer Charles Fox sample the menu.

The year 2016 has been an exciting one so far for revered Cambodian chef Luu Meng, who has been busy beefing up his culinary empire. Sevensea restaurant is one of his latest ventures to land in Phnom Penh, and, specialising in a plethora of tasty seafood dishes from near and afar, already has the signs of a promising catch.

Seven is clearly the lucky number, with the menu drawing influences from seven countries – Cambodia, China, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore – and the restaurant boasting seven private dining rooms, seven specialist chefs and, you guessed it, seven speciality seafood dishes for each day of the week.

Seeking to combine popular Asian cooking styles with fine 44 AsiaLIFE Cambodia

seafood, the menu takes in delicious dishes from across the globe, including Boston lobster, Alaskan king crab legs and scallop, seasonal oysters, tiger prawns and tuna tartar.

The seafood platter ($80) seemed the obvious first choice, and didn’t fail to impress with a feast laid out fit for a king. A large serving plate laden with fleshy crab, freshly caught in Kampot, lobster, the fattest oysters from Hiroshima in Japan I’ve ever set my eyes on, a healthy number of plump prawns and juicy Cambodian snails took up a generous portion of our spacious round table.

And each bite was given its own distinct flavour, thanks to the accompanying four Khmer rubs and dips, which range

from chilli that comes with a kick to the bitter bite of the pepper and lime concoction.

Having washed our greasy hands in a bowl of warm water left on our table. The tiger grouper with sea salt and herbs ($20 to $25 depending on size) came next, and was a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. Served on a wooden board, finding the fish is like playing pass the parcel. First there’s the foil the large fish is baked in, then the tough, thick layer of rock salt and wrap of banana leaves, used to preserve the juices inside, then finally the fish, which is stuffed full of Cambodian herbs.

Thankfully, this task was completed by the chef, straight after he doused it in alcohol and flambéed it before our

eyes, filling our nostrils with a flavoursome sweet aroma. With plenty of meat to go round, the flesh was juicy and had absorbed the mellow tones from the herbs, complementing it perfectly.

Sticking to tradition, the samplor proha ($12), or Khmer soup served with fish, snail or beef, was up next. Sevensea’s version uses local river fish, with the classic recipe of pumpkin, garlic, tamarind, lemongrass and turmeric. The result is a kaleidoscope of flavours, with each spoonful serving a barrage of bitter, sweet, sour and spicy.

Of course, diners don’t have to opt for seafood, and the menu is packed with other dishes, such as dim sum, sushi and Cambodian classics. But when the speciality is so good, why try something different?

GOOD DREAM 470 Monivong Boulevard, Phnom Penh. Tel: 077 549 990.

Open 4pm to 10pm, Monday to Sunday.

Good Dream restaurant offers high-quality steaks and perfect beer snacks for a quintessential Khmer eating experience, all at a bargain. Writing by Joanna Mayhew. Photography by Charles Fox.

While there are few reasons to ever head to the capital’s far south end, Good Dream should be added to the list of exceptions. Though a bit hard to locate – hidden among other nondescript storefronts, a stone’s throw from busy Monivong Boulevard – the eatery is well worth the effort to track down.

Open since 2003, the Khmer restaurant has gradually earned a cult following among expats.

While on the surface it appears like any run-of-the-mill beer garden, Good Dream has a secret weapon: the $6 steak.

Served on a wooden cutting board, the thick cut of local steak is topped with a mound of sweet butter, and speared with a knife and fork. The tender meat was cooked an even medium-rare, and infused throughout with large

garlic cloves. While the butter was overly sweet on its own, it melds well with the meat.

The steak can either be paired with pepper and lime sauce, tuk marike, or liquid prahok, which – if you can get past the off-putting creamy pink colour – adds a complementary sour taste to the mix. The dish is accompanied by a plateful of sliced green bananas, aromatic herbs, lemongrass, cucumbers and carrots – perhaps to make you feel a bit better about consuming the large portion of meat.

While steak is the main draw, the outlet’s other beef offerings are worth sampling.

The dried beef, presented in long strips, is served hot. The meat is rubbed with red chillies, dried, marinated and cooked, and the heat – both in spice and

temperature – provides a nice touch to the flavourful dish. The beef, though chewy, is not overly tough, and – as with most things on Good Dream’s menu – pairs perfectly with a cold Anchor.

The restaurant also cooks up standard Cambodian fare, such as seafood fried rice ($3), sweet and sour pork ribs ($3.50) and fried chicken with ginger ($3.75).

And the more adventurous can sample everything from cow penis soup ($6.25) and fried spicy frogs ($3.75) to innards with fish paste ($3.75) and deep boiled oysters ($2.50). All dishes come with the standard accoutrements for mixing up Cambodian sauces: red chillies, sliced limes, crushed peppers and black pepper.

Despite its notable culinary exceptions, Good Dream still gives the fulfilment of being an

entirely local eating experience that has all the charming makings – minus the seediness – of a typical beer garden: smudged menus, several lazing dogs, napkin holders, and a laissez-faire approach towards what to do with your rubbish.

The unassuming open-air space, located just north of Rock Karaoke, is lined with potted plants and filled out with small whirring fans, red plastic chairs, folding faux wood tables, beer advertisements and a forlorn television.

With friendly staff and a menu (mostly) translated to English, the eatery remains accessible to those seeking a more authentic night out in Phnom Penh. And with prices steadily rising in Western eateries, a $6 steak remains tough to beat.

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DOUBLE D M114 Bassac Lane, Phnom Penh. Tel: 069 227 907.

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 11am to 2pm and 6pm to 10pm.

Modern Malaysian food has landed in Phnom Penh and it’s already proving popular.

Editor Marissa Carruthers and photographer Lim Sokchanlina try it out.

What do you get when you drag traditional Malaysian cuisine into the 21st century?

Ask that question to Double D owner and chef Luke Ding and he’ll hand you a menu to his restaurant – the latest addition to Bassac Lane.

His playful interpretation comes in the form of dishes such as What the Duck, Inglorious Bastard and Laksa King. “This is modern Malaysian cuisine,” says Malaysian Ding, who spent 20 years in Melbourne before moving back to home turf 10 years ago where he opened a restaurant in Kuala Lumpur. “We’re using traditional Malaysian flavours and modernising them. People are so well travelled now that they know what to expect.

We want to give a surprise.”

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Take the Mighty Double D ($7), the eatery’s play on the traditional spicy rendang. Here, shreds of pulled beef rendang are packed into a roti pratha with acar – curried, pickled vegetables – and served alongside skinny French fries. “Traditionally, it’s not served like that,” says Ding, adding the meat usually comes with rice and the roti presented separately to mop up any curry.

The result is delicious, with the tender meat delicately spiced and wrapped in the roti, which is slightly crispy on the outside.

The Inglorious Bastard ($7) is another clever concoction that didn’t fail to impress. Served in a bun, getting your chops around the towering dish is difficult and ended with us having to dissect the meal. Opening the soft bun revealed generous

helpings of pork belly served with picked root vegetables, such as carrot. The crispy pork is marinated in five-spice powder and salt to infuse a mellow kick before being roasted in the oven for several hours.

The result is meat that falls apart on the fork with the crackling that sits on top of the pork perfectly crispy.

Again, the dish is accompanied by skinny fries. “Here, we are trying to fuse together different tastes – Malaysian and Chinese,” says Ding.

Malaysia’s favourite breakfast dish also puts in an appearance in the form of the Nasi Lemak 1.0 ($7). The chicken comes in a mild curry sauce, with the taste of coconut standing out. Another plate is loaded with a handful of peanuts,

sambal, pickled vegetables and steamed coconut rice – cooked using coconut milk.

“Our version has taken on its own life,” says Ding, pointing towards both presentation and flavour. With each individual ingredient adding a different layer to the taste, they come together perfectly. The nuts add a crunch to the soft rice, and the pickled vegetables and kick of the sambal complement the chicken.

Set in a cosy converted shophouse, this intimate eatery is the ideal addition to lane life. With a handful of chairs and tables inside, dark grey walls contrast well with bright red seats, birdcages masquerading as lampshades hang outside and fashion photos adorn the walls.

8

CITY DRINKS

TINI 57 Street 450, Phnom Penh. Tel: 017 555 450.

Open 8am to 11pm, Wednesday to Monday.

Tini has raised the bar on drinking in the capital’s Russian Market area, with classy cocktails and a community vibe. Writing by Joanna Mayhew.

Photography by Lucas Veuve.

Tucked discreetly among Toul Tom Poung’s homes and shopfronts, Tini has provided a long-needed injection of cool into the capital’s southern neighbourhood. The minimalist café and bar is thoughtfully decked out with local art and antiques, and offers specialty coffee during the day and creative concoctions by night.

While you may be forgiven for confusing the name as descriptive of the small space, it is actually a shout-out to the Khmer word for “being here”.

And here – Cambodia – is exactly where the owners want customers to feel.

As such, they promote local businesses and products, and have renovated an existing shophouse to give the feel of a chic apartment, with a focus on comfort, and simplicity. “Small is good,” says co-owner Daniel Mattes, who opened Tini in September with three Khmer owners. “We can focus on getting a few things right.”

This approach seems to have worked, particularly for the impressive list of cocktails, most of which are Khmer takes on traditional concoctions.

The Palmbucha ($4), inspired by a Manhattan, uses local palm whiskey, Kampong Speu palm sugar, local honey ginger kombucha, bitters and orange rind. Smooth, welcomingly strong, with a bit of a bite, the offering was the standout drink of the visit.

A play on the Moscow Mule,

the Merik Mule ($4.50) – using the Khmer word for pepper – combines local pepper-infused vodka, palm sugar, jiva ginger brew, lime and mint, and goes down easy.

Several cocktails have been designed to appeal to local tastes. The Kikilu ($4.50), a tongue-in-cheek name based on a Khmer word for sex, mixes Death’s Door gin with honey, passionfruit, lime, bitters and salt. It is strong, sweet, sour and bitter – “All the makings of a romance,” jokes Mattes.

Tini is the only place in the capital serving Kampot-based Rumblefish ginger beer. The outlet also offers its own unique blend of Feel Good beans, as well as other non-alcoholic beverages, such as honey sodas.

Without space for a kitchen, Tini has just a handful of snacks, such as dried beef ($1.50/$3), cake ($3.50) and ice cream ($1 to $2). For what the café lacks in food, though, it makes up for in flexibility. Patrons are allowed to order in food at no charge.

Tini uses every centimetre of its space wisely. Inset ceilings with rafters and wall cubbyholes provide additional depth, and the sophisticated interior is filled with antique vases, dark wooden tables and stacks of books – giving the feel of an inviting living room.

And with a buy-two-get-onefree happy hour, it’s well worth heading to Tini – and making yourself at home.

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TheSmallestDetails

Tonlé

Words by Marissa Carruthers Photography by Lucas Veuve

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Creating conscious, eco-friendly clothing with a zero-waste design process is top of the agenda for popular clothing line, Tonlé.

Headed by American designer Rachel Faller, the design team can often be found trawling through mountains of fabric cast aside by garment factories, which would otherwise be taken to landfill. These are then transformed into the cool collections of clothing that fly off the shelves at Tonlé’s stores in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, and more recently across the globe.

Having last month released its latest collection, Faller says the starting point for designs starts with the materials they are made from, the capabilities of the team, and the traditional materials and processes available in Cambodia. “In other words, at Tonlé we do the opposite of what most designers do,” says Faller.

Designs are also inspired by their function, with the easy-to-wear range of dresses, T-shirts, trousers, blouses, skirts and accessories created to ensure comfort and they fit a range of body types. Faller adds, “Aesthetically a lot of our inspiration comes from Cambodia itself; scenes from everyday life, textures, colours and patterns. It’s not as immediately obvious as an elephant or a gecko, but look closely and each of the garments has a story to tell not only about its maker and origins, but also about the place it came from.”

Catering for the casual, Tonlé’s spring/ summer collection comprises of mainly beach and resort wear – “though many of the designs, we hope, will resonate outside of that environment as well,” adds Faller. Taking a series of the line’s classic styles, many have been updated and refreshed with new colours and prints.

And, staying ahead of the game, Faller has just shot the look book for her winter line. Think textures and patterns, and chunky hand-knits and woven pieces using tiny scraps of remnant yarn.

Boasting a team of 45 people, which includes 30 employees on the production side, Tonlé works with partner NGOs to recruit trainees graduating from sewing training programmes. It also works with underprivileged women, providing them with jobs and a fair source of income.

And the brand is constantly growing, with Tonlé currently focusing on expanding its wholesale market.

As well as stores in Cambodia, it has secured deals with several boutqiues across America, Europe and Australia. And in the future, Faller hopes to spread Tonlé’s wings to other parts of the world to produce different ranges of products. “Right now, we’re focused on growing and improving our production in Cambodia,” Faller says.

For more information, visit tonledesign.com.

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Photography: Luke Ding Model: Marion Fourres Hair, makeup and styling: Ryan at The Dollhouse

White Sleeveless top: Better Bodies at The Protein Shop Black tights: Paperdolls

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Orange crop top: Better Bodies at The Protein Shop Long grey track pants: Chin F Design Gym gloves: Better Bodies at The Protein Shop

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Grey shorts and black crop top: Better Bodies at The Protein Shop Grey sleeveless hoodie: Paperdolls Gym gloves: Better Bodies at The Protein Shop

52 AsiaLIFE Cambodia

White singlet: Better Bodies at The Protein Shop Blue shorts: Paperdolls

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escape

LISTINGS

Silk Air Regency Complex C, Suite 2-4 Samdach Monireth Blvd Tel: 023 988 629

hotel & travel Airlines Air Asia Domestic Terminal Arrival Office A17 Phnom Penh International Airport Tel: 023 890 035 Asiana Airlines Room A16 Phnom Penh International Airport Tel: 023 890 441

Urban Retreat

Aquarius Hotel and Urban Resort opens its doors on Phnom Penh’s Street 240 on May 20. To celebrate, it is offering guests 50 percent off all rooms until September. The boutique hotel boasts 66 rooms ranging from standard double to the Aquarius suite, all complete with industrial design. Facilities include an open air bar, restaurant and glass walled, rooftop infinity pool. For information, visit aquariushotel.asia.

Patio Discount

Bangkok Airways 61A Street 214 Phnom Penh Tel: 023 722 545 Bassaka Air 335 Preah Sihanouk Blvd.

Phnom Penh Tel: 023 217 688 Cambodia Angkor Air 206A Preah Norodom Blvd. Phnom Penh Tel: 023 666 6788 Cambodia Bayon Airlines 174ABCD, Mao Tse Toung Blvd.

Phnom Penh Tel: 023 231 555

Fancy taking a staycation and cooling down at Patio’s divine infinity pool? If so, then the Phnom Penh hotel is offering guests booking and staying before Sep. 30 a 40 percent discount on all rooms. The price includes daily breakfast, with tax and service charges included.

Cebu Pacific Air 333B Preah Monivong Blvd Phnom Penh Tel: 023 219 161 China Airlines 32 Preah Norodom Blvd. Phnom Penh Tel: 023 222 056

Secret Retreats’ Luxury Boost

China Eastern 68 Street 606 Phnom Penh Tel: 016 985 668 / 016 985 304

Exclusive travel operator Secret Retreats has added five exquisite properties to its portfolio, bringing its total up to 75 spanning 15 Asian countries. Sandat Glamping Tent, in Bali’s Ubud, takes in five luxury safari-tents and three luxury rice-barns, or ecolumbung. Khwan Beach Resort on the Thai island of Koh Samui offers the perfect romantic retreat with seven private swimming pool villas. Luang Say Cruise and Lodge, taking in Laos’ stretch of the Mekong River, boasts a custom-built boat between Huay Xai and Luang Prabang, with a stop-off night at the lodge. The other two properties are Noel’s Rodrigo’s Leopard Safaris in Yala and Wilpattu parks, Sri Lanka, and Glenburn Tea Estate in Darjeeling, India. For information, visit secret-retreats.com.

Moonscape Escape

Khiri Travel continues with its mission to help travellers get off the beaten track with a trip to Mount Merapi, just north of Yogyakarta in central Java. Known as the Mountain of Fire, the volcano is the most active in Indonesia and located along the Pacific Ring of Fire. The tour takes in a jeep adventure and Indonesian or Western meal overlooking paddies. For information, visit khiri.com.

Late Check-out

Phuket’s five-star designer retreat, Kata Rocks, has launched its ultimate late check-out package, giving guests the chance to enjoy their rooms for longer as well as indulge in the chance of complimentary, extended overnight stays. On the departure day, guests can request late check-out between 8am and 10am. Depending on availability, the team will organise a later time of one, two or three hours, or the ultimate bonus of an extra night’s stay. The offer is open to people staying for at least two nights throughout May. To book, visit katarocks.com.

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Skywing Asia Airlines IOC building Monivong Blvd.

Tel: 023 217130

China Southern Room F-G-H-I, Ground floor 53 Phnom Penh Hotel, Monivong Blvd Tel: 023 424 588 DragonAir 168 Monireth Blvd Phnom Penh Tel: 023 424 300 Eva Air Suite 11-14B Street 205 Phnom Penh Tel: 023 219 911 Jet Star Asia 333B Monivong Blvd Phnom Penh Tel: 023 220 909 Korean Air 254 R03 Monivong Blvd.

Phnom Penh Tel: 023 224 047 / 023 224 049 Lao Airlines 58B Preah Sihanouk Blvd.

Phnom Penh Tel: 023 222 956 Malaysia Airlines 35-37 Street 214, Phnom Penh Tel: 023 218 923 / 023 218 924 Myanmar Airways International 90-94Eo Charles de Gaulle (Street 217) Phnom Penh Tel: 023 866 404 Qatar Airways 296 Mao Tse Toung Blvd.

Ground floor, Intercontinental Hotel Phnom Penh.

Thai Airways 294 Mao Tse Toung Blvd.

Phnom Penh Tel: 023 214 359 Tiger Airways 296 Mao Tse Toung Blvd.

Intercontinental Hotel, Suite 16B Phnom Penh Tel: 023 5515 888 Vietnam Airlines 41 Street 214 Phnom Penh Tel: 023 215 998

Battambang Bambu Hotel Phum Romchek 5 Tel: 053 953 900 / 053 953 905 Email: bookings@bambuhotel.com 16 rooms arranged in four traditional inspired buildings with swimming pool, bar and restaurant.

Battambang Resort Wat Ko Village, Battambang Tel: 012 510 100/ 053 666 7001 Email: info@battambangresort.com Café Eden 89 Group 5, Mapei Outsapeea Village Tel: 053 731 525 Eclectic café with incredible food that overlooks the river. Non-profit boutique with handmade local crafts that focuses on training Cambodians. WiFi, AC, Local Art. Happy hour 3pm-7pm. Open Wednesday - Monday 7.30am-9pm Jaan Bai Restaurant Road 2 (near Psar Nat Market) Tel: 097 398 7815 For those with a passion for food and an interest in supporting Cambodian youth.

Using seasonal organic produce sourced from their own kitchen garden, local farmers and neighbouring markets. Open Tuesday – Sunday 11am–9pm.

Kinyei Café Street 1 and 1/2, Phum 20 Osaphea Tel: 017 292 119 Social enterprise with the best coffee in town, serving snacks, lunch, breakfast and other drinks, friendly staff, free space for small open workshop. Won the National Barista Championship 2012 - 2013.

Open daily from 7am-7pm.

La Villa 185 Pom Romchek 5 Tel: 017 411 880 / 053 730 151 lavilla.battambang@gmail.com Beautifully restored 1930s colonial house with six rooms. A premium hotel in the country’s second city and with an excellent kitchen and bar.

Sangker Villa Hotel Pool Restaurant 200 Street, Romchek4 Village Ratanak Commune Tel: 097 764 0017 Sangker Villa has seven rooms and one balcony suite. It is a 10 minute walk from the city centre. The hotel combines the charm of the countryside with the advantages of the city. Swiss management, speaking English, French, German, Italian and Spanish.

Kampot Bokor Mountain Lodge Riverfront Tel: 033 932 314 /017 712 062 Beautiful French colonial building situated on riverfront with well-fitted air-conditioned rooms. Has a good restaurant and bar.

Epic Arts Café Old Market Street Employing deaf staff, this café next to the old market has a good range of bagels, shakes, brownies and coffee. Is also the centre for the community arts programme. Open from 7am-6pm.

Les Manguiers 2km north of Kampot Tel: 092 330 050 Small resort with bungalows and rooms set in beautiful gardens overlooking the river with a restaurant which has daily changing menu and freshly prepared food.

Mea Culpa 44 Sovansokar Tel: 012 504 769 Email: meaculpakampot@gmail.com Accommodation established by the former manager of Bokor Mountain Lodge set in the French Quarter. Six rooms have AC, hot water, DVD and TV. The large garden has a patio pizzeria and bar.

Rikitikitavi Riverfront Tel: 012 274 820/012 235 102 www.rikitikitavi-kampot.com Western food served in large portions in this river-facing restaurant, bar and threeroom guesthouse. A more upmarket venue for Kampot, the upstairs seating affords great sunset views. Restaurant and bar open daily.

Rusty Keyhole Riverside Road Tel: 012 679 607 Friendly British owner has recreated the atmosphere of a rural British pub in outer Kampot, or at least as close as it gets.

The ribs remain as good as ever. Open 8.30am until midnight.

Kep Knai Bang Chatt Resort Tel: 078 888 557 www.knaibangchatt.com An exclusive resort offering personal service in private grounds housing a collection of remodeled 1960’s style colonial villas. Offering 18 rooms, infinity pool, spa and media centre. All rooms refurbished to international standards. Choice of two dining options – upscale The Strand or the adjoining Sailing Club.

Le Bout du Monde Tel: 011 964 181 www.leboutdumondekep.com Individual and separate bungalows in traditional Khmer architecture located on a hill-top with good views and nice gardens. Serves French and Khmer cuisine. Rooms have hot water, mini-bar, fan and safe.

Spring Valley Resort /Mr. Mab Tel: 036 666 6673 mrmab.com www.springvalley-resort.com Spring Valley Resort, at the base of Kep National Park, is just a short walk to the beach. The rooms are scattered throughout vibrant green gardens, connected by walkways that wind through vines, trees and flowering plants.

Their restaurant, Mr Mab takes a fresh look at traditional Khmer street food.

Villa S’aat Tel: 017 383 185 www.villa-kep.com Elegant and spacious villa for rent in Kep during holidays and weekends. Located around 2km from the crab market, with spacious rooms, fully equipped kitchen, swimming pool, large terrace, garden and household staff. Maximum capacity of 12 guests.

Kirirom Kirirom Pine View Kitchen Tel: 078 777 284

www.vkirirom.com The restaurant is surrounded by pine trees, located in Kirirom National Park.

Serves special Khmer and western dishes, overlooking this beautiful nature.

Open daily from 7am-10pm.

Mondulkiri Mayura Hill Resort Tel: 077 980 980 www.mayurahillresort.com Mayura Hill Hotel & Resort has 14 exclusive private bungalow villas embodying the northeastern province’s lifestyle. The first eco-tourism resort in Sen Monorom city located just 1km from downtown, surrounded by wonderful views of the highlands.

Pailin Memoria Palace Resort Tel: 015 430 013 / 015 430 014 Email: reservation@memoriapalce.com www.memoriapalace.com Memoria Palace Resort features 16 beautiful bungalow, three unique ecolodges, a hilltop saltwater swimming pool, restaurant, bar and conference room. The perfect environment for peaceful relaxation or adventurous outdoor activities in the Cardamom Mountains.

Phnom Penh – Apartments Bellevue Serviced Apartments 68 Tonle Sap Street Tel: 023 432 999 www.bellevueservicedapartments.com Located in a deluxe hotel complex on the riverbank of the Tonle Sap, Bellevue offers spacious, contemporary accommodation 10 minutes away from the city.

Himawari Hotel Apartments 313 Sisowath Quay Tel: 023 214 555 Email: reservation@himawari.com.kh www.himawarihotel.com Choose from panoramic views of the Mekong Delta or the city skyline backdrop with the Royal Palace, the spacious and well-appointed suites are a home away from home, both for tourists and long-stay guests. Amenities include fullyequipped kitchen, daily housekeeping services, international pool, fitness centre, tennis court, spa and various food and beverage outlets.

Season Residence Apartments 109-133, Street 144 Tel: 023 990 628 / 012 457 408 www.seasonresidence.com Season Residence is self-catered accommodation located only 9km from the airport. Featuring spacious apartments with free Wi-Fi access.

Silvertown Metropolitan 251 Street 63 www.silvertowncambodia.com Located in BKK1, one of the most vibrant neighbourhoods of Phnom Penh, the fully serviced apartments take everyday living and lifestyle at the highest quality.

Features include a tranquil rooftop skybar and infinity swimming pool.

Sokea Suites Extended Stay 168 Monireth Blvd. www.sokeasuites.com The 21 apartments ranging from 37 m2 to 95 m2 are designed with one idea in mind: to make guests feel at home in Phnom Penh.

TAMASA Serviced Apartment Located next to Cambodia Country Club Tel: 023 995 594 The 26 rooms all have different designs and layouts. A café is located on the ground floor of the building and it also has an infinity pool on the top floor, which is opened for residents and guests.

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Phnom Penh – Deluxe InterContinental 296 Mao Tse Toung Blvd.Tel: 023 424 888 www.ihg.com One of Phnom Penh’s most luxurious 5-star hotels, the 346 air-con rooms have all the expected facilities including in-room safes and king size beds. Also has a large swimming pool, a fitness centre and spa.

Raffles Hotel Le Royal Street 92 Tel: 023 981 888 www.raffles.com/phnom-penh/ Emanates the same class as its more famous namesake in Singapore. The Elephant Bar is a popular expat haunt during the 4pm to 8pm happy hour.

Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra 26 Old August Site, Sothearos Blvd.

Tel: 023 999 200 www.sofitel.com Set on the riverside amongst landscaped gardens this 12-storey, 5-star colonial style hotel is close to key attractions, embassies and the central business district.

Sokha Phnom Penh Chroy Changvar Peninsula Tel: 23 685 8888 www. sokhahotels.com/phnompenh An blot on the horizon or testament to the rising wealth of the capital - you choose.

Located on Chroy Changvar peninsula opposite the Royal Palace the views are quite spectacular, but the opulent interior can not disguise the distance to Phnom Penh’s bars and restaurants.

Phnom Penh – Mid Chateau the Meliya 10B Street 264 Tel: 023 987 212 Hotel and serviced-apartments, in a great central location, close to Independence Monument, Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum and Riverfront. 54 units (studio, one bedroom and two bedrooms), with contemporary design and amazing city and river views.

The Billabong Hotel 5 Street 158 Tel: 023 223 703 www.thebillabonghotel.com Phnom Penh’s premier boutique family hotel with 41 well-appointed rooms surrounding a large free form salt water swimming pool. Poolside alfresco dining.

The Laneway Boutique Hotel 2 Street 278 Tel: 089 985 956 The Laneway Boutique Hotel is located in the heart of Phnom Penh and offers all the essential comforts you would expect from a first-class leisure hotel, including a cocktail bar, swimming pool, grill restaurant and recreational facilities.

Mito Hotel 11 Street 174, corner Monivong Blvd.

(North of Wat Koh Pagoda) Tel: 023 213 999/ 023 220 188/ 023 220 199 Email: reservation@mitohotel.com www.mitohotel.com Mito Hotel is a newly renovated business hotel in the heart of Phnom Penh. Blessed with premier central location, diverse international clientele of business men, entrepreneurs, adventures with affordable luxury. Mito Hotel is the preferred choice for business and leisure travellers.

Pandan Boutique Hotel 15A Street 282 Tel: 012 373 78 www.pandanboutiquehotel.com Ideally located in the heart of Phnom Penh, at walking distance from the shopping and business district, 5 minute walk from Independence Monument. 26 rooms with unique and classy design.

Rambutan Resort 29 Street 71Tel: 017 992 240

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www.rambutanresort.com Urban modern oasis located in a quiet residential area only 5 minutes from all major sights in Phnom Penh. Deluxe pool view and garden rooms with outdoor bathtubs. Salt water pool and private spa room for some unwinding treatments.

Villa Srey 16 Street 306 Tel: 023 213 219 www.villasrey.com Charming hotel, six rooms with terrace and swimming pool. Very quiet in the heart of Phnom Penh.

The 252 Boutique Hotel 19 Street 252 Tel: 023 998 252 www.the-252.com Conveniently located close to major attractions, the small boutique hotel offers a quiet and peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Spacious and stylishly decorated rooms with all amenities, swimming pool surrounded by a leafy tropical garden, outdoor restaurant and bar.

Le Rit’s 71 Street 240 Tel: 023 213 160 Small & charming 6-room guesthouse with spacious rooms is managed by NYEMO NGO, part of its hospitality training.

Rooms equipped with queen-sized bed, cable TV, private bathroom.

Mid-Range Almond Hotel 128f Sothearos Bld. Tel: 023 220 822 Owned by Cambodia’s top chef, Luu Meng, this hotel boasts 70 guest rooms, and is aimed at the visiting business community. Tasty dim sun is served from the ground floor restaurant, YiSang. Sister hotel about to open close to Aeon Mall.

The Artist Guesthouse 69 Street 178 Tel: 023 213 930 www.the-artist-guesthouse.com Located across from the National Museum, The Artist is an 11-bedroom guesthouse has a modern feel.

The Quay Sisowath Quay Tel: 023 224 894 www.thequayhotel.com Five-storey, 16-room riverside boutique hotel has beautiful contemporary rooms designed by Gary Fell. The stand-out features are the roof-top Jacuzzi and the very contemporary ground-floor bar and Chow Restaurant with WiFi. Samsara Villa Boutique Hotel 43z5, Street 466, Phnom Penh. Tel: 011 562 629 / 023 219 136 www.samsaravilla.com Located in a quiet alley, between Aeon Mall and Russian Market, 15min from Riverside and Central Market, Samsara Villa is charming, peaceful with a small but luxurious garden, a pool, 20 rooms, restaurant & bar open from 7am to 10pm, transportation & tours.

Tama Hotel Phnom Penh Tower – The H22 Phnom Penh Tower, 22nd Floor Tel: 023 964 020 www.d22h22.com Many of the rooms feature large windows allowing guests to easily take in the beautiful city view from your room on the 22nd floor of PPT. Room available from $25.

TEAV Boutique Hotel 14 Street 310 Tel: 023 981 818 / 017 989 191 Email: stay@teavgroup.com www.teavboutiquehotel.com Located in a quiet, peaceful setting in the prestigious central heart of Phnom Penh near the Independence Monument, the uniquely designed art deco style TEAV Boutique Hotel provides single travellers, couples, families, leisure and business with a relaxing and highly personalised stay.

Villa Borann 235A Street 19 Tel: 023 211 518 www.villa-borann-boutique-hotel.com Business boutique hotel in the historical centre of Phnom Penh with 14 rooms, swimming pool, bar and restaurant.

Nicely furnished rooms. Colonial style.

Villa Samnang 15 Street 302 Tel: 023 221 644 www.villa-samnang.com Boutique hotel with 14 rooms, swimming pool, bar and restaurant.

Phnom Penh - Budget

Sihanoukville Café Sushi 25 Street Ekreach, near Golden Lion Tel: 012 777 476 (Khmer/English) 097 516 5727 (Japanese) Cafe Sushi serves up fresh sushi prepared by a master Japanese “itamae” in a stylish, air-conditioned lounge. Choose from an authentic range of sashimi, nigiri and other Japanese favourites, with both locally-caught and rare, imported fish, or go for more westernised choices. Open daily from 11am-2pm & 5.30pm-10pm.

Mick & Craig’s Restaurant Serendipity Beach Tel: 034 934 845 www.mickandcraigs.com A small, friendly restaurant serving comfort food from around the world since 1997. Open daily from 7am-11pm.

Reef Resort Road to Serendipity Beach Tel: 012 315 338 www.reefresort.com.kh Guesthouse set around a beautiful pool with well apportioned AC rooms, in-room safe and cable TV, family rooms also available. Has a welcoming bar with excellent TV screen.

Scuba Nation Lane off road to Serendipity Beach Tel: 012 604 680 / 012 715 785 www.divecambodia.com Five-star PADI centre offering daily trips to the area’s many islands and reefs, including the decent dive sites.

The Secret Garden Otres Beach Tel: 097 649 5131 www.secretgardenotres.com Modern beachside AC bungalows with hot water, TV, WiFi and swimming pool.

Restaurant run by professional Australian chef.

Travel Cambodia Uncovered 11B Street 370 Tel: 012 507 097 www.cambodiauncovered.com Offers village and cultural tours in Phnom Penh and surrounds including road trips, Mekong cruises, accommodation, cooking classes and other activities.

City Tour Hop on Hop off Tel: 016 745 880 Visit 10 popular attractions in Phnom Penh. Unlimited hop on hop off. English commentary, free Wifi and water. Departs hourly from the Night Market. Shuttle bus to Genocide Museum and Killing Fields: 9am and 11am from the Night Market.

Discover the Mekong Suite 1844, Canadia Tower 18th Floor Monivong Blvd.

Tel: 023 962 468 Email: dmc@discoverthemekong.travel Discover the Mekong offers unique adventures into the heart of Cambodia.

Exotissimo Travel 66 Norodom Blvd.

Tel: 023 218 948

www.exotissimo.com Excellent French-owned agency specialising in adventure tourism, flight bookings, package holidays and a range of tours of Southeast Asia.

Helicopters Cambodia 10 Street 310 Tel: 012 814 500 www.helicopterscambodia.com Over 12 years’ experience operating in the Kingdom offers scenic flights around the Temples of Angkor and beyond. Is a wholly owned subsidiary of Helicopters New Zealand Group.

Intrepid Travel 468 Sivutha Blvd.

Tel: 063 966 655 For travellers with a yearning to get off the beaten track, Intrepid opens up a whole new world of adventure travel. With a huge variety of tours available.

Scuba Nation Lane off road to Serendipity Beach Tel: 012 604 680/012 715 785 www.divecambodia.com Five-star PADI centre offering daily trips to the area’s many islands and reefs including the decent dive sites at Koh Rung Samloem and Koh Kong.

Travel Indochina 43-44EO Street 108 Tel: 023 991 978 www.travelindochina.com.au Australian-owned travel company specialising in small group journeys around Asia that can tailor trips for individuals.

LISTINGS

siem reap Bars AHA The Passage Tel: 063 965 501 Sophisticated and beautifully designed wine bar selling a wide range of wines from around the world and tapas, as well as great cheese and Lavazza coffee.

Open 10.30am-10.30pm.

Angkor What?

Pub Street Tel: 012 181 4001 “Promoting irresponsible drinking since 1998,” this graffiti-laden bar is the mainstay of Pub Street. A healthy mix of loud rock, punk and grunge, buckets of vodka and red bull for $6.

Laundry Bar Old Market Extremely chilled music bar just off Pub Street with great mellow decor and extremely cool t-shirts. Free drink during the 6pm-9pm washing hours. Open 6pm until late.

Linga Bar Alley behind Pub Street Tel: 012 246 912 www.lingabar.com Laid back, gay-friendly bar with extremely chilled Buddha Bar tunes and amazing light boxes. Range of cocktails. Open 5pm until late.

Mezze 13a (1st floor) Street 11 Tel: 097 766 7343 mezze.siemreap@gmail.com www.mezzesiemreap.com Enjoy signature cocktails, original Cuban

cigars, fine Champagne and fusion tapas.

Open daily 6pm-1am.

ming pool, spa and international standard 18-hole 72-par golf course

Miss Wong Lane off Pub Street Tel: 092 428 332 Imagine yourself in China at the turn of the last century and you won’t go much wrong in Miss Wong with excellent and original cocktails and dim sum. Open late.

Sokkhak Boutique Resort Kok Chork village, Trorpeang Ses commune, Wat thmey Tel: 063 765 697 / 063 765 698 www.sokkhak-boutiqueresort.com Stay in either one of the two suites, four junior suites or five uniquely deluxe rooms and one classic standard room, decorated in a boutique and homely style that offers simplicity, comfort and relaxation.

Nest Sivutha Blvd. Tel: 063 966 381 Up-market drinking and dining, serving light Mediterranean and Asian food in a unique, highly stylised setting, with loungers and table settings.

The Warehouse Old Market Tel: 012 530 227 Popular expat bar plays great music with good fusion cuisine. Best stocked bar in town and homemade infused vodkas.

Open 10am-3am.

Galleries Diwo Galleries Vat Svay, Tonle Sap Road / between Monument Books and Ta Prohm Hotel.

Selection of refined Khmer statues and Buddhas. The larger Vat Svay location features a gallery exhibition of Thierry Diwo’s photography. Drinks are available in the garden and on the terrace.

Happy Cambodia Gallery 2 Hospital Street, next to Pub Street Tel: 063 963 114 www.happypainting.net The distinctive and highly colourful work created by long-time Cambodian expat artist Stef.

McDermott Gallery I & II FCC Complex Pokambor Avenue / Alley behind Pub Street Tel: 092 668 181 www.mcdermottgallery.com Two galleries devoted to photographic works. With permanent exhibition of photographs taken by John McDermott.

Open 10am-10pm.

Hotels Kingdom Angkor Hotel Tel: 063 760 526 Email: reservation@kingdomangkor.com or info@kingdomangkor.com www.kingdomangkor.com Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa Tel: 063 967 755 www.lynnaya.com A luxury resort equipped with swimming pool, spa and restaurant.

Leisure Angkor Silk Farm Puok District (20min from Siem Reap downtown) Tel: 063 555 5768 www.artisansdangkor.com Learn about the meticulous process of silk-making and traditional silk weaving.

Free shuttle bus departing from Artisans Angkor’s shop in Siem Reap centre to the Angkor Silk Farm from 9.30am-1.30pm.

Open daily from 8am-5pm Helicopters Cambodia 658 Hup Quan Street.

Tel: 063 963 316 Professionally run company with flights over the temples and beyond in modern, safe helicopters.

Phare, The Cambodian Circus Behind Angkor National Museum on Komay Road Tel: 015 499 480.

A unique professional Cambodian theatrical circus show mixing traditional and modern artistic skills. Daily at 7.30pm.

Phokeethra Country Club Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Vithei Charles de Gaulle Tel: 056 396 4600 reservation.angkor@phokeethragolf.com International standard 18-hole, 72-par golf course 16km outside of Siem Reap.

Clubhouse facilities: pro shop, rental equipment, restaurant.

Sam Veasna Centre Wat Bo Area Tel: 063 963 710 Some of the rarest birds in Asia can be seen at Prek Toal and Ang Trapang Thmor, a day-trip from Siem Reap, or combine bird watching with temple trips to Koh Ker and Beng Melea.

Medical

Prince D’Angkor Hotel & Spa Sivatha Blvd.

Tel: 063 763 888 Email: info@princedangkor.com www.princedangkor.com Experience ultimate luxury and bask in the splendor of elegance at the Prince D’ Angkor Hotel & Spa, the perfect base from which to explore the legendary Angkor temples.

Royal Angkor International Hospital National Route 6, Phum Kasekam, Khum Sra Ngea Tel: 063 761 888 www.royalangkorhospital.com Royal Angkor International Hospital is part of the well-known Bangkok Hospital Network. Offering high quality care for all eventualities from routine care to emergency treatment 24 hours a day.

Rambutan Hotels & Resorts Phum Wat Damnak, Kum Sala Komreuk, Krom 10 Tel: 012 654 638 / 063 766 655 Email: bookings@rambutansr.com www.rambutans.info The former Golden Banana resort has been rebranded but contains the same deluxe suites and villas in modern Asian style build around a salt-water pool.

Private balcony or terrace with outdoor bathtub/splash shower. LBGT-friendly.

Pharmacies

Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort Vithei Charles de Gaulle Tel: 063 964 600 / 063 964 610 www.sofitel.com Ultimate in comfort and refinement, combining the traditional architecture of Cambodia with elegant French colonial style. Five-star accommodation, swim-

siem reap

U-Care Pharmacies Old market Tel: 063 965 396 /Lucky Mall Tel: 063 966 68 / Siem Reap Airport Tel: 063 766049 / Sivatha Street Tel: 063 763 399 International cosmetic brands, leading imported health and beauty products, only certified medication. Open 8am-10pm.

Restaurants Armand’s The Bistro 584-586 Tep Vong, Sangkat Svay Dangkom (Next to ANZ Bank) Phum Mondul 1 Tel: 092 305 401 A true bistro experience in a cosy woodpanelled space, despite the informal and relaxed ambience it has the menu to even

Fighting Fire With… AC Sarah Brown While I know I run the risk of stating the painfully obvious, I feel the need to say it anyway – Siem Reap is ROASTING. Of course a semi-permanent sweat-tashe is part and parcel of living in the tropics, and we are all well aware that, yes, Cambodia is hot, and, yes, that can be a bit much sometimes.

I try my best not to moan too much about the heat as it was my choice, after all, to live here, but the last couple of weeks have come terrifyingly close to what I imagine the surface of the sun must feel like.

Official figures reveal April was the hottest month in Cambodia on record, with data recorded by independent meteorologist Maximiliano Herrera, showing the new national all-time temperature record of 42.6 degrees was set in Preah Vihear on April 15. Phnom Penh has also had its hottest month on record, with an average of 41 degrees.

Fans do nothing but waft hot air around, a moto ride feels like sitting directly in front of a hair dryer, and my air-conditioning unit is being pushed to its absolute limit – as my bank balance will be when my electricity bill arrives at the end of the month.

Local friends and long-term expats are in agreement that this is the hottest it’s been in possibly forever (which I have to admit I do find comforting), and my friend’s dog has taken

up residence in his pond to try and escape the heat.

Finding the best spots to enjoy much-needed AC has, therefore, become somewhat of a hobby, and since we’re all enduring these soaring temperatures together I thought it only fair to share my favourite discoveries.

If perusing luxury cosmetics and rather charming Cambodian trinkets hits your buttons, hop in a tuktuk and get yourself down to the new T Galleria duty free shopping centre, next to the National Museum. You won’t be allowed to buy anything unless you have an outgoing flight ticket, but you can soak up the chilly climate while marvelling at the beautiful displays. The original duty free shop on Wat Bo road offers similarly cool climes, though less in the way of window-shopping, as does good old Lucky Mall.

If you like your AC with a side order of coffee, the best I’ve found so far is Flock Café (part of Aviary Hotel). While seating is a little limited, this beautiful café offers a delicious selection of drinks and nibbles, as well as a discount for Kambodia card holders. For those with a sweet tooth the delicate desserts at air-conditioned Redbuff Coffee are sure to please, whereas digital nomads won’t find a better office-on-the-go that Joe-toGo’s chilly upstairs lounge.

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satisfy high-rollers.

Chanrey Tree Pokombo Ave. Tel: 063 767 997 www.chanreytree.com Traditional Khmer food in a beautiful contemporary setting. Alongside the river, 50m before Preah Phrum Rath Pagoda.

Open daily. Lunch 11am-2.30pm, dinner 6pm-10.30pm.

Hot Stone Café Old Market area, next to Angkor trade center Tel: 012 926 562 / 063 966 966 Email: info@hotstonecafe.asia www.hotstonecafé.asia The hottest culinary concept in town, with two dining options, cook yourself BBQ selection and Khmer dining.

Il Forno Restaurant Siem Reap Paris Alley, off Pub Street Tel: 063 763 380 Come and try our wood fire pizza and our traditional homemade pastas. New air con room to cool off with a nice Italian wine and a charcuterie.

King’s Road Angkor 7 Makara Road, Achar Sva Street (opposite Old Market bridge) Tel: 093 811 800 www.kingsroadangkor.com A unique dining and shopping village in Siem Reap, comprising of 15 restaurants and cafés and 12 boutiques.

Lava / Sushi Plus / Rio Tel: 085 330 093 / 063 962 952 Email: fb@riverbayvilla.com www.riverbayvilla.com Experience the flavors of the world under one roof. LAVA: sizzling specialized concept of oriental and creative international cuisine. SUSHI PLUS: cozy Japanese restaurant paying tribute to the origin of Sushi. RIO: the outdoor lounge filled with lazy loungers cushions.

Maharajah Indian Restaurant Next to Pub Street, Old Market.

Tel: 063 966 221 / 092 506 622 Authentic Indian vegetarian and nonvegetarian food. Maharajah believes that exclusivity with a touch of simplicity is important in the creation of every dish.

Open daily 11am–10pm.

Mahob Khmer Cuisine Tel: 017 550 206 / 063 966 986 Email: info@mahobkhmer.com www.mahobkhmer.com Mahob is the Cambodian word for ‘food’ serving traditional Khmer cuisine in the new level by using only the freshest local ingredients to tantalise your taste-buds.

Marum 8A-B Phum Slokram, (Between Wat Polanka & Catholic Church) Tel: 017 363 284

A winning mix of creative local cuisine.

Open from 11am-10.30pm (Kitchen closes at 9.30pm).

Palate Angkor Acha Sva Road, Wat Bo Village Tel: 063 965 252 www.palateangkor.com Palate Angkor restaurant and bar, is a recent addition to the Siem Reap culinary scene. Serving delectable Pan Asian cuisine. Open daily from 11.30am-11pm.

feast

Shops Artisans Angkor Boutique and Workshops Stung Thmey Street (2min from the Old Market) Tel: 063 963 330 www.artisansdangkor.com Boutique offering collection of handmade souvenirs such as high-quality silk scarves, clothing and accessories, wooden and stone sculptures Free guided tours of the handicraft workshops.

Open daily from 7.30am-6.30pm Jasmine Boutique FCC Angkor, Pokambor Avenue Tel: 063 760 610 Same sophisticated, stylish boutique as on Street 240 in Phnom Penh.

Smateria The Alley West Tel: 063 964 343 www.smateria.com Boutique specialising in accessories made from recycled materials including a range of bags and wallets made from old cartons, plastic bags and mosquito nets.

Spas Body Tune 293-290 Pokambor Ave. (Next to the old market) Tel: 063 764 141 www.bodytune.co.th When you need to re-balance and rejuvenate your body in between daily routines, Body Tune is the perfect place to regain your energy. Open daily, from 10am-10.30pm.

Sokkhak Spa Sok San Street, Old Market Tel: 063 763 797 A nature-inspired décor with a tranquil atmosphere to relax, refresh and indulge.

Open daily 11am-10pm.

Malis SR Pokambor Avenue, Siem Reap Riverside Tel: 015 824 888 Cambodian celebrity chef Luu Meng has opened a second Malis in Siem Reap.

Serving up sumptuous traditional Khmer cuisine with a contemporary flavour, Malis SR offers signature dishes, such as Kampot red crab curry and Royal Mac Mee. Open daily from 6.30am to 10.30pm.

With the capital bursting at the seams with restaurants and bars, there are deals galore to be snagged. Here are a few of our favourites.

Cheese Fiends

Cheese lovers are in for a treat now that Phnom Penh’s Khema has become the exclusive importer of Mons cheeses. The restaurant is showcasing the cheese – a world-renowned artisanal creamery from Roanne, France – during its Thursday wine and cheese nights as well as selling it at its deli. Founded by Hubert Mons in 1964, Mons today is run by Hubert’s eldest son Herve, an award-winning cheesemonger and “affinager.” The Mons network includes 130 artisanal cheese makers across France, and the company matures nearly 200 different types of cheese every day. “When we are maturing a cheese, we are rearing it, we are leading it towards its second life,” he said. “It requires delicate and appropriate care in relation to the family and the region the cheese belongs to; wood, straw, stone and soil are our allies.

They help us maintain the various atmospheres of our cellars.”

THAIFEX – World of Food Asia

Asia’s most influential international food and hospitality show and food and beverage trade event takes place from May 25 and 29. The show, which has grown from strength to strength over the past 12 years, has become an important platform for regional and international food importers and exporters to connect with trade visitors from Asia and worldwide. The show also acts as a platform to introduce the latest food innovations, technologies and trends. Held in Bangkok, the show attracts companies from Cambodia, Brunei, India, Ukraine and Norway and this year includes the fifth edition of the Thailand Ultimate Chef Challenge, Celebrity Coffee Bar and a range of talks. For more information, visit thailandfoodfair.com.

Chicken and Beer

Digby’s Grocer and Cafe is offering diners the chance to feast on chicken wings and knock back the beers at its Thursday and Friday beer nights. The Phnom Penh eatery is offering a plate of tasty deep-fried chicken wings and two bottles of beer for $10 per person. Open daily until midnight, and serving up a selection of other delicious dishes, the promotion runs throughout May.

Happy Hour

Indulge in the daily happy hour at Terazza in Phnom Penh from 5pm to 7pm, and enjoy wine for $2 to $2.50 a glass and buy one get one free on all cocktails and Carlsberg. 1C Street 282.

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LISTINGS

food & drink Cafés Art Café 37 Sothearos Blvd. Tel: 012 834 517 Elegant bistro in the style of a European coffee house is now transposed to the Meta House with regular classical music performances.

Blue Pumpkin 245 Sisowath Quay, and at Monument Books on Norodom Blvd.Tel: 023 998 153 At multiple locations in Phnom Penh, serving breakfast sets, Asian and Western entrées and an array of ice cream flavours in air-conditioned comfort.

Open daily from 6am-11pm.

Brown Coffee & Bakery 17 Street 214, and other locations throughout the city.

Tel: 023 217 262 Stylish, locally owned café with bakery on the premises serves a variety of coffees and pastries, with the green tea latte a house speciality. Open 7.30am-8pm.

Café Le Point Tel: 077 974 921 Enjoy the cosy and relaxed atmosphere under a big mango tree. Located near KFC on Norodom Bvd, next to La Clef de Sol shop. Healthy, natural and delicious.

Open Monday to Saturday, from 7am7pm.

Café Yejj 170 Street 450 Tel: 012 543 360 / 092 600 750 Quiet, cosy café serving bistro-style Western cuisine, with extensive range of coffees, pasta dishes, pannini and wraps and fabulous cheesecake, making this an ideal spot to escape the bustle of the nearby Russian Market. Open every day from 7am-9pm.

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf 30 Street 57 Tel: 023 988 027 Peaceful coffee shop with different locations in town (BKK1, Phnom Penh Tower, Vattanac Tower & Aeon Mall) provides you good quality products and excellent service.

Cupcake Rush 23A Street 57/306 Tel: 087 696 988 Sweet treats galore at this cute, specialist cupcake shop. Open daily from 8am-8pm.

Crowded at lunchtime, but the small, cool courtyard at the back creates a perfect haven from the sun. Has a Chocolate Shop three doors along, and a second outlet in Tuol Kork. Open 7am7pm Mon to Sat, 7am-3pm Sun.

Daughters of Cambodia 65E0 Street 178 / 130A Street 430 Tel: 077 657 678 www.daughtersofcambodia.org The café serve light lunches, a few main courses, home baked goods, desserts, coffee and some original smoothies.

Provides vocational training, where trainees have the opportunity to graduate to top end restaurants and hotels.

There’s also a shop selling clothing, accessories and jewellery made on site, or relax in the spa which offers head, shoulder, face and foot treatments. The Street 430 venue also has a children’s play area.

Cambodian

Gloria Jean’s Corner of Street 51 & Street 310 Tel: 092 404 365 Sisowath Quay along Phnom Penh Port Tel: 092 555 973 Canadia Tower Monivong Blvd.

Tel: 092 555 937 Popular coffee shop that serves hot and cold drinks and snacks. A great place to chill and relax, or to catch up with all those lost emails.

Java Café & Gallery 56 Sihanouk Blvd. Tel: 023 987 420 Great coffees, salads, mix-and-match sandwiches and juices served in an elegant setting. The upstairs terrace, overlooking the Independence Monument, is a good place to watch the chaos below, while the downstairs space is a great place for coffee and catching up on your emails. Has exhibitions both upstairs and down. Open 7am-10pm.

Kiriya Café 174, St.51, Cnr St.370 Tel: 016 363 730.

This Japanese café chain offers good locally sourced coffee, delicious desserts and a relaxing atmosphere. Open daily 6am-2am.

The Deli 13 Street 178.

Tel: 012 851 234 The Deli is a simple Bistro Gourmet where the chef changes half the menu every few weeks and the wines per glass are selected to sit alongside the dishes to help customers make the perfect pairing.

The Shop 39 Street 240, Tel: 092 955 963 / 023 986 964 Stylish café, with a wide range of fresh bread, tempting patisseries and juices, excellent salads and sandwiches.

Dot Grill 8 Street 144 Tel: 023 996 402 Dot serves delicious Cambodian grill specialties, prepared and served on large skewers made to order on an open grill in the restaurant’s centre. The menu includes the best of local cuisine as well as international all-time favourites. Open daily from 7.30am–10pm.

Garuda Khmer Restaurant 21 Street 466 Tel: 092 877 345 / 092 710 097 Authentic homemade Khmer cuisine served at International standard and a museum where you can eat. Open daily from 11.30pm–2:30pm and 5pm-10pm.

Khmer Surin 9 Street 57 Tel: 012 887 320 Elegant restaurant featuring wood and silk décor with a tropical garden that serves Cambodian and Thai favourites.

Dishes are well prepared and large enough to share.

La Table Khmère 11E Street 278 Tel: 012 238 068 www.la-table-khmere.com Taste the flavour of traditional Khmer specialities and fusion cuisine in a stylish ambience and atmosphere on Street 278. Also serving Western dishes. Open daily from 11am-11pm.

Malis 136 Norodom Bvd Tel: 023 221 022 www.malis-restaurant.com Beautiful modern Khmer restaurant with a courtyard set around narrow water channels and decorated with terracotta floor tiles. Has air-con rooms inside for those who find the midday sun too much. The cuisine is modern Khmer, with no MSG. Open 6am-10pm.

Restaurant Le Royal Raffles Hotel Le Royal Tel: 023 981 888 (see also restaurants, French) Romdeng 74 Street 174 Tel: 092 219 565 Romdeng serves Cambodian food that ranges from almost forgotten recipes from the provinces to contemporary creative Cambodian cuisine. It is set in a beautiful colonial building featuring wooden carvings, tables, chairs and unique lights all hand-made in Cambodia. Open daily from 11am10.30pm (kitchen closes at 9.30pm).

Chinese Cambodia

Executive Chef Toshio Fujita

Emperors of China 19 Street 163 Tel: 097 929 2699 Up-market Chinese restaurant, popular with the capital’s large Chinese community, private dining rooms, specialises in Peking duck and dim sum.

Fortune Palace NagaWorld, Hun Sen Park Chinese restaurant with authentic Greater Chinese cuisine and all-you-caneat Dim Sum buffet on Sundays. Open from 11am-3pm and 5pm-10pm.

Vegetarian Roll

Sashimi

Spicy Japanese Salmon Curry Roll

Bukkake Soba

#6HEo, Somdach Sothearos Blvd, Phnom Penh, Cambodia Tel: 023 900 185 / 097 739 5232 www. cafesushizen.com Cafe sushi cambodia

Fu Lu Zu Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra 26 Old August Site, Sothearos Blvd Tel: 023 999 200 x 6613 Elegant Chinese restaurant specialising

in contemporary Cantonese delicacies and dim sum with private rooms for intimate ambience. Open from 11.30am2.30pm and 6.30pm-10.30pm. Dim Sum weekend from 8am-2.30pm.

Hua Nam 753 Monivong Bvd. Tel: 023 364 005 Large Chinese restaurant that specialises in seafood and duck and has a good selection of wines, with VIP rooms. Open 11am-2pm and 5pm-10pm Sam Doo 56-58 Kampuchea Krom Tel: 023 218 773 The place for dim sum in Phnom Penh, baskets of steamed prawn dumplings, pork buns and more go for a pittance.

The wonton soup and other tasty meals are a steal. Open 7am-2am.

Tsui Wah 157 Street 63 Tel: 023 986 133 Offers a variety of roasted meats, including duck, pork and goose. Open 21 hours, serving Hong-Kong-influenced food. Open daily from 6am-3am.

World Dining 2/F Aeon Mall, 132 Samdach Sothearos Blvd, Tel: 023 90 17 77 Food Court that brings streetfood to the sanctuary of the Mall with 12 booths serving food from Cambodia and around the World. The Cambodian cuisine includes some fantastic, fresh and cheap bahn chhev pancakes, while there are steaks, Indian, Italian, Singapore chicken and rice, pho and chinese food from Yi Sang as cosmopolitan alternatives. Open 9am to 10pm.

Xiang Palace InterContinental Phnom Penh 2/F, 296 Mao Tse Toung Blvd Tel: 023 424 888 x 3562 Xiang Palace is locally acclaimed for its authentic Cantonese cuisine and delicious dim sum, all prepared with the finest ingredients. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Yi Sang Chinese Restaurant 128F Sothearos Blvd Tel: 023 220 922 www.almondhotel.com.kh Set on the ground floor of the Almond Hotel, this stylish restaurant specialises in Cantonese food that fuses the traditional with the contemporary, including excellent dim sum. Open from 6.30am-10am, 11.30am-2pm and 5.30pm-10pm. Dim Sum not served in the evening.

French Armand’s The Bistro 33 Street 108 Tel: 015 548 966 A true bistro experience in a cosy woodpanelled space, despite the informal and relaxed ambience it has the menu to even satisfy high-rollers. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 5pm-11.45pm.

Comme à la Maison 13 Street 57 Tel: 012 951 869 www.commealamaison-delicatessen.com Sophisticated French restaurant with a beautiful outdoor terrace area at the front, yet secluded from the street. One of the best French kitchens in town.

Small delicatessen at the back of the restaurant. Open daily from 6am10.30pm.

The D22 Dining & Bar Phnom Penh Tower 22nd Floor – Inside Tama Hotel Phnom Penh Tel: 023 964 021 The dining offers French bistro cuisine where you get to enjoy the dishes that

AsiaLIFE Cambodia 59

go well with wines. The bar has a great selection of wines and also offers cigars that can add spice to your night. Dining 6.30pm-10pm, bar 4.30pm-midnight.

K West 1 Street 154, cnr. Sisowath Quay Tel: 023 214 747 Stylish aircon bar and restaurant below the Amanjaya with an excellent steak menu and good value happy hour from 6pm-8pm Fridays. Now has a brasserie menu with daily specials. Also has free WiFi. Open 6.30am until midnight.

La Marmite Cnr Streets 108 & 51 Tel: 012 391 746 This small, reasonably priced French bistro has two adjoining rooms (one non-smoking) creating a relaxed, cosy atmosphere. Serves excellent fish, steaks and offal as well as daily specials, for a taste of real home-cooked French cuisine.

Open 11am-2.30pm, 6pm-10.30pm.

La Residence Restaurant 22/24 Street 214 Tel: 023 224 582 Fine dining on an international scale in this sophisticated restaurant, where French classics meet gourmet, modern cuisine. Open from 11.30am-2pm and 6.30pm-10.30pm.

Le Bistrot 218 Street 184 Tel: 012 495 841 information@institutfrançais-cambodge. com.

Nestled inside the entirely renovated spaces of the Institut Français, Le Bistrot offers great coffee break, lunches and dinner. Le Bistrot is between the media library, cinema, exhibition gallery and garden of the Institut Français. Open Monday to Saturday from 8am-10pm.

Le Gourmet NagaWorld Hotel and Casino, Hun Sen Park.

Tel: 023 228 822 Quality ingredients come together in beautiful presentation on the plate, with the luxury of the surroundings complemented by professional and attentive service. Open daily from 12pm3pm and 6pm-10pm.

Restaurant Le Royal Raffles Hotel Le Royal Tel: 023 981 888 www.raffles.com Treat yourself to the finest French & Khmer cuisine in one of Indochina’s most elegant restaurants. The Chef’s Degustation menu allows you to try a myriad of dishes in a single meal in a refined atmosphere. Private rooms are available on request. Open from 6.30pm10.30pm.

The Wine Restaurant 219 Street 19 Tel: 023 223 527 Excellent fine dining restaurant in the same grounds as Open Wine deli. The fresh food and extensive selection of wines make this one of the exclusive places to dine in town. The set lunch is one of the most attractive packages on offer.

Topaz 182 Norodom Blvd.

Tel: 012 346 555 / 023 221 622 Sophisticated, air-con restaurant with outside dining, upstairs bar, wine shop, cigar room and private rooms. One of Phnom Penh’s finest restaurants. Has a popular piano bar, night club upstairs.

Open 11am-2pm, 6pm-11pm.

Phnom Penh

Siem Reap

023 986 350

063 964 409

60 AsiaLIFE Cambodia

Sihanoukville Kep & Kampot 034 934 155

033 930 000

Battambang 053 953 855

Van’s Restaurant 5 Street 102 Tel: 023 722 067 French fine-dining in a grand setting awaits at Van’s, located on the second floor of a well preserved colonial-era

building near the Post Office. Has an excellent value set lunch. Open daily 11.30am-2.30pm, 5pm-10.30pm.

Indian Sub-Continent Dosa Corner 15 Street 51 Tel: 012 673 276 This small South Indian restaurant has a wide range of very good value dosa as well as thali and biryani dishes. Airconditioned. Open 7am-10pm.

Flavours of India 158 Street 63 Tel: 012 886 374 Relaxing Indian and Nepalese restaurant with friendly staff and a good range of dishes including good value vegetarian and meat thalis. Open 10am-11pm.

Indian Delight 115Eo Sisowath Quay Tel: 023 724 885 / 098 776 543 Delicious North Indian tastes served at a modest yet clean and bright spot on the riverside. Opposite Titanic restaurant.

Open daily 11am–11pm.

Sher e Punjab 16 Street 130, Phnom Penh.

Tel: 092 992 901 Phnom Penh is blessed with a vast array of Indian kitchens, but many expats put this small place at the top of their list. Top Indian food, with an authentic Tandoori oven producing fine breads and grilled meats, also excellent for veggies. Open daily, 10am-10pm.

Indochine / Pan-Asian Indochine NagaWorld, Hun Sen Park With a focus on Southeast Asian cuisine, Indochine offers traditional dishes from Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand in a sophisticated space. Open 11am-11pm.

Lan Pin 281 Norodom Boulevard, Phnom Penh.

Tel: 077 221 195 Located in Tai Ming Hotel, this restaurant serves up sumptuous Asian fusion cuisine.

Lemongrass 14 Street 130 Tel: 023 222 705 A boutique Asian-themed restaurant with an intimate, casual ambiance featuring classical Thai and Khmer cuisine with affordable price. Known for authentic flavours and attractive presentation, only the best local produce and choice seafood and meats are prepared fresh daily. Open daily 10am-10pm.

Ngon 60 Sihanouk Blvd Tel: 023 987 151 www.ngonpnh.com Open air restaurant that features a vast range of Vietnamese food in a garden environment.

Pangea Fusion Restaurant NagaWorld Hotel and Casino, Hun Sen Park Tel: 023 228 822 Pan-Asian fusion restaurant with a western flair that specialises in allyou-can-eat dinner buffets. Open daily 6am-10.30pm.

International Aussie XL Café 205A Street 51 Tel: 023 301 301 Aussie style bistro food with quick lunch menu and a good selection of house wines and retail wines. Open 7am-11pm.

Black Bambu 29 Street 228, Phnom Penh.

Tel: 023 966 895 A not-for-profit training restaurant set up

by Cambodian’s Children’s Fun, focusing on fine dining in the form of tapas-style

REGIONAL EATS

Bo Kho

Christan Ngo I don’t remember the first time I ate bo kho but the last time was only a few days ago, so when AsiaLIFE asked me to write about it I jumped at the chance. Bo (beef) and kho (meaning to braise, stew or simmer), is an aromatic stew consisting of tender chunks of beef shank and tendon, thickly sliced carrots, onion, garlic, shallots, lemongrass and star anise.

There are many possible influences from various regions of the world. Bo kho is as exciting as an Indian curry and quite similar to an American beef stew or a Hungarian beef goulash. Personally, I lean more toward the connection between bo kho and the French beef bourguignon, the late-19th-century colonisers having introduced Vietnam to the cow and various new ways of cooking it. They also brought with them the baguette - the banh mi - a popular accompaniment to bo kho.

Bo kho is one of those comforting dishes. The tangy lemongrass is absolutely delicious. Hearty, savoury, spicy if required, it is arguably one of the most popular breakfast dishes in Vietnam. It’s normally served with a Vietnamese-style French baguette, along with a cafe sua da (Vietnamese iced coffee), iced tea or fresh coconut juice. Also available throughout the day in certain places, you can swap the banh mi for hu tiu (vermicelli noodles), mi (egg noodles) or pho (flat white noodles).

Here are a few good places to start your bo kho journey.

Diem tam 134

134 Ky Con Street, D1 // 08 6659 9528 // 6am - 12.30pm I am a big fan of this place, and it just happens to be located right in the centre of District 1. It is well-known for the freshly-made hoanh thanh (wontons), siu cao (prawn dumplings), handmade egg noodles and, of course, the simmering cauldron of bo kho. The service here is quite good - sometimes a rarity for local eats. Be sure to order their freshly-made hot soy bean drink.

Hu Tiu Mi 27

27 Ky Hoa, D5 // 08 3857 8636 // 6am until sold out (normally around 11am) Located on Ky Hoa Street next to Trieu Quang Phuc, between Hong Bang and Nguyen Trai, you really need to pay attention otherwise you’ll miss this place. It’s a small house with an open door and a noodle stand in front. It’s little more than a few tables, chairs and wall fans, but draws a steady stream of hungry locals, so come early.

Hu Tieu Bo Kho Ba Nam

Hem 162, Tran Nhan Ton, D10 // 7am - 11am (or until sold out) This old eatery has been popular since before 1975 and is a bit off the beaten path. It is our deputy editor’s favourite and so definitely worth finding. It can get pretty crowded and service is non-existent, so be patient; you will be served eventually and it is well worth the wait. Make sure you mix together a side dish of salt, pepper and lime juice (and the optional fresh chilli) to dip the beef. If slightly gristly tendons aren’t to your taste, try asking for ‘thit bo’ (‘cow meat’) to get only the tender morsels of beef.

food. With Al Schaaf in the kitchen you can be assured of the quality of the food on offer. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 8.30am to 11pm.

Brooklyn Pizza + Bistro 20 Street 123 Tel: 089 925 926 A slice of Brooklyn right here in Phnom Penh. In addition to authentic pizza, Brooklyn serves pastas, burgers, ribs, chicken wings and more.

Cabaret 159 Street 154 (near Central Market) Tel: 092 650 980 Email: info@cabaret-restaurant.com Restaurant and lounge bar with live music. Enjoy trendy food, tapas, cocktails and wine in a modern setting encompassing two elegant areas, bar and patio. Fine and casual dining available. Live music four to five times a week, sumptuous variety of wine and cigars.

Café Monivong Raffles Hotel Le Royal Tel: 023 981 888 Wicker armchairs and marble tables covered with crisp white tablecloths create the perfect place to relax and linger over a delightful alfresco breakfast, lunch or dinner. Western and Asian cuisines are available buffet-style or a la carte. Private rooms are available on request. Buffet from 6am-10am, 12pm2.30pm, 6pm-10pm. A la carte from 11am-11pm.

The Chinese House 45 Sisowath Quay, Phnom Penh.

Tel: 092 553 330 Under new management and having undergone a radical revamp, Chinese House has a fine dining restaurant upstairs serving fusion food, and a bar space downstairs, serving tapas. Still has the uber-cool vibe created by the previous management.

Doors Restaurant 18, Street 47 & 84.

Tel: 023 986 114 www.doorspp.com A hub for music, art, nightlife and food.

Experience world class Spanish cuisine and mouthwatering Tapas cooked by our resident chef. Open 11am until late.

Duplex 3 Street 278 www.duplex.com.kh A Belgian beer tavern in the heart of Phnom Penh. A destination that fuses the elements of a lounge with high energy ambiance.

Est Bar 19z, Street 214 Tel: 023 998 227 Email: indulge@estbar.com www.estbar.com (See bars) FCC Phnom Penh 363 Sisowath Quay Tel: 023 724 014 The first stop for newcomers and it’s easy to see why. Set in a beautiful colonial house with sumptuous views across the river on one side and the National Museum to the other, it’s best to come at sunset when the streets below are most crowded, and enjoy the happy hour. Open daily from 7am-midnight.

Fish Sisowath Quay (cnr of Street 108) Tel: 023 222 685 www.fishphnompenh.com Contemporary, modern restaurant specialising in all things oceanic. Menu includes everything from lobster through sushi to gourmet fish and chips for upmarket, but reasonable prices. Open 7am-late.

Fox Wine Bistro 104 Sothearos Blvd & St. 266.

Tel: 098 78 99 61

Casual wine-dining. For passionate food and wine lovers who want an unforgettable dining experience or even just a place to hang-out that’s unlike elsewhere in Phnom Penh. Serving simple yet thoughtful dishes and drinks in a comfortable, hip and trendy atmosphere.

Friends the Restaurant 215 Street 13 Tel: 012 802 072 Friends the Restaurant is a training restaurant run by Mith Samlanh, which has worked to build the futures of former street children and marginalised young people in Phnom Penh since 1994.

Located near the National Museum, it is famous for its legendary frozen shakes and daiquiris and its delicious blend of Asian and Western-style tapas. Free WiFi available and a dog-friendly restaurant.

Open daily from 11am–10.30pm (kitchen closes at 9.30pm).

Hummus House 95 Sisowath Quay Tel: 092 483 759 Authentic Lebanese halal cuisine, offering Middle East flavours including mezze tapas – hummus, shish kebab, baba ganouj, falafel, vegetarian and non-vegetarian kebab wraps. Delivery, takeaway, catering. Open daily from 10am until late.

Irina Russian Restaurant 22 Street 29 Tel: 012 833 524 / 092 833 524 www.irinacambodia.com Russian restaurant of iconic Phnom Penh status. If you can walk out of the restaurant after hitting the vodkas then you are doing well. Open daily from 11am until the vodka runs out.

Java Café & Gallery 56 Sihanouk Blvd Tel: 023 987 420 www.javaarts.org (See cafés) La Coupole Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra 26 Old August Site, Sothearos Blvd.

Tel: 023 999 200 www.sofitel.com Casual and authentic Indochinese and French cuisine with live cooking by chefs in an open kitchen concept. Offers breakfast, lunch, dinner and the Sunday brunch, all set in a stunning restaurant with high ceilings and natural light.

La Croisette 241 Sisowath Quay Tel: 023 220 554 Riverfront restaurant with an ample outside dining area screened off by trees that serves good, reasonably-priced food, also has a cool, air-con restaurant inside. Often arranges special events.

Open 7am-late.

La Plaza Spanish Tapas Bar 22b Street 278 Tel: 012 825 443 Recreates to perfection the best known and most delicious Spanish tapas, making of seafood Paella its signature dish. Tapas are the result of hundreds of years of Spanish culinary history and evolution. Simple, tasty and healthy dishes have become a standard to be enjoyed with friends while drinking large amounts of sangría. Open 11am-2pm, 5pm-10pm. All day at weekends.

LA Rose Restaurant 164b Norodom Blvd Tel: 023 211 130 / 080 900 900 Revive your strength and restore your health with La Rose Restaurant’s healthy option menu. Cozy ground floor restaurant with experienced chefs serving both Asian and Western cuisine, served in a delightful setting.

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Lime Restaurant + Bar 79F Street 128 Tel: 023 998 608/ 610 Email: info@lebizhotel.com, www.lebizhotel.com Located in Lebiz Hotel Lime serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering a stylish mix of Asian and Western favourites with a focus on fresh, healthy and local ingredients, with regular changes to the menu.

imbibe

Lone Pine Café 14 Street 282 Tel: 078 949 398/095 949 398 Colossal burgers, Memphis hunk ribs, Cajun gumbo, spicy chili, root beer barbecue pulled pork, po boys, wings, big salads, best beer list, great bourbons and fantastic margaritas. Open daily from 11.30am-2pm, 6pm-10pm (evenings only on Sunday).

The Sun Also Rises Darren Gall The heat in Cambodia is stifling. As we crawl toward the rainy season, the humidity in the air begins to build, it will continue like this until it feels as if we are wading through a steaming bowl of broth.

Living each day covered in a thin film of sweat and an even thinner film of sanity, as our horizons shimmer and dance like liquid dreams.

We all have our coping strategies, mine is to head to one of the hottest wine countries in the world and find some of the coolest wines on the planet.

Spain by international reputation is known for its big red wines from the hotter climate wine areas on the central and eastern side.

More recently, however, it is the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula and regions such as Reuda and Rias Baixas getting deserved attention.

The white wines here are light-bodied, aromatic, made from the varieties of Verdejo and Albarino.

Rueda is an ancient region that has been reborn; the Denominacion de Origen sits 170km northwest of Madrid, on a high, flat plain between 600 and 780 meters above sea-level. King Alfonse VI encouraged vineyard plantings in the region in the 11th century and Verdejo vines migrated there from North Africa.

However, it would not be until

the 1970s that the Rueda region would start to build its reputation for quality wines; when one of the country’s leading winemakers, Marques de Riscal, invested in the region.

The Marques de Riscal winery was founded in Rioja in 1858, a century later, Vinos de los Herederos del Marqués de Riscal decided to add a white wine to its product range.

After two years of extensive trials, the Rueda region was chosen to make the wine, the variety would be Verdejo.

Marqués de Riscal sought the services of renowned Bordeaux oenologist Emile Peynaud to help make a wine that was fresh, clean and crisp - not dissimilar to the white wines Emile was making in Bordeaux and in stark contrast to the oxidised, sherry-style wines being made in the region.

Marques de Riscal Rueda Verdejo, 2014

Pale straw in colour the aromas are restrained and perfumed, delicate, with fennel, white flowers a hint of peach and talc. The mouth-feel and texture of this wine are wonderful, the fruit restrained, it is an excellent food style, dry wine with a hint of peaches and cream on entry giving way to a fine powdery texture and refreshing lemon zest acidity.

The wine is exceptional, a benchmark for the variety.

Darren Gall has spent a quarter of a century involved in virtually every aspect of the wine industry and the passionate pursuit of the next great bottle continues. gall.darren@yahoo.com.

62 AsiaLIFE Cambodia

Lotus Blanc 152 Street 51 Tel: 017 602 251 Run by local NGO Pour un Sourire d’Enfant, this centrally located training restaurant has a monthly changing lunch menu as well as a la carte Khmer dishes.

Serves both Asian and continental breakfast. Open Monday to Saturday, 7am-10pm.

Meat & Drink Street 308 alleyway Bar and grill. A casual setting for drinks and a bite to eat. No reservations. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 5pm-11pm.

Metro Café Cnr Sisowath Quay & Street 148 Tel: 023 222 275 Cool east-meets-west decor and a chic menu offering tapas, starters and mains, comprehensive cocktail menu, favourite among which is the Espresso Martini, Metro also offers a range of classic breakfasts and an elegant lunch spot with free wifi in an air-con and smoke-free (until 10pm) atmosphere. Open daily 9.30am-1am.

Mike’s Burger House Russian Blvd. Tel: 012 633 971 Hugely popular burger bar that serves food with plastic knives and forks and equally plastic French fries with cheese sauce. Ideal for those who believe that American culture starts with a Mc. New York Steakhouse 264 Street 63 (cnr Mao Tse Tung Blvd.)

Tel: 023 987 500 Indulge in a seductive dining experience in the famed Phnom Penh Steak restaurant. The innovative menu features New-York Steakhouse signature prime cuts of beef charred to perfection accompanied by decadent sides and desserts.

Open Daily from 11am-2pm and 3pmmidnight.

Ocean 11 Street 288. Tel: 017 766 690 European managed Mediterranean restaurant that dishes up some of the best fish and seafood in town. Try the red snapper or the squid with rocket.

Often has exhibitions around the understated walls.

One More Pub 16E Street 294 Tel: 017 327 378. (see bars) Oscar Bistro 159 Sisowath Quay Tel: 023 215 179 The popular Bangkok Soi 11 bistro has made its way to the Cambodian capital with its familiar formula of great pizzas, classy cocktails and good wine. Expect the DJs to pump out the beats as you consider where to carry on the evening.

Ozone Poolside Restaurant & Bar Floor 5b, Rose Condo, Bassac Gardens

Tel: 092 673 303 Ozone is the new restaurant and bar next to the pool and gym at Rose Condo.

New York style pizza, steaks, premium burgers and more. Enjoy Al Fresco dining or have food delivered to your door.

Paddy Rice 213-217 Sisowath Quay Tel: 023 990 321 www.paddyrice.net (See bars) Petra 8 Street 288 (between St 51 & St 57) Tel: 023 666 3222 / 089 990 150 Authentic Arabic cuisine, ambiance and chef with rooftop shisha lounge. Located in the heart of BKK1. Special dining experiences with great costumes. Open daily from 10am–11pm.

Public House Street 240 1/2 Tel: 017 770 754 Offering fresh, simple and delicious cuisine set in a modern take on a pub. Open daily, from 11.30am-late (Saturdays from 10.30am and Sunday brunch).

Regency Cafe InterContinental Phnom Penh 296 Mao Tse Tung Blvd.

Tel: 023 424 888 ext. 3603 Regency Cafe features sumptuous international and Asian buffets as well as a la carte dining for the most discerning palates. Open daily from 6am-10.30pm Restaurant Tell 13 Street 90 Tel: 023 430 650 Up-market eatery that re-creates the genuine feel of an Alpine chalet, has a spacious indoor restaurant and outdoor terrace with rotisserie and bar. European menu with imported steaks, fondue, raclette and an extensive wine list. Open 11.30am-2pm, 5pm11pm.

Rising Sun 20 Street 178.

Tel: 012 970 718 (see bars) Riverside Bistro Cnr. Sisowath Quay & Street 148 Tel: 012 277 882/ 023 213 898 Popular restaurant with expats and tourists alike mainly due to its large outdoor terrace area to view the river.

Serves a mixture of Asian and western food with an emphasis on German cuisine. Has rock music videos and a pool table in the music bar at the back.

Open from 7am-2am.

Riverhouse Asian Bistro 157 Sisowath Quay Tel: 023 212 302 www.riverhousecambodia.com Well known as one of the oldest French colonial buildings on the riverfront with breezy views along the Tonle Sap & Mekong River. The elegant restaurant and bar offers a special beverage menu, featuring delectable cocktails, quality wines, single malts and freshly squeezed juices. Open daily from 10am-2am Samba Brazilian Steakhouse 64 Sihanouk Blvd.

Tel: 023 222 599 Experience the unique Brazilian Churrasco way of cooking with a large variety of meats skewered and roasted to perfection and served piping hot direct from the skewers to your plate! Open daily 11am-3pm, 5pm-10.30pm.

Stella Restaurant 55 Street 75 Tel: 099 574 188 / 012 735 002 A cozy restaurant located near Wat Phnom, Stella serves pizzas, grilled food and Asian cuisine in a peaceful garden atmosphere.

Steve’s Steakhouse 8 Street 240 Tel: 023 987 320 Longstanding restaurant specialising in local grain-fed beef as well as a large variety of imported steaks, hamburgers, ribs and Greek cuisine. Has a terraced lounge with pool tables upstairs as well as a sports bar with large screen TV and happy hour from 12pm-7pm. Open daily from 11am-10.30pm.

Stockholm European Restaurant 45 Street 288 (between Streets 63 & Monivong Blvd) Tel: 081 845 957 A warm welcome to everyone who wants to try a home-made Swedish and other European meals. It is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Closed on Sunday.

Stonegrill 649 Sisovath Quay Tel: 023 999 950 www.stonegrill.com.kh Stonegrill offers a unique interactive dining experience where diners meals are served cooking at the table on natural volcanic stones heated to 400C (752F).

Open daily 11am-midnight.

Sunset Blvd Cnr. Sisowath Quay & Street 148 Tel: 012 277 882 / 012 887 702 River crossing sets off from Riverside Bistro every 30 minutes to this 50s style retro bistro, near Sokha Hotel, Tickets $4.

The Exchange/The Vault 28 Street 47 Tel: 078 886 889 Large colonial mansion contains The Vault, Phnom Penh’s first private member’s club for those who have $1000 to burn. Underneath, the Exchange has elegant exposed brickwork and low lighting as well as an impressive fusion menu.

Open daily, 10am-midnight.

The Tiger’s Eye 49 Sothearos Boulevard After Common Tiger closed its doors in October, chef Timothy Bruyns’ latest venture comes in the form of The Tiger’s Eye, serving up his innovative dishes from the former home of Duck.

The Quay 277 Sisowath Quay Tel: 023 224 894 Food is a mix of tapas and more substantial offerings, and excellent malbec. Roof-top bar closed for refurbishment. Open daily from 7am11pm.

The Lost Room 43 Street 21 Tel: 078 700 001 A hidden gem, with eclectic food in an urbane environment. This small restaurant and bar offers small plates of food for sharing. Using imported and local foods, the menu encompasses global foods and unique cocktail and wine listings at reasonable prices.

Caring and experienced staff makes for a pleasant evening. Open from 5pm, Monday to Saturday. Kitchen closes at 10pm. Lunch by appointment only.

The Shop 102 1B Street 102 (Inside Central Mansion) Tel: 077 666 115 The Shop restaurant proposes a large range of fresh bread, pastries, chocolates, Western and Asian food.

At night time, the atmosphere becomes cozier and offers a selection of fine wines and cocktails to accompany the dinner menu. Customers have access to the nearby swimming pool, making it the perfect place for families.

World Dining 2/F Aeon Mall, 132 Samdach Sothearos

Blvd, Tel: 023 90 17 77 (See restaurants Cambodia) Zino Wine Bar and Restaurant 12 Street 294 Tel: 023 998 519 Zino offers a comprehensive wine list by the glass and bottle, professionally made cocktails and a constantly evolving Mediterranean and Asian menu. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Kitchen closes at 11pm.

Italian Aria D’Italia 41EO Street 310.

Tel: 012 840 705 Cute little Italian pizzeria tucked away between Street 57 and Street 63. Wellpriced lunch set menu and homemade ravioli. Home delivery available. Open 10.30am-2pm, 5.30pm-10pm.

Bistro Romano NagaWorld Hotel and Casino, Hun Sen Park Tel: 023 228 822 Best known for its sumptuous Sunday Prosecco Brunch, this stylised Italian restaurant in the NagaWorld complex specialises in Italian cuisine. Open daily 11am-11pm.

Café Monivong Raffles Hotel Le Royal.

Tel: 023 981 888 Indulge in homemade antipasti, fresh prepared pasta and risotto as well as oven-baked, crispy pizzas and pair it all with the finest selection of Italian wines, every Saturday night 6pm-10pm.

Do Forni Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra 26 Sothearos Blvd.

Tel: 023 999 200 Sophisticated Italian diner set in the grounds of the Sofitel hotel, dishes up much more than your basic pizza and pasta. Excellent range of wines, dimmed lighting and plush surroundings make this an excellent romantic meal for two option.

Open daily 6.30pm-10pm.

Genova Italian Restaurant 20 Street 118. Tel: 012 390 039 This small restaurant has the feel of an Italian trattoria with food just like mamma made. The spaghetti al pesto Genovese is its signature dish. Good range of meat and fish dishes as well as some Khmer dishes. Open daily 10am-midnight.

Il Forno Restaurant Phnom Penh 11 Street 302 Tel: 081 660 515 Traditional imported ingredients from Italy to keep all of recipes 100 percent Italian.

Wine bar for nice aperitivo, lunch special menus and weekly specials for dinner.

Italian House 2 Street 312 (end of Street 9) Tel: 092 230 207 Italian chef. Wooden fire oven. Pizzeria, antipasti, pasta, salads, desserts, offering delivery and catering around BKK I area.

Open daily from 5.30pm-10.30pm.

La Volpaia 20–22 Street 13 Tel: 023 992 739 Part of a global pizzeria chain that includes Florence, Tokyo, Seoul and Phnom Penh, the cuisine is excellent with pizza and pasta cooked fresh in front of your eyes.

Luna 6C Street 29 Tel: 023 220 895 Stunning garden courtyard with day beds and couches as well as outdoor tables and chairs or air-conditioned interior.

Excellent homemade pasta, wood fired pizza and contemporary Italian cuisine.

Great selection of wines from climate controlled cellar. Now also offering

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delight in a bright and modern setting.

Open for lunch and dinner, it features a stylish mix of ancient and modern creative cuisine. Open daily, 11.30am– 2.30pm, 5.30pm–10.30pm.

Le Seoul 62 Monivong Blvd. Tel: 012 971 516 Popular up-market South Korean restaurant specialising in BBQ, each table is equipped with its own charcoal burner, with all beef imported from the U.S. Open daily, 11am-2.30pm, 5pm10pm.

Ninja Dining & Bar Ninja 1 BBK1, 14b, Street 278 Tel: 097 772 1556 Japanese dining establishment that is open from 11.30am to midnight Ninja 2 Toul Tom Pong 54, Street 454 Tel: 096 390 6091 Sister establishment to the Ninja Dining & Bar that has slightly different dining hours; open 11am-11pm.

Noodle Bar Osan 27b, Street 294, BKK1 Tel: 097 932 7067 The best Japanese ramen noodle restaurant in Phnom Penh offering you food prepared by a master ramen Chef from Japan who was featured in various TV shows in Japan as one of the leading Ramen chefs. Lunch 11.30am-2pm and dinner 5.30pm-11pm.

Origami 88 Sothearos Bvd. Tel: 012 968 095 Up-market, contemporary Japanese restaurant with a spacious air-con area downstairs and four private rooms upstairs. Specialises in sushi and tempura, and has Asahi, Kirin and Sapporo beers. Open daily 11.30am2pm, 5.30pm-9.30pm. brunch on weekends.

Japanese & Korean

Pop Café da Giorgio 371 Sisowath Quay Tel: 012 562 892 Sophisticated, small Italian restaurant located next to the FCC that serves light, contemporary Italian cuisine including fresh pasta and pizzas. Delivery service available – last orders 9.30pm. Open daily 11.30am-2.30pm, 6pm-10pm.

Fusion Sushi Cnr. Streets 47 & 84 Tel: 023 986 114 Located inside Cara Hotel this beautifully decorated restaurant dishes up excellent Japanese and Korean food.

Terrazza 1c Street 282.

Tel: 023 214 660 www.terrazza.asia Experience Italy in Phnom Penh. Fine Italian restaurant and Deli shop. Open daily from noon-10pm, deli shop, 9am9pm.

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Hachi Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra 26 Sothearos Blvd Tel: 023 999 200 ext: 6612 A taste of Japan in a Zen atmosphere with tatami rooms and sushi bar. Open daily, 11.30am-2.30pm, 6.30pm10.30pm.

Kan Ji Japanese Restaurant 128f Sothearos Blvd.

Tel: 016 318 383 / 016 312 828.

Kan Ji is three floors of Japanese culinary

Pepper Lunch AEON Mall, Phnom Penh.

Tel: 015 888 178 www.pepperlunch.com.kh Tasty sound on the hot plate. Well-known beef pepper rice, curry with meat, combo menu of meat and fish. Open daily from 9am-10pm Udon Café Green Bowl 29B Street 288 Tel: 086 426 530 Freshly made Sanuki-style udon noodles offer a real taste of Japan. Noodles and accompanying soups and sauces are prepared from scratch using traditional methods and fresh ingredients. Open from 11am-2.30pm and 5.30pm-9pm.

Closed every second Wednesday.

Yuzu 1 Street 360

Tel: 095 600 400.

Specialising in ramen, tempura and makisushi in chic surroundings. Open daily from 11am-10pm

Mexican & Tex-Mex Alley Cat Café Off Street 19 (side street behind Royal Art School) Tel: 012 306 845 Small, friendly patio café serving good Mexican food and claiming to have the biggest burgers in town. Weekly specials and live music on Sundays. Alley Cat is down an alley behind the National Museum.

Freebird 69 Street 240 Tel: 023 224 712 Aircon American bar with neon lighting, a variety of memorabilia, comfortable seats and rock music. International menu with good lunch offers, an excellent range of bottled sauces, excellent International, Mexican food and burgers. Open 7ammidnight.

Taqueria Corona 14E Street 51 Tel: 089 281 626 / 012 629 986 Enjoy our Mexican specialties, barbacoa, al pastor, Texas chile, carnitas, pollo and carne asoda in our festive dining room.

Open daily from 11.30am-2pm, 6pm10pm (Sunday evenings only).

Salsa Cabana Buena 46 Street 288 (between St. 57 & St. 63) Tel: 097 697 8810 Home-made Mexican and Latin food nachos, quesadillas, tacos chili, enchiladas, tapas and vegetarian food. $3 Corona, margaritas and mojitos.

Open 11am-2pm, 5pm-11pm. Closed Tuesdays.

Sunrise Taco 171 Street 63 (corner St 282) Tel: 077 85 45 45 Daily from 5pm-7pm buy 1 get 1 free margaritas. Open daily from 11am-10pm.

Vegetarian The Vegetarian 158 Street 19 Tel: 077 900 210 / 012 905 766 With a lush garden space in the heart of Phnom Penh, The Vegetarian provides a relaxing dining experience. Whether it be amok, curry or tom yam, the restaurtant creates vegetarian versions of popular Cambodian, Indian and Thai dishes. Open 10.30am-8.30pm, closed Sundays.

Vego’s 3E0 Street 51 Tel: 012 984 596 Salad bar offering bagels, salads and wraps with a wide array of super fresh toppings. Choose from ready-made

or DIY options. Also on offer are a vegetarian soup of the day as well as fresh-squeezed juices, yogurt and granola.

Bars The Alley Bar Street 240 ½, Phnom Penh.

Tel: 095 222 405 A big bar in a small alley. Spacious inside and with seating on the quaint alley in the open, this lounge bar and eatery is also home to live entertainment in the evenings.

Aristocrat Cigar Bar NagaWorld Hotel and Casino, Hun Sen Park.

Tel: 023 228 822 Club aimed at attracting wealthy expats and Khmers who like a good cigar and glass of wine. Not as stuffy as you might imagine with cigars from $10. Open daily from noon-midnight.

Bar.sito Street 240 1/2 Tel: 077 960 413 Cocktail bar, serving especially designed cocktails, ice-cold beers, red and white wines, champagnes and spirits. Open daily, 5pm-late.

Cadillac Bar and Grill 219 E0 Sisowath Quay.

Tel: 011 713 567 Riverfront air-con bar and restaurant.

Has good American cuisine as well as a riverfront vantage.

Chez Rina Cocktail Lounge 6 Street 98 Round the corner of Brown’s Riverside Tel: 017 259 955 Phnom Penh’s coolest lounge in a beautifully restored 1890s space in the historic old French Quarter around the Post Office. The focus is on cocktails and conversation. Open 5pm-12pm. Closed Sunday.

The Chinese House 45 Sisowath Quay, Phnom Penh.

Tel: 092 553 330 (See Restaurants international) Elephant Bar Raffles Hotel Le Royal Street 92 Tel: 023 981 888 The wicker chairs and carpet may have gone, but the newly re-styled Elephant Bar still exudes the character of a time gone by – you can imagine Jackie Kennedy drinking here. Its many signature cocktails, including the former First Lady-inspired femme fatale, make this a popular place with expats especially during the two-for-one happy hours (4pm-8pm). Open 2pm-midnight from Monday to Friday. Saturday and Sunday from noon to midnight.

Eluvium Lounge 205a Street 19 Tel: 023 986 221 Nestled on the rooftop of Aura Hostel, this elegant lounge bar pairs great views with specialty cocktails and wine, daily from 5pm to midnight.

Live music once a week.

Est Bar 19z, Street 214 Tel: 023 998 227 Email: indulge@estbar.com www.estbar.com Cocktail bar/ supper club offering sophisticated indoor and outdoor drinking and dining (tapas and charcuterie) from 6pm-2am Mon-Sat, ideally located for those who want to take in a premium vodka or excellent light snack before hitting one of the nearby clubs.

FCC 363 Sisowath Quay Tel: 023 724 014 (See Restaurants international) Freebird 69 Street 240 Tel: 023 224 712 (See Restaurants, Mexican & Tex-Mex) Grand River Restaurant Corner of Street 178 Tel: 023 220 244 / 012 962 616 / 012 248 694 Khmer and Western Food. Variety of wines and cocktails. Happy hour 4.30pm-7.30pm. Open daily from 7ammidnight.

Hangar 44 Bassac Lane, off Street 308 Tel: 077 555 447 Not just a bar but also home to Moto Cambodge’s showroom, this venue is full of vintage and classic motorbikes and accessories. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 5pm-11pm.

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Harry’s Bassac Lane, off Street 308 Tel: 077 555 447 As well as being a rooftop martini bar, the downstairs of this vintage outlet doubles up as an antique shop flogging everything from pocket watches and boots to aviator sunglasses and cufflinks.

Just ask the owners if you have anything valuable you wish them to pawn for you.

Open Tuesday to Sunday, 5pm-11pm.

Howie’s Bar 32 Street 51 Long-standing mainstay of the expat scene and popular late night hang-out, C especially around the ‘mini’ pool table, where Howie’s rules apply. Great rock M tunes and a timeless atmosphere, that is until it’s time to go to bed. Open Y 7pm-6am.

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K West 1 Street 154 (Cnr. Sisowath Quay), Tel: 023 214 747 (see Restaurants, French)

inspiring arts

The Library Bassac Lane, off Street 308 Tel: 095 366 243 Stocked with books, this intimate corner bar serves daiquiris, cocktails, beers and wines. The ideal place to bring out the bookworm in you. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 5pm-11pm.

Le Bar Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra, 26 Sothearos Blvd. Tel: 023 999 200 A modern colonial style lobby bar with a fine selection of comfort food, tapas, champagnes, wines, premium spirits and large selection of coffees and teas.

Sounds of Angkor Robam Sovann Macha

Cambodian Living Arts (CLA) works with artists and troupes across Cambodia.

Each month, we will tell one of their stories.

Sounds of Angkor is unique; the troupe recreate sounds from Angkorian times, using instruments that went unheard and were forgotten for centuries.

The troupe is an initiative headed by French ethnomusicologist Patrick Kersalé and Cambodian Living Arts (CLA). Patrick has spent his professional life exploring historic music in Asia, with a special focus on the lost music of the Angkorian world.

By studying iconography, inscriptions and archaeological objects, he rebuilt instruments that were extinct since the 7th to 13th centuries, creating harps, zithers, cymbals, trumpets and conch shells that nobody alive today had seen, let alone knew how to play.

Students of this newlyrediscovered art needed to be found to learn to play these re-introduced instruments so CLA introduced Patrick to Mann Men, one of Cambodia’s few remaining master artists, and his students of classical wedding and funeral music.

Three years ago, the troupe turned their attention to recreating these ancient and forgotten sounds

– not a simple task!

However, Patrick, Master Men and the troupe have pieced together ideas, building on traditions from Cambodia and the wider region, and the depictions of different groups on the bas-reliefs of Angkor Wat, including military bands, entertainment ensembles, and ritual orchestras.

Sounds of Angkor’s performances are striking – the troupe dress in costumes depicted on the temple bas reliefs, in the colours traditionally worn by artists of the time.

They recreate bands marching into battle, complete with metre-long trumpets, gongs and drums, as well as groups providing musical entertainment in courts and in temples, accompanied by song and dance.

Last month, Sounds of Angkor took part in the inaugural Festival of Chapei Dang Weng at Chaktomuk Hall, at Phnom Penh’s Bonn Phum festival, and opened Laura Mam’s concert for Khmer New Year in Siem Reap – clearly, this ancient music has stood the test of time!

Sounds of Angkor is based in Siem Reap and perform at local festivals, events and private performances. To find out when you can next see them, follow Cambodian Living Arts on Facebook for updates.

To learn more about Cambodian Living Arts, find CLA on Facebook, @CamboLivingArts on Twitter, CambodianLivingArts on Instagram, or visit cambodianlivingarts.org.

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Le Moon Cnr of Sisowath Quay & Street 154 Tel: 023 214 747 Rooftop terrace bar at Amanjaya Hotel has arguably the best view of the river of any of the city’s rooftop bars. Full bar and small food menu, while the service is slow enough to afford you sufficient time to soak up the view.

Tel: 012 277 882 / 023 213 898 (See Restaurants International) Samai Distillery 9b Street 830.Tel: 023 224 143 A rum distillery by day and bar every Thursday night, this spot is popular with the cool crowd, serving up potently strong cocktails to upbeat sounds every Thursday evening. Has taken over the Elsewhere mantle of the place to be seen.

Seibur Street 308 Tel: 092 839 440 Aperitif room. Open seven days, from 5pm-11pm.

Sharky Bar 126 Street 130.Tel: 012 228 045 www.sharkybar.blogspot.com A place where anything can happen, and a popular live music venue. Serves good Mexican food, with daily specials. Plenty of pool tables and competitions. Open 4pm-2am.

Liquid 3B Street 278 Tel: 023 720 157 Welcoming open air bar and has one of the best pool tables in town with happy hour from 5pm-8pm.

The Tap Room Kingdom Breweries 1748, National Road 5.

Tel: 023 430 180 www.kingdombreweries.com State of the art European brewery specialising in premium pilsner. Tours of the facility are organised on a regular basis, culminating in frothy cold ones at the brewery’s bar overlooking the Tonle Sap.

Lobby Lounge 296 Mao Tse Tung Blvd, (InterContinental Hotel) Tel: 023 424 888 An elegant lounge situated in the lobby of the Intercontinental Hotel. Reasonable prices and excellent service. Open daily from 10am-11.30pm.

Touk Restaurant and Bar 357 Sisowath Quay, corner of Street 178 Tel: 023 219 059/ 012 248 694/ 017 486 786 Live bands, buffet salad and BBQ every Saturday and Friday night at this lofty riverside venue. Happy hour from 4.30pm-7.30pm

Meta House 37 Sothearos Blvd. (opposite Phnom Penh Centre) Tel: 023 218 987 / 010 312 333 www.meta-house.com Multi-media arts centre established by German film-maker Nico Mesterham has a very cool bar. Open from 2pmmidnight. Closed Mondays.

Zeppelin Bar 109C Street 51 Tel: 012 881 181 More than 1,000 vinyl albums played by well-known DJ owner in small bar.

Remarkably good food (dumping’s are great) especially late at night. Open daily 5pm-4am.

Metro Café Sisowath Quay & Street 148Tel: 023 222 275 (see Restaurants, international)

Club Love 3 Street 278, Tel: 0973 131 947 As one of the newest kids on the block, Club Love is aimed at the backbacker and spillover expat crowd looking for somewhere to dance with cheap drinks well into the early hours. Open Monday to Saturday, 11pm-4pm.

One More Pub 16E Street 294 Tel: 017 327 378 English-style bar with comfortable wooden bar stools. No hip hop or techno, only great classic 60s and 70s music. Has terracotta-tiled terrace and 3 guest rooms upstairs. Open from 5pm to late, happy hour from 5pm-7pm. Closed Sundays.

Oscar Bistro 159 Sisowath Quay Tel: 023 215 179 (see Restaurants, international) Red Bar 15 Street 308 Unassuming in appearance, Red Bar becomes rammed at weekends with the expat crowd clamouring for the cheap drinks. Popular with the journalist crowd. Open daily.

Rising Sun 20 Street 178 Tel: 012 970 718 English-style pub with reliable breakfast, meat pies and hamburgers. Has a regular following around the bar at night especially on Fridays. Great posters of British films and TV classics adorn the walls. Ideal for that touch of nostalgia and good fish and chips – though not wrapped in a newspaper. Open daily from 7am until late.

Riverside Bistro Cnr. Sisowath Quay & Street 148,

Clubs

Darlin Darlin NagaWorld Hotel and Casino Tel: 023 228 822 Top-end nightclub with live music popular among the high-flyers of the city. Semiprivate booths in a chic environment make for an unrivalled experience. Open daily from 7pm-late.

Epic Sothearos Blvd. (near Russian Embassy) Tel: 010 600 608 As the latest luxury nightspot to hit the capital, Epic is taking elite clubbing to the next level. The spacious venue serves up a range of top-shelf liquors, cocktails and Champagne to the sounds of international DJs. Open daily from 9pm to 5am.

Heart of Darkness 38 Street 51 Tel: 023 222 415 One of the most famous of the city’s nightspots with a good-sized dance floor make this the in-place in town. Has well priced spirits and mixers.

Nova 19 Street 214 Tel: 097 716 5000 Popular with the upmarket Khmer crowd, Nova features DJs from across the region. VIP areas cater to those who want to escape the crowded dance floor.

Open daily from 9pm to 4am.

Pontoon 80 Street 172 Tel: 010 300 400 As a stalwart on the capital’s clubbing scene, a mix of international and local DJs can be found pumping out the tunes seven nights a week until the early hours. Different themed nights run throughout the week.

Open Sunday to Thursday, 9pm-4am, Friday and Saturday, 9pm-5am.

Pontoon Pulse 80 Street 172 Tel: 010 300 400 As a sister club to Pontoon, and located beside the main club, Pontoon Pulse brings some of the capital’s finest electronic music to dedicated clubbers.

A cool place to chill if the main venue is getting to pumping for your tastes.

Pontoon Pulse 80 Street 172 Tel: 010 300 400 As a sister club to Pontoon, and located beside The latest addition to Pontoon and the capital’s first official after hour’s club, closing its doors at 7am, this chic space is also located adjacent to Pontoon’s main room.

Vito 8 Street 214, Tel: 010 421 421 Pumping out all the memorable classics from the 70s to the 90s, Vito’s dancefloor gets packed at weekends with the nostalgia crowd - both young and old. Open daily from 9pm-3am.

LISTINGS

Gay-Friendly Arthur & Paul Males Bar and Spa 27 Street 71 Tel: 023 212 814 / 077 892 256 www.arthurand paul.com The first gay (men-only) venue in Phnom Penh. Features steam baths and sensual showers, spa and hotel. Ease muscle tension, chat, have a Jacuzzi or relax in one of the private rooms. After using our facilities or swimming, enjoy a drink in the bar or relax in the restaurant and lounge or around the pool.

Blue Chilli 36 Street 178 Tel: 012 566 353 www.bluechillibar.com This welcoming bar run by Thai national Oak is currently the number one gay bar in town. The drag shows on Friday and Saturday are an additional draw. Open 5pm-late.

The Rainbow Bar 73 Street 172 Tel: 097 741 4187 Intimate bar designed to get to know people better has a range of welldesigned cocktails to make the night go with a swing.

Wine Bars Bouchon Wine Bar 3-4 Street 246 Tel: 077 881 103 Classy wine bar with a wide selection of wines from across the globe, plus a selection of hand-crafted cocktails and eats. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 4pmmidnight.

Open Wine 219 Street 19 Tel: 023 233 527 Large wine shop and deli with wellpriced wines from around the world.

Has outside dining area. Open daily 7am-11pm.

Zino Wine Bar and Restaurant 12 Street 294 Tel: 023 998 519 Zino offers a comprehensive wine list by the glass and bottle, professionally made cocktails and a constantly evolving Mediterranean and Asian menu. Open for lunch and dinner 7 days a week. Kitchen closes at 11pm.

culture

a bar and eating area. Open daily from 4pm to 11pm.

The Flicks 1. 39b Street 95 (BKK3) 2. 85 Street 136 (Daun Penh) 3. 8 Street 252 (Chaktomuk) Local expat oriented movie houses with revolving schedule of international films and art house films, screened in comfy air conditioned movie rooms. Option to hire the movie room for a private session (max 30 people). Minimum two screenings per day. Cover charge $3.50.

Galleries Cinemas Le Cinema 218 Street 184 (French Institute) Tel: 023 213 124 100-seat cinema shows International art house and mainstream movies with occasional films in English. Children’s cinema on Saturday mornings at 10am.

Major Cineplex Aeon Mall Tel: 023 90 1111 Major Cineplex is located on the second floor of the Aeon Mall Phnom Penh and is the biggest cinema complex in Cambodia with multiple screens, 3D and 4D theatres, showing the latest blockbusters from Asia and Hollywood.

Open daily 9am-midnight Meta House 37 Sothearos Blvd. (opp. Phnom Penh centre).

Tel: 012 607 465 Movie shorts and documentaries from Cambodia and the rest of Asia. Movies normally start at 7pm, closed Mondays.

Platinum Cineplex 5th Floor Sorya Shopping Centre Tel: 081 666 210/ www.platinumcineplex.com.kh/ International-standard three-screen cineplex featuring the latest Digital 3D technology and the most recent Hollywood and international releases, located in the heart of downtown with ample parking, shopping and eating options. Open 9am-11pm.

The Empire Movie House 34 Street 130 Tel: 077 468 243 As an independent art-house, Empire screens documentaries, indie films, cult classics and regional films. Also features

Bophana Audiovisual Resource Centre 64 Street 200 Tel: 023 992 174 Preserving much of Cambodia’s audiovisual material, has regular exhibitions. Open 8am-6pm Mon-Fri, 2pm-6pm Sat. Dori Thy Gallery 12R Street 256 Tel: 012 661 552 Features the black and white photographs of German photographer, Doris Boettcher. Open Saturday and Sunday 10am-6pm.

FCC Phnom Penh 363 Sisowath Quay Tel 023 724 014 This riverfront restaurant has a permanent, rotating exhibition devoted to to some of the finest reportage and photography.

French Institute 218 Street 184 Tel: 023 213 124 Offers cultural activities including exhibitions, festivals, and film screenings to promote French and Khmer culture.

Onsite shop Carnets d’Asie offers a selection of French books.

Java Café & Gallery 56 Sihanouk Blvd Tel:: 023 987 420 www.javaarts.org Contemporary art gallery with regular exhibitions of Cambodian and international artists, as well as performing artists. Has second gallery on the ground floor. Website has details about Cambodia’s contemporary art scene.

Meta House 37 Sothearos Blvd.

Tel: 010 312 333 Short films, documentaries and art films

from Asia and the rest of the world screened daily. International food also served, regular DJs perform throughout the week. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 4pm-11pm – open late at weekends with DJs and parties.

Reyum Institute of Arts & Culture 47 Street 178 Tel: 023 217 149 Gallery with regular exhibitions of Cambodian artists. Part of an NGO established to preserve traditional and contemporary Cambodian art.

Sa Sa Bassac 18 Sothearos Boulevard, Upstairs.

An expansion of the Sa Sa Art Gallery and a merger with Bassac Art Projects, Sa Sa Bassac is an artist-run gallery for contemporary art. Includes a library, reading and workshop room, and a 60-metre gallery space. Ongoing visual literacy programmes.

Performing Arts Amrita Performing Arts 128-G9 Sothearos Blvd.

Tel: 023 220 424 www.amritaperformingarts.org Performance art company that puts on contemporary and classical music and theatre.

Apsara Arts Association 71 Street 598 Tel: 011 550 302 Organisation that promotes Cambodian arts and culture. Open from 7.30am-10.30am Cambodian Living Arts 128-G9 Sothearos Blvd.

Tel: 023 986 032 www.cambodianlivingarts.org A non-profit arts organisation devoted to the revival and transmission of traditional Khmer performing arts that puts on performances and provides tours.

Chaktomuk Conference Hall Sisowath Quay Tel: 023 725 119 Designed by master Cambodian architect Vann Molyvann, this underutilised building is worth a visit. Open Monday to Friday, 7am-11.30am and 2pm-5pm.

Chenla Theatre Cnr. Mao Tse Tung & Monireth Blvds.

Tel: 023 883 050

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www.culturalcenter-cambodia.com One of the capital’s major theatres, it has regular performances of theatre, dance and music.

wellness

Epic Arts 1DE0 Sothearos Blvd.

Tel: 023 998 474 www.epicarts.org.uk Organisation that uses art to empower people with disabilities.

Sovanna Phum Khmer Art Association 166 Street 99, corner of 484 Tel: 023 987 564 Theatre with performances of shadow puppetry, classical and masked dances every Friday and Saturday at 7.30pm.

Childbirth and Parenting Preparation Veronique Ngo Childbirth and neonatal preparation classes inform expectant parents about the latest thinking on pregnancy, pre-natal development, childbirth and infant care, provide opportunities to ask questions and be reassured by a health professional, and share feelings and useful information with other expectant parents.

In addition to classes, advice on childbirth and infant care is also provided. Whether you are expecting your first baby or not, it’s a good idea to have up-to-date information to help you prepare for childbirth.

Childbirth and parenting preparation classes inform expecting parents about: •Pregnancy: What are the different stages of pregnancy?

How does the mother’s body change? How does the fetus grow? What are suitable exercises for staying fit and preparing for childbirth, as well as techniques for breathing and relaxation?

Should you have your baby in Cambodia, a neighbouring country, or go home?

•Childbirth: What are the different stages of child birth? How do you cope with the pain? What is the role of a birthing coach, partner, or friend?

•Infant care: What happens after you get home from hospital? What are the pros and cons of breastfeeding versus formula feeding? How do you recover after childbirth

and adapt to a new baby?

There are many choices to consider according to your needs and wishes: •Classical: Discussions on key themes, physical and breathing exercises •Aquagym: Exercise in the water to feel light, improve back pain, and reduce swelling in legs and feet.

•Pre-natal Yoga: Relaxation, posture improvement and breathing exercises to help you to feel good throughout pregnancy.

•Sophrology: Deep relaxation techniques based on visualising positive outcomes.

•Haptonomy: Using touch to communicate with the baby in utero.

•Hypnosis: Visualisations, and physical and mental relaxation to go through pregnancy in peace and prepare positively for childbirth.

•Acupuncture: Releasing stress and the pains of pregnancy, as well as restoring energy before and after childbirth.

•Prenatal chanting: Chanting, breathing exercises and vibration to relax muscles and communicate with and sooth the baby in utero.

Preparing for childbirth depends on how you plan to give birth and your health professional, and should include visiting possible maternity facilities, meeting the staff, and hearing about their approach to childbirth to make sure you agree.

Veronique Ngo is a French certified midwife who offers childbirth and parenting preparation at SÂMATA Health & Wellness Studio. 54 Street 306, Phnom Penh. Tel: 095 201 898.

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LISTINGS

leisure & wellness Amusement Cambodian Country Club Street 2004, Group 6 Toeuk Thla Tel: 012 231 755 A peaceful heaven providing tennis, swimming, badminton, fitness centre and horse riding, 15 minutes away from the city. Open from 6.30am-late.

Living Arts Experiences 128-G9 Sothearos Blvd.

Tel: 018 998 570 Email: events@cambodianlivingarts.org Visit local dance, theatre and musical rehearsals of the traditional Khmer arts through Cambodian Living Arts’ Observation Tours. Available in Siem Ream, Phnom Penh & Kampong Speu call for times and to book in advance.

Phnom Tamao Wildlife Park Phnom Tamao, 44 kilometres out of the capital along Highway 2.

Cambodia’s top wildlife centre. All animals are either rescued from traders or bred at the centre. Many of the animals are critically endangered. Open daily 8am - 4pm.

Boat Cruises The Butterfly Cambodia Tel: 012 602 955 thebutterflycambodia@gmail.com Cambodian river adventures, sunset cruises, birthdays and events to floating villages, Silk Island. Plan your trip, per hour, half-day and full-day rates available.

Classes Equestrian Centre CCC, Street 2004, Group 6 Toeuk Thla Tel: 015 231 755 / 012 704 759 With 31 ponies and horses, an international-sized arena and spacious stables, the only horse-riding centre in Phnom Penh Tuesdays to Sundays, 9am-11am and 2pm-5.30pm.

Global Art 1 Street 181 & Street 475 (nr Chinese Embassy) Tel: 023 222 084 / 087 222 084 World renowned art and creativity programme for young children.

Franchisee of Global Art Group. Available in 17 countries with more than 400

centres. worldwide.

Himawari FitnessOne 313 Sisowath Quay (Himawari Hotel Apartments) Tel: 023 214 555 ext 881 www.himawarihotel.com Fully equipped modern gym, international pool, tennis court, steam room, outdoor jacuzzi, full locker room facilities and fitness trainer available for personalised sessions. No matter your age or goals, our fitness centre has something for everyone. Membership or one-day passes available, free for children 10 years old and below. Open from 6am10pm.

La Table Khmère Cooking Class 11E Street 278 Tel: 012 238 068 www.phnompenh-cooking-class.com For all those wanting to learn how to prepare traditional Khmer specialties from scratch in a clean and airconditioned setting. Morning classes include a visit to the local market. Open daily, classes at 9am-3pm.

Music Arts School 14 Street 360 Tel: 023 997 290 www.music-arts-school.org A NGO school providing music training for Cambodians and expats - of all ages and levels - at affordable tuition fees.

Learn guitar, piano, violin, vocals, and traditional Khmer instruments. Also has a scholarship fund to provide music education to the less fortunate.

NataRaj Yoga Studio 52 Street 302 Tel: 012 250 817 / 090 311 341 Welcome everyone to the peaceful yoga studio. Wide variety of daily drop-in yoga classes and monthly workshops in many styles with internationally qualified teachers. Also runs an NGO yoga programmes for local kids.

Nathan Horton Photography 126 Street 136 Tel: 092 526 706 www.nathanhortonphotography.com Photography tuition and guided tours to Kampong Chnang and Udong, covering technical and creative considerations in the context of travel photography.

Ocarina French Music and Art School 56 Street 350, BKK3 (near Toul Sleng) Tel: 089 257 430 www.ecole-ocarina.com The only French Music and Art school offering a wide range of high-standard after-school activities/Holiday camps/ French playgroups by experienced and qualified teachers in a warm and cosy environment. Age: 3 to 17. Based on the renowned French Conservatories’ music curriculum.

Scuba Nation PADI 5* IDC Diving Centre 18 Sothearos Blvd (near FCC) Tel: 012 715 785 www.divecambodia.com Learn to scuba dive in Phnom Penh. The academic and pool part of the course can be done in Phnom Penh and you finish with two days in Sihanoukville on the boat. Offers refresher courses, try dives and kids’ pool parties as well as the full range of courses. Open 9am6pm, Sat and Sun 9am-5pm.

Simphony Music School 243, Street 51 Tel: 023 727 345 / 097 888 8787 www.simphony.com.kh Simphony Music School is the first official music school in Cambodia recognised by the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, Royal Government of Cambodia. The faculty is composed of experienced and

qualified music teachers from overseas, speaking fluent English, Chinese, and French. Based on USA curriculum following Orff and Kodály music teaching methods.

The Tennis Club CCC, Street 2004, Group 6 Toeuk Thla Tel: 017 847 802 The two courts are equipped with specially adapted flooring unique in Cambodia, and with quality lightning allowing play past sunset. Skilled English and Cambodian speaking teachers available for private or group lessons.

Open daily.

Yoga Phnom Penh 39 Street 21 www.yogaphnompenh.com Daily drop-in classes for all levels with experienced, qualified international teachers. Classes include Ashtanga yoga, Vinyasa Flow Yoga, Fly Yoga, Fly Fit and Classical yoga. Regular workshops and Bliss weekend also offered.

Chemists U-Care Pharmacy 26-28 Sothearos Blvd. Tel: 023 222 499 39 Sihanouk Blvd. Tel: 023 224 099 41-43 Norodom Blvd. Tel: 023 224 299 844 Kampuchea krom Blvd. Tel: 023 884 004 / 023 207 209 Sisowath Quay Tel: 023 223 499 194 Tro Sork P’em Tel: 023 224 399 www.ucarepharma.com Provide international cosmetic brands, leading imported health & beauty products, only certified medication.

Professional advice and convenient and strategic locations. Open daily from 8am-10pm.

Counselling Services Alcoholics Anonymous 11 Street 420 Tel: 012 813 731 www.aacambodia.com Meets on Friday, Wednesday and Sunday.

Indigo International Tel: 092 95 44 87 www.indigo-international.org info@indigo-international.org Professional counselling services in English, French or Khmer for adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. Assessment and intervention services for children and adolescents with learning and developmental difficulties.

Narcotics Anonymous 11 Street 420 Tel: 012 813 731 NA meets on Monday, Thursday at 8pm and Saturday at 7pm.

Dental European Dental Clinic 160A, Norodom Blvd. Tel: 023 211 363 www.europeandentalclinic-asia.com Total dental care, Implant, Orthodontist Treatment by expat dentists. Open Mon Fri 8am-12pm, 2pm-7pm. Sat, 8am-1pm Malis Dental Clinic 445 Monivong Blvd.

Tel: 012 513 222 / 023 964 142 info@malis-dental.com A Japanese dentist provides professional and high-quality service.

Roomchang 4 Street 184 www.roomchang.com Tel: 023 211 338 Emergency: 011 811 338 World leader in clinical implant dentistry.

Complete state of the art dental hospital.

In depth consultations on all procedures.

True precision with digital and robotic

technology for an optimum clinical result.

Excellent customer service.

Shigeta Dental Clinic 25 Street 294 cnr Street 21 Tel: 023 223 225 / 010705083 Email: info@shigetadental.com www.shigedental.com High-end Japanese Dental Clinic that caters for your dental needs. Open from Monday to Sunday 8am-8pm.

Gyms The InterContinental Fitness Centre 3/F Mao Tse Tung Blvd.

Tel: 023 424 888 ext. 5000 A sophisticated retreat from the crowds, The InterContinental Fitness Centre is the place to attain peak performance and wellbeing. Pump up with a full body workout on state-of-the-art equipment, benefit from the experience and guidance of qualified trainers, and relax all year round in the open-air swimming pool.

Fitness Centre CCC, Street 2004, Group 6 Toeuk Thla Tel: 015 704 759 Achieve individual targets whether sports specific or to tone, lose weight, build strength or improve cardiovascular fitness for a healthier and fitter lifestyle.

Open daily 6.30am-late.

Raffles Amrita Spa Raffles Le Royal Hotel Tel: 023 981 888 Modern gym and pool in Phnom Penh’s most elegant hotel. Use of gym, pool, sauna and Jacuzzi is available to nonguests. Open 6am-10pm.

Phokeethra Sports Club Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeetra Tel: 023 999 200 Enjoy socialising and friendly interaction.

The complex features a fitness centre including an outdoor pool with a children’s area, an activities studio (yoga, steps, Pilates, kick boxing), two squash courts and four floodlit tennis courts.

Open 6am-10pm.

The Gym at The Place 90 Sihanouk Blvd.

Tel: 023 999 699 Modern establishment featuring a fully equipped gym and weekly classes in dance, yoga and aerobics. Open 6am10pm Mon-Fri, 8am-10pm Sat-Sun.

Hairdressers De Gran Japan 52 Street 306 near Monivong Blvd. www.degranjapan.com Tel: 011 354 700 (Reservation only) Set in a nice villa with highly skilled and experienced experts from Japan, focusing on haircuts, nails, eyelash extensions, reflexology and acupuncture.

Open Wednesday to Monday from 10am-7pm.

The Dollhouse 46AE0 Street 322 Tel: 010 329 999 / 016 620 907 www.dollhousecambodia.com Salon offers cutting, colouring and various treatments, including the Brazilian Keratin Treatment with Collagen to replenish the condition of your hair.

Western hairdresser with international experience. Open Tues-Sat 9am-7pm, Sun 11am-7pm, closed Monday.

The French Element Himawari Hotel Unit D, 313 Sisowath Quay Tel: 077 283 332 www.thefrenchelement.com Over-looking the Tonle Sap, wonderful spot to relax and pamper yourself.

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Offering all hair services such as highlights, colour, cut, Brazilian Keratin Treatment and more. International hairdresser. OpenMonday to Saturday, 10am-8pm,

around the globe provide a full range of services including hairstyles, skin care and Dermalogica Microzone treatments.

Open Tuesday 11am-8pm. Wed-Sat 10am-6pm.

Grow Tokyo 1st Floor St. 63 corner Street 322 Tel: 023 987 330 Look good and feel good with a team of top professionals. Grow is an expanding hair salon that started life in Japan and spread to Australia and now Cambodia.

The creative team is waiting to make clients feel great.

Toni & Guy 1/F Aeon Mall Tel: 023 901 190 Toni & Guy Cambodia will bring 50 years of hair fashion heritage to Phnom Penh.

Originally from UK, there are now over 400 salons worldwide. Specialist stylists for cuts and colourists to give the colour you want from the UK and Japan. Uses Label M products. Open every day from 10am-8pm.

Kate Korpi Salon 6 Floor inside Sun City corner of Street 51 & Street 370 Tel: 023 988 166 www.katekorpisalon.com Kate Korpi Salon is Phnom Penh’s newest premier salon. Stylists from

pets’ corner

Medical

American Medical Centre Ground Floor Cambodiana Hotel 313 Sisowath Quay Tel: 023 991 863 Led by American surgeon, team of

Why is Your Pet Sneezing Part III

By Donabelle Zuzart

Reverse sneezing

While sneezing and snorting are both expulsions of air from the nose/ mouth, “reverse” sneezing is an involuntary, spastic inhalation. It is not uncommon for a dog to do this after being walked and snuffling something (dust, pollen, dirt) into his nose.

Though unsettling, there is nothing more to this condition than an irritation of the tissues of the back of the throat and soft palate.

New Options to Determine Infectious Causes

Bringing you Back Pain Solutions Dr Christophe Savouré D.C. 1993 graduate from LCCW (USA)

A state of the art Chiropractic clinic Advanced Chiropractic care DTS Disc decompression therapy Physiotherapy modalities Custom made corrective foot orthotics Ergonomic and exercise management Wellness care 0,

023 223 101

E: info@cambodiachiropractic.com W: www.cambodiachiropractic.com #67 Bis St.240 (near Monivong Blvd),Phnom Penh 70 AsiaLIFE Cambodia

Within the last few years, vets have been given a tremendous tool for sorting out the various bacteria and virus that cause chronic sneezing. These are Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction Tests (RT-PCR) that identify minute amounts of pathogen genetic material without having to grow the organisms in the laboratory. They use RT-PCR to look for six of the most common causes of upper respiratory, nasal and chronic eye problems in cats (bordatella, chlamydia, calicivirus, herpes 1, influenza and mycoplasma). Similar panels are available for dogs.

The test’s limitation is that

the most common cause of sneezing, the herpes-1 virus, is so stealthy that it can avoid detection with the PCR test when the cat is not experiencing a virus flare-up.

So if the PCR test is positive for herpes-1, your cat is definitely a carrier of this virus. But if it is negative, the virus might still be sleeping somewhere deep in the cat’s nerve cells. It is best run during a flare-up.

What Treatments Might Help?

Vets try to prevent upper respiratory tract infections in dogs and cats by vaccinating against organisms commonly involved. However, most cats have already acquired the herpes-1 virus before their first vaccination, and vaccine immunity to most upperrespiratory pathogens in dogs and cats is short-lived. So keeping your pets isolated from infected and carrier animals or places they frequent is a much better approach.

The normal temperature of a cats and dogs is about 38.6C to 39C. If the pet’s temperature is above 39C, it may indicate the problem is a more serious respiratory tract infection.

In that case, antibiotics and other treatment could shorten its period of illness.

Donabelle Zuzart is the owner of Pet Grooming Cambodia, a pet boarding and grooming service, which offers stateof-the-art spa and other treatments for your pets. Visit petgroomingcambodia.com for details.

international and Khmer doctors provide general practice services to clients. Can arrange emergency evacuation. 24/7 service.

International Chiropractic Clinic 67 Bis Street 240, (100m from Monivong Blvd.)

Tel: 023 223 101 www.cambodiachiropractic.com First and only Chiropractic clinic licensed in Cambodia. Our chiropractors are US trained and we provide modern Chiropractic care, physiotherapy and custom made medical grade orthotics.

Open Mon-Fri 8.30am-6pm, Sat 8.30am-1pm.

International SOS Medical Clinic 161 Street 51 Tel: 023 216 911 Global provider of medical assistance and international healthcare. Expat and Khmer doctors offer general practice, specialist and emergency medical services. Appointments 8am-5.30pm Mon–Fri, 8am-12pm, Sat open 24-7 for emergencies.

Physiotherapy Phnom Penh I & II 45C Street 456, Toul Thom Poung II Office 311, 3/F 60 Monivong Blvd Tel: 023 996345 Tel: 092 485 593 Tel: 012 722 104 Tel: 012 979 354 International Physiotherapy and Acupuncture (T.C.M.) Centre Specialising in Manual Therapy, Rehabilitation and (sports) Physiotherapy, Neurological (Paediatric) Physical Therapy, Acupuncture, Personal Training and Clinical Pilates.

Samata Health & Wellness Studio 54 Street 306 Tel: 023 726 267 Phnom Penh’s first holistic studio providing Acupuncture, Massage, Physiotherapy, Pilates, Podiatry, Yoga and Wellness Coaching in one convenient location.

Younger Cosmetic Acupuncture Himawari Hotel Tel: 023 21 45 55 (Ext 880)/ 017 983 409 www.cambodiaacupuncture.com Helping people to feel and look better with a holistic approach to health and beauty. Treatments include cosmetic acupuncture, face lift, weight loss.

Pain Management (Back Pain, Neck Pain…) and Emotional Disorder (Stress, Insomnia) $25 all treatments. Open Monday to -Friday 8.30am- 11.30am and 12.30pm-7pm, Saturday 9am-noon.

Optics Grand Optics 11 Norodom Bvd. 337 Monivong Blvd.

150 Sihanouk Blvd.

Tel: 023 213 585 Modern opticians with the latest equipment including free computerised eye test. Makes prescription glasses and lenses.

Pet Services Agrovet Veterinary Clinic 40 Street 111 Tel: 023 216 323 Tel emergency 24/7: 012 779 673 (FrenchEng) Tel emergency 24/7: 012 779 674 (Khmer) www.agrovet-cambodia.com Managed by a French team and following European standard. Experienced French surgeon performing orthopaedic and abdominal surgeries. Used to organise documents for pets travelling overseas.

Mon-Fri: 9am-12noon & 3pm-7pm. Sat: 9am-12pm.

Only Dogs Shop

5A2 Street Veng Sreng (Chom Choa) Phnom Penh Tel: 092 206 547 Tel: 012 870 280 www.onlydogsshopcambodia.com Open daily from 9am-6pm.

education hub

Pet Grooming Cambodia 4 Street 604, Bengkak 2 Toul Kork Tel: 089 491 039 Email: petgroomingcambodia@gmail.com Open Mon-Sat from 9am–6pm Pet Resort Tel: 012 679 164 Tel: 012 916 512 www.petresort-cambodia.com All the staff are very friendly with animals and your cats and dogs will feel at home in our Pet Resort. Cats and dogs are fed

by Royal Canin dry feed or can be fed by fresh food according to owner’s desires or recommendations; staff can cook specific feed for your companions.

Spas Amara Spa Cnr Sisowath Quay & St.110 Tel: 023 998 730 www.amaraspa.hotelcara.com Day spa providing a wide selection of facials, body massages and treatments, arranged in a four-storey modern facility at riverfront. Open 11am-11pm.

Aura Spa 21 Mao Tse Toung Blvd. (near corner of St. 63) 23 Street 294 (between St. 21 and St. 9) Tel: 023 555 3209 Mobile: 015 991 688 www.auracambodia.com Aura Spa creates its own signature massage therapy with well-trained therapists to enhance a traditional blend of ancient health and beauty practices which have been passed down from generation to generation. Open every day from 9am–11pm.

Aziadee Spa 16 a/b Street 282 Tel: 023 996 921 aziadee1@yahoo.fr French-run spa offering a good choice of treatments, a range of massages, scrubs, facials, floral baths, manicures, pedicures and waxing in relaxing and tranquil surroundings. Open 9am-9pm.

Bi Nail Salon 213a E0 Stret 310 Tel: 023 6324 524 / 097 798 1122 Bi Nail is a full service nail salon, for women and men. Japanese-trained nail artists have years of experience and provide expert personal care in a quiet and relaxing atmosphere. Full set care (manicure and pedicure), more than 250 nail lacquers, more than 350 nail design samples. Acrylic and gel nails are available. Open daily 8am–7pm.

Bliss 29 Street 240 Tel: 023 215 754 Health spa at back and upstairs in this beautiful French colonial building.

Open 9am -9pm, closed Monday.

Bodia Spa 26-28 Sothearos Blvd.

Tel: 023 226 199 www.bodia-spa.com Using natural, own-brand products Bodia spa offers body wraps, floral baths, scrubs, facials, aromatherapy, massages and mani-pedies, alongdside Jacuzzi and steam. The peaceful atmosphere is enhanced by scented oils and soft music. Open daily 9am–9pm.

Derma-Care Skin Clinic 161B Norodom Tel: 023 720 042 / 012 415 552 Two qualified dermatologists, this professional skin clinic offers a range

How To Integrate Into A New School

By Poppy Nguyen Eastwood Depending on your circumstances, changing schools can be unnerving.

When you love your friends, and you are skipping along, happy as can be, with an easy rhythm, why would you want a change of environment?

Fitting into a new way of life always seems to take so much time and effort. Whether it’s a small move to another town or a big move to another country, you can be faced with cultural differences, weather conditions that you aren’t used to, missing your friends and suddenly finding out that your favorite hobby doesn’t exist in that place.

Skateboarding on dangerous, motorbikeriddled streets, showered in sweat, and snowboarding on beautiful, cold snowy mountains are about as similar as earth and air.

My first approach would be to go in with a positive attitude. If you’re a student who switches schools a lot, you’ll probably know that change isn’t always bad. With it comes new experiences, new friends and a new way of life. If you’re feeling anxious, don’t fret. Who knows, your life may turn out better than where you were before.

Making an effort is always rewarded whether it’s with yourself, with your new classmates or with work.

Classmates can be tricky.

Students tend to have their own circle of friends they are comfortable and familiar with.

Fitting in can be difficult. But remember, however tempting it is to jump into a group to feel secure and be accepted, you don’t have to reject who you are just to fit in.

If you’ve been friendly and sociable, what more is there to do? The right friends will come along eventually. It’s perfectly fine to be alone. It doesn’t mean you’re lonely.

Dealing with your school’s strange surroundings can be confusing. The key is to have a steady mind and an open spirit, be flexible, and dare I say it, be a follower at the beginning. You’ll get used to the way it all works and ultimately schools aren’t that different from one another.

They all possess a similar and comparable atmosphere and character.

Change is unavoidable.

Nothing ever stays the same.

Nobody has control over what is to come. Learning to go with the flow and making the best with what is thrown our way is part of life. So, cheer up. It’s alright to feel down, it’s part of the process. You won’t feel horrid forever. Change is change after all. It changes! In accordance with this law you’ll be settled before you know it.

Poppy Nguyen Eastwood is a Grade 10 student at Lycée Français International Marguerite Duras.

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Nata Spa 29 Street 57 Nata Spa has been designed in traditional Khmer style to calm and pamper. The spa operates as a centre for healing and relaxation, offering stress reducing and facial treatment, which blow everyone into an unforgettable experience. Open 9am-10pm.

Raffles Amrita Spa Tel: 023 981 888 Raffles Amrita Spa offers relaxation and rejuvenation through a wide selection of services and facilities including treatment rooms, outdoor lap and fun pool, Jacuzzi, fitness centre, sauna and steam room. Open daily 6am-10pm.

Sun Heang

of beauty treatments using American Derma-Rx products, minor dermatologic surgery, antioxidant boosters, chemical peeling, and lipolysis. Open 9am-9pm.

Derma-MK Skin Center 183 Street 63 Tel: 023 219 105 Focused on Dermalogica products, this care facility offers facial treatments, including anti-aging and brightening, as well as body treatments such as body scrubs and massage. Open daily from 10am–7pm.

La Rose Spa 164b Norodom Blvd.

Tel: 023 211 130 / 080 900 900 www.larose.com.kh Professional, experienced, qualified therapists offer a tailor-made range of remedial, relaxation and nutritional advice. High-end natural products and a wide range of homeopathic remedies, creams, flower essences and signature

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organic massage oils.

Ms Chhuon 182, St 63, junction St 294 Tel: 016 992 199 Ms Chhuon is a full service beauty salon with massage therapy. From nail art, to hairstyles, we will take care of your health and beauty in a very relaxing environment with great service. O.P.I products are available on demand.

Open daily from 8am-12am Nail Holic Street 592, Tuol Kork (Next to Indrak Tevy High School) Tel: 012 357 887 / 097 4123 337 Nail polish and pedicure services using products from Korea. Comfortable chairs in relaxing surroundings with professional, hospitable and friendly staff speaking Khmer, Korean and English.

Open daily from 8am-6pm.

So SPA Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra.

Tel: 023 999 200 Be pampered with the best and most effective health and beauty treatments for outstanding deep rejuvenation. Explore a new kind of spa experience with a wide range of poetic and surprising treatments. Open daily from 10am10pm.

The Spa at NagaWorld Hun Sen Park Tel: 023 228 822 This luxurious spa promises to bring the ancient Cambodian spa therapy to the world, and claims to be the only all-suite unisex spa in Cambodia. Therapy rooms with sauna, steam and flower bath are inviting, and the spa uses Tomichik flowers as part of its treatment. Open 10am-3am.

Villa Spa 456 Monivong Blvd. (cnr. Street 466) Tel: 023 721 765 / 012 357 561 www.asiagarden.com.kh Aromatherapy massage in private boutique VIP rooms (villa and bungalow style) from professional Chinese and Khmer therapists from Master Kang; female customers only.

Waterlily Spa 42 Spean Anthernou (near Koh Pich) Tel: 012 632 329 spawaterlilty.com Indulge yourself with our spa services that pamper guests from head to toe.

Waterlily Spa offers skincare/facials, body treatments, massages, waxing and nail care. Open daily 10am-11pm.

Tattoos and Piercing Black Star 5A Street 90 Tel: 070 200 900 / 078 753 697 www.blackstarcambodia.com Welcome to Black Star Tattoo’s Cambodia’s finest whether you’re just passing through the Penh, or you’re a resident,

this is the place to come for the highest quality tattooing. Open daily from 10am–10pm.

Sports General Ball Hockey Played every Thursday night at City Villa, corner of Streets 360 and 71 at 7pm.

To play, contact Mike: michaelwarford@ispp.edu.kh Phnom Penh Social Rugby Club BKK Field, street 380.

Email: phnompenhrugby@gmail.com Touch rugby on Tuesday nights 7:309pm, Saturdays 3-5pm. Contact Rugby Wednesday nights 7:30-9pm, Saturday 2-3pm.

Phnom Penh Water Park 50 Street 110 Tel: 023 881 008 Traditional mix of slides and wave pools is open daily from 9.30am to 5.30pm.

Yoga For Life 126 Street 19 Tel: 077589458 Learn to release stress and tension, find peace and live a healthy life with yoga classes taught by yoga and massage virtuoso, Azmi Samdjaga from Singapore.

LISTINGS

family Cafés & Restaurants Farm to Table 16 Street 360 Tel: 078 899 722 Bring the coutryside to Phnom Penh at this healthy café that sources produce from Discovery Farms. Organic grub is served in a farm setting with free-range hens running around the courtyard and a static tractor for kids to play on.

Java Café 56 Sihanouk Blvd.

Tel: 023 987 420 Kid’s menu includes chicken nuggets and pizza bagels. Colouring pages and crayons to keep the kids amused.

High-chair is available on request and baby-changing facilities are in the toilet.

Open daily 7am-10pm

kids’ corner

Saying Goodbye to a Pet Anna Glazkova A pet is a great source of joy and happiness for a child. Children learn being responsible and caring through petting an animal.

Unfortunately, owning a pet goes together with losing the pet one day.

The loss of a pet is usually a child`s first contact with death. Around the age of seven children get to understand the irreversibility of the process: a kiss, a magic wand won’t bring the animal back to life. Independent of the child’s age these are the things that a parent can do to help the child to deal with the loss: 1. Always tell the truth. I wouldn`t advise to go for the, “the doggie went to sleep” or “Max ran away with his friends” options. One day your child will understand the truth and he might question what else you have been lying about.

2. If the death is not sudden but the result of a long-term illness, take your time to prepare the child.

Explain that death is not something negative, but something that helps take the pain away. Don’t be afraid to use the term “death”, it is just a natural part of life itself.

3. If your child is mature enough, she can be present during the euthanasia when it has to take place. Allow your child to go through the

process, to get to know it, so she can deal better with loss when it comes to a family member in the future.

4. Help your child to cope with emotions. Your child will be going through the whole range of different emotions: anger, sadness, frustration, fear, etc. Tell your child it is totally natural to feel this way.

Tell them how you feel too, how you felt when you lost your own pet as a child.

5. Any time your child wants to talk about what happened, listen to them, allow them to intellectualise, to question, to exteriorise. Do not avoid talking about death, but use this opportunity to teach your child about the phenomenon. Depending on your own beliefs, explain to the child what it involves. You might also say that no one really knows what happens after one’s body dies.

Be cautious not to replace the pet right away. Our pets are our family members, even the naughtiest ones I have to admit, but still I don’t believe it is reasonable to make my children believe that one can just replace a pet, or a person.

Bring your child’s attention to all the great days they shared with the animals. Go through the pictures, laugh to the silly things they have done together. And move on.

Anna Glazkova is a mother to two children aged three and seven. She is interested in child psychology, especially early years development. Founder of The Giving Tree Preschool and Primary, Anna also teaches prenatal, regular and radiant child yoga programmes.

services

The Shop Too 38 Street 337 Tel: 012 952 839 Little haven of calm with a wide range of fresh bread, patisseries, chocolates, juices and excellent salads, sandwiches.

All products such as croissants, cakes etc. are baked on the spot. With a big garden in front and nice courtyard at the back, it makes it a perfect place for family as well. Open daily 7am–9pm.

Entertainment Arey Ksat Equestrian Trail Arey Ksat, Phnom Penh.

Tel: 077 35 77 74 Join experienced instructor Guillaume Larivain on a series of pony trails through the Cambodian countryside.

BluO Bowling AEON Mall, Sothearos Blvd.

Tel: 023 901 000 The country’s latest bowling alley with private lanes available for parties. Open daily from 9am to midnight.

Cambodian Country Club Street 2004, Group 6 Toeuk Thla Tel: 012 231 755 Sports centre and a peaceful heaven providing tennis, swimming, badminton, fitness centre and horse riding in an amazing landscape 15 minutes away from the city. Dedicated to leisure, rest and entertainment, CCC is suitable for children. Open daily 6.30am until late.

Kids City 162A Sihanouk Blvd. www.kidscityasia.com Indoor entertainment centre with climbing walls, ice skating, laser tag. toddler town and other attractions.

Monkey Business 2/F, Paragon Department Store Tel: 023 319 319 Kids can rejoice now that this indoor children’s play centre offers clean, safe facilities. Available for private parties.

Open daily 9am-8pm.

Phnom Tamao Wildlife Park Phnom Tamao Cambodia’s best wildlife centre. All the animals are either rescued from traders or bred at the centre. Many of the animals are critically endangered.

Open 8am-4pm.

International Schools Canadian International School of Phnom Penh Bassac Garden, Norodom Blvd.

Tel: 023 727 788 / 077 503 778 www.cisp.edu.kh Offers a Canadian curriculum in English, certified through the Canadian province of Alberta.

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Eton House International School 16 Mao Tse Tung Blvd. Tel: 023 22 8818 www.ehis.co Eton House is committed to the pursuit of excellence in education. Eton House is represented in 10 countries with over 56 pre-schools and schools around the world. The early years programme offers play-based, ‘Inquire, Think, Learn” pedagogy inspired by the I.B programme and the Reggio Emilia schools of Northern Italy.

Footprints School 220 Street 430, Tumnub Teuk Tel: 077 222 084 Established in 2007 Footprints School offers nursery (age 2) through Secondary and has four campuses. The curriculum is designed for the dynamic needs and interests of students and staff are hired for their experience and love of children.

Giving Tree Pre-school Main Branch: 17, Street 71 Tel: 017 997 112 Secondary Branch: 50 Street 322 Tel: 017 997 112 Tuol Kork Branch: 5 Street 325 Tel: 077 993 073 Baby Playgroup 6 – 12 months; Main Programme 12 months to 6 years old.Languages: English, French, Japanese, Khmer.

The Giving Tree Primary Secondary Branch: 50 Street 322 Tel: 017 997 112 Email: registrar@ thegivingtreeschool.com Grades 1, 2 and 3; 6 to 9 years old. We follow the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) - a worldwide recognised curriculum. iCAN British International School 85 Sothearos Blvd. Tel: 023 222 416 www.ican.edu.kh iCAN offers affordable, high quality education, using the IPC, IMYC and English National Curriculum. Learners are encouraged to be thoughtful, creative, think critically, collaborate and achieve their best. iCAN is the learning environment of choice for parents who value the development of their children.

International Learning Jungle School 104 Street 315, Boeung Kak II, Toul Kork Tel: 095 222 557 / 095 222 558 / 095 222 559 www.learningjungle.com, www.facebook.com/ LearningJungleCambodia The only Franchise School from Canada.

A proud provider of education for children in Canada, Cambodia, USA and Philippines.

International School of Phnom Penh Hun Neang Blvd. Tel: 023 425 088 www.ispp.edu.kh Founded in 1989, this non-profit, nonsectarian international school currently

has students from Pre-K to Grade 12.

The largest international school and a fully-authorized IB programme the new campus has large grass playing fields, canteen, library, theatre, swimming pool and basketball courts.

Lycée Français René Descartes Street 96 Tel: 023 722 044 French school offering primary and secondary level education, extracurricular activities include basketball, football, rugby.

Nira International School 17B Street 105 Tel: 023 454 5006 / 023 454 5007 Pre-school delivers affordable, highquality, early childhood education.

With new technology, using the IPC curriculum, classes are taught in an international environment. Its spacious central garden favours creativity, development and enables students to express themselves.

Northbridge International School 1km off National Road 4 Tel: 023 886 000 www.nisc.edu.kh Founded in 1997, NISC is a fullyauthorised IB World School with a growing enrollment of students aged 3 to Grade 12. Purpose built campus unlike any in Cambodia.

Raffles Montessori International School of Phnom Penh 18 Street 294, corner of Street 57 Tel: 023 993 999 International standard school from Singapore lets children experience independent education with a team of Montessori-trained teachers. Offering Kindergarten from ages 1.5 to 6 years old in a loving and encouraging environment.

Zaman International School 2843 Street 3 Tel: 023 214 040 www.zamanisc.org International school that teaches a full curriculum to children from four to 18.

Facilities include basketball and volleyball courts, a football field and a science lab.

Pre-Schools Gecko & Garden Pre-school 3 Street 21 Tel: 092 575 431 www.geckogarden-preschool.org Not-for-profit pre-school emphasises learning through creative play in a supportive environment for children aged 18 months to 5 years. Open daily 7.30am-12pm. After school programme offering a range of fun activities is available 2.30pm-5pm daily.

Sambo’s Tots www.sambostots.com Playhouse and playschool provides fun edutainment experience for babies and

toddlers from 3 months to 5 years where imagination comes to life.

Tchou Tchou 13 Street 21 Tel: 023 362 899 www.tchou-tchou.com Kindergarten and pre-school for 18 months to 5-year-olds, open from 7.30am -12pm (Mon to Fri). French is the main language, although English and Khmer is also practised.

Shops Little Phnom Penh 194eoz Street 306 Tel: 017 877 471 French and Italian designers for kids fashion brand produce children’s wear from new born to 16 years, using local fabrics and mixing it with their taste of European fashion. The collection includes printed T-shirts with graphic designs that recall beautiful Cambodian icons. Open daily from 9.30am6.30pm.

Monument Toys 111 Norodom Bvd. Tel: 023 217 617 To the rear of Monument Books is a well-stocked toy section. It features an excellent range of well-known board games and toys including Barbie dolls, Transformers, Magic 8 balls and more.

It has to be the best place in the city for brand named toys and games. Open daily 7.30am-8pm.

Pitchoun 25DE0 Street 294 Tel: 017 555 325 Selling stylish baby clothes and shoes, cute dresses and skirts, and trendy shirts at reasonable prices, to please both children and parents.

Open daily, 9am-7.30pm.

Shade 7 Outdoor Living Co Ltd Showroon; Borey Chamkarmon Tel: 077 962 467 Email: david@shade7. com www.shade7.com www.springfreetrampoline.com Supplier of Shade7 premium aluminium umbrellas and exclusive distributor of original Springfree range. World class products now available in Cambodia!

Stock in country for immediate supply.

Toys & Me 159A Mao Tse Toung Blvd.

Tel: 023 212 081 / 016 808 676 www.toysnme.net Established in 2007, Toys & Me is a leading toys shop in Cambodia. A onestop shop you can trust when it comes to educational needs for your children.

Willi Shop 769 Monivong Blvd Tel: 023 211 652 All products are imported from France, including bébé brand baby products, the range includes prams, baby care, cots and toys. Open 8am-8pm.

business & services Advertising APlus Asia Network 104 Street 273 Tel: 023 864 438 Fully-fledged advertising agency with a diverse portfolio of clients, offering a wide array of creative solutions to drive your brand message across all media.

River Orchid 25 Street 566, Phnom Penh. pick@riverorchid.com Offers a range of advertising, media, digital, PR and research services across the region.

Architecture, Interior Design & Construction Beyond Interiors 14e Street 306 Tel: 023 987 840 / 012 930 332 ww.beyondinteriors.biz Managed by Australian designer Bronwyn Blue, this interior design showroom can provide the ultimate solution. All products from Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia and Cambodia have been treated to withstand any climate.

Open 9am-6pm Bill Grant Landscape Design Tel: 012 932 225 / 012 738 134 The city’s most talented landscape designer.

Green Goal Ltd 10 Street 296. Tel: 023 223 861 Consultancy offers sustainable and creative architectural and construction services to clients taking into account environmental considerations.

Hemisphere Design & Interiors Tel: 012 602 955 william@norbert-munns.com Western managed renovation company specialising in swimming pools and Jacuzzi construction in fibreglass and concrete.

I Ching Decor 31 Mao Tse Toung, Phnom Penh Tel: 023 220 873 / 012 558 000 / 092 660 746 Boutique interior design shop offering advice on architectural work and interior design, as well as providing custommade furniture, home accessories, and kitchenware, lighting and bedroom

suites. Open 9am-6pm, closed Sun.

Tel: 023 964 455.

foreign delegates.

Lorenzo Martini Interiors Tel: 012 773 514 www.lorenzo-martini.com The studio provides services ranging from interior design to property development concept. Looking at interiors as living experiences, Lorenzo Martini ensure their designs are tailor made to clients.

EuroCham Preah Ang Makhak Vann, Phnom Penh. Tel: 023 964 141.

Commercial Banks

The Room Design Studio 9AB Street 288 Tel: 023 992 620 Interior design and architectural company that has 12 years’ experience of designing flats, villas, offices, shops, homes and offices in Asia.

Bikes & Mechanics Dara Motorbike 43 Street 136 Tel: 012 335 499 Off-road specialist offers repairs, parts and accessories. Tours arranged by appointment.

Emerald Garage 11 Street 456 Mechanics specialising in maintenance and repair of vehicles, including oil changing and body painting.

Expat Motorbike Cambodia 38Eo, Street 322 Tel: 089 491 436 / 089 518 867 emcjapeng@gmail.com Offers motorbike rental services for expats living in Phnom Penh including well-maintained motors, reliable & responsive service.

The Bike Shop 31 Street 302 Tel: 012 851 776 Repairs trusty steeds as well as renting them out in the first place. Also provides dirt bike tours.

Western Service Centre 24 Street 420 Tel: 012 477 831 www.wmg-cambodia.com A garage with Western and Khmer staff that emphasises communication and trained, attentive skills. Motto is “We don’t know all, we find out all, then we fix.”

Malaysian Business Council of Cambodia Unit G21, Ground Floor, Parkway Square 113, Mao Tse Tung Blvd. mbcc.secretariat@gmail.com

Car Rental ACC Car Rental Services 43 Street 160z Toul Kork Tel: 012 456 003 / 015 456 003.

Professional, prompt and organized rental service that provides vehicles for rent with or without a driver. ACC also rents a range of buses that seat from 12 to 45 people.

services

LISTINGS

ABA Bank 148 Sihanouk Bouelvard.

Tel: 023 225 333 www.ababank.com Multi-branch network universal commercial bank offering a full range of products and services through nationwide network. Voted Best Bank in Cambodia 2014 and 2015 by Euromoney.

Acleda Bank 61 Monivong Blvd.

Tel: 023 998 777 www.acledabank.com.kh Specialises in micro, small and medium loans to people throughout the country.

Asia Vehicle Rental 27 Street 134 Tel: 078 666 557 www.avrcambodia.com With the motto “leave your driving to us”, this rental service offers sedans, pick-ups, SUVs and minibuses in 2WD or 4WD for self-drive or with driver.

Insurance offered.

ANZ Royal Bank Main Branch, 20 Street 114 www.anzroyal.com Cambodia’s major commercial bank has brought international standards of banking to Cambodia, with a large number of ATM machines around Phnom Penh. Can arrange money transfers.

Larryta Trading & Travel Co. Ltd. 9 Street 310 Tel: 023 994 748 www.larrytacarrental.com.kh Vehicle rental for all types of cars, vans and mini-buses with flexible packages in Cambodia and neighbouring countries by the day, week or month.

CIMB Bank PLC 20AB Norodom Blvd. Tel: 023 988 388 www.cimbbank.com.kh Full range of commercial and consumer banking products and services for both Cambodian and foreign businesses and individuals. The first Japanese bank in Cambodia.

Royal Limousine Services Attwood Business Center, Russian Confederation Blvd.

Tel: 023 218 808 www.royallimousine.com.kh Fleet of late model Mercedes that provides transport for hotels, embassies and luxury tour operators as well as

Maybank (Cambodia) PLC 4B, Street 114 (Kramoun Sar) Tel: 023 210 123 maybank2u.com.kh The only bank operating in Cambodia ranked by Bloomberg Markets as among the World’s Top 20 Strongest Banks.

Maybank humanises financial services by

Active Investment Management

Business Groups AmCham 1st Floor LBL International Building, 34 Sothearos Boulevard, Phnom Penh. Tel: 015 333 715.

BritCham British Embassy, 27-29 Street 75, Phnom Penh.

Tel: 012 323 121.

Chambre de Commerce FrancoCambodgienne Office 2nd floor, 33 Street 178 Tel: 023 221 453 www.ccfcambodge.org International Business Chamber H7 Russian Boulevard, Phnom Penh.

Are you concerned about market volatility?

Active investment management can reduce downside risk and help protect your capital.

Get in touch today

Call 023 997 121 email enquiries@infinitysolutions.com

infinitysolutions.com

Labuan FSA Licence N0. BS200548 Company No. LL04446

AsiaLIFE Cambodia 75 Ad Asia Life Cambodia March 2016.indd 1

2/9/16 15:23

services

money matters

helping customers and employees grow, bridging them to new opportunities.

Maruhan Japan Bank 83 Norodom Blvd. Tel: 023 999 010 First Japanese bank in Phnom Penh.

IT & Software Cresittel Co., Ltd. Office 705, KT Tower 23 Street 112 Tel: 098 518 888 Provides software solutions and systems, point of sales systems for bars and restaurants, website designing and telecoms consulting. Has showroom at 385 Street 215.

Beautiful Game or Goalmouth Scramble?

Paul Dodd Football fans will be glued to their screens next month as UEFA’s Euro 2016 championships kicks off in Paris.

Twenty four European teams will fight it out to lift the coveted Henri Delaunay trophy.

The prize at the end of any football tournament is a trophy, and the glory that comes with it. Financial planning may not sound as exciting but the reward is anything but dull. A sound financial plan will help you to take control of your own destiny and income and enable you to fulfil your dreams.

Here’s some footballing lessons to empower you to do just that:

Have a game plan

Whether the Euro 2016 trophy is lifted by superstar goalie Manuel Neuer and his fellow Germans, the Spanish dream team or a newbie team such as Wales, you can be sure the winning team did not turn up an hour before the tournament hoping for the best. They will have spent years perfecting their game plan with the objective of claiming the ultimate victory. Financial planning also takes time. One of the keys to building your wealth is compound interest and the longer it is working its magic on your investments the better.

Create a strong team

Although celebrity strikers such as Ronaldo, Bale and Ibrahimovic are the headline makers, it takes 11 players to make a winning team. Similarly, when

it comes to financial planning, you need a diversified portfolio which contains some defensive investments to counteract the riskier ones. Defensive stocks are the unsung heroes of any portfolio providing regular earnings and stable results even through times of volatility.

Aim for goals

Just as goals are important to win at football, they are important for a successful financial plan. Defining your financial goals is absolutely key if you are to have any chance of achieving them. The more specific they are the better, so rather than setting a goal such as saving enough to live off in retirement, define the age at which you wish to retire and calculate exactly how much income you are hoping for when you do.

Employ a good manager

A great manager will bring out the best in their team, taking care over planning strategy, selecting players and formation, and motivating the team.

When it comes to your finances, your manager is your financial planner. They will work out your goals, define your strategy and map out the route to fulfilling those goals. They will hold regular reviews with you to make sure you remain on track to achieving your objectives.

No-one wants their finances to be a goalmouth scramble.

To turn yours into a beautiful game take some time this month to get them in order.

Infinity Financial Solutions provides impartial, tailor-made, personal financial advice to clients in Cambodia and Southeast Asia. Should you wish to contact Paul, please send an email to info@infinitysolutions.com or visit infinitysolutions.com.

76 AsiaLIFE Cambodia

KTOP 4/F Sorya Shopping Centre.

Tel: 023 6666 763 www.ktop.com.kh Broad range of quality and up-to-date smartphones, tablets, computers and accessories. Special services for OS upgrade, maintenance, applications, games, music and movies for mobile devices and computers. Open daily from 9am- 8.30pm Netpro Cambodia 11 Street 422 Tel: 023 215 141 www.netpro-cambodia.com IT supports company that delivers high quality and reliable services to home and small to medium size organisations in Cambodia.

Ocean Technology T-20 St Topaz, Sovanna Shopping Centre Tel: 023 211 700 / 010 624 001 www.ocean-tech.biz Technology company that offers GPS navigation systems, an online map directory and vehicle tracking system.

Insurance AG Cambodia Hotel Cambodiana, 313 Sovanna Sisowath Quay Tel: 017 360 333.

Email: nfo@agcambodia.com Professional insurance agent offering health, home, car, factory, employee and hotel insurance packages.

Forte Insurance 325, Mao Tse Toung Blvd. Tel: 023 885 077 www.forteinsurance.com Forte Insurance is dedicated to providing exceptionally comprehensive and efficient insurance services (Corporate Insurance & Personal Insurance) to all our clients.

Infinity Insurance 126 Norodom Blvd. Tel: 023 999 888 Professional insurance company offers motor, property, home, marine cargo, personal accident, healthcare, construction and engineering insurance.

Group policies can be customised.

Legal BNG Legal 64 Street 111 Tel: 023 212 671 / 023 212 740 www.bnglegal.com BNG Legal is a leading Cambodian law firm providing comprehensive legal services to foreign and local clients.

DFDL Legal and Tax Advisors 33 Street 294 Tel: 023 210 400 www.dfdlmekong.com Law firm providing international standard legal and tax solutions with local and cross-border experience with offices in neighbouring countries.

Gordon and Associates Asia 21 Street 214 Tel: 023 218 257 US lawyer works with local Cambodian lawyers to provide international quality advice. Specialises in foreign investment, joint ventures and advising entrepreneurs.

Sciaroni & Associates 24 Street 462 Tel: 023 210225 www.sa-asia.com Leading professional and investment advisory firm based in Cambodia with legal offices in Laos and Myanmar, provides skilled counsel, knowledgeable business insight and experienced guidance to leading companies, governments, think tanks and global investment funds.

Media & Design Anon Creative Energy Tel: 089 812 123 Email: anoncambodia@gmail.com Internationally trained advertising talent at your service. Strong, strategic ideas.

Available for freelance art and copy writing projects.

Asia Media Lab Tel: 012 818 917 asiamedialab.com Full service video production company specialises in the creation of dynamic visual content to help bring NGO stories to life for fundraising and advocacy.

Miscellaneous Sunbird Angkor Co. Ltd. 78 Monireth Blvd.

Tel: 023 98 3333 / 023 99 1010 Email: sunbirdangkor@yahoo.co.kr Worldwide hotel reservations, car rentals,medical services, conventions and marketing. Open Mon-Fri 8am5.30pm and Sat 8am-1pm.

Post Office Main Post Office Cnr. Streets 102 & 13 Open 6.30am-9pm.

Photography AsiaMotion Tel: 092 806 117 www.asiamotion.net Photographic agency established in November 2008 as a cooperation between local and international photographers. i3 Studio Tel: 017 728 895 / 095 666 817 / 092 709 596 Photography services: event, prewedding, wedding coverage and videography service.

Nathan Horton Photography Tel: 092 526 706 www.nathanhortonphotography.com Full service professional photographer.

Hotels, bars, restaurants, spas and location work. Call for Travel Photography workshops and tours.

Printing Sok Heng Printing House 1297B Street Luo 5, Stoeung Mean Chey Tel: 011 939 255 / 012 939 255 Modern print house providing a full range of printing services. Graphic design available.

Real Estate and Property Services CB Richard Ellis (Cambodia) Co., Ltd. 9/F , Hyundai Phnom Penh Tower 445 Monivong Blvd. Tel: 023 964 099 www.cbre.com.kh The world’s largest commercial real estate services company offering premier quality real estate, valuations, consultancy, investment and property services.

Giant Ibis Transport Phnom Penh Phnom Penh: 3 Street 106 Siem Reap: 64 Sivatha Street Tel: 023 999 333 www.giantibis.com Travel in “Affordable Luxury” to Siem Reap and other destinations in brand new 2012 buses with reclining seats, spacious leg room, AC, WiFi, complementary snacks and pick-up service.

Telecoms Cellcard 33 Sihanouk Blvd. Tel: 012 800 800 A leading mobile phone operator providing a comprehensive range of voice, data and SMS services to individual and corporate users, both pre-paid and post-paid.

Emaxx Corner St 214 / Norodom Blvd. Tel: 023 999 818 Provides a national, high-quality, 4G network service for Internet and multimedia services.

Ezecom 7D Russian Blvd. Tel: 023 888 181 www.ezecom.com.kh Internet service provider that promises boundless packages suited to everyone’s needs. Good for those looking for unlimited downloads.

Mobitel 33 Sihanouk Blvd. Tel: 012 801 801 Largest ISP in the country. Major mobile phone company which issues the 012 SIM card.

Smart 464a Monivong Blvd. Tel: 010 201 000 One of Cambodia’s leading mobile operator, offering super-fast 4G LTE. Provides a range of phones, tablets and selection of call plans.

Independent Property Services (IPS) 182 Street 63 Tel: 077 959 861 www.ips-cambodia.com Property and real estate agent offering apartments, houses and villas for sale and rent in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

Property Care Services (PCS) 2A Road 7 Tel: 017 555 203 Solution for property support services, including waste management, security, pest control and cleaning. Only company to clean high-rise windows with absailers.

Relocation, Shipping Asian Tigers Beton Street, Mol Village, Sangkat Dongkor Tel: 023 212 014 www.asiantigers-mobility.com/cambodia Leading provider of international relocation solutions with over 30 offices in 14 countries.

Crown 115-116 Street 335 Tel: 023 881 004 www.crownrelo.com Global transportation and relocation company with over 150 offices in 50 countries, specialising in expat support and household shipment. Open 8.30am5.30pm (Mon-Fri), 8.30am-12pm (Sat). expat2cambodia Tel 066 200 767 www.expat2cambodia.com Personal consultant offering services from expat to expat in the client’s own language: including house hunting, healthcare and transport.

Taxi Services Choice Taxi Tel: 023 888 023 / 090 882 882 Metered taxi service with rates from US$1 for first 2km.

shopping Art Eileen’s Ceramic Painting 40B Street 310 (between St.57 & St.63) Tel: 012 267 784 Book a party for a Housewarming, Birthday, Anniversary or Reunion. We offer workshops during school and after school.

Estampe 72c street 174 Tel: 012 826 186, A wide collection of vintage items can be found at Estampe. There are originals and reproductions of old photos, books, maps from late 19th and early 20th century. Documents on specific themes or periods for unique tailor-made collections for hotels, restaurants or house decoration can be made. Open Mon- Sat from 11am-7pm.

Hanuman Fine Arts 13B Street 334, Phnom Penh Tel: 023 211 916 Email: tradition@hanumanfinearts.com High quality, beautiful antiques and art from all over the Kingdom. Furniture, ornaments, silverware, jewelry and more

AsiaLIFE Cambodia 77

are well displayed in a treasure trove of a store. Very helpful and friendly staff.

Open 8am–5pm.

Happy Painting Gallery 363 Sisowath Quay (nr. FCC) Tel: 023 221 732 www.happypainting.net Established in 1995 this art gallery is dedicated to Stef, a local icon artist with a very personal and positive insight into everyday life in Cambodia. Open 8am-10pm

Beauty Products Raffles Amrita Spa Raffles Hotel Le Royal.

Tel: 023 981 888 www.raffles.com/phnompenh Email: spa.phnompenh@raffles.com Distinctive collection of Raffles Amrita spa private label and international spa products are available for purchase.

Open 6am-10pm.

Books & CDS Carnets d’Asie French Cultural Centre, 218 Street 184.

Tel: 012 799 959 French-language bookshop has sections on Cambodia and Asia as well as general fiction, with a good range of French magazines and newspapers. Open 8am-8pm D’s Books 79 Street 240 / 12E Street 178 Tel: 012 726 355 New and used bookshops with over 20,000 original books and some copies, with a great range of best sellers. Coffee, smoothies and more available all day at Street 240. Open 9am-9pm.

Le Phnom Shop Raffles Hotel Le Royal. Tel: 023 981 888 Small shop offering books and souvenirs including recipes from the hotel’s pastry chef. Open 7am-9pm.

Monument Books 111 Norodom Blvd. Tel: 023 217 617 Extensive range of new English-language books in town including recent releases and sections on Asia, Cambodia, travel, cuisine, design and management. Good children’s section as well as a wide choice of magazines and newspapers.

Also has outlets at the airport and in Aeon Mall.

Open 7am-8.30pm.

Crafts & Furniture Artisans D’Angkor 12AEo Street 13 (in front of Post Office) Tel: 023 992 409 www.artisansdangkor.com Boutique with a wide range of traditional and contemporary handmade pieces

produced at Artisans Angkor’s workshops in Siem Reap province: silk scarves, clothing and accessories, home furnishings, lacquer paintings and tableware, stone and wooden sculptures, silver-plated ornaments and silk paintings. Special commissions and custom orders welcome. Open daily from 9am-6pm

Tel: 023 723 588 Branch II: 88, St. 598, Near TV Station 3.

Tel: 096 833 9999 Branch III: 65-67, Mao Tse Tong Blvd.

Tel: 095 699 994 A one-stop solution for home interior furnishing offering a variety of tiles, stylistic bathroom furniture & sanitary ware, modern home and office furniture.

Artwood 33 Street 302 Tel: 016 934 999 www.artwood.asia Drop in to our showroom to experience modern wooden furniture designed and manufactured in Cambodia. Offers free consultations for both commercial and residential custom-made needs.

Fashion

Ashley Gallery 705Eo Monivong Blvd Tel: 023 211 116 Browse our selection of quality furnishings at amazing value. Bring your home’s interior design to the next level with well-made products with the help of our friendly and knowledgeable designers. Open daily from 8am-6pm.

DeCosy 219 Street 19 Tel: 023 219 276 Stocking charming knick-knacks and furniture, DeCosy is the place to find the things to make your house a home.

Open daily from 9am-7pm.

Indulgence Interiors 23A Street 302 Tel: 023 637 3666 / 012 586 688 Email: Indulgenceinteriors@gmail.com Sells sofas, dining sets, bed linen, curtain & lights.

Oppein 705Eo Monivong Blvd. Tel: 012 228 868 www.oppein-camodia.com Oppein is the leading cabinetry brand in Asia-Pacific, we offer high quality and affordable kitchen cabinet, wardrobe, home furniture, wooden doors, bathroom cabinets. Open daily from 8am-6pm.

Pavillon d’Asie 24, 26 Sihanouk Blvd. Tel: 012 497 217 Antique lovers dream, a large array of well-restored furniture and decorative objects. Wooden cabinets jostle for space with Buddha statues and old wooden boxes. Upstairs are pieces from the French colonial era. Open 10am7pm, closed Sunday.

PhalyCraft 37 Street 113 Tel: 016 485 857 www.phalycraft.com Located near Tuol Sleng Museum, PhalyCraft makes scarves, bags, gifts and accessories. Custom orders available.

Sinh Hak Hout Home Mart Branch I: 353ABC Mao Tse Tong Blvd.

Ambre 37 Street 178 Tel: 023 217 935 The high-end fashion designs created by Cambodian designer Romyda Keth are popular all over the world, this beautiful colonial building makes the perfect setting for the city’s most glamorous design shop. Also has men’s fashion.

Open 10am-6pm, closed Sunday.

Back to the Future 193A Street 63 near the corner Street 294 Tel: 078 991 232 Old fashion is always becoming new fashion. What was fashionable before, will be fashionable again. At Back to the Future, we have an amazing selection of hand-picked, vintage items ranging from cloths, bags, shoes, and accessories. Open daily from 8am-8pm.

Bambou Indochine 7 Street 178 Tel: 023 214 720 High-quality T-shirts, Polo shirts and comfortable clothes in original designs.

A full-range of sizes for men, women and children. Open daily 8am-10pm.

Beautiful Shoes 138 Street 143 Tel: 012 848 438 Family-run business measures your feet and designs the shoe exactly as you wish. The shop also caters for men.

Open from 7am-6.30pm.

Bliss 29 Street 240 Tel: 023 215 754 A beautiful colonial building houses this exquisite shop with funky patterned cushions, quilts and an excellent clothing line. The health spa at the back of the shop also sells Spana beauty products.

Open from 9am-9pm (closed Mondays).

Central Mall Phnom Penh 10 Street 67 Tel: 023 966 300 centralmallphnompenh.com A modern and stylish multi-brand department store concept in the heart of Phnom Penh, bringing authentic and premium international names right to your doorstep.

Couleurs D’Asie 33 Street 240 Tel: 023 221 075/ 099 499 478 Email: info@couleursdasie.net www.couleursdasie.net Established in Cambodia for more than 15 years, Couleurs d´Asie has developed a full range of textile products for home decoration, clothing and fashion accessories. Jewellery, essential oils, soaps and more are on offer. A custom service for existing products is also available.

Dara Shoes 10 Street 166 (near corner Street 107) Tel: 012 855 173 / 097 809 743 Good quality shoes, boots, bags, belts and leather products made to order.

D.Hindley Jewellery 9 Street 184 Tel: 012 327 107 Discover a range of beautiful Cambodian gemstones. From affordable to extravagant, we sell top quality 18k gold and sterling silver jewelry, plus

78 AsiaLIFE Cambodia

loose gemstones. New Zealand/Khmer ownership. All manufacturing done in Cambodia. Open 9am-7pm.

Jasmine Boutique 73 Street 240 Tel: 023 223 103 www.jasmineboutique.net Established in 2001 by Kellianne Karatau and Cassandra McMillan, this boutique creates its own collection of designs twice a year using hand-woven Cambodian silk. Open 8am-6pm.

Khmer Attitude Raffles Hotel Le Royal. Tel: 023 981 888 Fashion boutique that offers the finest Khmer silk clothing for men, women and children, including designs by Romyda Keth, and exclusive jewellery that complement the limited edition outfits.

Kool As U 141 Street 19 (north of Street 172) Tel: 012 735 991 www.koolasu.com Specialises in men’s fashion with all clothes designed and made by Khmers.

The clothing is casual, but designed for partying or work. Business Hours: Tuesday-Sunday from 9am-7pm.

La Clef de Sol 10 Street 208 Tel: 012 394 915 A design boutique offering home decor, women’s fashion, kids clothes, bags, accessories and continually updated design surprises. Near KFC on Norodom Blvd. Open 9am-6pm Mon–Sat. Lim Keo 9 Street 222 Tel: 012 941 643 Pret a porter by Lim Keo, son of Sylvain Lim, the master of Cambodian fashion.

Lola’s Intimates 1st Shop: 175 Street 155 (corner Street 460) 2nd Shop: 6E0, Street 5 (btw Street 110 and Street 118) Tel: 092 876 223 Offer all kinds of stylish underwear and night dresses with beautiful patterns.

Price range from $1 to $12 per item.

Opens daily from 9am-6.30pm Luna Boutique 8E1 Street 278 Tel: 023 220 176 Original and stylish fashion designs for men and women. The tailor-made creations, designed by modern Cambodian stylist Mengchou Kit, are fit for any occasion. Luna Boutique is located in the heart of Phnom Penh, while its sister shop - Luna Shoes - is next door. Open daily 8am-9pm.

Promesses and Kaprices 20 Street 282.

Tel: 023 993 527 Lingerie shop stocked with exclusive French and Thai undergarments. Chic, new prêt-à-porter shop Kaprices is located upstairs. Open 9am-7pm.

Sentosa Silk Uniform 33 Sothearos Blvd, cnr Street 178 Tel: 012 962 911/ 023 222 974 Email: info@couleursdasie.net sentosa@ online.com.kh Well known for its professional management ability, SentosaSilk gives clients efficient and reliable service through quality systems and procedures that consistently enhance product quality and reliability.

Sobbhana Boutique 23-24 Street 144/49 Tel: 023 219 455/ 023 219 452 www.sobbhana.org A not for profit organisation founded

by Princess Norodom Marie, offering a range of colourful, handwoven silk products. Profits fund training, medical care and education of weavers.

Corporate Knai Bang Chatt Ideal setting for board meetings, workshops or corporate retreats Fully equipped meeting rooms (40 pax) 2.5 hours from Phnom Penh Team-building and recreational engagements INFO & RESERVATIONS gm@knaibangchatt.com 078 888 552

www.knaibangchatt.com Smateria 8Eo Street 5. Tel: 023 211 701 7 Street 178. Tel: 023 214 720 www.smateria.com Boutique specializing in accessories made from recycled materials including a range of bags and wallets made from old fruit juice cartons, plastic bags and mosquito nets.

wine to most of the top hotels and restaurants for over ten years. Open 8am-12pm, 2pm-6pm, closed Sunday.

Comme a la Maison 13 Street 57 Tel: 012 951 869 Decidedly sophisticated French restaurant has a small delicatessen and bakery at the back of the restaurant ideal for that morning baguette or croissant with your coffee. Open from 6am10.30pm.

tasting gallery. With around 300 wines, the boutique has more range than the supermarkets. Open 9am-9pm.

The Chocolate Shop 240 35 Street 240 Tel: 077 666 402 Premium Chocolate shop with a large range of Cambodian-made Belgian chocolates including some classics such as pralines, truffles and bars. Open 9am - 7pm Monday-Saturday and 9am-4pm on Sunday. Second outlet in BKKI Street 63. Third outlet in Aeon Mall, Ground floor - Sweet Island.

Food & Wine

Dan Meats 51A Street 214 Tel: 012 906 072 Phnom Penh’s man of meat, Lanzi, supplies his strictly non-vegetarian products to many restaurants around town. Open 7.30am-6.30pm, closed Sun.

The Deli 13 Street 178 Tel: 012 851 234 Café and bakery with take away breads, sandwiches and pastries. Now has a second outlet on Street 51. Open 6.30am-6.30pm, delivery service (within 30 minutes) 7am-11pm.

AusKhmer Import Export 521 Street Angtamin Pagoda, Sang Kat Kar Karp Tel: 012 698 100 / 023 880 110 www.auskhmer.com Importer of quality wines and fine food from Australia and further afield.

Kurata Pepper 5 Street 322 Tel: 023 726 480 Selling organic Koh Kong pepper and associated products, Kurata is a specialist shop in town. Open daily 8am-7pm.

Household Goods

Camory – Premium Cookie Boutique 167 Sisowath Quay Tel: 023 224 937 Makes cookies using produce from the provinces such as cashews from Kampong Cham and Mondulkiri honey. A portion of the profits fund education for a local orphanage. Open 9am-8.30pm.

Le Marché 10 Street 456 Tel: 011 51 07 31 Le Marché is the first one-stop shop in Toul Tom Poung. From basic grocery products, international food and beverage items to various and trendy homeware articles, find everything you need for your daily life at very affordable prices. Open daily from 7am-9am

Subtyl 43 Street 240.

Tel: 023 992 710 www.subtyl.com Up-market boutique selling Cambodian handmade women’s clothes, scarves, shoes, bags and other accessories in contemporary and interesting designs, the Subtyl collection combines class with colour. ChilliKids children’s clothing is also stocked at the shop. Open 9am-7pm.

Celliers d’Asie 62B & 98 Street 432.

Tel: 023 986 350 Wine supplier with the largest quantity of retail stock in town, has been providing

Red Apron 15-17 Eo Street 240 Tel: 023 990 951 Home of wine enthusiasts in Phnom Penh is both a wine boutique and

Japan Home Centre 48A Street 294 Tel: 089 266 851 101A Street 432 (cnr Street 167) Tel: 078 850 320. www.japanhomecentre.com A place where you can find all of your household needs. Open daily from 10am-8pm Mi-a Japan Street 271 (100m after Stung Meanchey bridge) Tel: 023 6444 531 The store provides a variety of products from gardening tools to dining materials.

The 100-yen shop is famous in Japan and has now arrives in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Open daily at AEON Mall 1F

9am-10pm, Dream Land on Sisowath Quay 9am-11pm, Street 271 8am-9pm & Siem Reap 9am-10pm.

Malls

AEON Mall 132 Sothearos Blvd.

As Cambodia’s first Western-style shopping mall, AEON is home to a host of local and international brands, a sprawling food hall, department store and entertainment floor featuring a cinema, bowling alley and arcade section. Close your eyes and you could be in Bangkok

Silks & Accessories Friends ‘n’ Stuff 215 Street 13 Friends ‘n’ Stuff shop sells products made by the parents of children in need, from various Friends projects, as well as other consignment items. After some serious shopping, you can relax here with a manicure and massage by Mith Samlanh’s beauty training students at The Nailbar.

Friends ‘n’ Stuff has a small shop at the Russian Market and Romdeng restaurant as well. Open daily from 11am-9pm.

Hummingbird 137 Street 19 Tel: 092 504 604 www.facebook.com/hummingbird.cambodia Modern women’s clothing boutique with all the latest styles. Opened in 2014 offering a unique, high-quality range of dresses, playsuits, shirts and blouses, skirts, tops and t-shirts, shorts, bags, flats and sandals, jewellery, beauty and wellbeing products and more. Open daily from 9am to 9pm.

PHNOM PENH 023 211701 Downtown: #08E0, Str. 57 Phnom Penh International Airport SIEM REAP 063 964343 Downtown: The Alley West (near Pub Street) Siem Reap International Airport www.smateria.com

AsiaLIFE Cambodia 79

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AsiaLIFE Cambodia 81

I Take Nothing Strong, Only Lightning book launch

RUFA Talent and Creatives event

Spotlight 82 AsiaLIFE Cambodia

Photography by Lim Sokchanlina

Poetic Ponography

Tiny Toones Tiny Toones uses the art of break-dancing and music to smash down barriers with underprivileged youngsters. AsiaLIFE finds out more.

T

he beat of the bass booms around a small courtyard, brought to life by the colourful tales told through the street art that decorates the walls. A pint-sized performer backflips across the concrete as a group of girls and boys leap onto the crown of their heads in unison and start spinning like out-of-control spinning tops. In another corner, a huddle of teens kitted out in baggy jeans and over-sized t-shirts practise their latest dance moves.

Welcome to the world of Tiny Toones, a project launched in 2005 by former gang member Tuy Sobil.

After serving a stretch behind bars at the age of 18, Sobil, who goes by the street name of K.K., found himself banished from the country he called home, the US. Deported to his parent’s homeland Cambodia, K.K., who was born in a Thai refugee camp after his parents fled their wartorn home, was forced to start a new life in a foreign country.

But his story is a success and since 84 AsiaLIFE Cambodia

leaving his Long Beach gang days behind him, he has created a haven for Cambodia’s forgotten children; those destined to a life of

poverty, drugs and crime. Nestled away in a quiet area on the outskirts of the Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh, sits the project K.K. has carefully created. Daily, more than 200 street children, aged five to 24, gather at the centre to learn the craft K.K. mastered in the US, break dancing. The organisation also encourages them to tap into their creative side by dabbling with DJing and music

making as well as providing the youngsters with English and Khmer lesson.

Starting of its days in the cramped front room of K.K.’s apartment with a few street kids escaping reality to learn the moves of a dance movement completely foreign to them, Tiny Toones has gone on to tour the globe, released a clutch of albums and can often be seen performing across the country.

“It has been an incredible journey and I’m so happy I’ve done this. I’ve tried my best and seeing the kids with smiles on their faces makes every minute of it worth it,” K.K. says. “This keeps them off the streets and gives them a chance at life.

It offers them something different that they can accomplish. Getting to see the kid achieve things is the best and I only get something out of it when they do.”

This year, the talented troupe joined forces with Epic Arts,Cambodia Living Arts, Phare Ponleu Selpak and Amrita Performing Arts to produce a parody video of Shake it Off, which aims to highlight the good work being carried out by these organisations.

For more information, visit tinytoones.org.

topten

endorsed

Top 10 US Grossing Films 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10

The Jungle Book Barbershop: The Next Cut The Boss Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice Zootopia Criminal My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 Miracles from Heaven God’s Not Dead 2 Eye in the Sky

Kindle Top 10 Reads 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10

The Last Mile by David Baldacci Blood Defense by Marcia Clark The Girl in the Ice by Robert Bryndza Stuck-Up Suit by Vi Keeland Beautiful Distraction by J.C. Reed The Obsession by Nora Roberts Doing it Over by Catherine Bybee Pope Joan by Donna Woolfolk Cross An Innocent Client by Scott Pratt Deliver Her by Patricia Perry Donovan

Top 10 iTunes Downloads 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10

7 Years by Lukas Graham One Dance by Drake NO by Meghan Trainor Don’t Let Me Down by The Chainsmokers Work from Home by Fifth Harmony Dangerous Woman by Ariana Grande My House by Flo Rida Soulshine by Adam Wakefield Stone Cold by Alisan Porter Just Like Fire by PINK

Louis de Bernières’ South American Trilogy Kate Burbridge A few years before Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, Louis de Bernières wrote three books whose literary acclaim at the time of their publishing was somewhat overshadowed by his fourth book.

The War of Don Emmanuel’s Nether Parts, Señor Vivo and the Coca Lord, and The Troublesome Offspring of Cardinal Guzman form a trilogy with a narrative that arcs over all three without making any one of the stories dependant on the others.

Set in an unnamed fictional South American country during a period that closely resembles Colombia’s La Violencia, the trilogy is rife with drug lords, military dictators, rebel guerilleros oligarchs and oppressed intellectuals and paísanos to name but a few.

While this may not sound like a barrel of laughs, de Bernières’ art lies in the deft interweaving of comedy and tragedy, Swiftian political satire with supernatural occurrences.

There is a thread of magical realism that runs through all three books that most closely reflects the work of Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Homage reinforced by the characters Aurelio and Remedíos (among others) who share their names with members of the Buendía dynasty in Garcia Marquez’ One Hundred Years of Solitude. De Bernières serves his magical realism with much more humour than is usual in the genre, which at once eases the sometimes stark

grimness of the darker parts of the narrative whilst making the more fantastic elements seem perfectly reasonable in the context of the events they effect There is a lightness of touch that catches the imagination and leads it, disbelief unquestioningly suspended, through the myriad exploits of the villagers, the draconian machinations of the military and the horrors of the drug cartels. The highly colourful and eclectic collection of villagers are collectively the main protagonists. A ragtag group who lose their village due to the demands of their own home-grown oligarch and nearly lose their liberty and lives at the hands of an increasingly paranoid local army general take responsibility for their own destiny and head into the Andes in search of a better life.

Every element of these stories is multifaceted, character, place, plot, nothing is simple, one dimensional.

There is no let up in the narrative, never a dull moment, the reader is taken on a roller coaster of emotion and action, all human life is here everything from glory to horror and all stops in between.

De Bernières draws his characters with many layers.

People and places are fleshed out with complexities and imperfections. It is these characterisations that drive the plot, that make it credible, that lend the realism to magic.

AsiaLIFE Cambodia 85

For this edition of AppChat, we turn to neighbouring Vietnam to see what the country’s techies have been producing.

GotIt! |

H

omework has never been easier with this distinguished smart tool that connects learners with a study expert.

Computer science academic Dr Tran Viet Hung developed the platform that encourages students to upload questions onto its network, and then the system connects the user with the relevant expert in less than 10 seconds.

Since being released, the app has enjoyed rave reviews and soared to the top ten most downloaded education apps on Apple’s App Store in the US earlier this year.

Battleship Ocean Islands War |

I

t’s a given that Flappy Bird is the most famous Vietnamese gaming app, but why not try something different?

Apps Cyclone, a small studio based in Saigon, is known for its simple and fun apps, such as the serenely named Battleship Ocean Islands War. You take control of a battleship and juggle the tricky task of destroying enemy bases while protecting your islands.

As the hero, you also collect money to upgrade your weapons. It features high quality artwork, music and you can even earn ‘honour achievements’ which are published via Game Center and Facebook.

Learn English via Songs |

VlogTube |

White Palace Wedding Planner |

Got a friend who wants to learn English the fun way? Recommend this cheerful app, which, as its name suggests, teaches through song.

If you speak fluent Vietnamese, first congratulate yourself and then download this app.

This app is perfect for people who have come to Vietnam to make one of those life-defining mistakes.

As Vietnam’s vlogging culture is still blooming, this tool is apt. It allows users to keep up with the latest cool videos from the country’s top vloggers.

Couples can plan for that big day/ mistake by using this software which links with one of Saigon’s largest wedding centres to help get everything from the clothes to the flowers in place.

It explains the lyrics/sentences and grammar. Users can listen to the tunes (lots of hits, apparently), watch videos and complete translation accuracy tests.

boxoffice

POPPY GOES TO HOLLYWOOD

ANGRY BIRDS MOVIE

X-MEN: APOCALYPSE

NINE LIVES

Cambodian director Sok Visal makes a return with his latest release, Poppy Goes to Hollywood, an upbeat, musical comedy about the the LGBT community. The plot centres on Mony, a jobless loser who aimlessly stumbles through life, bullying people to make a living.

His attitude attracts trouble, and Mony finds himself threatened by a bigger gang of thugs. With nobody else to ask, he turns to his estranged brother – a ladyboy working at a cabaret club – for help. While paying off his debt to his brother working at the club, Mony falls in love with the boss’s daughter. But when he witnesses a murder, he is forced into hiding as a ladyboy. Dressed in drag, he escapes to Hollywood – a club in Preak Vihear.

Angry Birds mania looks set to step up a gear with the release of this film based on the birds that the world has gone bats for.

Having started life as an iPhone app, the Angry Birds craze has the globe gripped, and now we can find out just why those birds are so mad. The movie is set on an island populated entirely by happy, flightless birds – or almost entirely. In this paradise, Red (Jason Sudeikis), a bird with a pretty bad temper problem, speedy Chuck (Josh Gad) and the volatile Bomb (Danny McBride) have always been outsiders. But when the island is visited by mysterious green piggies, it’s up to these unlikely outcasts to launch an investigation and figure out what the pigs are up to.

It’s been a great year for Marvel Comic fans, with the release of the sequel to 2014’s X-Men: Days of Future Past and the ninth instalment and next chapter in the iconic X-Men film series. Worshiped as a god since the dawn of civilization, the immortal Apocalypse (Oscar Isaac) becomes the first and most powerful mutant.

Awakening after thousands of years, he recruits the disheartened Magneto (Michael Fassbender) and other mutants to create a new world order. As the fate of the Earth hangs in the balance, Professor X (James McAvoy) and Raven (Jennifer Lawrence) lead a team of young X-Men to stop their seemingly invincible nemesis from destroying mankind.

Have you ever imagined actor Kevin Spacey playing a cat?

Probably not, however, if you have, then here’s your chance to see if it’s how you thought.

Tom Brand is a billionaire whose workaholic lifestyle leaves him disconnected from his beautiful wife Lara (Jennifer Garner) and daughter Rebecca.

Needing a present for Rebecca’s 11th birthday, Brand visits a mysterious pet store and leaves with a cat named Mr Fuzzypants. After getting into an accident, Tom wakes up to find himself trapped inside the animal’s body. As his family adjusts to life with an odd and stubborn feline, Brand must figure out a way to become human again.

COMING SOON MOVIE RELEASES Platinum See platinumcineplex.com/kh for screening schedule Poppy Goes to Hollywood May. 05 Nine Lives May. 06 Jeruzaleme May. 12 Angry Birds Movie May. 12 The Himalayas May. 19

Legend Cinemas See legend-cinemas.com for screening schedule Nine Lives May. 06 Angry Birds Movie May. 12 X-Men: Apocalypse May. 19 Money Monster May. 25 Bad Neighbours 2 May. 26

AsiaLIFE Cambodia 87

- Brainbusters quiz master Mr Doods presents -

Brainbuster trivia

I - Champions on Film: Multiple Choice 1. In the 1993 film, Rudy, the title character Daniel Ruettiger attended The University of Notre Dame du Lac, better known as simply Notre Dame. Which Indiana town is the home of the Fighting Irish? a) South Bend b) Gary c) Indianapolis d) Fort Wayne e) Bloomington 2. The Uruguayan national rugby team was stranded in the Andes mountains after their plane crashed in the 1993 American biographical survival drama, Alive starring Ethan Hawke and narrated by John Malkovich. Which of these countries does not have any part of the Andes within their borders? a) Bolivia b) Peru c) Argentina d) Brazil e) Venezuela 3. The 1996 film Jerry Maguire was written and directed by Cameron Crowe and starred Tom Cruise as a sports agent and Cuba Gooding Jr as his client. Which magazine did Cameron Crowe famously start writing for at the tender age of 15? a) Sports Illustrated b) Rolling Stone c) Billboard d) Time e) Playboy 4. The 1996 film Cool Runnings is loosely based on the true story of the Jamaican Bobsled team who qualifies for the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics. What kind of hot peppers are traditionally used in Jamaican Jerk seasoning? a) Banana peppers b)Chipotle c)Habanero d) Cayenne e) Scotch Bonnet 5.In a memorable scene in Caddyshack, Bill Murray’s character Carl Spackler describes caddying for the Dalai Lama. The Tibetan word Lama means mentor or guru, and the word Dalai comes from the Mongolian word meaning: a) Ocean b) Wind c) Fire d) Mountain e) Sky

9

II - Champions on Film Math

6

4

4

10. How many goals in total are scored in the ‘Miracle On Ice’ game between The USA and the USSR at the 1980 Olympics times how many teams were accepted in the NBA after its merger with the ABA in 1976 as portrayed in the film Semi-Pro. 88 AsiaLIFE Cambodia

3

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Pub Quiz Answers

9. The last two digits in the year in which the Olympics were held in Munich divided by the number of Hanson brothers on the Charleston Chiefs in Slap Shot.

8

6

1) a / 2) d / 3) b / 4) e / 5) a / 6) 30 – 8 = 22 / 7) 99 + 25 = 124 / 8) 18 x 10 = 180 / 9) 72/3 = 24 / 10) 7 x 4 = 28

8. The number of the hole at which Kevin Costner’s character Roy McAvoy takes 12 strokes to clear the water hazard during the pivotal scene of the film Tin Cup times the height of a regulation basketball hoop in feet as measured in the film Hoosiers.

7

9

6. The total number of rounds Rocky Balboa and Apollo Creed fought in the first two Rocky films combined minus the number of men that are out in the title of the 1988 film about the Chicago Black Sox 1919 World Series Scandal.

7. The number worn by Charlie Sheen’s character Ricky “Wild Thing” Vaughn in the film Major League plus the number of years in between the releases of The Hustler and its sequel The Color of Money.

3