Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Executive summary by darmansjah

Ecologically and economically essential to the people that live on and around it, the Tonle Sap is the life stream of many Cambodians. It is also somewhat of an earthly oddity – the direction of its flow reverses twice a year. At the start of the country’s dry season in November, the Tonel Sap starts emptying into the lowering Mekong river and eventually shrinks to a fifth of its size.

The Cambodia Water Festival, or Bon Om Tuk, is held every year to mark this occasion and the beginning of the fishing season. From 27-29 November, millions of Cambodians from all around the country will descend upon Phnom Penh to be a part of the festivities. An epic boat race is the showpiece event but there are also live performances, a carnival atmosphere, and plenty of food and game stalls to provide plenty of fun.

Jetstar, silkair, and tiger airways fly direct from Singapore Changi Airport to Phnom Penh International Aripot. From Kuala Lumpur International Airport, AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines fly direct to Phnom Penh.

The Pavilion is a small comfortable hotel close to downtown as well as the Tonle Sap. Also, with guests under 16 years of age not allowed, the hotel provides a perfectly quiet and peaceful temporary home for a romantic getaway (from US$45).