The following guest post was co-written by Lynn Kaiser Conrad, Brand Ambassador, and Kaitlin McMurdo, International Affiliate Service Director, for Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC
This month, Coldwell Banker Around the World is venturing to one of our newest regions, where the antiquity and the modern world collides in Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodia. The first Coldwell Banker office in Cambodia is managed by Crispian Knowles, who is thrilled to share the magic and charm of this Kingdom with surprising sophistication.
“A friendly smile here goes a long way,” Mr. Knowles shares. With a rich and ancient history, Cambodia is home to some of the most famous temples in the world, most notably, Angkor Wat, considered a wonder of the world. And after a day of exploring ancient temples, you could easily spend the night wandering through the culinary scene. Though not as famous for its cuisine as some of its neighbors, Cambodia has plenty to share from hole-in-the-wall establishments, to high-end bistros, to food stalls at markets. You can enjoy plenty of delicious local specialties, including a variety of dishes featuring Khmer noodles partake in the quickly growing “coffee culture” scene.
“The country is developing quickly. I appreciate the diversity it brings,” Ms. Khim Tith Azha notes of the Coldwell Banker Cambodia team. While the country has deep historic roots, new growth is sprouting up everywhere and more is anticipated. The population is young, with the average being only 15 years old. With this dynamic, shifts in lifestyle are occurring. For instance, it was common for Khmer families to live in practical single-family homes. Now, however, buyers are seeking out luxury properties in gated communities, condominiums and detached single family dwellings.
Learn more about our friends in Phnom Penh below!
Where do you live: Phnom Penh, Cambodia
What is the perfect weekend day like: Touring the many historical temples, and enjoying local food at roadside markets
What are the common modes of transportation there: The most common form of transport is motorbikes (scooters), and the original tuk-tuk, a motorized three-wheel taxi. There has also been a large rise in cars, particularly SUVs.
Tell us about the foods your area is known for: Nom banh chok/Khmer noodles (rice noodle soup topped with a fish gravy and crisp vegetables), Amok (street food steamed in banana leaves), Bai sach chrouk (marinated pork and rice, a common breakfast), Prahok ktis (creamy dip/condiment used for vegetables and steak, also known as “mudfish sauce”)
What is your favorite meal? At home or at a restaurant: Local Khmer beef noodle soup, which is generally prepared the night before, served at any street side market/stall
Where do you recommend someone vacation in your region, why: The most obvious and popular interesting fact about Cambodia is, of course, Angkor Wat. Angkor Wat is the main reason tourists flock in) numbers to Cambodia. It is the world’s largest religious building and considered one of the wonders of the world.
What is your favorite recreational or leisure time activity: Khmer people love football (soccer to all the Americans!) and is played on a daily basis, whether be on a field or street
Is there a specialty your area is known for: Cambodia is known worldwide for having the best Pepper globally- it is grown in a southern part of Cambodia, Kampot. Kampot peppers range from intensely spicy to mildly sweet and have a unique flavor profile.
Share a little known but interesting fact about the area/region: Here are a few! The average age of the population is under 15. There are no McDonald’s in Cambodia. The Cambodian flag is the only one in the world with a building on it. There are still a lot of active landmines in the country.
If you were to live in any other region where we have a Coldwell Banker presence, where would it be and why: I would choose Thailand!
Key Facts:
- Population: 16,900,000
- Language(s) Spoken: Khmer
- Climate: Tropical
- Currency: USD / Khmer Reil
Industry Facts:
- Types of Architecture: Cambodian architecture has become synonymous with Khmer architecture and more precisely to the iconic constructions of Angkor temples during the growth and peak of Khmer Empire. The architecture and construction industry in Cambodia is a main priority and a basic foundation of social development.
- Average Sale price: $2600/sqm
- Average years in house/apt: Prices ranging from $74,959 to $799,886, and the median property price is $221,590
Follow Coldwell Banker Cambodia on social media!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coldwellbankercambo
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CambodiaBanker
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coldwellbankercambodia/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coldwell-banker-cambodia-0a45221a6/
