Welcome to Phnom Penh
The bustling capital of Cambodia is a city where tradition meets modern charm. Set where the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers meet, it offers riverside views, lively markets, and vibrant street life. Delegates can explore the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, admire Khmer art at the National Museum, and enjoy the city's diverse cuisine and warm hospitality — all within easy reach of the conference venue.
Arriving via Techo International Airport
Techo International Airport (KTI), Cambodia's newest aviation hub, commenced operations on 9 September 2025, replacing the former Phnom Penh International Airport. Located roughly 20 km south of the city in Kandal Province, it is one of the largest airports in Southeast Asia and serves as the main gateway for domestic and international flights.
From the Airport
Ride-hailing apps and metered taxis are available at the terminal. Allow extra time during peak hours; a private car transfer is the most comfortable option for arriving delegates.
Sustainable by Design
The airport's design is inspired by Cambodian culture, with a strong focus on sustainability — including a solar farm that powers much of its operations.
Entry & Visa
Most visitors can apply online ahead of travel. Apply via the official Cambodia e-Visa portal and carry a printed copy on arrival.
Where to Stay near the Venue
A range of comfortable hotels and serviced apartments sit within close distance of the Shangri-La Hotel — from international chains like Marriott and Novotel to boutique stays and modern resorts. The table below lists recommended options with their approximate distance and travel time to the conference venue.
| Hotel | Distance to Venue | Walking | Tuk-tuk / Car |
|---|---|---|---|
| Courtyard by Marriott Phnom Penh | ~0.8 km | ~10 min | ~3–5 min |
| HM Grand Central Hotel | ~1.0 km | ~12–15 min | ~4–6 min |
| Capri by Fraser Phnom Penh | ~1.2 km | ~15 min | ~5–7 min |
| Anik Palace Hotel | ~1.2 km | ~23–25 min | ~8–10 min |
| Caravan Hotel by EHM | ~1.4 km | ~17–18 min | ~5–7 min |
| Novotel Phnom Penh BKK1 | ~1.5 km | ~18–20 min | ~6–8 min |
| SUN & MOON Urban Hotel | ~1.5 km | ~18–20 min | ~6–8 min |
| Tribe Phnom Penh Post Office Square | ~1.6 km | ~20 min | ~7–8 min |
| Baitong Hotel & Resort | ~1.7 km | ~20–22 min | ~7–10 min |
| Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh | ~1.7 km | ~20–22 min | ~7–9 min |
| Palace Gate Hotel & Resort | ~1.8 km | ~22–24 min | ~8–10 min |
| Plantation Urban Resort & Spa | ~1.8 km | ~23–25 min | ~8–10 min |
| White Mansion Hotel | ~1.9 km | ~22–24 min | ~8–10 min |
| Luxcity Hotel & Apartment | ~1.9 km | ~25 min | ~8–10 min |
Distances and times are approximate and measured from the Shangri-La Hotel, Phnom Penh. Travel times vary with traffic.
Getting Around Phnom Penh
Ride-hailing and delivery apps make moving around the city simple and affordable. Download these before you arrive — most accept both card payment and cash.
Grab
Rides, delivery & payments
TADA
Affordable ride-hailing
WOWNOW
Fast grocery delivery
PassApp
Taxi & tuk-tuk rides
Grab
Rides, delivery & payments
foodpanda
Restaurant food delivery
WOWNOW
Fast grocery delivery
Wingmall
Online shopping & payments
Currency Information
Cambodia uses the Riel (KHR), and the US Dollar circulates freely alongside it. A handy rule of thumb: use USD for larger purchases and Riel for small, everyday transactions.
Top Landmarks & Attractions
Must-visit spots that define the spirit of Phnom Penh — most are a short ride from the venue and easily combined into a half-day of sightseeing.
Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda
Built in 1866, showcasing classic Khmer architecture with golden spires, ornate decorations, and serene courtyards.
Independence Monument
Built in 1958 to commemorate independence from French rule, inspired by Khmer temple design and shaped like a lotus stupa.
National Museum of Cambodia
Home to the largest collection of Khmer art — over 14,000 sculptures, ceramics, bronzes, and ethnographic objects.
Wat Phnom
A historic hilltop Buddhist temple believed to be the founding site of the city, with serene gardens and city views.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
A memorial museum preserving the history of the Khmer Rouge era and honouring the victims of the Cambodian genocide.
Choeung Ek Genocidal Center
A former Killing Field used between 1975 and 1979, now a memorial site that documents the Cambodian genocide.
Chaktomuk Walk Street
A lively riverside promenade along the Tonle Sap River, near the confluence with the Mekong.
Riverside Park
A relaxed park stretching along the waterfront — a remarkable place to unwind, with something lively always happening.
Langka Lane
A hidden alleyway with around 25 themed restaurants and bars, each with its own unique style and cuisine.
Food & Dining
Cambodian cuisine is fresh, balanced, and bursting with flavour — creamy curries, vibrant noodles, smoky street bites, and sweet tropical treats. Here are the dishes to seek out and a few trusted restaurants in Phnom Penh.
Amok Trey
Cambodia's signature dish — silky coconut curry with fish, steamed in banana leaves.
Samlor Machu Kreoung
A beloved Khmer soup known for its light, tangy, and refreshing flavour.
Nom Banh Chok
A refreshing breakfast of rice noodles topped with light, herb-filled curry.
Bai Sach Chrouk
Grilled pork over fragrant rice, served with pickled vegetables and broth.
Lok Lak
Stir-fried marinated beef served with a tangy lime and black pepper dip.
Num Ansom Chek
Sticky rice with banana filling wrapped in banana leaves — a beloved sweet treat.
Mealea Restaurant
Set in a restored 80-year-old French colonial villa that once served as the headquarters of the French army commander in Cambodia.
$10–25Bai Sor
A modern Khmer restaurant inside the chic Tribe Hotel, beautifully capturing the essence of Cambodian cuisine.
$5–16Romdeng Restaurant
An excellent-value Khmer restaurant, very popular with locals, with friendly and attentive staff.
$5–10Kravanh Restaurant
A warm dining spot that preserves the culinary heritage of the ancient Khmer Empire.
$3–10LaBaab Restaurant
Traditional country dishes presented with a modern twist, using high-quality local and seasonal ingredients.
$5–15Eleven One Kitchen
Fresh homemade Khmer and Western dishes since 2014, in a beautiful, green location in the city.
$5–15Nightlife & Rooftop Bars
When the sun sets, Phnom Penh comes alive with rooftop views, hidden bars, and lively music spots — from upscale lounges to street-side beer stalls, there's something for every mood.
Sora Sky Bar
Panoramic views of the city and the Mekong River, with a whisky library and a curated cocktail menu of Cambodian-inspired drinks. Don't miss the Kampot Spiced Negroni.
Bassac Lane
A buzzing nightlife area filled with tiny, charming, often-themed bars and restaurants — perfect for bar-hopping over an evening.
Shopping & Local Markets
Cambodian markets — known as psar — are lively, colourful, and full of local life. You'll find everything from fresh produce and spices to handmade crafts and souvenirs. Most are open-air and busiest from early morning until late afternoon.
Phsar Thmey (Central Market)
An art-deco landmark and the city's best-known market — ideal for jewellery, souvenirs, and clothes.
Russian Market (Phsar Toul Tom Poung)
A favourite for handicrafts, antiques, and fabrics, with a maze of stalls to browse.
Day Trips & Nearby Destinations
Extending your stay? Cambodia's most rewarding destinations are an easy journey from Phnom Penh — from the temples of Angkor to mountain parks and the southern coast.
Siem Reap
The main entry point to the world-famous Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sihanoukville
Popular beaches including Ochheuteal, Serendipity, Otres, and Sokha — each with its own distinct vibe.
Battambang
Known for colonial architecture, scenic countryside, and the iconic bamboo train through rural Cambodia.
Kampot
Charms visitors with riverside serenity, French colonial architecture, and world-famous pepper plantations.
Kirirom National Park
Pine forests, waterfalls, and cool mountain air — a refreshing break from the city buzz.
Oudong
Sacred hilltop temples, sweeping countryside views, local delicacies, and rich history close to the city.
Takeo
Home to Angkor Borei, an important archaeological site with ancient brick structures and moats.
Travel Etiquette & Safety
Blending in with local customs and staying aware of your surroundings will make your trip smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.
Dress modestly at temples
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious or cultural sites.
Use both hands to give or receive
Especially with elders or in formal settings — it is a sign of respect.
Stay calm in public
Cambodian culture values calmness and indirect, gentle communication.
Ask before taking photos
Always seek permission before photographing people, vendors, or elders.
Tipping is appreciated
Not expected — round up the bill, or leave around 10% for restaurants and guides.
Support local businesses
Buy from small shops and street vendors where you can — it goes a long way.
Use ride-hailing apps
Apps like Grab offer safe, fair-priced transport around the city.
Be aware of phone snatchers
Avoid using your phone too close to the road or curb.
Watch your bags in crowds
Use anti-theft bags or keep backpacks in front of you in markets.
Drink bottled water
Avoid tap water; ice is generally safe at established eateries.