Wat Botum, Central Market, Apsara Show - Phnom Penh, Cambodia - Mekong Princess Day 6

March 26 A.M.

We returned to the boat for lunch, and we had the afternoon free to explore on our own. We didn’t have a concrete plan other than to visit a couple of temples and see the art deco Psar Thmei, literally 'New Market' and is often called the Central Market and to make a stop at Starbucks for Tom & Cathy to get a mug.

Greg called a Grag tuk tuk for the 4 of us and he didn't actually know where Wat Botum was, but he took us very close. We walked through the park, and we had decided to scrap the Wat and just head to the market when we came upon it. The first area we went up to was locked, but we continued down the sidewalk and found the part that was open. 

We were quite taken by the small Wat and the man there was so kind to us. He welcomed us and then turned the lights on the alter. Of course, donations were made. Greg called another Grab to take us to the market.

views from the tuk tuk

entire bathroom (toilet, sink & tiles)

at the park

Wat Botum in the distance

Sacred Bodhi tree in front of Wat Botumvatey - the tree & bones of Preah Arahattas received from Sri Lanka

Wat Botum means temple of the lotus blossoms

We spent quite a bit of time at the Central Market as it was huge with a main area that housed the jewelry (mostly fake) and then there were spokes in all directions that featured different items. One was electronics, one clothing, one wet market and one fruits and vegetables. Tom & Cathy got their mug and rejoined us to see the wet market.

arrival at the market

frogs

central area where the jewelry was sold

We took another Grab back to the boat and before dinner we watched a cultural performance including Apsara, Cambodia’s national dance, as well as several traditional folk dances. Amazing! The performers were all from the local orphanage. 

Eric introducing the leader

music

monkey boys

at the end many passengers joined them to dance

The ship docked in Phnom Penh overnight. We didn't go back out, but I'm sure a few hit the local bars & nightlife. (some of the crew as well) 

Tomorrow, we have the morning free and then leave for Angkor Ban. 

https://photos.app.goo.gl/YZYgAE4ronKLbgoE6