Compared to the rest of ancient and historic Cambodia, Sihanoukville is a brand new town. Named after Norodam Sihanouk, under whose leadership Cambodia became an independent kingdom in 1953, this is a modest-sized city on the west coast of the country, halfway between Thailand and Vietnam.

Our brief visit took us to the local market in the center of town where we tourists were targets, swarmed by the Tuk Tuk drivers trying to sell us a ride for American dollars. Tuk Tuks are small auto rickshaws that, like a centaur, is half motorcycle-half wagon and a universal taxi in Southeast Asia. Poverty was evident in the market area though on the drive to town beautiful villas dotted the nearby hillside, likely homes of the contrasting wealthy.

Present-day Cambodia belies it’s former economic and political power in history, and the country has suffered unspeakable horrors. The beaches near Sihanoukville are reportedly some of the best getaway destinations with a laid back and relaxed attitude, but the city’s charm was a bit elusive.

Sihanoukville Tuk Tuks, Cambodia

Sihanoukville Market, Cambodia

Sihanoukville Market, Cambodia

Sihanoukville, Cambodia