I like Phnom Penh at this juncture of their urban development. It is still attractive and offers something for the seasoned traveler and curious tourist. The previous trips have been so rushed till I haven’t had time to check out the massages. This trip, I do.
There aren’t very many sleazy massage parlors in town. In fact, those are discouraged and frowned upon by the Cambodians. I’m pleasantly surprised to find rather nice spas that have recently sprung up or refurbished around Sisowath Quay. By ‘nice’, I mean clean, well ventilated with private rooms and decorated in a pleasing manner where I’ll be comfortable stripping down, not one with dodgy signboards that’s full of incense and sandalwood smells with the stench of oil still lingering. If I don’t want to pay USD85 for a traditional Khmer massage and USD25 for a foot rub at Raffles Hotel’s Amrita Spa, there’re other options which offer a reasonable rate of USD25 and USD8 respectively within a 10 minute drive (20 minute walk) from the hotel.
Favorite picks are the spas Sayana Rumdul, Amara and Bliss. The traditional Khmer massage is effectively a Thai massage. As a layman, I can’t tell the difference. Which originated from where and whom? I’m not bothered. The only thing of concern would be the good therapists who can could do a decent massage.
My pick is always the traditional Khmer massage. It’s fabulous. I’ve been pulled, twisted and stretched at all angles. The therapists iron out the teeny kinks and cracks in the body and bones, all felt good.
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