Phnom Penh City Tour: A Mekong River Boat Trip Review

Alright, so, you are thinking about checking out Phnom Penh, and you saw a Mekong River boat trip on the list, right? That is very cool, isn’t it? Basically, getting out on the water can be a completely awesome way to see a totally different view of the city and soak up a whole heap of culture at the same time, really. This review will give you the lowdown on what to expect, what to look out for, and why it could well be one of the highlights of your visit, like.

Why Take a Mekong River Boat Trip in Phnom Penh?

For starters, there is something so calming about being on a river, eh? Getting away from the busy streets of Phnom Penh and feeling the breeze as you cruise along the Mekong is totally wonderful, right? Then too, is that you see parts of the city that you just cannot get to by road. Picture this, nearly, viewing the Royal Palace gleaming in the afternoon sun from a really different perspective, maybe. You could even glide past floating villages, gaining a glimpse into a completely different way of life, in some respects.

Many of the tours have pretty knowledgeable guides, really. They share some really cool insights into the history of the region and the ways that the river has formed how the people live, actually. Plus, it is an ace opportunity for some stunning photos. Think about the sunlight dancing on the water or amazing sunsets casting shadows over the skyline.

What to Expect on Your River Adventure

First things first, there are a number of different types of tours up for grabs. Some of them are brief sightseeing trips, and a few head out for sunset cruises with a bit of dinner involved, virtually. Depending on which you pick, you might be on a smaller, longtail boat or a bigger vessel that has plenty of room to stretch out on, maybe. Typically, the tours set off from the docks around Sisowath Quay. Is that not easy to get to?

Along the route, you’ll be able to point your camera at iconic landmarks, in some respects. The previously mentioned Royal Palace is, of course, one, along with the Silver Pagoda, maybe. Keep an eye open for the floating communities, right; these settlements are homes and workplaces to those that depend on the river’s wealth, right. It is actually very interesting to see.

Oh, and don’t forget about sunset, really. Seriously, is there anything as wonderful as seeing the sun sink below the horizon, setting the Mekong on fire with red and orange hues? That’s very romantic, actually. A number of the tours are built around that exact moment, so really try to check that out if you are able.

Choosing the Right Tour for You

Okay, so you’re sold on the idea, maybe, but just where to begin with actually booking a tour? First of all, give a little thought as to what is important to you. Is it that you want a tour which really focuses on history? Maybe you might prefer a relaxing evening on the river, virtually? Consider the time of day. Morning trips can be less hot, yet the sunset cruises are more scenic, clearly.

Spend a little time reading some reviews online, maybe. Get a feel for the different companies and the views others have of their tours, usually. Then look carefully at the pricing and just what you are getting included. Occasionally, what looks like a steal isn’t, especially once you add on extras, like your transfers or that meal. Tour operators and travel agencies, actually, offer tickets, or maybe you are able to rock up at the dock and haggle something out for yourself.

Making the Most of Your Boat Trip: Tips and Tricks

First, sun protection is something you just should not even contemplate leaving home without. This is because Cambodia can be scorching. Apply sunscreen, bring sunglasses, and maybe consider a sunhat, really. Next, carry water to keep hydrated. It is possible you can buy drinks on board, but bringing some means you definitely have access to them, really.

Also, do take your camera. Even better, bring a camera with a really good zoom lens. Doing so gives you a great chance to get close-up photos of the river life and sights from a good distance, like. Another decent tip, just is to arrive in good time. Turning up late is not just discourteous to your tour guide and the other travelers; it can also mean that you lose your spot, and no one really wants that, clearly. You could even engage a little with your guide and the others taking part. That provides some interesting perspectives on everything that you’re experiencing and you could well learn stuff, really.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

Safety must be a top thing to think about, right, so check that there are life jackets onboard and pay close attention to any safety briefs that are given. Keeping an eye on your belongings is important too. Keep anything valuable secure, like, especially when you’re in a busy place.

A measure of respect for the local customs really makes a whole heap of difference. If you go past local people on the river, particularly in residential locations, avoid doing anything that they might find insensitive. Do not make too much noise, or get too close to them without any permission, really.

Basically, going on a Mekong River boat trip as part of your city tour in Phnom Penh offers a way of seeing the place and learning all about the culture from an unusual angle, right. From the breathtaking scenes of the sunset across the water through to spotting the local way of life on the river, it really might turn out to be the high point of your trip, just. Prepare appropriately, pick a tour which actually works for you, and appreciate those exceptional moments that only being out on the Mekong can provide, arguably.