The Royal Palace of Cambodia sits at the centre of Phnom Penh, close to the Mekong River. Originally constructed in the late 19th century, it has since served as the residence for Cambodian monarchs – the only exception being the Khmer Rouge period.
Travel
Stories of my travels around the world.
Genocides Never Stopped Happening
In 1975 the Khmer Rouge began a systematic “purification” of Cambodia, resulting in a genocide that killed over 1.6 million people. These people were taken to remote locations outside the cities and buried in what are now known as the Killing Fields.
The Craziest House in Dalat
In Liverpool I used to go clubbing at a place called the Krazyhouse. But the Crazy House in Dalat is a very different experience. It serves as both a hostel and an architectural exhibit, another example of Dalat’s love for art.
The Boa Dai Summer Palace
Bao Dai, the last Emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty, built 3 palaces in Dalat. The third one, now known as Bao Dai Palace 3, is the most popular with tourists today. It sits as an example of French-influenced architecture and of the extravagant lifestyle enjoyed by the ruling classes.
A Hike Half Way Up Lang Biang
I always enjoy hiking when I can, and so I looked for a good place to do so while I was on the Dalat Peninsula. To the north of Dalat is a small town sitting beneath a mountain, both bearing the name Lang Biang.
The Secret Garden of Dalat
South of Dalat there is a place hidden within the woods. It is a garden filled with wooden walkways, benches and sculptures representing the local flora and fauna. Stepping through the gate feels like stepping into a Wonderland, though there is no white rabbit to follow here.
Dalat Clay Sculpture Tunnel
To the south of Dalat is a park full of clay sculptures, made using the locally sourced red basalt soil. As you move through the site, the sculptures tell the story of the Đà Lạt Plateau.
History in Lam Dong Museum
Lam Dong Museum covers the overall history of Vietnam, from prehistory to the war with the USA. It focuses on Lam Dong and Dalat, giving a general overview of each era, as well as the archeology used to study their history.
Dalat Youth Prison Museum
Dalat is known for its culture of art and creativity. But perhaps the most important place to visit in this city is the Youth Prison Museum. This place preserves the brutal history of how young children loyal to their country were treated during the war.
The Maze Bar with 100 Roofs
Dalat is a place where art seems to breathe with the air itself, where the walls whisper stories carved in wood and stone.