Come to Cambodia

Hi,

This is my first trip to this amazing Country and I cannot understand why I left it so long. The cafe bar culture is way up at the top there with big cities of the World with vibrant exciting well decorated bars, run by attentive good English speaking friendly staff, everywhere I have been so far.

The busy pub streets in the town are approximately a 2 km square, easy on foot to negotiate, with all kinds of bars in nooks and crannies as well as good and surprisingly well presented open bars.

The people are warm, interested in doing business, and love giving you good service.

Siem Reap is great value with fabulous food and drink at a fraction of the cost of Thailand. The bars and restaurants cater for literally everyone. I was in the Chuuksa vegetarian place, operated by a Pakistani gentleman and his Khymer partner last night, $6.00 and a tray, not a plate, of delicious food that was more than enough for two, let alone one and the place is teeming with similar establishments, with quality fare. I loved the food, the place and the experience.

I am presently in the Cockatoo resort operated by Peter and his Philippino partner Virgil. They are friendly great guys with a vast knowledge of Cambodia. I highly recommend their eco resort. It has fabulous gardens and swimming pool with decking and ample seating. Check out their website or go to trip advisor to look what others think about it. They have only nine rooms, gay friendly but discreet and polite is a nice way to be in Cambodia,and is appreciated by the locals! The resort is three minutes from town in a tuk tuk at a cost of $1.00 supplied by the resort and friendly driver.

La Linga bar, good pleasant bar but a lot of moneyboys who can be a nuisance if you allow them. Good staff and pleasant surroundings. They do some kind of ladyboy/drag show, a bit tacky and I am not into these kind of shows, but some of you maybe.

Station bar. New upmarket gay bar but also caters for straights, no problems, pleasant and four big beers for $4 dollars in total.

Miss Wongs. Great looking bar but was too busy to get in even though we went back twice! Red decor and Chinese overall looking place with open Cafe frontage. They do some kind of show, but is only fairly small and, as I said, was too busy for us.

Various massage places offering no nonsense massages at $5 dollars an hour. I haven't bothered with this or even explored it further, but will do!

I think I may possibly have found the city I am looking for, even though I enjoyed Laos, there is more going on here and I believe this place is going to explode into one of the best destinations in Asia for the traveller. It is Thailand 25 years ago. These people genuinely want you to have a good time in their Country.

I am off to the Land mine museums etc today and will try to update later on more attractions and must see visits and things to do.

The khymers are a constantly smiling, young, fun loving great looking set of people.

[Khor tose]

Cambodia would be my second choice, if things ever went further South then they are in Thailand. Great country with lots of potential, good looking and friendly people. There is corruption, but less then Thailand

[Brisboy82]

I very much share your enthusiasm for Cambodia. In fact in many aspects I actually prefer Cambodia over Thailand.

The Cambodians are amazing people and they are very welcoming which is good of them considering we left them for dead through the 70s and 80s after sparking up the trouble there in the first place!

I try to visit Cambodia at least once on each SE Asian trip. It's an addictive place. And it's a great party too. They really know how to have fun there.

[stevehadders]

Totally agree with you all - loved Phnom Penh and SR - if you are still in SR Kevin, try the Nest Restaurant - loved it

[PaulCambo]

If you are still in Siem Reap, you should go to MEN's Resort (http://www.mens-resort.com).

This gay venue is probably the most popular with gay tourists and local guys.

It's a great place, with a wonderful boutique hotel, a gym, a large pool, massage service, ...

The Sauna/Spa is more crowded between 7pm-9pm.

Have a look to the website: www.mens-resort.com (http://www.mens-resort.com), it is absolutly the place to go for gay travellers.

http://www.mens-resort.com/pics/banner-04.jpg (http://www.mens-resort.com)

[youtube:1ar6azig]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z9hRdPpTL3I[/youtube:1ar6azig]

If you are still in Siem Reap, you should go to MEN's Resort (http://www.mens-resort.com).

This gay venue is probably the most popular with gay tourists and local guys.

It's a great place, with a wonderful boutique hotel, a gym, a large pool, massage service, ...

The Sauna/Spa is more crowded between 7pm-9pm.

Have a look to the website: www.mens-resort.com (http://www.mens-resort.com), it is absolutly the place to go for gay travellers.

http://www.mens-resort.com/pics/banner-04.jpg (http://www.mens-resort.com)

[youtube:1pwn1rvo]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z9hRdPpTL3I[/youtube:1pwn1rvo]


Hi,

Went to Men's yesterday!!! more later

BEST to you all,

Kevin

[thonglor55]

I'm looking forward to the Phnom Penh report. It wasn't until the fourth para I realised Kevin was writing about Siem Reap.
Cambodia would be my second choice, if things ever went further South then they are in Thailand. IF?? You have doubts?!

[Brisboy82]

That Men's resort is great! I didn't work up the courage to use the sauna there until my last night and went in when I thought there was nobody there and ended up fucking 3 Cambodians in ten minutes :D Lovely place.

[thonglor55]

... ended up fucking 3 Cambodians in ten minutes.You came 3 times? Such stamina :happy7:

[Brisboy82]

... ended up fucking 3 Cambodians in ten minutes.You came 3 times? Such stamina :happy7:

That would be impressive! No the first guy I left alone after he cummed :P

I didn't realise until they came out of the sauna that they were all actually friends who went there together. I guess they would have compared notes later.

Hi,

Men's Resort is a great looking hotel, good rooms which I viewed and nice pool area. There is a common denial by all owners of these gay places and that is the proximity to the Old Market area and Pub Street! They are nowhere near for the lazy ones amongst us.

Men's is down a dirt track and I would not fancy returning alone late night in the blackness, with howling dogs etc. Once you are there you are more or less stuck there unless you have an arrangement with a tuk tuk.

Miss Wong's is quite OK as a town centre fun bar destination and quite popular.

Linga Bar last night had a drag show on a tiny stage at the bar entrance. It is that tacky it is funny, but was most appreciated by the outside street urchins ands tuk tuk drivers, none of whom help in the bar revenue or contribute to its income.

Golden Banana appeared to be under renovations.

Eight rooms, good location, cheap rooms and basic services, but you get what you pay for.

Grand Cafe. Great mixed eating place in the centre of town but not really a ' gay venue ' as such, good food at reasonable prices. All Siem Reap offers too many places for the foodies and specially looks after the veggies.

Tuk tuks can be hired at anything from $8-$12 dollars a day to look around town. These guys need the money and are prepared to do deals.

Molly Malones is an in town residential irish pub. Non gay but who cares and traditional good irish breakfasts and extensive menu. Excellent location.

I visited the National museum. A fabulous day out two day pass for $12 dollars and great audio visual commentary for an extra $3 dollars. A great start to learn and understand the history of Angkor before you visit the temples, which I am doing Wednesday next.

The town does quad bike rentals, trips in microlight planes, Crocodile farm, horse riding trips etc all relatively inexpensive. The government likes you to use registered Angkor Wat guides for visiting the temples as opposed to unauthorised ones, these are about $25 dollars a day.

There, now you can do, go and enjoy yourselves!

[Beachlover]

This is my first trip to this amazing Country and I cannot understand why I left it so long... The people are warm, interested in doing business, and love giving you good service... Siem Reap is great value with fabulous food and drink at a fraction of the cost of Thailand.
Totally agree... had pretty similar thoughts when I first landed in Cambodia.


I think I may possibly have found the city I am looking for...
Not sure of your plans but if you're seeking to open a new hospitality/service business in Asia, outside Thailand, Siem Reap may be the place. Thriving destination for travelers and LOTS of gay entrepreneurs have gotten creative in developing a whole host of business, from restaurants and hotels to spas and bars.


Men's Resort is a great looking hotel, good rooms which I viewed and nice pool area. There is a common denial by all owners of these gay places and that is the proximity to the Old Market area and Pub Street! They are nowhere near for the lazy ones amongst us.

Men's is down a dirt track and I would not fancy returning alone late night in the blackness, with howling dogs etc. Once you are there you are more or less stuck there unless you have an arrangement with a tuk tuk.
Well put and totally agree... stunning facilities. Just have to put up with the location.

"Hotel Be" or "The One Hotel" would be my pick. Gay owned and run. Really nice and located smack bang next to Pub Street where the action is. But doesn't have the facilities that MENS has.

Hi Beachy,

You see to me I really don't care about a place that its gay owned and run. I find them all in a bit clique in Siem Reap who own bars, they tend to huddle together as though they know something that the customer doesn't. This I have noticed and those in straight bars are far more willing to give you information on local customs, rules and regulations.

Anyone going about their lives well mannered over here, with a smile, firm but polite, I can't see them having problems or stares from other guests in straight establishments with a Khymer guy, although it's early days and I may be wrong on this!

The Cambodians are very careful as to what their peers are seeing and their opinions on this area, in what I can see.

To be honest, I am a bit careful and have not got involved at all with any trade, especially due to the fact I have computers, i phones etc in the room with me. I think, I don't know the place well and you can't be too careful.

This Country is way poorer than many in SE Asia, although I must say, up to press, I have not felt threatened at all, quite the opposite but no need to show or flash wealth, is there??, to people in their financial situation.

It really is a bit of culture shock but marvellous experiences every day that goes by.

[Brisboy82]

The mens resort is in a very obscure location but there's tuk tusk available 24 hours a day waiting at the door to take you into town in about five minutes.

The resort is amazing value for money and there's always people at the bar to chat with even when I wa there in super low season.

The hotel staff are all very nice but they aren't allowed to sleep with guests so I had to take one to a short time room elsewhere ;)

Hi,

One or two mentioned the Cambodian visa and I can only describe my personal experience.

VISA

There is a t visa available for one month with the possibility of extending by another month. After that, you must leave the Country. The visa I requested was an e visa for business at $25. This visa is valid for a month but can then be extended up to ONE YEAR MULTIPLE ENTRY by going to a travel shop and allowing them to do it for you, and yes, unlike Thailand, this is acceptable practice. It can be extended ad infinitum.

I didn't. After making friends with an immigration officer, he explained he had to go to Phnom Penn the following day and would be prepared to do it for me personally, with a donation to pay for his transport. He duly arrived at my hotel and I handed the photos to him and $300 dollars. I have seen websites where this visa is available at $250 but most people who live here say they pay about $275 using an agent. I am perfectly satisfied therefore not to be interested in $25 dollars for the officers personal assistance and cutting through long queues and whatever red tape there is. This is all legal by the way!

I find immigration authorities here inobtrusive, pleasant and polite and not surly and greedy as in some other Countries. You are not stopped or asked to produce your passport anywhere except for obvious things such as cashing travellers cheques. I cashed some at the airport booth and was charged a commission which I couldn't figure out why.

TIPPING

This practice is NOT expected for every small service as it is in Pattaya and Bangkok such as bringing your luggage down from the room or opening a bloody door! They are actually slightly embarrased by it and as I left a tip after a couple of beers in a bar, she left it in the change pot and ignored it until I had vacated. Most people I have observed leave about a $1 or $2 dollar tip but there is certainly not any hard and fast rule or whispers of them being a tightwad if they don't!

BEGGARS.

The goverment has removed 95% of beggars. There are a few in number, but children try to sell you books on the genocide or flowers, saying they have no parents. A bit of a scam and a minor irritation. Visitors are recommended not to encourage them by giving to the correctly labelled recognised charities here, if they wish to help the Country. It is best not to sit at tables very nearly on the sidewalk in Cafes as these are the hot spots for you and the prime spots for the beggars. There are quite a few land mine victims but they are trying to sell their goods not beg for money.

NIGHT MARKET

Don't buy things at VASTLY inflated prices in the museums, who don't allow you to take photographs in there either. In fact, don't buy anything until you have been to the night market with goods at fabulous prices and good/reasonable quality for what you are paying. It's a great pleasurable experience.

WALKING AROUND

This is safe but I wouldn't go off the beaten track or in the many unlit areas late night. You wouldn't do it at home! The people are great but there are bound to be bad apples and opportunists in a tourist town like Siem Reap.

MONEYBOYS

After the initial surge in interest and OTT behaviour, they seem to have calmed down in the bars after a couple of days and can then actually be quite useful for information and pleasant to talk to. They do, by and large, accept NO for an answer. THEY USUALLY START AT $50 EXPECTING YOU TO BEAT THEM DOWN TO $30!

TWO DRAGONS.

For those on a limited or tight budget there is the Two Dragons guest house in Wat Bo. It's a tuk tuk into town but very cheap place to stay and recommended on trip advisor. However, the main reason I am telling you is the fact they serve good beer and specialise in THAI food. I love ISSARN food which they serve as the owners wife is Thai. There were a few mixed couples on my visit of Thai/farang. Please do not get the idea it is a GAY guesthouse, it isn't. It's a budget guesthouse.

TUK TUKS

A fair price for them is $12 a DAY waiting around for you at temples ans sightseeing. They are offering afternoon deals at the moment for $5 in the low season. You can't complain at that rate!

Hi,

Still stranded in Siem Reap! What a shame, eh?

Hairdresser came to my hotel from the Linga bar today and insisted we have the ' excitement ' I was a bit hesitant, but you have these things to do sometimes for England.

No mention of money, Well he didn't , so nor did I....... :laughing3: Don't want to be rude and offend the natives!

Had one of the best indian meals in my life, and I've lived in Bradford and Halifax in the UK. The place is called MAHARAJAH, Taste of India in the Old market area near pub street. Everything original except the name! Chicken tikka massala and beautiful lamb sheek kebabs with all the trimmings, $11.50............www.maharajah.biz...........tel. 063 966 221


I am thinking of heading down to P.P. about Thursday and visiting Land mine museum tomorrow.

You all must come here to Siem Reap at least once in your life.

My last update for a while..............

NIGHTCLUBS.

The ZONE.

This is Siem Reap at its worst with low class hookers of both genders, grabbing, screaming in a drunken Hollywood style atmosphere. Also, the 4 x 4 big car brigade of cambodian noveau rich are here, demanding and ruling the roost, as any visitors to Hollywood of old will remember.

HIP HOP DISCO.

Inside similar to the above. They are not so keen on us late night seeing them in this environment. However, it has a great beer garden attached where you can sit, relax and enjoy a drink. These are definitely not really pick up places for Foreigners, and the attitude is a lot more that this is their space.

Most of these people are there with their friends and partners. just good advice for any members foolish enough to think their khymer Discos are similar to Hollywood in Pattaya as we knew it.

[Brisboy82]

Have you not been to phnom penh? If you liked siem reap you will love phnom penh I think. It's a pretty wild city always plenty to do and much bigger and better gay scene than siem reap. I fid siem reap a little bit too glossed over whereas phnom penh is a bit more rough around the edges and feels more genuinely Cambodian.

Have you not been to phnom penh? If you liked siem reap you will love phnom penh I think. It's a pretty wild city always plenty to do and much bigger and better gay scene than siem reap. I fid siem reap a little bit too glossed over whereas phnom penh is a bit more rough around the edges and feels more genuinely Cambodian.


Hi,

I pick and meet far more of my type on the straight scene than the gay scene but am heading to PP this week!

[Brisboy82]

Well you will also find a lot more 'straight scene' in phnom penh as it's a large city as opposed to siem reap which is a small tourist town. I have also found the people in phnom penh to be friendlier although those in siem reap are not unfriendly.

Phnom penh feels more real than siem reap as it is not a tourist trap. The vibe is great there you will really love it.

[thonglor55]

The vibe is great there you will really love it.Don't you mean "I really love it and I hope you will too"??

[Brisboy82]

The vibe is great there you will really love it.Don't you mean "I really love it and I hope you will too"??

If I meant that I would have said it! Everything that Kevin mentioned liking about siem reap... Phnom penh has more of. What's not to like.

Personally I'm not a big fan of siem reap but the things that Kevin mentioned liking about the place are things I did appreciate and enjoy there. And are also things that were in better abundance in phnom penh.

Can you get a SIM card for a mobile phone when you arrive at Siam Reap or do Thai cards work there because it is close to the border??

[Brisboy82]

Can you get a SIM card for a mobile phone when you arrive at Siam Reap or do Thai cards work there because it is close to the border??

It might be best to get one there as I am pretty sure you can't get Thai reception and btw siem reap is actually a pretty long way from the Thai border.

Hi,

PHNOM PENN.

It's vibrant, noisy and unwashed. It is rough around the edges and I have been warned four times by the place I am staying, it is dangerous as there have been large spates of drive by thefts and muggings. When I was coming to P.P. a couple of guys were attempting to get me in an unlicensed car which had no number plates andf two dodgy shifties eyeing me up. We sent them on their way. I did the journey in about six hours at $60. This was English speaking driver I managed to get via Cockatoo Resort, based in Phnom Penn. His name is Kan Sotheara and he speaks English and chinese. His e mail is kansotheara@yahoo.com a great driver for you guys.

BLUE CHILLI BAR

The blue chilli bar was pleasant clean, nice environment with a few expats loitering and sitting the bar. The staff are friendly but I didn't like being asked to pay for my drink as soon as I sat down, with the excuse of ' Sir, We very busy ' ...........No, they weren't! I was approached by an unattractive MB within seconds and he got..........NOTHING., he wasn't even genuinely making an effort and wandered off to another table. There were not so many in there. The ex pats at the bar reminded me of an old wild west saloon, where they turn, glance at you over the shoulder and go back to their bar whispering hunched over their drink.

RAINBOW BAR.

We're back to the nonsense of lip sync drag shows appealing to kerb crawlers, tuk tuk drivers and Street urchins. Reminded me a bit of Sunnee Plaza.................on a bad night..... to be honest. Not my scene at all. Again I'll give it another go.

HEART OF DARKNESS

I went at 10.30pm and it had not opened.I'll try again. I am just trying to keep you updated as I move. Sometimes I have struggled to get Wi Fi. signal and my laptop has done some weird things in Asia. Apparently this is a very mixed clientele. Seen a few backpackers and old aged ex bikers (or possibly ageing hippies) that I overheard saying they were going

KILLING FIELDS

You don't need a taxi driver for this. He conned me into it. Do they never learn. Get a cheap tuk tuk. It is what it is and not for the faint hearted although I have been told it has been sanitized a lot due to japanese money helping them out. $2 dollars entry and you can take photographs, should you wish. I met a survivor. who is giving evidence against ' Duch 'at the moment in the War crimes trial. He survived because he could paint and was used by Pol Pot for his drawings and paintings. He has a book out, which he signed for me at $10 for the book. i DO INTEND TO POST PHOTOS AT SOME LATER DATE FOR EVERYONE.


TOUL SLENG/S21 EXTERMINATION HOLDING BARRACKS.

I won't be rushing back. It's awful to see it first hand. Barbarism beyond belief.$1 dollar to go in. These places which charge us next to nothing to go in, use the money to fund the education of bright but poor students.

[thonglor55]

The vibe is great there you will really love it.Don't you mean "I really love it and I hope you will too"??If I meant that I would have said it! Everything that Kevin mentioned liking about siem reap... Phnom penh has more of. What's not to like.It certainly reads as though Kevin is enjoying it, just as you said.

Hi Brisboy82,

I am not really sure if I need another city like this after the bustle in a previous life of Bangkok and all the nonsense I have been through or maybe I am just getting old. I'm 49 now and dont move as fast, Hehehe!

I am struggling with P.P. and also with the mentality of the Cambodians. Trade wise, as I have saids earlier, unless you are into Ladyboy MBs, which I'm not, these guys are trying to maintain a macho image to their friends and onlookers. Yes, they'll go with you to restaurants, eat like horses at the most expensive things on the menu and then drink like fish. After that, they are saying goodbye with not so much as a kiss my arse.

Of course the Cambodians in Thailand were not the same, they were equally into the sport and the money attached as much as were the Thais, but I am in their land now and they behave different. It may be, you must be a lot more discreet here? They don't even seem that enthusiastic to be working in alleged gay bars!

They are constantly trying to dream up ideas for you to part company with your money, trips etc constantly but politely asking you to go to markets and places where they will receive kickbacks etc but what's new about that, they are not as polished as the Thais in this area.

The above of course are all my own opinions and what I have found it to be. A great deal of those I am coming across really speak English well. Maybe I should get back to the farmers on the outskirts of Siem Reap ? Ha!.. :laughing3: Siem Reap is much smaller and I think I kind of like it there to be honest.

There are no restrictions on smoking in most places such as cafes, restaurants, bars. Work permits are coming in soon but at moment they say nothing about Foreigners working if you have a one year business visa. Anyone going to PDR Lao or Cambodia is best to buy a Sim card on arrival, they are cheap and easy to install.

The old old story, you can't beat how Thailand used to be for trade, although I jump at PDR Lao as a good option!

However, this Country needs to be seen, enjoyed and appreciated for its attractions and sights on their own, never mind jumping into bed with all the natives at every opportuntity. A lot easier on the women front as I visited a couple of bars.

Mind you gents, it's early days and your money goes a lot further here in Cambodia and in PDR Lao. I have been trying to do some things at 90 mph so my opinions may change. Also, the waiter has just informed me that he gets $60 a month, but he wants a computer like mine!.................so you never know!......... :laughing3: :laughing3:

[Brisboy82]

Hi Brisboy82,

I am not really sure if I need another city like this after the bustle in a previous life of Bangkok and all the nonsense I have been through or maybe I am just getting old. I'm 49 now and dont move as fast, Hehehe!

I am struggling with P.P. and also with the mentality of the Cambodians. Trade wise, as I have saids earlier, unless you are into Ladyboy MBs, which I'm not, these guys are trying to maintain a macho image to their friends and onlookers. Yes, they'll go with you to restaurants, eat like horses at the most expensive things on the menu and then drink like fish. After that, they are saying goodbye with not so much as a kiss my arse.

Of course the Cambodians in Thailand were not the same, they were equally into the sport and the money attached as much as were the Thais, but I am in their land now and they behave different. It may be, you must be a lot more discreet here? They don't even seem that enthusiastic to be working in alleged gay bars!

They are constantly trying to dream up ideas for you to part company with your money, trips etc constantly but politely asking you to go to markets and places where they will receive kickbacks etc but what's new about that, they are not as polished as the Thais in this area.

The above of course are all my own opinions and what I have found it to be. A great deal of those I am coming across really speak English well. Maybe I should get back to the farmers on the outskirts of Siem Reap ? Ha!.. :laughing3: Siem Reap is much smaller and I think I kind of like it there to be honest.

There are no restrictions on smoking in most places such as cafes, restaurants, bars. Work permits are coming in soon but at moment they say nothing about Foreigners working if you have a one year business visa. Anyone going to PDR Lao or Cambodia is best to buy a Sim card on arrival, they are cheap and easy to install.

The old old story, you can't beat how Thailand used to be for trade, although I jump at PDR Lao as a good option!

However, this Country needs to be seen, enjoyed and appreciated for its attractions and sights on their own, never mind jumping into bed with all the natives at every opportuntity. A lot easier on the women front as I visited a couple of bars.

Mind you gents, it's early days and your money goes a lot further here in Cambodia and in PDR Lao. I have been trying to do some things at 90 mph so my opinions may change. Also, the waiter has just informed me that he gets $60 a month, but he wants a computer like mine!.................so you never know!......... :laughing3: :laughing3:

Well Phnom Penh is not that big of a city but it certainly is chaotic. Mind you that is Cambodia. In fact Phnom Penh is actually more tidy and orderly than the rest of the country. Apart from Siem Reap which isn't really Cambodia but rather a theme park for tourists visiting Angkor. Very nice place to relax though.

Btw 49 isn't old, my parents are that age and they aren't ready to settle down yet :P

[stevehadders]

Kevin,

can we not persuade you to open a bar in SR ?

[bao-bao]

Anyone going to PDR Lao or Cambodia is best to buy a Sim card on arrival, they are cheap and easy to install.
Kevin - I wasn't able to find or buy a SIM card during my time in Cambodia. I was fairly well booked up and had pretty good internet connectivity at the guest houses I stayed at so it wasn't all that important, but if I were to try to spend a longer time there I'd like to have a phone available. What spots did you find them for sale?

UPDATE.

Hi,

Brisboy82.

Went out last night to Heart of Darkness with a waiter from my Hotel who asked to come with me, probably one of the best looking guys in the nightclub, It was an absolutely fun packed fabulous night. Great sound system, great lighting, We sat on the upstairs sofa section, I never seeked any other areas out as I was enjoying myself with him.

Earlier in the evening, he had taken me on a very long walk on the riverside right up to NagaWorld Casino and around the Royal Palace and over the bridge where all those people died last year. We also went through some new boulevards along the front. It was interesting and relaxing and gave me a grip of the city.

I like the laid back non serious way the monks interact with the people around Phnom Penn as well. We cut through the temple grounds.

We also visited Blue Chilli again, which was nothing special entertainment wise, but pleasant, attentive and friendly staff and a few trying to pick you up, however, not necessary as I was already being looked after. We also went to a couple of normal well decorated lounge bars on the front, where he treated himself to a couple of cocktails, and they were good as well.

Stevehadders.

I am looking around, taking it all in and will see what happens. I haven't been to Sihanoukville yet, which is on my list. The barriers seem to be coming down and I like Phnom Penn, there is still more to see and I am open to any tips or suggestions.

Bao Bao.

I just told them at Cockatoo resort, in Siem Reap I needed a sim card. The tuk tuk driver was dispatched and reappeared with a sim card, FOC. He loaded it with $10 and I am still using it after a week and have been calling around a few places including Thailand.



It's a good City and a lot easier to get around than Bangkok for sure. I like the place now I have given it a chance. I was by the riverside last night and it was very busy with courting couples etc on a sunday evening, skateboarders etc.

[Brisboy82]

Phnom penh does grow on you. At first it seems crazy and chaotic but once you catch the chilled vibe of the people there it becomes a much more relaxing place.

I applied for my electronic visa online and it took under 48 hours very good and quick but I couldnt apply for a business visa that way just a tourist one so I wonder how you got a business visa electronically kquill.

I applied for my electronic visa online and it took under 48 hours very good and quick but I couldnt apply for a business visa that way just a tourist one so I wonder how you got a business visa electronically kquill.


Brisbaneguy,

If you read my posts, I explained it very clearly how I got the business visa. I got it via the airport after first obtaining the e visa at the airport, and then using the immigration Police.

I've put it below in the next post for you again, any problems PM or e mail me. You can't do it online!

Brisbaneguy,
Hi,

One or two mentioned the Cambodian visa and I can only describe my personal experience.

VISA

There is a t visa available for one month with the possibility of extending by another month. After that, you must leave the Country. The visa I requested was an e visa for business at $25. This visa is valid for a month but can then be extended up to ONE YEAR MULTIPLE ENTRY by going to a travel shop and allowing them to do it for you, and yes, unlike Thailand, this is acceptable practice. It can be extended ad infinitum.

I didn't. After making friends with an immigration officer, he explained he had to go to Phnom Penn the following day and would be prepared to do it for me personally, with a donation to pay for his transport. He duly arrived at my hotel and I handed the photos to him and $300 dollars. I have seen websites where this visa is available at $250 but most people who live here say they pay about $275 using an agent. I am perfectly satisfied therefore not to be interested in $25 dollars for the officers personal assistance and cutting through long queues and whatever red tape there is. This is all legal by the way!

I find immigration authorities here inobtrusive, pleasant and polite and not surly and greedy as in some other Countries. You are not stopped or asked to produce your passport anywhere except for obvious things such as cashing travellers cheques. I cashed some at the airport booth and was charged a commission which I couldn't figure out why.

TIPPING

This practice is NOT expected for every small service as it is in Pattaya and Bangkok such as bringing your luggage down from the room or opening a bloody door! They are actually slightly embarrased by it and as I left a tip after a couple of beers in a bar, she left it in the change pot and ignored it until I had vacated. Most people I have observed leave about a $1 or $2 dollar tip but there is certainly not any hard and fast rule or whispers of them being a tightwad if they don't!

BEGGARS.

The goverment has removed 95% of beggars. There are a few in number, but children try to sell you books on the genocide or flowers, saying they have no parents. A bit of a scam and a minor irritation. Visitors are recommended not to encourage them by giving to the correctly labelled recognised charities here, if they wish to help the Country. It is best not to sit at tables very nearly on the sidewalk in Cafes as these are the hot spots for you and the prime spots for the beggars. There are quite a few land mine victims but they are trying to sell their goods not beg for money.

NIGHT MARKET

Don't buy things at VASTLY inflated prices in the museums, who don't allow you to take photographs in there either. In fact, don't buy anything until you have been to the night market with goods at fabulous prices and good/reasonable quality for what you are paying. It's a great pleasurable experience.

WALKING AROUND

This is safe but I wouldn't go off the beaten track or in the many unlit areas late night. You wouldn't do it at home! The people are great but there are bound to be bad apples and opportunists in a tourist town like Siem Reap.

MONEYBOYS

After the initial surge in interest and OTT behaviour, they seem to have calmed down in the bars after a couple of days and can then actually be quite useful for information and pleasant to talk to. They do, by and large, accept NO for an answer. THEY USUALLY START AT $50 EXPECTING YOU TO BEAT THEM DOWN TO $30!

TWO DRAGONS.

For those on a limited or tight budget there is the Two Dragons guest house in Wat Bo. It's a tuk tuk into town but very cheap place to stay and recommended on trip advisor. However, the main reason I am telling you is the fact they serve good beer and specialise in THAI food. I love ISSARN food which they serve as the owners wife is Thai. There were a few mixed couples on my visit of Thai/farang. Please do not get the idea it is a GAY guesthouse, it isn't. It's a budget guesthouse.

TUK TUKS

A fair price for them is $12 a DAY waiting around for you at temples ans sightseeing. They are offering afternoon deals at the moment for $5 in the low season. You can't complain at that rate!

[Brisboy82]

How much is two dragons guesthouse and can you bring guys there? I usually stay at Capitol
Guesthouse which is cheap and fairly basic but they have no problems with guests there. I'm looking to step up slightly in price and quality. Capitol was 11 dollars a night last time. I am looking for something up to 50 a night this time. Around 30 dollars would be perfect.

How much is two dragons guesthouse and can you bring guys there? I usually stay at Capitol
Guesthouse which is cheap and fairly basic but they have no problems with guests there. I'm looking to step up slightly in price and quality. Capitol was 11 dollars a night last time. I am looking for something up to 50 a night this time. Around 30 dollars would be perfect.

Hi,

If that is your budget why not stay at Cockatoo Resort, gay owners, you can bring back, swimming pool,privacy, taxi at your disposal for $1 into town. e mail and ask for a deal or book it cheaper than $50 on Agoda hotels.

Two Dragons is way down the basic ladder, I don't think they would say anything at all but it is a step away from being backpackers hostel to be honest. price is adjusted according to what they think you will pay, $14 dollars area!

[thonglor55]

can we not persuade you to open a bar in SR ?Perhaps he could call it Linga Longer??

I applied for my electronic visa online and it took under 48 hours very good and quick but I couldnt apply for a business visa that way just a tourist one so I wonder how you got a business visa electronically kquill.If you read my posts, I explained it very clearly how I got the business visa. I got it via the airport after first obtaining the e visa at the airport, and then using the immigration Police.I think you're being a bit harsh on BrisbaneGuy, Kevin. In your post you write about getting an "e visa for business". An "E" visa is a business visa and cannot be applied for online; BrisbaneGuy was writing about his "e-visa" which is a "T" visa and is only a tourist visa. He was asking how you got a business e-visa online, which is what you implied but not what you meant. I dispute your statement that you described the process "very clearly". To all those people who think I'm being pedantic when I point out that what they are writing is poor English (especially common among so-called English teachers) and give as an excuse "why should I bother you must know what I mean anyway" I'd say this is a prime example of inadvertent confusion where "you must know what I mean" simply doesn't apply!

can we not persuade you to open a bar in SR ?Perhaps he could call it Linga Longer??

I applied for my electronic visa online and it took under 48 hours very good and quick but I couldnt apply for a business visa that way just a tourist one so I wonder how you got a business visa electronically kquill.If you read my posts, I explained it very clearly how I got the business visa. I got it via the airport after first obtaining the e visa at the airport, and then using the immigration Police.I think you're being a bit harsh on BrisbaneGuy, Kevin. In your post you write about getting an "e visa for business". An "E" visa is a business visa and cannot be applied for online; BrisbaneGuy was writing about his "e-visa" which is a "T" visa and is only a tourist visa. He was asking how you got a business e-visa online, which is what you implied but not what you meant. I dispute your statement that you described the process "very clearly". To all those people who think I'm being pedantic when I point out that what they are writing is poor English (especially common among so-called English teachers) and give as an excuse "why should I bother you must know what I mean anyway" I'd say this is a prime example of inadvertent confusion where "you must know what I mean" simply doesn't apply!


OK Thonglor/Brisbaneguy,

Apologies indeed, never my intention to be rude or harsh at all, only helpful. Same applies if you get stuck, I'll try get that immigration cop to help you.

Problem is this. The Embassy of Cambodia, I think, will only give you T visa online. The E visa for one month, you can get immediately at Siem Reap airport and I should imagine, equally easy at Phnom Penn on arrival at the airport.

Once you have that E visa for one month,($25 dollars), the cop or a good travel agent will apply for a one year E visa to replace your one month business visa. The relevant costs are then as I mentioned. Without googling, I seem to recall the fee of about $250 but guys in town say they are charged $275/280 for this by an agent. You do not have to go to Phnom Penn with your passport.

I paid a little extra ($300) to get the immigration cop to do it for me and thought it was well worth it, instead of me fumbling around in Phnom Penn.

Again, now you have a T visa, you can extend only for one more month on expiry of the first month T visa. You then must leave the Country.

I have two thoughts on this but will have to check if I am right.

1. The obvious is to leave then go through the process again at the airport asking for E visa next time on arrival then extending it to one year. That's straightforward.

2. Asking immigration to cancel the T visa with immediate effect, telling them you applied in error for the wrong visa online and lose whatever you paid for it and request an E visa on arrival to replace it but pay for a new E visa for a month. If they will do that, and I can't see why they can't, it will be cheaper in the long run than leaving the country. What I will say, these guys at immigration are glad you are here and pleased to help you.

Hope this is clearer for you, and I may have jumped from one subject to the other as it made sense to me having done it, sorry my friend!

[aot871]

IM visiting pp this coming november, and staying at the manor guest house in pp, its owned and run by an aussie guy and his cambodian bf. friends of mine from pattaya always stay there, and its got its own webb page, priced about $55 for delux room dependin g on time of year

[Brisboy82]

Are you going to check out Sihanoukville?

Hi,

I will be busy checking out a 36 room hotel in SR for sale and looking at other stuff this next couple of weeks

[Brisboy82]

Hi,

I will be busy checking out a 36 room hotel in SR for sale and looking at other stuff this next couple of weeks

I'm quite curious about se Asian real estate. Can a foreigner own a hotel and the land ot sits on in Cambodia? How does one go about this?

Hi,

I will be busy checking out a 36 room hotel in SR for sale and looking at other stuff this next couple of weeks

I'm quite curious about se Asian real estate. Can a foreigner own a hotel and the land ot sits on in Cambodia? How does one go about this?


Hi,

They differ in Asian countries is the correct answer. You can actually own land in Cambodia by obtaining Cambodian citizenship. There are other ways such as the 49% stakeholding as in Thailand and also very very long leases which Cambodia allows at this stage.

Cambodia will be my preferred choice as doing business is far easier than Thailand.

[bao-bao]

This sounds like the beginnings of a very interesting saga, Kevin - hope you'll share what you can, when you can. I'm looking forward to going along for the ride!

This sounds like the beginnings of a very interesting saga, Kevin - hope you'll share what you can, when you can. I'm looking forward to going along for the ride!


Hi,

No problem at all, I'll let everyone know as I find out anything.

[Brad the Impala]

Why ever would you want to be quoting Pol Pot in all your posts?!

Why ever would you want to be quoting Pol Pot in all your posts?!

Hi,

Having just done all the killing fields and S21 etc, I want to try to let people know, who haven't been and give an insight and maybe google or have a look at this man's unbelievable mentality matched only with his evil and cruelty.

[Brad the Impala]

Perhaps some links will help:

http://www.cambcomm.org.uk/holocaust.html

For more background detail:

http://www.moreorless.au.com/killers/pot.html

For an excellent and Oscar winning film about this period, from the point of view of an American journalist and his Cambodian stringer:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Killing_Fields_(film)

[youtube:fdwaq501]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Z1sj7gzpCk[/youtube:fdwaq501]

Hi,

Thanks I'll archive those in my new found interests and learning many things about Cambodia.

I'm also thinking of doing a bit with their fresh water projects in Siem Reap, as I have nothing much pressing at the minute and it will keep me out of going to the bars all day through boredom.

[thonglor55]

Where are you nursing your broken bones, Kevin?

[aot871]

AS one whos never been to pp before , how many days would you think is enough to look around?

AS one whos never been to pp before , how many days would you think is enough to look around?


Hi,

IU would say give it three to four days max and you've taken your time and seen what it has to offfer including Royal Palace, a few temples, killing fields, S21,Russian market and the nightlife.

Thonglor55,

Why are you planning on coming up to Lao with a cold ice pack, tea and sympathy? I am also trying to find out how to circumnavigate the system to obtain a multi entry visa, I am not told there ARE ways to obtain these under the mahogany, but have to know right people as usual.

I toyed with the idea of going down to Singapore,but it is a waiting game now for the severe swelling, bumps and bruises to subside. Bloody painful,it knocked me physically sick with it all. I may be going to Bali shortly.

What they discovered in the UK after doing blood tests to check on the cancer not returning was that I now have a thyroid problem connected to the major throat/neck operation back in 2006. Well the upshot is it affects my balance as well, so sometimes I make errors and am on medication for life with this bloody nonsense. C'est La Vie.

[lexusgs]

Hi Kevin,

I was just reading through your report on Cambodia. I can't find it but do you have any recommendations for a decent place to stay in PP?

Cheers

Hi Kevin,

I was just reading through your report on Cambodia. I can't find it but do you have any recommendations for a decent place to stay in PP?

Cheers


lexusgs,

I complained bitterly after arriving in P.P. as I was trying to find the Sunny guest house that Beachy had recommended. Anyway the driver who promised me he knew EXACTLY where it was DIDN'T! I know now, it's below the FCC near some camera shop and smack bang in a good location.

I ended up in Angkor Shadow guesthouse. DO NOT GO THERE, IT'S A BLOODY STABLE! They only got me as it was a two/three night stay, I just arrived hot, late, ill with stomach bug, and a long ride from Siem Reap.

Next time, I am seeking boats from Siem Reap to P.P. or getting the bus. They are smaller buses that are cheap to P.P. and safe, as some of the taxis are gangsters and can't be trusted or relied on.

I also had the chance to look at NagaWorld with Casino and high quality rooms but right down far end on the riverfront. If you can get a deal with Agoda or someone similar, try there or even FCC if you want. Both great locations. Taxis are $2 for shortish trips.

Another place but great value on a cheaper budget is Dream colours guesthouse. There is finally the Gay gaff, the Manor House. I didn't bother looking to be honest, as I have had very mixed reports on it.

Best I can I am afraid.

[lexusgs]

No problem mate,

Most helpful as always!

On kquills recommendation I went to Siem Reap and heres my story. I flew on Bangkok Airways a ripoff price but the only flights from Thailand. I had my eVisa so walked quickly through Immigration which was good luck for me as a Vietnam Airlines flight arrived at the same time so there were maybe 200+ people queueing up to apply for there on the spot arrival visa. There was no one to take my Customs form like so many places in Asia and as I went outside there were four or five booths to the left that sold SIM cards for tourists very convenient.

I stayed at Ei8ht Rooms guesthouse you get what you pay for or maybe less. They promised an airport pickup and of course I had to hang around for 15 minutes as the driver was late. My bathroom door didn't close I had to ask for soap and the airconditioner only had one temperature no matter what I tried. Tuk tuks are cheap $1 a trip lots of stupid white people walking around being hot and sweaty cheap charlies I guess. I walked into the town centre the first afternoon and learned my lesson never walked more than 100 meters after that day or night.

I went to Viroths the first day for lunch because I saw on a Gay Cambodia site that I would enjoy being served by their handsome Cambodian waiters. They must of written that themselves. Handsome! I saw more handsome boys everywhere I went than the fat and spotty boys at Viroths. I went to Linger Bar every night very friendly staff there and handsome too I wouldnt mind having any one of them. They have a "spa" across the street and the prices are Bangkok Soi Twilight prices $20 an hour. Another gay ripoff when there are plenty of massage places around the streets I went to one and got a happy ending for $7 and a tip for the boy.

The Cambodians there all speak very good English even the little kids none of this sawasdee kha crap and kiss my arse before I serve you stupid tourists in poor English like Thailand. Lots of kids selling good quality books for $1 dunno how they do that but they take rejection pretty well I never bought a book or postcards. I didnt go looking for money boys and didnt stay late at Linger Bar so I only saw about half a dozen but they looked ok. I think there must be plenty on offer as everywhere I went I had waiters saying "Did you come alone? Are you single" to me and that usually means only one thing. And I only ever found one tuk tuk driver when I was going back to the guesthouse at night who said You want jiggy jig? The sort of place I could retire to I think. I was told Siem Reap means Fuck Siam and it certainly does that in spades.

Brisbane Guy,

You can get into it and seems you already have!

You can get cheap return tickets on Lao airlines from Vientiane to Siem Reap at 10,000 baht for a 1 year open return. Anything I can help PM me if you require it!

Have a great time buddy.

[Beachlover]

Interesting report, Kevin... Thanks.

The business owners in Siem Reap did seem a bit Cliquey when I saw them socialising with each other at Miss Wongs. It's a small scene.


BLUE CHILLI BAR... I was approached by an unattractive MB within seconds and he got..........NOTHING., he wasn't even genuinely making an effort and wandered off to another table. There were not so many in there. The ex pats at the bar reminded me of an old wild west saloon, where they turn, glance at you over the shoulder and go back to their bar whispering hunched over their drink.
I didn't approached by any moneyboys at Blue Chilli, but they were all lined up sitting at the bar counter and kept looking over and smiling at me. Finally chatted up a really nice Cambodian guy sitting next to me and it turned out he'd worked in Sydney, right near my office before! Super nice guy, took me to Heart of Darkness and introduced me to his friends (one of which hooked up with me later that night). The older Western expats seemed pretty nice. Had a chat with a few of them.


I am struggling with P.P. and also with the mentality of the Cambodians. Trade wise, as I have saids earlier, unless you are into Ladyboy MBs, which I'm not, these guys are trying to maintain a macho image to their friends and onlookers. Yes, they'll go with you to restaurants, eat like horses at the most expensive things on the menu and then drink like fish. After that, they are saying goodbye with not so much as a kiss my arse.... They are constantly trying to dream up ideas for you to part company with your money, trips etc constantly but politely asking you to go to markets and places where they will receive kickbacks etc but what's new about that, they are not as polished as the Thais in this area.
Seems like you and a few other posters who visited Phnom Penh had a totally different experience to me... Glad I didn't experience any of this stuff. I hung out with a few gay locals and had a great time with them and they were only ever grateful when I offered to pay for meals and drinks on a few occasions. Never got looked at as an ATM.

The only place I really miss about Phnom Penh is The Heart of Darkness... That place had a nice, exotic vibe to it. Otherwise, I prefer Bangkok. Bigger, more exciting and more to do.

Those sofas upstairs in the Heart of Darkness are really nice to snuggle up and get a bit more intimate...


I complained bitterly after arriving in P.P. as I was trying to find the Sunny guest house that Beachy had recommended. Anyway the driver who promised me he knew EXACTLY where it was DIDN'T! I know now, it's below the FCC near some camera shop and smack bang in a good location.
Ah bugger... easiest just to ask to be taken to the FCC. Sunny Guest House is on the same corner. Look for the internet cafe (guesthouse reception is in the internet cafe). Awesome location.


Have you not been to phnom penh? If you liked siem reap you will love phnom penh I think. It's a pretty wild city always plenty to do and much bigger and better gay scene than siem reap. I fid siem reap a little bit too glossed over whereas phnom penh is a bit more rough around the edges and feels more genuinely Cambodian.
I found Siem Reap really nice and chilled out place to hang but I'm not sure I could spend more than a week there.

You found the right word for the atmosphere in Phnom Penh... It feels edgy. I found it remarkably easy to meet and get to know the locals though.

Beachy,

Agree with you on Heart of Darkness I had a great time. Loved the sound system, the lighting, the masks in glass cases, sofas, the lot. Great night out.

Also, I do very much like the Cambodians but I adore the mentality of the Lao and they are easier to get your wicked way with. I find the language easier too............... :laughing3:

[lexusgs]

Beachy,

Agree with you on Heart of Darkness I had a great time. Loved the sound system, the lighting, the masks in glass cases, sofas, the lot. Great night out.

Also, I do very much like the Cambodians but I adore the mentality of the Lao and they are easier to get your wicked way with. I find the language easier too............... :laughing3:


Kev,


Did you hear anything about this place? http://www.qgphnompenh.com/


I'm off to PP for a few days tomorrow. As it's Saturday I was gonna check out Heart of Darkness but saw the above?

Beachy,

Agree with you on Heart of Darkness I had a great time. Loved the sound system, the lighting, the masks in glass cases, sofas, the lot. Great night out.

Also, I do very much like the Cambodians but I adore the mentality of the Lao and they are easier to get your wicked way with. I find the language easier too............... :laughing3:


Kev,


Did you hear anything about this place? http://www.qgphnompenh.com/


I'm off to PP for a few days tomorrow. As it's Saturday I was gonna check out Heart of Darkness but saw the above?


Hi lexusgs,

No one mentioned it to me but it looks good on their website, let me know how you get on please. It's amazing really, Cambodia just gets going when Lao is ready for closing up and going to sleep.

I am really having a good time as well as with the difference in cultures.

[Beachlover]

Depends if you're going with partner/friends or alone.

QG looks like a straight/mixed club. Don't know if you'd find many gays there but the photos on the site seem to show a few shirtless guys so there might be a large "gay corner" like at Heart of Darkness. Check it out and let us know.

If it's your first time there, I'd go to Heart of Darkness first. That nightclub is a classic icon and you're guaranteed to find a decent gay crowd there every night.

[thonglor55]

The business owners in Siem Reap did seem a bit Cliquey when I saw them socialising with each other at Miss Wongs.Disgusting! Fancy hanging out with your friends. Have they no shame?
Also, I do very much like the Cambodians but I adore the mentality of the Lao and they are easier to get your wicked way with. I find the language easier tooYou don't speak English then Kevin? I thought Cambodians spoke quite good English, based on recent posts.

The business owners in Siem Reap did seem a bit Cliquey when I saw them socialising with each other at Miss Wongs.Disgusting! Fancy hanging out with your friends. Have they no shame?
Also, I do very much like the Cambodians but I adore the mentality of the Lao and they are easier to get your wicked way with. I find the language easier tooYou don't speak English then Kevin? I thought Cambodians spoke quite good English, based on recent posts.


thonglor55,

Obviously having a bad hair day today!

Many of the Cambodians and Lao that I met do speak good English, many didn't, and I speak good Thai and reasonable/passable Lao, why would I want to study this and not use it??

You can't beat a bit of ' good old showing off, can you?'.............. :laughing3:

[thonglor55]

Many of the Cambodians and Lao that I met do speak good English, many didn't, and I speak good Thai and reasonable/passable Lao, why would I want to study this and not use it??I studied Latin at school but I don't go around spouting Latin tags, now do I? I also studied math but routinely use a calculator if I can't do mental arithmetic - quickly now, what is the square root of '69'? The main value I find in foreign languages - since I'm tone deaf speaking a tonal language like Thai well isn't an option for me - is that there will sometimes be subtleties in one language that have no exact equivalent in the other. The frustration educated Thais express to me is that English has so many subtle variations - do you know the difference between "infer" and "imply" for example? - whereas there's only one word in Thai for all of those variations. A word I often use as an example of having no equivalence is the Hebrew word "hesed". It is so difficult to translate exactly that there's an entire Wikipedia article (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chesed) on it. Of course if posters like boy wonder Beachlover are to be believed I must be making all this up as I'm an illiterate, ill-educated low-life, but there you are.

By the way the square root of 69 has to be 8 point something since 8*8 is 64 and 9*9 is 81 - and what that means my dear Watson is that the ideal number for an orgy is slightly greater than 8. Interestingly that chimes in nicely with recent studies on the maximum size for work teams (http://www.bioteams.com/2006/01/13/the_maximum_team.html) which is 9

Guys,

Get ready for donalds report on Siem Reap.

I am looking forward to it and then I am going to give a further update on Lao PDR shortly.

[lonelywombat]

I am confused as to whom Donald is. But if he has been to PP would like to know where he stayed .

[witchhunt]

We stayed at this beautiful hotel in Phnom Penh and it was wonderful. We went as a couple so have no comment on joiners. Had no need to ask. We met friends there so have no social gay life to discuss.

Great hotel and great dining room

http://www.lesafranlasuite.com/

My partner has queried why I did not include the gay owned and gay welcoming Cockatoo in Siem Reap, where we had an even more pleasant stay. It was for me more personal but I will share it with members.

Great place and enthusaisticly recommended . Great advice re local places to go. We had a ball.

http://thecockatooangkor.com/index.html

wow so informational witchhunt.

[lonelywombat]

There is an excellent thread on gay Siem Reap which has additional info.

gay-siem-reap-cambodia-trip-report-t20493.html (http://www.sawatdee-gay-thailand.com/forum/gay-siem-reap-cambodia-trip-report-t20493.html)

[lexusgs]

We stayed at this beautiful hotel in Phnom Penh and it was wonderful. We went as a couple so have no comment on joiners. Had no need to ask. We met friends there so have no social gay life to discuss.

Great hotel and great dining room

http://www.lesafranlasuite.com/

My partner has queried why I did not include the gay owned and gay welcoming Cockatoo in Siem Reap, where we had an even more pleasant stay. It was for me more personal but I will share it with members.

Great place and enthusaisticly recommended . Great advice re local places to go. We had a ball.

http://thecockatooangkor.com/index.html


Hey Witchhunt,

I stayed there with my partner around 6 weeks ago! We took the suite at $90 per night. Young staff but we well looked after. Joiners were not encouraged( local ones anyway although we did invite a couple of farangs which did not cause a problem. I thought the breakfast choice was a tad boring. Nice French/Cambodian owner although her english was limited but overall a nice stay. We chose the place over staying at the new Sofitel there..

Hi,

I strongly advise anyone intending on booking at Cockatoo to check first as they have had MAJOR flooding problems and damage caused by floods to all the rooms, I feel for them and wish them well in getting the premises back up to standard.

[mgb608]

Re: MONEYBOYS - THEY USUALLY START AT $50 EXPECTING YOU TO BEAT THEM DOWN TO $30!

Seems like a lot of money to me (Thailand prices, actually) for a country with one of the lowest income levels in Asia. Wishful thinking to my mind...

Re: MONEYBOYS - THEY USUALLY START AT $50 EXPECTING YOU TO BEAT THEM DOWN TO $30!

Seems like a lot of money to me (Thailand prices, actually) for a country with one of the lowest income levels in Asia. Wishful thinking to my mind...


I paid nothing hut I'm a good looking bastard! :laughing3: :laughing3:

[Neal]

I paid nothing hut I'm a good looking bastard! :laughing3: :laughing3:
Where are my boots?? The shit is getting deep! :laughing3:

[goji]

I paid nothing hut I'm a good looking bastard! :laughing3: :laughing3:

Maybe this board doesn't attract the type of people who pay for it in Cambodia?

I paid nothing hut I'm a good looking bastard! :laughing3: :laughing3:

Maybe this board doesn't attract the type of people who pay for it in Cambodia?


goji,

Don't actually understand your post but you are quoting me, I was referring to the guy who said at asking $50 the MBs of Cambodia were dreaming!

I merely pointed out that I hadn't paid anything at all, which was true. It's also a different kind of scene as there are no go go bars and the whole process, with the exception of blatent MBs in La Linga is very different. I also didn't set off on an evening with searching out MBs, it never occurred or seemed that important.

Siem Reap is a touristy/sightseeing/ restaurant/cafe bar/nightclub culture not knickers and numbers guys!

Ha!, I like that little ditty and I just thought of it, maybe good name for my book!

[goji]

I've been to the Linga bar a few years ago & had some good encounters with some of the money boys. That's quite unusual in the Cambodia threads.

Things are a lot easier when visiting a host or gogo bar, where it's clear why the staff are there.
Meet someone in an ordinary gay bar & I guess asking if they are a money boy may cause offence in some cases.

I've been to the Linga bar a few years ago & had some good encounters with some of the money boys. That's quite unusual in the Cambodia threads.

Things are a lot easier when visiting a host or gogo bar, where it's clear why the staff are there.
Meet someone in an ordinary gay bar & I guess asking if they are a money boy may cause offence in some cases.


I agree,

But that's the fun of a different kind of chase.

I think by and large most encounters be them Asian anbd Asian or Asian and White, when there is quite a big gap in ages, there is usually some kind of monetary assistance expected in one form or another, be it shopping, handphones, motorbikes or any other status symbol, it's a trade off and many are willing to trade like this.

[loke]

Why should you ask them if they are moneyboys ?

If they are in the bar because they wanna have sex with a foreigner , maybe theire horny , now who needs to worry about money .
:love4:

[goji]

Why should you ask them if they are moneyboys ?

1 Freelancers can have wildly varying ideas of appropriate fees. If he's going to ask for $80 or so, then it's best to say goodbye in the bar, rather than negotiate after the event.

2 Service. If paying, the client should expect priority to be given to his personal needs. If having a genuine "date", then equal consideration should be given to both parties.