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Expat Destinations: Bangkok vs. Phnom Penh [Season 3, Episode 72]

Expat Destinations: Bangkok vs. Phnom Penh [Season 3, Episode 72]

FromThe Bangkok Podcast


Expat Destinations: Bangkok vs. Phnom Penh [Season 3, Episode 72]

FromThe Bangkok Podcast

ratings:
Length:
41 minutes
Released:
Aug 13, 2019
Format:
Podcast episode

Description

First up - apologies for Greg’s bad audio on this episode! Small technical problem, and it sounds like he’s talking on a phone from Peru. Luckily, Ed does most of the talking! Speaking of Ed, he recently returned from 4 days in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, his first-ever visit. The city’s going through somewhat of a renaissance of late, with plenty of discussion online about PP vs BKK. So what’s Ed’s verdict? As a matter of course, Greg introduces the subject by urging listeners to learn about Cambodia’s tragic history and to take that into account when evaluating its level of development. With that in mind, Ed notes that in many ways, it’s not fair to compare Phnom Penh to Bangkok, and a fairer comparison would be to Chiang Mai. Still, many expats are considering is an alternative to Thailand for various reasons. Next, Ed also points out that there are many factors at play and there’s no truly objective way to judge the cities. What works for one expat may not work for another, so this represents only Ed’s point of view, with Greg chiming about his trip many years ago. On the plus side, Ed notes that Phnom Penh seems more chilled out, with less traffic and more open spaces than Bangkok. The result is a real ‘holiday vibe’ for seemingly everyone there. Further, there’s less of a police presence overall and alcohol is cheaper due to lower import taxes. On the negative side, Phnom Penh has significantly fewer restaurant and nightlife options and the infrastructure, such as mobile internet, is not up to Bangkok standards. And certainly don’t expect subways and skytrains. Greg and Ed run through all of these points, plus a few more, and ponder if - and in what circumstances - a move to Phnom Penh would be advised if you’re thinking about moving on from Bangkok. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.
Released:
Aug 13, 2019
Format:
Podcast episode

Titles in the series (100)

Online since 2010! Greg Jorgensen and Ed Knuth have been knocking around Bangkok since the turn of the century. Exploring dark corners, eating amazing food, and interacting with fascinating people, the two have gotten to know and love Thailand's capital in all its confusing, mysterious glory. Every week they chat about topics near and dear to those living here, those visiting here, or those who are just curious about what it's like to live in Asia's craziest city.