Getting around

So, I've gone on and on about visiting Cambodia. I've shown you some of the sights, and given you a taste of the paradise-like areas that exist in this country. Are you planning your visit yet?

Well, when you do come, you'll need some way to get around. In that regard, let me help you. Here are some (interesting) ways to get around Phnom Penh and the surrounding areas.

Motos!

Method of transport: Moto.

Number of riders: 2.

Maximum number of Cambodians spotted on a bike at one time: 7

One way, and by far the most common, is to ride a motodope, or more commonly referred to as a moto. In many ways, this form of transportation is advantageous. If you buy your own moto, you will find that they are relatively cheap, and don't guzzle gas. You can also drive in places not normally accessible by car, including sidewalks, rain gutters, through the middle of the marketplace, and fenced parking lots. Are there laws against this? Yes. Does anyone follow them? No, not really.

Owning a moto - fun for the whole family!

If you choose to use the moto-for-hire method, you'll find that, thanks to your local guide, you'll take shortcuts you never new existed, as well as paying pennies on the dollar to get to your destination. The catch? Well, if you want to be culturally aware, women are "required" to ride a certain way based on their relation to the driver. Married gets to put arms around the driver and typically rests them on the waist (see the picture near the top), girlfriend/boyfriend (or possibly engaged) "hugs" the driver, and everyone else not in these two catagories generally has to ride side-saddle. Yes, I said side-saddle.

What? Men? No, they don't have any restrictions I am aware of, except the need to hold on to something, of course.

Ninja pig transport

Method of transportation: Cargo Hauler

Number of riders: 2-23

Safety rating: Slightly better than walking... on nails.

Next up, we have the varied cargo haulers running around. These range from pig transports, to platform trailers, and even to huge semi-like monstrosities. While hitching a ride with 10 of your buddies and assorted produce containers may seem like a blast, don't be fooled. Most of these machines are over-weight and under-braked. A thrill ride and a half, folks!

Watch the turns, too.

Should you choose this method as your vehicle du jour, please remember to hold on, and in the event of an accident, think happy thoughts and enjoy your flight. :)

Method of transportation: Taxi

Number of riders: 2-?!?

Smoothness of ride: Ranges from "These shocks work great!" to "Look ma! I'm skiing on the road!"

Massive van. Good for those moments when you realize just how many people are trying to hit you.

Then there's the taxi. This can be a car, van, or truck, depending on the choice of the entrepreneur in charge. Undeniably safer than some methods, taxi's are attractive for their familiarity to forigners and comfort if traveling long distance.

This truck took on a few extra passengers...

One thing to keep in mind - when hiring a taxi, the driver may decide to pick up other people on the way. A van can hold a surprising amount of people if you have some of them hold the back gate closed! If you go this route, be sure to negotiate a rental that includes only going places you want to go, and picking up people you want riding with you.

This driver is known for frequent stops for naps and eating. He does accept payment in Baby Bites biscuits though. Score!

Method of transportation: Tuctuc

Number of riders: 1-somewhere north of 8 if you are creative enough.

Enjoyment gained by saying the word 'Tuctuc" several times fast: Moderate to extreme.

I can has ridez?

What is there to say about this travel experience? Tuctucs are relatively cheap, safer than motos (and more comfortable), and can hold a surprisingly large amount of items. Things to remember - always negotiate a price before riding. Also, many tuctuc drivers claim to speak English and this should be verified before getting in by asking them a question that can't be answered with 'Yes, I know!'. Lastly, find a tuctuc driver that smells... ah... decent. You'll be sitting behind and downwind for the entire trip. You do the math.

Not all roads are equal. Some look more like an earthquake warning than an actual street.

Method of transportation: Cow

Number of riders: 1 (saddled single cow) to 6 (cart)

Why cows?!?: Because cows are cute.

Moo!

Yes! Cows! Enjoy the scenery from the back of one of nature's most docile animals. Cows are awesome. Same rule applies about downwind, but you'll still be having too much fun to care.

Cows are cute!

Courtesy of Wikipedia. Too hard to capture when hiding your phone from potential thieves.

Method of transportation: Cyclo

Number of riders: 2 if you are lucky

Rarity of sightings: About as common as a moose wandering through a town.

The Cyclo deserves an honorable mention. Limited mostly to the riverfront and high tourist areas, this vehicle was once a common form of transportation years ago. Now, it stands as a nostalgic experience for Cambodians and a novelty for tourists. It's slow, but interesting. Just don't think to take one of these to Sihanoukville, yeah? 

Well, that about wraps up this post for today. Aidan swears he will one day build me hoverboots and a jetpack. Until then, come visit, and choose one of these fine, well-established and less-explosive methods.

What? Elephants? Yes, you can ride them, but mostly in Siem Reip or specific tourist locations. They aren't something the everyday Khmer has parked in their garage.

Count me in if they ever have a giant Gecko ride though...