Friday, December 23, 2016

The Shining Diamond

Khmer Times
MAYURI MEI LIN

KT/ Fabien Mouret

City dwellers have a new spot to relax during the weekends or to exercise after work with the riverside walkway to Koh Pich buzzing with activity.

New restaurants and bars have given the island a renewed lease of life. It wouldn’t be an unfamiliar sight to see young Cambodian couples leisurely walking along the picturesque stretch of the Tonle Sap, enjoying the views of the sunset, while families enjoy food from the various street vendors as their children bask in the carnival-like atmosphere.

The island, which was originally a market garden, has become a popular place since its redevelopment, and now the walkway linking it to the riverside is complete, even more people are coming to enjoy the food and entertainment or just stroll around.

The small strip of land, known as Diamond Island in English, was also the location of a recent movie that received rave reviews. The film “Diamond Island” won the Société des Auteurs et Compositeurs Dramatiques award at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. Scenes of teens working at the various construction sites during the day and then spending their evenings hanging out and flirting perfectly encapsulates the development the island has seen.

And now it is accessible on foot from the riverside.

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