The Cambodian capital is famous (perhaps infamous) for its nightlife. As we set out below, the city is home to more than a few "hostess" bars - usually not much more than hole-in-the-wall operations with a few girls hanging around waiting for punters to buy them drinks. However, some are a little more salubrious than others, and these we list in our "Wild Side" section.
That said, Phnom Penh is also home to large and rising number of less risqué venues catering to a mixed crowd of men and women, expatriates, tourists and locals, old and young alike. These we list under the headings "Bars & Pubs" and, for the more sophisticated nightspots (hotel lounges and clubs etc.) under "Wine & Cocktail".
The quality of pubs and bars in Phnom Penh varies widely, from cheap and cheerful backpacker bars to super-sophisticated nightclubs that would be right at home in many capital cites around the world. Most visitors to the city should be able to find at least one venue that suits their particular requirements in a bar.
No guide would be complete without including at least a few of the less salubrious bars and clubs in the capital. A fair selection of these can be found on "The Strip" along Street 51, although they are also spread pretty much throughout the city. Most of these bars feature plenty of diversions usually for an exclusively male clientele including hostesses, many of whom are available for "extracurricular" activities.
Be warned that HIV/AIDS is rife in Cambodia, so be sure to take the necessary precautions. Another point to bear in mind is that sex with children is a crime - and more than a few "hostesses" are underage, especially at the lower-end fleshpots. Penalties, when enforced, are severe.
To access ElephantGuide.com's comprehensive listings for selected bars and clubs in Phnom Penh, simply select your channel from the menu at left and let the Elephant guide you.
After Hours 
