Kampot
To be honest, I originally didn't think Kampot had much to offer. It is a place that seems a bit run down and small. At least that was my impression when I first got there.
Once I started to explore more places where local people hung out, I started to see a community of young people who supported each other.
Everyone is quick to get to know a bit about you and help you out if you need help. Though I worked most of my days, I was able to escape some days to enjoy some of the daytime and nighttime activities.
Due to COVID-19, a lot of the places that survived on tourism were shut down, on hiatus, just running at minimum staff.
I would say, get a scooter or motorbike and explore the mountainous areas, Kep, and Sihanoukville.
I would like to thank Olga, Slava, Viola, and the staff at The Monkey Republic for being like a family. If I needed anything, they would help and advise on places to go eat, try, and to stay away from.
Foods, Locations and Others
Armando's Food is Progress is a place to get a really good bite to eat at reasonable prices. The Pizza shown in the Roma.
The Monkey Republic Guesthouse and lodge is a great location walking distance from the city center. Slava and the staff there are very accommodating and have a great menu.
Major props to their baker though, Viola makes the most delicious cheesecakes EVER!
They also host weekly events like music guests, yoga, and other things depending on the season.
The Monkey Republic is a guesthouse with individual AC rooms and private showers and also a hostel.
Max's Italian Food is a favorite of those who live here. It is considered fancy dine-in food, but it is worth the $.
I liked the Gnocchi in Taleggio Cheese and Speck.
Delicious is a place you definitely have to stop by and try their panini's. Not only that, but their ever charming manager is a good person to know (photo above).
They have pretty good smoothies, coffees, and a nice mix of foods.
They also host several nightly events during the week. Not only do they severe food, but also make some very fine drinks here.
Ben, the shop manager, is a really nice guy.
Oh Lala is a family owned restaurant in the outskirts of the downtown area.
The food is mostly western styled BBQ food with an European twist.
I would definitely recommended this place.
Bistro 23 is ran by a couple who have an interesting twist on food. To be honest, I only went there once, but it was only because I don't eat seafood, but if I did, I would have enjoyed every single dish.