S1 E65 | Lazy Days in Kampot, Sunday Markets, and a Locked-Out Adventure

Kampot was supposed to be just a quick stop, but the town had other plans for us. After days of travel, we wanted to take it slow, enjoy some good food, and show you a little of what life here looked like.

We started off with a hearty lunch—delicious, simple, and budget-friendly. With full stomachs, we gave you a peek into our guesthouse. It was a modest setup with shared bathrooms, a basic kitchenette, and a balcony with views of the river. Nothing fancy, but just the kind of place that felt right for long-term travelers like us.

In the evening, Kampot came alive with its Sunday night market. Locals and domestic tourists filled the riverside with food stalls, small shops, and even fun rides for kids. We wandered past snacks, clothes, and quirky little vehicles that reminded us of ones we had seen in Vietnam. On the other side of the river, however, the atmosphere was completely different—quiet and serene. The sunset here looked like a painting every child has drawn in school: mountains in the distance, trees lined up perfectly, the sun dipping low, and the river sparkling in the foreground. Kampot had quickly become one of our favorite towns in Cambodia, so much so that we extended our stay beyond just one night.

But the day had a twist waiting for us. After dinner, we returned to our guesthouse only to find the doors locked—both front and back! Our keys didn’t work, the lights were out, and there was no one around. For a moment, we thought we might have to spend the night outside. Luckily, a kind local shopkeeper, who also knew our host, stepped in to help. With a few calls and some effort, we finally made it back into our room. It was a funny, slightly stressful, but memorable adventure that added to Kampot’s charm.

The next day, while strolling around town, we stumbled upon La Plantation, a pepper-tasting spot that introduced us to Kampot’s most famous export—its world-renowned pepper. From mild to fiery, the flavors were incredible, and we understood why this tiny town had earned such a reputation for its spice.

Kampot gave us lazy sunsets, local markets, unexpected hiccups, and flavors that stayed with us. It was the kind of stop that reminded us why slow travel often turns out to be the most rewarding.