From Vann Molyvann to Gen Z: Phnom Penh Steps Forward After Thailand’s Heavyweight Champion Era

BBC Travel’s inclusion of Phnom Penh in its 2026 “20 Best Places to Travel” list, and the omission of Thailand, reflects a shift in the regional tourism landscape. This development indicates a reassessment of destination value within Southeast Asia, with attention moving beyond established preferences.

Phnom Penh’s current urban form is the result of deliberate planning, most notably the work of architect Vann Molyvann. His imposition of height restrictions near the Royal Palace preserved open space, walkability, and visual coherence, features that are frequently diminished in other rapidly developing capitals. This early emphasis on restraint has produced enduring cultural effects.

By 2026, the influence of Molyvann’s planning is evident in daily urban life. His former 1960s residence has been repurposed as a design-oriented café and informal meeting space for students and professionals. Other Modernist structures from the New Khmer Architecture period are being restored by younger Cambodians, who utilize them for contemporary cultural and commercial activities. Rather than preserving these sites as static monuments, there is a trend toward integrating them into present-day urban functions.

This transformation is driven by a new generation of Cambodians, including many who have returned after periods abroad. They are establishing environmentally conscious businesses, boutiques, distilleries, and cafés, and are investing in local initiatives. The effects are visible in the increased presence of locally produced goods, the revival of traditional cuisine, and the integration of historic architecture into contemporary urban life.

Phnom Penh’s increasing international profile is attributable to several factors, including distinctive architecture, the activities of young entrepreneurs, and a renewed emphasis on local cultural identity. For Cambodia, this recognition represents a shift toward external perceptions of its cities as distinct entities, rather than as points of comparison with neighboring countries.

Phnom Penh’s inclusion in the 2026 list reflects the combined impact of earlier planning decisions, recent innovation, and increasing cultural confidence. Collectively, these factors are altering international perceptions of Cambodia.

Author: Eung Hann