March 24th, 2006 | The lowdown by Gordon Candelin

The Tuk Tuk is Your Friend.

Now, I'm all for cruising around Phnom Penh on my hoo-ride (100cc Honda Dailem), not only for the pleasure of the cruising, but also the sincere relief I feel at not having to bother with motodops 500 times a day.

For those of you who are passing through (and who rightly fear attempting to force fate's hand and drive yourselves) you will need to sort out some sort of reliable transportation, and my money is on a Tuk Tuk.

Tuk Tuk's are a comfortable and more leisurely way of getting the city around while you chill out for a few days. Sorting out a Tuk Tuk is a bit more problematic than the ubiquitous moto. Firstly, they are more expensive - how much so depends on your bargaining skills. A short trip that by moto may cost you 2000 riel (50 cents), will cost at least double that on a Tuk Tuk. Secondly, sorting out reliable transportation over a couple of days is difficult because, well, you don't know anyone.

Until now. I would like to introduce you all to Sokorn (In the photo with some friends.) I have known Sokorn for a year now, after being introduced to him by Peter (the rangy Swede in the photo). Sokorn and Peter have been friends for years, and since meeting him (and his Tuk Tuk) my life has changed considerably for the better.

Sokorn is a thoughful and friendly man, and speaks excellent English. His Tuk Tuk isn't the newest or the fastest, but is reliable and safe.

If you're coming to spend a few days in Phnom Penh and are tired of motodops, give Sokorn a call and he'll sort out all your transportation worries. 012 643 012.