St Valentine's day may not make everyone feel in the mood for love, but there's no denying that it can be a fun experience if approached in the right way. So let's round up some love inspired gift ideas, as we explore ways to make your loved one smile on that day- flowers, champagne, chocolate...Phnom Penh has it all.
A word of advice though, don't leave it all to the last minute as- apart from the possibility that the buckets full of roses will be empty- chances are you will be paying the price in monetary terms too. There are few things more vulnerable than a man standing at an empty flower stall at 6pm on St Valentine's Day.
If that scene is giving you flashbacks I suggest you make a reservation at Raffles Hotel. A glass of champagne followed by a six-course dinner is how the esteemed hotel recommends you spend the evening. Or you could have a Kir Royal and seafood buffet followed by chocolate dreams at their Café Monivong. Either way, they promise that every female guest will go home with roses and chocolates. And if cheese makes you feel dreamy head to Tell Restaurant and feast on cheese fondue, which you can do with minimum intrusion in one of their private dining rooms.
As for what to gift-wrap for the occasion, jewellery is always a good idea. Because let's face it; the chances of knowing her dress size (the correct one) are right up there with Britney Spears running for president. Jewellery is a safe option as a dress too big or too small is bound to leave an uncomfortable silence hanging in the air, right next to the awkward smiles...
Kambuja has a beautiful jewellery selection. I was glued to their display cabinet in the same way I have seen cats staring at aquariums. Their earrings are stunning, silver and ruby, red and blue drop coral and sandstone, rose quartz and crystal...all sure to attract gasps of admiration.
Kashaya and Ambre are great shops to visit if you want Valentine's Day in Cambodia to be remembered as such. A shopping experience at Ambre is unique and the results will be part of her wardrobe for many moons to come. Kashaya's blend of Western and Asian cultures provides many gift options for both him and her. For men they have gift sets with ties and cravate as well as card holders, and scarves in stunning colour combinations. They also make teddy bears in silk and in hemp which add to their collection of original ideas.
Chocolate by The Shop is going be a buzzing place over the next week, and quite rightly so. Flavours such as tea, coconut and praline should find fans and if the chic packaging of pastel boxes doesn't win you over go for the Eat It All gift- a box made of dark chocolate with a variety of heart shaped chocolates inside...
However you decide to spend St Valentine's Day, just remember that there are few things as heart warming as a good smile and sincere affection. You won't find that on a shelf anywhere.
Kambuja: #165 Ang Duong Boulevard
Kashaya: #55Eo, Street 240
Ambre: #37, Street 178 Phnom Penh
Chocolate by The Shop: #35, Street 240
Raffles: #92 Rukhak Vithei Daun Penh
Tell: #90, Street 90