Fun Classes for Expats Living in Phnom Penh
Summary: One of the best ways to get settled after a move is to get out there and do something. Enhance your experience in Phnom Penh by joining classes that are great for meeting people and adapting to life abroad.
Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia, offers a plethora of opportunities for expats and digital nomads to immerse themselves in new experiences and expand their skill sets. Whether you're looking to dive into the local culture through cooking classes, enhance your language proficiency, or unleash your creativity with art and wine, there's something for everyone. Engaging in these classes is not only a great way to learn and enjoy but also an excellent avenue to meet like-minded individuals and integrate into the expat community. Below is a curated list of classes that cater to English-speaking adults in Phnom Penh.
Feel Good Cooking School
Type of Class(es): Cambodian Cooking Classes
Location: Street 29, Phnom Penh
Feel Good Cooking School offers a hands-on experience in Cambodian cuisine, where you can learn to prepare traditional dishes under the guidance of English-speaking chefs. It's a perfect way to understand the local food culture and spices, even if you're still picking up the Khmer language.
Backstreet Academy
Type of Class(es): Local Craft and Culture Workshops
Location: Various locations in Phnom Penh
Backstreet Academy provides a platform for travelers to connect with local artisans and learn traditional crafts such as wood carving, silk weaving, and pottery. These workshops are conducted in English and offer a unique insight into Cambodian culture.
Phnom Penh Language School
Type of Class(es): Khmer Language Courses
Location: Street 282, BKK1, Phnom Penh
For those looking to improve their Khmer language skills, Phnom Penh Language School offers a range of courses from beginner to advanced levels. The school provides a friendly and supportive environment for expats to learn at their own pace.
Samai Distillery
Type of Class(es): Rum Tasting and Distillery Tours
Location: Street 830, Phnom Penh
Samai Distillery is Cambodia's first and only premium rum producer, offering tours and tastings for those interested in the art of distillation and the subtleties of rum flavors. It's a great place to socialize and learn about a unique aspect of the local beverage industry.
Simphony Music School
Type of Class(es): Music Lessons
Location: Mao Tse Toung Blvd, Phnom Penh
Simphony Music School is the leading music school in Cambodia, offering lessons in various instruments for all skill levels. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced musician, you can enjoy learning in an English-speaking environment.
Daughters of Cambodia Visitor Centre
Type of Class(es): Silk Screen Printing Workshops
Location: Street 178, Phnom Penh
At the Daughters of Cambodia Visitor Centre, you can participate in silk screen printing workshops, which support a social enterprise helping vulnerable women. The classes are conducted in English and provide a fulfilling experience of creating your own designs while contributing to a good cause.
La Table Khmère Cooking Class
Type of Class(es): Cambodian Cooking Classes
Location: Street 278, Phnom Penh
La Table Khmère offers cooking classes that introduce you to the secrets of Khmer cuisine. The classes are suitable for English speakers and provide a delightful culinary adventure, from market tours to the final tasting of your creations.
Phnom Penh Photography Workshops
Type of Class(es): Photography Workshops
Location: Various locations in Phnom Penh
For photography enthusiasts, Phnom Penh Photography Workshops offer a chance to hone your skills while exploring the city. The workshops cater to all levels and are a fantastic way to capture the essence of Cambodian life through the lens.
The Plantation Urban Resort & Spa
Type of Class(es): Art and Craft Workshops
Location: #28 Street 184, Phnom Penh
The Plantation Urban Resort & Spa hosts various art and craft workshops, including painting and pottery. These classes are a great way to relax, create, and meet fellow expats in a serene setting.
Meta House
Type of Class(es): Film and Cultural Events
Location: Sothearos Blvd, Phnom Penh
Meta House is a cultural hub offering a range of events, including film screenings, art exhibitions, and discussions. While not a traditional class, it's an educational experience for those interested in the arts and culture scene of Phnom Penh.
Khmer Ceramics & Fine Arts Centre
Type of Class(es): Pottery and Ceramic Art Classes
Location: #130, Street 155, Toul Tom Pong I, Phnom Penh
At the Khmer Ceramics & Fine Arts Centre, you can learn the art of Khmer pottery and ceramics. The center offers classes in English, making it accessible for expats to engage in this traditional craft.
CamEd Business School
Type of Class(es): Business and Finance Courses
Location: #64 Street 108, Phnom Penh
For those looking to enhance their professional skills, CamEd Business School provides courses in accounting, finance, and business management. The courses are taught in English and are tailored to meet international standards.
Phnom Penh Cooking Class
Type of Class(es): Cambodian Cooking Classes
Location: #67 Street 240, Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh Cooking Class offers an authentic experience in preparing and cooking traditional Khmer dishes. The classes are conducted in English and include a market tour to select fresh ingredients.
Please note that while we strive to provide accurate information, class offerings and locations may change over time, and it's always best to contact the institutions directly for the most up-to-date information.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.