Travel Postcard: 48 hours for shoppers in Phnom Penh

PHNOM PENH (Reuters Life!) - Got 48 hours to explore the Phnom Penh? The Cambodian capital's designer boutiques, colorful markets, art galleries and restaurants make for a satisfying shopping weekend.

FRIDAY

7 p.m. - Usher in the weekend with dinner at a European establishment, the elegant Art Cafe (Street 108) which holds regular classical music performances and features a French-German menu. Beautiful artwork by local and international artists adorns the walls and is available for sale.

SATURDAY

9 a.m. - Grab a sandwich from The Deli on Street 178 and rush over to Khmer designer Romyda Keth's "Ambre", the first stop for fashionistas. This two-storey colonial villa on the same street is the place for cocktail dresses, one-of-a-kind office wear or gorgeous wedding gowns. The friendly staff can make adjustments and you can order tailor-made outfits too. There's also a small, equally luxurious men's collection. Cross the Norodom Boulevard for more shops including Reyum Gallery and Silk & Pepper.

11 a.m. - The next stop is Keo (Street 222), home of Cambodia's haute couture king Sylvain Lim. Having worked for Parisian brands including Balmain and Dior, Lim's designs are classic. Browse through the small collection of prototypes from which you can order. For those with time and money, Lim's bespoke haute couture pieces are spectacular. By appointment only.

1.00 p.m. - Hop over to Street 240 for fuel at The Sugar Palm, a relaxed eatery serving local food -- don't miss the eggplant with pork or beef with ginger. The restaurant is also decorated with antiques that you can buy.

2.30 p.m. - Walk down the length of Street 240 and enjoy the shops. Couleurs d'Asie offers unique silk products in big, bold patterns. Next door is Bliss, boasting paisley-print dresses, massive cushions and home spa products as well as a spa with a plunge pool for a break in between the shopping.

Bead enthusiasts should not miss Water Lilly, showcasing Christine Gauthier's whimsical creations. Opening the hundreds of drawers holding the jewelry is an experience in itself. Le Lezard Bleu offers top-notch home decor: think bronze sculptures, dark wood tables. Two more not to be missed boutiques are Song, with its chic resort wear and Jasmine for silk wear.