|
Markets
|
|
|
Phnom Penh may not be world-renowned as a shopping destination, but there are certainly bargains to be had. A trip to one of the capital's numerous
markets
is essential, if only to buy the red-checked
krama
(traditional Khmer scarf) popular with Khmers and visitors alike. The markets all open early, and wind down by 5pm. They are liveliest in the morning, and many vendors have a snooze at midday for a couple of hours.
Although the drugs, guns and ammunition have been quietly removed from prominent display, a stroll around the Russian Market (Psah Tuol Tom Poung) remains a colourful experience. Situated in the southern end of town at the junction of 163 Street and 440 Street, it's a good balance of tourist-oriented curios and stalls for locals. Jewellery, gems, CDs, food stalls, souvenirs, furniture and motorbike parts are all grouped in their own sections. Don't expect an easy bargain - you'll have to work hard to pay the locals' price. Vendors at the central market are also wise to the limitless funds that all "barangs" ("foreigners") apparently possess, and will price their wares accordingly. Electronic goods, T-shirts, shoes and wigs are all in abundance here. Confusingly, its name in Khmer (Psah Thmei) means New Market, and there is in fact another central market, but most moto drivers will correctly assume you want the larger market at the eastern end of Street 128.
The other markets around town are less tourist-friendly, but are good places to pick up cheap toiletries, clothes, food and alcohol. For convenience of location, you might try Psah Kandal, Psah Chah or Psah Orasey
. Other useful information
for tourists (each section contains more specific sub-sections): |
|
Cambodia,
|