Shopping in Phnom Penh
You'll find Cambodian silk for sale in Phnom Penh at the Russian Market (a Cold War era goods depot) and silk shops and boutiques across town, many specializing in silk creations such as tailored Asian and Euro-Asian fashions, accessories and soft furnishings.
Also available at traditional markets are pounded silverwork, often in the shape of animals. Statues and carvings of traditional and religious subjects are widespread but don't for one minute believe you are buying an antique; these are replicas through and through.
In the last few years the art scene in Cambodia has flourished and you can see evidence of this is streets 240 and 178 and if you are after gems from West Cambodia make sure you know enough about your subject otherwise you could end up regretting it back home when you verify the stones.
Markets in Phnom Penh
Designed by a French architect, the bustling art-deco style Central Market opened in 1937 and is a famous city landmark offering a wide range of goods, including souvenirs, jewelry, silks, electronic goods, stationery, secondhand clothes, and bric-a-brac.
The Russian Market is good for souvenirs such as objects d'art, trinkets, coins, miniature Buddhas, etc. The Olympic Market is a three-story covered market near the Olympic Stadium which was upgraded and reopened in 1994 and now specialises in wholesale items.
The most searched-for item in Phnom Penh's markets and shops is textiles. Fine hand-loomed silks are a real bargain here but expect to haggle to get prices down or you'll have your 'head shaved' – meaning you'll be ripped off in the local language. Buddhist-themed carvings and statues are also popular purchases as is hand-pounded silverware and gems.
Hint
Not many retailers will accept credit cards so make sure you take small denomination US Dollars (nothing above 20 US$) or a healthy wad of Cambodian Riel. To change money there are a number of currency booths along Sisowath. Traveller's cheques above 100 US$ and useless as no bank will accept them.
Where to Buy
One of the most famous shopping areas in Phnom Penh is Street 240. Here, you will find many good and high-end restaurants, café, boutiques, art galleries, shops and bookstores. These include:
Water Lily
37 Street 240 offers original design fashion accessories by Christine Gauthier such as necklaces, broaches, rings and earrings. Tel: +855 (0) 12 812 469.
Sap Bay Shop & Café
58 Street 240 offers interior décor, tableware, and gifts. Tel: +855 (0)12 369 867.
Lézard Bleu
61 Street 240 offers custom frames, art deco furniture, home décor and art pieces. Tel: +855 (0) 23 986 978.
Bliss
29 Street 240 offers unique beaded and embroidered cushions and quilts; Tel: +855 (0) 23 215 754.
For more good shopping in the capital try Mekong Arts on Street 178 which offers contemporary and traditional Cambodian art as well as silk products and furniture. Tel: +855 (0) 23 210 387.
Meta House
on street 246 near Wat Botom boasts a large range of Cambodian fine arts. Tel: +855 (0) 23 224 140.
Mulberry Shop
located on 9 Street 51 is famous for quality silk in many forms such as scarves, cushion covers and bags. Tel: +855 (0) 16 222 750.
Tabitha-Cambodia Shop
on the corner of Street 51 and 360 is a non-profit organization selling Cambodian handicrafts including many beautiful silk items. Tel: +855 (0) 23 721 038.
Another NGO shop is the National Center for Disabled Persons Retail Outlet (or NCDP Outlet) on 3 Norodom Blvd. near Wat Phnom. It has a good variety of local crafts including silk products. Tel: 023-210140.
Encouraged by the government and aid organisations, local people are rediscovering their natural talent as weavers and craftsmen. A number of rehabilitation programs have sprung up since the eighties such as the gift shop at Wat Thanh in Phnom Penh, a co-op that trains Cambodians disabled by landmines in making attractive items out of silk and cotton fabrics, rattan, bamboo, wood and clay. The result is a pleasing selection of purses and handbags, clothing, furnishings, paintings and many other items.
Read More...
|
