The Phnom Penh Visitors Guide 62nd

SHOPPING

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Phnom Penh’s shopping scene is quickly evolving. Several malls have gone up in recent years, though the malls are generally not the places to go for traditional souvenirs like Khmer art, silks, handicrafts and such. Uniquely Cambodian souvenirs include fine hand-loomed silks, Angkorian and Buddhist themed carvings, statues, hand-pounded silverwork, handicrafts, and of course, the most traditional of all Cambodian souvenirs, the krama -- a checkered scarf unique to the Khmer people and tourists. The Russian Market and Central Market offer a unique local experience and excellent selections of traditional souvenirs, somewhat deeper and more varied for the real market explorer than the Siem Reap markets. If you're looking for more contemporary shopping, there are also boutique shops offering unique Cambodian-made fashions, accessories and gifts.

What not to Buy * Do not buy Cambodian antiquities. The illegal trade in antiquities robs Cambodia of its heritage. * Support artists in Cambodia by not buying bootlegged or ‘copy-style’ contemporary art.

What to buy...

Cambodian Silks Cambodian silks are prized by collectors the world over. Most of the silk available in Cambodia is hand-loomed using the traditional ikat method of dying the threads and looming in the patterns. Both raw and fine silks are available in the form of bolts, sarongs, clothing and various handicrafts. For those with a special interest in silk, consider a day trip to Silk Island where much of what you find in the shops is loomed, (see page 21.) Fashions Cambodia-based and local designers are producing a wide range of clothing and accessories, bringing a modern twist to traditional Khmer designs and patterns. From bags created from the ubiquitous Khmer krama or stylish dresses patterned with the Cambodian ikat, check out the clothing and fashion boutiques. Foods Cambodia produces some of the finest black pepper in the world, amongst other spices and food products. Cambodian and Southeast Asian coffees and teas, palm wines and spirits all make interesting, useful souvenirs of Cambodia.

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