The traveler will not find the large modern malls you see in Bangkok, Singapore, Phuket and Phnom Penn shopping in Sihanoukville, much as you would expect in such an unspoilt destination, is far more traditional and a lot of visitors consider this for the better. This will no doubt change in the very near future as retail expansion always seems to go hand in hand with development, of which the city is seeing great evidence of. The problem with this inevitable ‘progress’ is that the small shops and stall holders disappear as one can see in Phuket which now has a very few local traders in comparison to a few years back.

There are many small shops in the downtown Ocheteaul and Victory Hill districts, which sell souvenirs as well as clothing and jewelry. This is not the place to get a cheap suit made as there are no tailors here.

There is a beautiful traditional Cambodian market Psaa leu selling all manner of things and of course prices are flexible, however, many tourists go too low. Please remember this is someone’s livelihood often in a situation far more desperate than your own. Beat them down for the sport if you must but if they are likeable why not surprise them with a ‘tip’?

The handicrafts organization Rajana can be found above Starfish Café selling more up market souvenirs.

There are many ATM machines dotted around the city and are easy to locate both in the down town area and also in the larger hotels on the beach.

The past political problems in Cambodia attempted to destroy many of the Khmer people’s traditions. However financial aid and NGO projects have contributed to the revival and growth of many traditions such as silk weaving. Learning more about silk weaving is not only a fascinating experience for those who want to know about the creation of silk but more than that it is a glimpse into the life of Cambodian people. The tradition of silk weaving has been passed down from generation to generation and therefore is embraced by a rich cultural history. Silk produced in Cambodia is respected and coveted by silk collectors around the world.

The National Silk Farm is a worth while part of any trip to Cambodia. It is situated 16kms from Siem Reap and the journey offers spectacular scenery which tourists can enjoy. There are many young Cambodian people that are working here contributing to the continuation of age old Cambodian traditions. There are free guided tours so that tourists can be educated in the production of silk.

Amongst the many fascinating things you can expect to see is the process of growing mulberry trees to provide food for the silk worms, how to breed silk worms and how to remove the silk from the cocoons. You can also see the artisans at work preparing silk threads for weaving, using traditional ikat dying techniques and weaving the thread into magnificent pieces of silk. There is a shop where visitors can view the variety of silk products. The National Arts Center opens in the morning and closes at 5pm. Visitors should allow at least one hour for a tour.

Shopping in Cambodia offers an abundance of treasures to be discovered. As well as the many traditional markets the last few years has seen a growth in boutiques and art galleries scattered around Siem Reap. Choose from a variety of spectacular artwork and fine textiles. There is a growth of contemporary artwork in Cambodia creating art that expresses the experiences of Cambodian people over the last few decades. Statues and carvings also offer interesting purchases. Many of the crafts that you can buy in Cambodia are created from years of history and traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation. Religious crafts are available in plentitude amongst the markets of Cambodia.

Gem stones are an important part of Cambodia’s trade but it is wise only to make big purchases if you have knowledge of gems. This is important to avoid scams where fake gems are presented with authentic paper work. Silver wear that is created in traditional Khmer design can be bought from main markets and hotels. The karma which is a colored, chequed scarf that is traditionally worn by Khmer people, is a popular souvenir amongst tourists. This is also a practical item as it can be used to protect your neck from the sun.

Silk collectors around the world covert Cambodian silk which is predominately hand loomed with expertise that has been passed down from generation to generation. The National Silk Centre offers fascinating insight into the production of silk products. Phsar Chas otherwise known as “The Old Market” is a large traditional market that is a must see in Siem Reap. It offers a wide selection of products as well as a vibrant shopping experience.

Khmer Kingdom

Experience the sheer grandeur of one of the World’s Modern Wonders, visit Cambodia’s incredible Angkor complex. These 11th Century temple ruins, covering a vast area and comprising of numerous temples reclaimed by Cambodia’s tropical jungle. It’s just one of the surprises of this plucky country, where it’s sad recent history is very much part of the tourism.

We’ve been travelling to Cambodia for over a decade, recording the rise of its tourism, and present to you a blog, soon to become a full tourist site to help you plan your visit. The country has a surprisingly good tourist infrastructure and plenty to see and do, all recorded here.

From the Royal Palace, Tol Slueng Prison and Killing Fields of Phnom Penh to the beaches of Sihanoukville and tourist bustle of Siem Reap, we have the country covered. And we haven’t even mentioned the friendly locals, good food and amazing Asian landscapes.