Sihanoukville markets

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.