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2010-12-12T22:26:00.008+07:00

Angkor Archaeological Park: Getting Started, What to Bring, Admission Passes...

2010-11-19T18:09:00.000+07:00

The Angkor Archaeological Park is home to the magnificent Khmer temple ruins of Angkor, including the legendary Angkor Wat, Bayon and dozens of other ancient ruins of the Angkorian-era (9th-13th century) Khmer Empire. The Park encompasses more than 400 square kilometers just outside Siem Reap City in northwestern Cambodia and is a World Heritage Site.

The temple ruins of Angkor contained within the Angkor Archaeological Park represent the remnants of the millennium-old Angkorian-era capitals of the ancient Khmer Empire. The Khmer people were and are the dominant ethnic group in Cambodia. The name ‘Angkor’ refers to the Angkorian-era Khmer Empire that stretched across much of mainland Southeast Asia between the 9th and 15th centuries A.D., and also refers to the capital city of the Empire that was centered north of Siem Reap Cambodia. The Angkor Archaeological Park encompasses the main temple ruins of the Angkorian capitals located in the Siem Reap area. Most of these temples were constructed between the 9th and 12th century A.D. and represent the pinnacle of ancient Khmer architecture, art and civilization. At its height, the Age of Angkor was a time wealth and power for the Khmer Empire. The capital city at Angkor was populated by more than a million people, Khmer kings constructed vast waterworks and grand temples and the Empire's military, economic and cultural dominance held sway over the area of modern Cambodia, as well as much of Thailand, southern Vietnam and Laos.

Siem Reap City is the gateway to the Angkor Archaeological Park. There are no hotels within the Park grounds and most visitors stay in Siem Reap where almost all of the area's hotels and restaurants are located. Siem Reap City is just south of the Angkor Archaeological Park with the Park entrance located only 3km north of town. With the exception of the Roluos Group of temples 13km east of Siem Reap, the most important temple ruin are within 6-25km north of town, the closest major temple being Angkor Wat. To arrange your visit to the Angkor Archaeological Park you will need to decide how long to stay, purchase an admission pass, arrange transportation to the temples, obtain a guidebook or tour guide and plan out your temple itinerary.

Admission / How Long to Stay

You must possess an admission pass (an 'Angkor Pass') to visit the temples and sites in the Angkor Archaeological Park. Passes may be purchased at the main entrance on the road to Angkor Wat. One-day tickets only can be purchased at the secondary tollgate on airport road entrance near Angkor Wat and at Banteay Srey.

Passes are sold in one-day ($20), three-day ($40) and seven-day ($60) blocks. The three day pass is valid for one week, i.e. 3 days to be used within the week, not necessarily consecutively. The seven day pass is valid for one month, i.e. 7 days to be used within the month, not necessarily consecutively.

A one-day visit allows you to see the highlights of the most famous temples but very little more. Three days is sufficient to visit all of the major temples once, a few of the minor ones and have a little extra time at your favorites. Seven days is enough time to really explore some of your favorite ruins and visit many of the minor structures as well. One passport-sized photo is require at time of purchase of three and seven day passes. If you do not have a photo, free photos are provided at the main entrance, though this can be a time consuming process at peak entrance hours.

Visiting hours are 5:00AM - 6:00PM. Angkor Wat closes at 6:00PM, Banteay Srey closes at 5:00PM and Kbal Spean at 3:00PM. Always carry your ticket. It will be checked upon each park entry and at major temples. There is a significant fine for not possessing a valid ticket inside the park. A regular admission ticket is not required to visit Phnom Kulen, Koh Ker or Beng Melea, but there is a separate entrance fee of $20, $10 and $5, respectively.

Themple Itiniraries

There are dozens of temple ruins in the Angkor Archaeological Park spread across more than 400 square km. all in different states of ruin and displaying a range of artistic and architectural styles. To get the most from your limited time at the Park you will need to plan a temple itinerary. Your personal temple itinerary depends largely on how much time you have and your level of interest, though some temples are ‘must sees.’ See the suggested itineraries page for much more.

What to bring

Wear light, airy, covering clothing to protect yourself from the sun and mosquitoes. The sun can be intense so bring a hat, sunglasses and perhaps sunscreen. Consider buying a traditional Khmer scarf (krama) to keep the sun off your neck. Carry a raincoat during the wet season, though you will probably only need it in the afternoon. You should have mosquito repellent for sunrise and sunset hours. Wear practical shoes for climbing narrow steps and walking on uneven surfaces. For serious temple explorers, a flashlight, notebook and compass can come in handy. Books, refreshments, trinkets, postcards and film are available from small vendors throughout the temple complex.

Transportation to and around the Temples

The temples are too far apart to make foot travel practical (though some hearty visitors are hiking it anyway). Transportation options include: two-person motorcycle trailers (‘moto-romauk’) average $10-$13; car taxis $20-$25/day; motorcycle taxi (‘motodup’) for $6-$9/day; bicycles for $2-$3/day. Transportation to the temples is usually hired by the day. Prices go up for distant temples (e.g. Banteay Srey, Phnom Kulen, Kbal Spean, Koh Ker). Bicycling around the temples is becoming more popular. If you have the time to spare, the roads are good and the distances are about right for a bicycle. Your hotel or travel agent can arrange transportation.

Motorcycle Taxis and Trailers (Moto-romauk, 'tuk-tuks')
Two-person motorcycle trailers (moto-romauks) have surpassed motorcycle taxis (motodups) as the most popular form of transport. Tuk-tuks are covered offering some protection from sun and rain. In Siem Reap most drivers speak some English. For short trips around the town, foreigners are expected to pay 2000-4000R for motodups and about twice that for a motorcycle trailer. To the temples, transportation is usually rented by the day. Rates run $6-$9/day for a motodup, and about $10-$15/day for motorcycle trailers.

Mr. Borin

Tuk-tuk driver

www.angkorwat-tuktuk.com/index.html

Car Taxi
Cars taxis are usually hired on a daily basis. The average car taxi is a fairly new Toyota Camry with air-conditioning. Car taxis run around $20-$25 per day to tour the main temple area and town. There are extra charges if you want to go to more distant temples such as Banteay Srey, Kbal Spean, Phnom Kulen, etc. The driver will charge about $10 extra to visit Banteay Srey.

Angkor Wat Driver & Fixer

Vans, cars, tours, tour guides.

Tel: +(855) (0)92-890005

angkorwatdriver_fixer@yahoo.co.uk

www.angkorguide.asia/phansy

Siem Reap Taxi Driver
Mr.Kriss is a fully licensed local taxi driver. He speaks English well and is very helpful. Mr.Kriss also can help you to arrange international and domestic air tickets, bus and boat tickets, visas and hotel reservations at reasonable prices.
Contact Mr. Kriss Tel: +(855) (0)12-941715, +(855) (0)11-222421.
siemreapdriver@gmail.com
www.siemreaptaxidriver.webs.com

Bicycle Rental
Bicycling is quickly becoming a popular way to visit the temples. The roads between the main temples are paved and the distances are about right for a bicycle touring. Bring sun screen, a good hat, water and a Cambodian scarf to keep the sun off your neck. Many of the guesthouses, hotels have bicycles for rent. $1.5-$4/day depending on the type and quality of the bike.

Electric Bicycles
Battery-powered bicycles, offering individual, motorized, eco-friendly transportation, can be rented for $4 per day. The battery is good for about 30km or one hour, and there are bicycle substations located throughout the main temple complex to replenish the battery as you visit the temples. Many guesthouses rent the bicycles. The main rental office in just off the road from town to Angkor Wat.

Motorcycle Rental
Tourists are no longer allowed to rent motorcycles or cars, or drive a vehicle in Siem Reap.

Small Group Tours
Set itinerary, mini bus tours of the temples can be an economical alternative to hiring your own car and driver. Some travel agencies run minibuses capable of carrying between 10 and 25 people on set tours of the temples. The price includes guide and transportation. Also see the Travel Agent page.

Angkor Thom Services

Hotel booking, transportation, multi-lingual tour guide, tour packages, city tour and daily tour at reasonable rates

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Tel: +(855)(0)92-890005

info@angkorthomservices.com

www.angkorthomservices.com

Holystone Travel

Daily tours of Angkor. Free pick up from hotel. Comfortable a/c transport.

#0144, 200 meters from the Old Market

Tel: +(855)(0)63-966744

+(855)(0)12-955166

+(855)(0)97-7757217

E-mail: info@holystonetravel.com

Website: www.holystonetravel.com

And other ways of getting around the temples.....

Elephant Rides

During the day, elephants await customers near Bayon and at the South Gate of Angkor Thom and they offer rides between those two points. $10-$15 for a 20-30 minute ride. In the evenings the elephants move from Bayon and are stationed at the base of Phnom Bakheng, ready to transport passengers up the hill for sunset ($15 for the ride up and, if you chose to ride down instead of walk, $10 for the ride down.)

Helicopter Rides

Helicopters Cambodia The first commercial helicopter service to operate in the country, commencing operations in 1998. Offer a selection of scenic flights to Angkor Wat and the Angkor area and services far beyond including supporting mining exploration operations, magnetic surveys, forestry and concession monitoring, long line lifting and more. Highly trained Australasian pilots have provide specialist aerial photographic and cinematography platforms, shuttled business executives from the capital to outfield locations and fly eco-flights over the wildness areas.
Tel: +(855) (0)12-814500 or +(855) (0)63-963316
www.helicopterscambodia.com

Helistar Helicopters offers scenic helicopter tours of the temples beginning at $90/pax for an 8+ minute jaunt along Angkor Wat. It isn’t particularly cheap way to tour but the view is spectacular and memorable. Helistar Helicopters offers specialized tours, aerial photography, charter services. Multiple aircraft in service. Conveniently located next to the big, yellow balloon about 1km from Angkor Wat on the road from the airport to Angkor Wat and at the airport. Office on National Road 6, Borey Angkor Arcade, diagonally opposite the Total petrol station. Walk-in customer welcome.
Tel: +(855)(0)63-966072 or +(855)(0)12-449555
www.helistarcambodia.com

Balloon Rides

Take a tethered helium balloon ride 200 meters straight up for an amazing aerial view of Angkor Wat, Phnom Bakheng, West Baray and the surrounding countryside. Bring a camera and binoculars if you have them. The big, yellow balloon is based about 1 kilometer west from Angkor Wat on the road from the airport to Angkor Wat.

Tel: +(855) (0)12-520810

Tour Guides
Whether you use a guidebook or hire a tour guide, it is essential to have some sort of guide lest the temples become just so many impressive piles of rocks. Tour guides are particularly helpful in explaining the bas-reliefs and history of the temples. Tour guides can be hired through most hotels and travel agents. Most guides ask $20-$25/day.

You can either hire a tour guide and transport separately (usually through your guesthouse or a travel agent) or book a group tour through a travel agent in town such as Neak Krorhorm. Group tours remove many of the hassles, and depending on your requirements, cost about the same or less than doing it yourself, especially for the lone traveler. On the other hand, you do lose some freedom and a bit of the adventurous atmosphere of Angkor. Some places focus on specialty tours such as distant temple, Tonle Sap and photographer’s tours by Peace of Angkor Tours and dirt bike/4WD adventure and cultural tours by Hidden Cambodia Adventure Tours.

Angkor Thom and Transportation

Hotel booking, transportation, multi-lingual tour guide, tour packages, city tour and daily tour at reasonable rates

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Tel: +(855)(0)92-890005

angkorthomservices@yahoo.com

www.angkorthomservices.com

Angkor Temple Guides

"My name is San Park and I am a fully freelance licensed English speaking tour guide working at the Angkor temples in Cambodia..."

national Route #6, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Tel: +(855)(0)12-788354

info@angkor-temple-guides.com

www.angkor-temple-guides.com

Angkor Tour Guide & Driver

English and Spanish speaking tour guides. transportations

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Tel: +(855)(0)12-564029

+(855)(0)99-366977

thoeunson@aol.com

www.tourguideangkor.com

Angkor Tour Guide Service
Angkor park tour guides, transportation, hotel reservations

Siem Reap

Tel: +(855)(0)12-631052

sokchea@guideangkor.com
www.guideangkor.com

Angkor Wat Driver & Fixer

Vans, cars, tours, tour guides.

Tel: +(855) (0)92-890005

angkorwatdriver_fixer@yahoo.co.uk

www.angkorguide.asia/phansy

Asia Vipa Travel & Tours Cambodia
Tours, guides, transport, hotel bookings, all Cambodia
Tel: 012-630634
www.aangkortourguide.com

Holystone Travel

Daily tours of Angkor. Free pick up from hotel. Comfortable a/c transport.

#0144, 200 meters from the Old Market

Tel: +(855)(0)63-966744

+(855)(0)12-955166

+(855)(0)97-7757217

E-mail: info@holystonetravel.com

Website: www.holystonetravel.com

Boutiques, Galleries and Shops

2010-11-19T18:04:00.000+07:00

Angkor Cookies-Madamsachiko
Specializing in edible souvenirs, especially the locally made confection, ‘Angkor Cookies.’ Available in small and large quantities. Angkor Cookies also offers a selection of Cambodian teas, coffees, palm sugar, chocolate, pepper and other locally produced products. Fully air-conditioned. Attached to Café Puka Puka serving shaved ice, fruit shakes and juices, tea and coffee in comfortable a/c. Open 9:30AM - 7PM.
Road to Angkor Wat, opposite Sofitel Hotel
Website: www.angkorcookies.com

Angkor Shopping Center
Two expansive floors of a/c shopping. The main focus is on gems and jewelry, offering a huge selection of gems. Custom orders welcome. Goldsmith always on site. Also offering a wide selection of Cambodia souvenirs including silks and silk clothing, stone, wood, marble and jade statues and carvings, Cambodian silver and foods. The Joan Yen Lau Restaurant on the third floor of the Shopping Center offers Hong Kong style Chinese cuisine and a full bar.
visa/MC/JCB/AMEX
Opposite the Royal Gardens
Tel: +(855) (0)63-963522
Fax: +(855) (0)63-963606
E-mail: akshopping@online.com.kh

Artisans D’Angkor
Free guided tours of the workshops of wood and stne carving. Polychromy lacquering and guilding, silver plating and silk painting, and then discover the fascinating boutique displaying a variety of arts and craftsmade by artisans from the workshops using traditional cultural craftsmanship. 7:30AM-6:00PM.
Visa/MC/JCB/AMEX
100m off Sivatha, near the Old Market area
Tel: +(855) (0)63-963330
E-mail: infos@artisansdangkor.com
Website: www.artisansdangkor.com

Artisans d’Angkor at National Silk Center
Discover the world of silk from the growing of mulberry trees to the production of silf fabrics including tradional silk cloths such as Hol Silk, Phamung and Lboeuk, as well as other accessoriews made from pure silk. Free daily guided tours. Located 20 minutes from Siem Reap town. Free shuttle bus at 9:30AM and 1:30PM from Artisans d’Angkor. Open daily from 8:00AM-5:30PM

Visa/MC/JCB/AMEX
Rte #6, 16km west of town

Tel: +(855) (0)63-963330
E-mail: infos@artisansdangkor.com
Website: www.artisansdangkor.com

Asia Craft Centre (ACC)
Unique showroom of Cambodian, Southeast Asian and South Asian traditional crafts and products. A good selection of quality handicrafts including silks and silk products - shawls, ties, table cloths and sets. Lacquerware and inlayed marble paintings. Wide selection of high quality handmade south Asian rugs, primarily from Kashmir. Silk looming and stone carving on-site. Special orders welcome. 9AM-8PM.
#0216, Road to Angkor Wat

Tel: +(855) (0)63-760321, +(855) (0)12-958467

Fax: +(855) (0)63-760320
E-mail: hilcambodia@yahoo.com

Bambou Company Indochine
Bambou has an extensive range of originally designed, high quality t-shirts for men, women and children. The collection, inspired by the images of Indochina, is hand printed on 100% cotton and available in a full range of European standard sizes and many colors. Also offering a beautiful collection of casual and cool resort wear. “We pride ourselves on quality you can trust – even when you get home, so don’t leave Cambodia without a Bambou on you!”

Two boutiques in Siem Reap @ Alley West and in Lucky Mall. Also a boutique in Phnom Penh at #7 Street 178, near the riverfront.
bambouindochine@yahoo.com

Cinderella Girl’s Shop
Very pleasant little fashions and tailor shop in the heart of town. Ladies', girl's and some men's clothing, mostly in cotton, available off-the-rack and custom tailored. Two-day turn-around on tailored clothes. The tailor speaks Japanese and English. Fashion accessories and soft homewares.
Sivutha Blvd., Center Market Area

Tel: 012-876835

Diwo Gallery
The gallery featuring statues sculpted in the distinctive art style of the Angkorian period. These artworks were produced by Cambodian artists commissioned to create artworks with the same techniques and materials: bronze, silver, stone and wood used by their Khmer ancestors. The photo exhibition features the work of Thierry Diwo, a Cambodia-based French photographer and publisher who has been haunted by Angkor’s temples since first visiting them in 1992. His extensive collection on Angkor, an everlasting work in progress, includes images of monuments devoid of people, taken when the archeological park had but a few visitors each year.
Wat Svay, Tonle Sap Road Siem Reap

Tel: +(855) (0)92-930799

+(855) (0)92-876252
Website: www.tdiwo.com

D’mouj International Co.
High quality carpet and handicraft shop specializing in South Asian crafts, particularly handmade silk carpets, wall-hangings and embroidered scarves from Kashmir. Other crafts and objects of art also available. Everything in the shop is handmade. Comfortable a/c shopping. Attentive, professional service and assistance. Custom orders and wholesale enquires welcome. Shipping. Carpets shipped for free.

Road to Angkor Wat

Tel: +(855) (0)63-966431

Fax: +(855) (0)63-966430
E-mail: info@kashmirhandicraft.com
Website: www.kashmirhandicraft.com

Happy Painting Gallery
Galleries featuring the paintings of Stéphane Delaprée (Stef), a singular artist with a gentle insight into everyday Cambodia. Since 1993. Sold: Original paintings, prints, limited edition reproductions, postcards, exclusive T-shirts, statues. Galleries in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Shipping arranged. Credit cards accepted.
Galleries at the Angkor Century Hotel, Siem Reap Airport, Old Market area and at hotels in Phnom Penh.

Tel: +(855) (0)23-726100

E-mail: stef@happypainting.net
Website: www.happypainting.net

Kokoon
Boutique, next to Blue Pumpkin, offers a wide range of local crafts : delicatessen corner (teas, spices, honey), fragrant oil, incense, original table-art (tea sets, coffee spoon, table set, plaited bamboo trays), jewelry and copper objects. Also shawls, kramas and a silk blanket collections. Kokoon has used the famous Phnom Srok silk to create a 100% Kokoon, 100% Khmer silk collection.

Tel: +(855) (0)63-963830

Leathers Collection
Offering a wide election of high quality, international standard crocodile leather products - bags, belts, wallets, footwear, cigarette boxes, watchstraps and more. Also offering a similarly wide selection of stingray, sea snake and ostrich leather products. Retail shop and farming, breeding, tannery and factory.
Road to Angkor Wat, Siem Reap

Tel: +(855) (0)17-777740
E-mail: thaidarith@yahoo.com

McDermott Gallery
Fine art photography of Angkor and Asia by John McDermott and other international photographers. A cool, relaxing atmosphere and comfortable chairs make this upscale gallery a pleasant place to browse. Limited edition photographs, reproductions, posters and cards for sale. Two locations. The original gallery, showing John McDermott’s images of Angkor, is at the FCC, along the riverfront. McDermott Gallery 2 is located in the Old Market area on The Passage and exhibits work by several international photographers. Open 10:00AM - 10:00PM.
Gallery) Pokambor, just south of Rte. #6
Annex) Old Market area

Tel: +(855) (0)12-615695
Website: www.asiaphotos.net

Mekong Quilts
A non-profit organization that aims to provide rewarding employment for women in rural areas. Mekong Quilts offer a wide range of quality handmade quilts, home accessories, gifts and decorations. All the profits are cycled through the NGO, Mekong Plus, providing scholarships, health initiatives, etc. in remote villages in Svay Rieng.
Sivatha Blvd.

Tel: +(855) (0)63-964498
Website: www.mekong-quilts.org

Mike Mahalo
Colorful and original digital art and oil paintings by Mike Mahalo and guest artists. On display at the Lemongrass Garden Beauty and Massage on Sivutha Blvd. between Pub Street and the Night Markets.
Sivutha Blvd, Old market area

Tel: +(855) (0)12-387385
Website: www.mahalocambodia.com

Rajana
NGO-based souvenir and handicraft shop. The Rajana shop has a wide variety of items including silk products, silk paintings, silver jewelry, bamboo crafts, handicrafts, cards, drawings, iron works, hilltribe crafts and even local coffees, spices and condiments. “The Rajana Association is an income generation and skills training project that produces Fair Trade products using traditional Cambodian skills with contemporary designs.”
Old Market area
Tel: +(855) (0)12-481894
E-mail: 012789350@mobitel.com.kh

Sao Mao
Stylish Euro-Asian boutique with a variety of quality silks and silk creations, garments, art objects, silver jewelry and decor, tableware, unique coconut crafts, and curios. Cambodian coffee. Some spices and teas.
Old Market area
Tel: +(855) (0)12-818130
E-mail: 012818130@mobitel.com.kh
Website: www.saomao.com

Senteurs d’Angkor
Created in 1999, Senteurs d'Angkor pays special attention to quality, originality and authenticity of its products: statues, marbles, antiques, brass, copper and an important place dedicated to silk (kramas and bolts by meter). Also Senteurs d'Angkor manufactures his own range of products such as delicatessen (savory spices, flavored teas, rice brandy, coffee…) and scents (natural soap, oil, tiger balm…). Senteurs d'Angkor products can be identified by their original packaging, handmade from sugarpalm leaves.
Opposite the Old Market
Tel: +(855) (0)12-954815

Senteurs d’Angkor Workshop
The doors of the workshop are now open to the public. Passing through the different workshops, you will observe the manufacture of natural soaps made from coconut oil, of moisturizing creams and of subtly scented balms and candles. Observe the different steps in the treatment of spices, of their combinations to make the traditional curry or amok, and of the creation of flavored coffees and teas. See the coloring of sugar palm leaves and their weaving to produce lovely boxes made from natural fibers, called smoks. Learn to identify various exotic plants and flowers: lemongrass, chili, pepper plant, bougainvillea, frangipani tree, hibiscus, jasmine and more. 7.30AM to 5.30PM, everyday. Free visit.
Airport Road (Route #6)

Tel: +(855) (0)63-966733; +(855) (0)12-326546
Website: www.senteursdangkor.com

Traditional Markets (Phsar) and Souvenir Markets

Angkor Night Market
"The Angkor Night Market is unique. Not only do the naturally constructed stalls display good quality local wares but many are stocked with original items from outside Siem Reap. This has earned The Angkor Night Market a well-deserved reputation of place where you can find different and unusual products not readily available elsewhere in the local area. The Island Bar and Brick House Bar stand out as two of the only places in town where traditional Cambodian culture and architecture are fused with a cosmopolitan feel in an open-air, ambient setting. Visit 3D Cinema located just beside Island bar. You can choose from several movies, every day. You can see where Brother 1 Pol Pot got the idea to start a revolution that killed millions of innocent. Or you can enjoy amazing documentary about the largest snake market in the world. We provide the WiFi Internet access in Angkor Night Market - Island Bar - Brick House Bar. You can bring your laptop, buy ClickNet prepaid card and check your Email or surf your Internet."
Off Sivatha Blvd.

Tel: 092-654315
Website: www.angkornightmarket.com

Noon Night Market
The Noon Night Market is located in the center of town within easy walking distance of the Old Market area and Pub Street. Look for the lighted signs. Open noon till late. Dozens of stalls and shops offering a complete selection of Cambodian souvenirs, Khmer art, silks, handicrafts, massage and more. Al fresco bar and Khmer food restaurant at the back of the market both offering reasonably priced food and drinks and a welcoming atmosphere. Free wifi at the restaurants. ATM in market..
Old Market area, just off Sivatha Blvd.

Tel: 063-963775
Website: www.noonnightmarket.com

Phsar Chas (Old Market)
The Old Market (Phsar Chas) and the Old Market area are 'must sees' when visiting Siem Reap. Of the various traditional markets in the Siem Reap area, the Old Market is the most popular with tourists and visitors, offering the greatest selection of souvenirs and curios of any of the traditional markets. And the area around the Old Market is burgeoning with shops, galleries, restaurants, bars, massage and more. The Old Market is located on the river at the south end of the Old French Quarter. During the day and into the early evening the south side of the market near the river is alive with souvenir and silk vendors hawking a wide variety of Cambodian handicrafts, textiles, statues and curios. The Old Market is also a good place to pick up post cards, tee-shirts and other small items if you haven't already bought them from the vendors at the temples. The north half of the market caters primarily to the locals, vending fruit, vegetables, meats, clothes, appliances and such. A number of inexpensive food stalls line the northern edge, serving local fare in interesting though sometimes hygienically challenged conditions. The Old Market closes at sunset, but many of the souvenir vendors in south section of the market stay open past 8PM.
While the Old Market offers the greatest variety of souvenirs, the streets in the area around the market harbor several little galleries and boutiques, each with its own particular style, collection, art or specialty. The boutiques and galleries often offer higher quality, more select items, as well as more comfortable, often air-conditioned shopping venues. Other conveniences in the Old Market area include dozens of restaurants and pubs, especially along Pub Street, several travel agents and Internet shops, a couple of bookstores and several roving booksellers, convenience stores, banks and ATMs, and several reflexology/massage shops.

After the sun goes down, the focus shifts a block or two east of the Old Market to 'Pub Street,' so named for the numerous and varied restaurants and pubs that line the street from one end to the other. You can always find Khmer, Thai, French, Vietnamese, Indian, Italian and a variety of other international foods on at the 'Pub Street' restaurants. Most of the bars are open all day but don’t really get going until around 5PM as people return from the temples and come to take advantage of the various happy hour deals. In the later evening the street is blocked to motor traffic, allowing pedestrians to stroll easily. It's then that Pub Street really comes alive as the restaurants move their tables to the curbside and the bars crank up the music. The whole 'Pub Street' area is the center of nightlife in Siem Reap these days with most places staying open until at least midnight and few until near dawn. 'Pub Street Alley,' running parallel about a half of a block over, offers a somewhat different atmosphere - a quaint, shaded, tranquil retreat from the Pub Street crowds. The alley is a narrow lane lined with little galleries, shops, bars, cafés and Khmer restaurants. See Old Market for more.

Phsar Leu Thom Thmey (Big, New, Upper Market)
Phsar Leu is the main traditional market for the locals - an expansive market building full of vendors and stalls hawking everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to motorcycle parts, clothing and rice by the bushel. Not a good place to shop for souvenirs but a great place to see a bit of real Cambodia. The old Phsar Leu was torn down a few years ago and a new market building constructed and renamed ‘Phsar Leu Thom Thmey’ (Big, New Upper Market). Opens and closes with the sun. Busiest in the morning.
Route #6, east of town center

Supermarkets, Convenience Stores and Other Shopping
Shops and businesses of various types stretch along Sivatha Blvd from Route #6 to the Old Market area - souvenir shops, convenience stores, banks and money changers, massage shops, travel agencies, photo shops and more. LuckyMall containing Lucky Supermarket, Monument Toys & Books, Lucky Burger, U-Care and a dozen other stores is the newest addition to international-style shopping scene. Convenience stores are located all over town with several along Sivatha Blvd, all offering selections of groceries, sundries, drinks and more.

Angkor Making Shoes
Siem Reap's only cobbler, making all-leather shoes and boots to order. Chose from a catalogue or bring a pair of shoes to replicate. All shoes individually made to your personal size and requirements. Individual and bulk orders welcome. Hotel and restaurant shoes for uniforms. Very reasonably priced.
Located on Street 05 just off of Sivutha Blvd.

Tel: 012-941474

angkorshoes@yahoo.com

Angkor Market
One of the first and most complete international-style convenience stores in Siem Reap. Food, drinks, spirits, wines, ice cream...
Sivatha Blvd.

Tel: 063-767799

Angkor Trade Center Shopping Mall
Modern, air-conditioned shopping center in the Old Market area on the river road. Supermarket, restaurants, pizza shop, ice cream parlor and lots more.
Pokombor Ave., Old Market area.

Tel: 063-766766

Reasmey Teo Pranom
Airport Road international-style convenience store.
Airport Road (Route #6)
U-Care
Pharmacy, beauty products, toiletries
1) Old Market area
2) Lucky Department Store
3) Siem Reap International Airport
4) Cultural Mall at the Angkor National Museum

Photography Shops and Processing
Siem Reap has a more than ample number of photo shops. Almost all offer digital camera to print/CD services for around $3 per CD. Though some specialty films may be difficult to find, fresh supplies of most print and slide films are available from shops in town and vendors at the temples. Most shops offer one hour processing as well as a limited selection of photographic equipment and supplies.

Book Stores

Most book vendors in Siem Reap focus on Cambodia and Southeast Asia related books, Angkor temple guides and travel books. Some places offer proper, original copies but most sell bootleg versions at cut-rate prices. Monument Books at the Museum Mall offers the best selection of new, original books in town and Monument Books at Lucky Mall carries children’s books. In the Old Market area, D’s Books on 2 Thnou Street opposite the hospital has new and used books and Siem Reap Book Center on 2 Thnou at the end of Pub Street offer a selection of Cambodia related titles. Several roving book carts prowl the Old Market area offering selections of the most popular Cambodia related titles. Book stalls on the riverside of the Old Market sell temple guides and Cambodia-related books, as do small vendors near the temples.

Shopping Siem Reap

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Siem Reap is an excellent place to buy Cambodian souvenirs, silks, handicrafts, textiles and contemporary art. Only Phnom Penh offers a comparable selection. In addition to the tradition shopping venues, over the last few of years there has been an explosion of new shops, galleries and boutiques, offering a varied selection of quality handicrafts and silks as well as original artistic creations in a variety of media.

Phsar Chas (the ‘Old Market’) is one of Siem Reap’s largest traditional covered markets and offers the largest selection of souvenirs under one roof in town. In fact, this market is really a ‘must visit’ in itself for the unique, colorful, local shopping experience. Of all the local markets, the Old Market offers the widest variety of souvenirs as well as the best selection of handicrafts and curios, including such items as traditional silverwork, silks, baskets, statuary, carvings and traditional musical instruments. See the Old Market area map. Also check out the just opened Angkor Night Market off Sivatha. The new night market promises an interesting after hours shopping venue.

Individual little boutiques, art and photo galleries are scattered across the town, though there is a concentration of places in the Old Market area. The boutiques tend to offer higher quality, more unique and sophisticated selections of items than the Old Market - some focusing on Cambodian silks and tailoring, others on high quality handicrafts, NGO-based crafts, Asian-inspired photographic and artistic creations or specialty items such as local candles, spices and teas. Perhaps most interestingly, a new generation of Cambodian artists is making its mark and contemporary Cambodian art is coming to the fore after decades of silence. In addition to the listed galleries, check out The Arthouse Gallery at The Warehouse and the The Arts Lounge at Hotel de la

Paix, both featuring regularly changing exhibits featuring the works of contemporary Cambodian artists.

What to Buy

Hand-woven Cambodian silks, stone and woodcarvings, statues and castings, contemporary Cambodian art, Cambodian handicrafts and traditional musical instruments, temple rubbings, silver betel containers, colored gems and basketry are among the most popular souvenirs. The most useful and one of the cheapest souvenirs that you can buy is a traditional checkered Cambodian scarf (krama). If you don’t mind looking like a tourist, wear it around your neck like the locals to keep the intense tropical sun off the back of your neck.

Cambodian Silks
Cambodian silks are prized by silk 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. Many of the pieces available are potential collector’s items. A fascinating way to learn about Cambodian silk is to visit the National Silk Center (see listing page 56) where visitors can witness start-to-finish silk creation - growing and harvesting mulberry (food for the silk worms), the breeding process and life cycle of the silk worm, collection of cocoons, separation and spinning the silk, the dying process and the creation of beautiful silk weavings on wooden, multi-harness hand looms. Cambodian silk is available at silk shops and boutiques across town, many specializing in silk creations such as tailored Asian and Euro-Asian fashions, pillows, blankets, purses and other decor and accessories. To learn more about Cambodian silk check the bookstore for ‘Traditional Textiles of Cambodia’ by Gillian Green

Statues and carvings
Statues and carvings of traditional subjects, often copies of Angkorian era works as well as Buddhas and various Hindu gods and personages, are available in stone, wood and brass. Statues make for relatively heavy, bulky souvenirs but are still very popular because of their beauty and artistic value. The replica of an Angkorian era bust of Jayavarman VII with its graceful lines and peaceful smile is truly captivating and is perhaps the most popular piece. Statues and carvings are

available at the Old Market and most souvenir shops, though it pays to shop around for the best price and quality. Highly-recommended is a stop at one of the local workshops such as Artisans D’Angkor to see craftsman producing wood and stone carvings. At Artisans d’Angkor visitors can observe artisans making traditional wood and stone carvings and lacquerwares following traditional techniques. Of special interest is the traditional polychromy finishing technique that is being practiced in the workshops. Polychromy imparts a unique patina to stone and wood pieces. Free tours available. See the Artisans d Angkor listing. Silver betel containers

Silver betel containers are popular, traditional souvenirs. These pounded silver containers are often shaped like animals, fruits and vegetables, and were originally used in ceremonial and everyday life to hold dried betel nut. (Betel is a type of palm nut that is chewed as a mild stimulant.) In the traditional market, betel looks like coin shaped, dark red plugs. You may see people, particularly older women from rural areas, with teeth stained deep red from years of chewing betel. Nowadays, silver betel containers are made primarily for sale as souvenirs but are still hand crafted using traditional techniques and styles. And in comparison to statues and carvings, they are comparatively light weight and transportable.

‘Temple rubbings’
‘Temple rubbings’ are for sale everywhere in Siem Reap - the temples, the souvenir shops and the Old Market - but are, in fact, neither actual rubbings nor from the temples. They are in fact made from a heavy paper that is moistened then molded over recreations of original and imagined Angkorian-era temple carvings. Nevertheless, these rubbings are distinctive, light weight, transportable, inexpensive and uniquely Cambodian souvenirs.

Gems
Gems are a tempting souvenir. Western Cambodia, particularly in the area of Pailin, is a fertile source of colored stones. The markets in Siem Reap are full of jewelers specializing in Cambodian sapphires and rubies. Know something about gems and/or know the jeweler before spending much money.

Be Involved

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Making a Donation

There are four options for donating to FEDA. Whichever option you chose please let us know by email (feda@online.com.kh) that you have made a deposit or transfer.

For donations coming from the United Kingdom, please click here to donate through the Cambodian Children's Education Foundation.

For donations coming from the United States, please click here to donate online through the Marion Institute.

For donations coming from Australia, please make a direct deposit into the following FEDA National Australia Bank account:
Account Number: 46-455-6381
Account Name: Soth Plai Ngarm and Emma Leslie (FEDA Fund)
Bank: Australia National Bank
Branch: Bathurst, New South Wales
BSB Number: 082-441

For donations coming from Cambodia, please make a direct deposit into the following ACLEDA Bank account:
Account Number: 0001-20-142187-1-5
SWIFT: ACLBKHPP
CHIPS UID: 415637
Name: FEDA-BTB

Purchase FEDA books and CDS

The Monk, the Farmer, the Merchant, the Mother Survival Stories of Rural Cambodia

This book tells the true stories of the lives of four simple country people. Now old, they reflect on the events of their lives and talk about the traditions of Khmer village life.

Mey Sampho tells of life in Buddhist monastery where he acts as Deputy to the Head Monk; Chhin Muon describes the techniques of rice farming upon which rural communities depend, Nun Chhuon talks of his impoverished childhood and his lifelong struggle to set up a number of successful small business and Prom Tun recounts her dedicated and determined quest to train as a mid-wife and to bring safer modern techniques of midwifery to women in rural communities.
This is one of the only books which documents the lives of survivors who stayed in Cambodia and in their own words. It is also a significant anthropological reflection on Cambodian life over the past six decades. The book is just $10 and all Profits go to FEDA.

Book reviews

Buy this book today

CD of Cambodian songs, sung by the children of Ksach Poy Village

This CD contains the beautiful voices of three talented young singers from Ksach Poy Village: Chea Sokheun, Ros Somnoun, and Koy Vannak. The three young vocalists, known as the Ksach Poy Singers, sing mainly traditional Khmer songs from the 1960's and 1970's.

The CD is $5 (plus post and packaging) and all profits from the sale of the CD will be split between the musicians themselves and FEDA.

Buy this CD today

Volunteer

FEDA is very grateful to the work of its volunteers from all over the world. If you have skills you think could be useful to FEDA please contact us at emma@who-needs-spam.online.com.kh

Help us raise funds

Whether it’s by having a sale at a local school, getting in contact with a corporate company, or doing a sponsored swim, FEDA is grateful for your time helping us raise funds. Please contact us at feda@who-needs-spam.online.com.kh

Cambodian Living Arts

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“Khmer arts will become a wellspring of strength and resiliency and a vital source of healing and reconciliation.”

Our mission is to support the revival of Cambodian traditional art forms and to inspire contemporary artistic expression.

We envision Cambodia in the year 2020 as a country experiencing a cultural renaissance so dynamic that the arts have become Cambodia’s international signature.

History
Cambodian Living Arts (CLA) was founded ten years ago by Arn Chorn-Pond, a Cambodian-American refugee who was featured in the Emmy-nominated movie, The Flute Player. Originally called the Cambodian Masters Performing Project (CMPP), Arn founded this organization when he first returned to Cambodia in order to support the music teachers who helped him survive the horrors of the Khmer Rouge.

“Approximately ninety percent of Cambodia’s performing artists died during the Khmer Rouge regime, a devastating blow to all of Cambodia’s oral traditions”.

After the fall of the Khmer Rouge, this cultural tragedy was compounded by two subsequent decades of economic hardship, when very few of the surviving master musicians could make a living performing or teaching.

Cambodian Living Arts stepped in to support those masters who, despite their deep knowledge and skill, had either retired or reduced their teaching and performing loads. When it was founded, it supported three masters and their classes. Since then, CLA has grown tremendously.

Our Work
CLA’s four core programs—teaching, performing, recording, and new commissions—support 15 master musicians and nearly 300 students and assistant teachers to develop skills and relationships that will enable them to generate income and develop as leaders, while also helping to preserve and celebrate their heritage.

“CLA works with the belief that supporting arts education is a way for people to grow and develop and heal from the traumas and hardships of both the past and the present.”

We believe this, not only because the traditional arts keeps younger generations connected to their heritage and the elders in their community, but because through the mentoring and guidance process, the students and masters build their confidence, are able to exercise leadership skills, and nurture hopes for the future.”

If you would like to help support the goals of Cambodian Living Arts, please donate here.

Cambodian Living Arts (CLA)
c/o Marion Institute
202 Spring Street
Marion, MA 02738

Ph: 508.748.0816
Fax: 508.748.1976
Website: www.cambodianlivingarts.org

Michelle Prevost
Development Coordinator
michelle@cambodianlivingarts.org

Cambodia Office:

Cambodian Living Arts (CLA)
#128 G9, Sothearos Blvd.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Ph. (855) 23 986 032

Phany Tum
Country Manager
Phany@cambodianlivingarts.org

“In the Khmer Rouge years, where ultranationalists ruled, even traditional culture suffered severely. CLA is probably the best source and certainly the best 'indigenous' organization to revive Cambodian culture - and those ethnic minorities within Cambodia, in all its forms artistically. From a few scattered and shattered individuals, CLA is drawing together master artists and young mentors. In doing so they are doing a service to humanity in preserving a rich culture we can all learn from.”
- Andrew Ian Jamieson, Facebook Fan

Starting a Business in Cambodia

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If you are exploring for possibilities of opening a trading firm, representative office, establishing a joint venture with a Cambodian company, holding a meeting in Cambodia, inviting bids or tenders for your business or other forms of business in Cambodia, you are maybe coming to the right place.

Opening a new business with proper documentations whether in your country or not, it won't be as easy, especially if you are at first time and have no contact at all. You need to be familiar with local and national rules, regulations, taxation system and ways of conducting businesses etc. And then imagine of opening a firm in a country that you don't speak a word of their language, have no legal basis and how or where to start. You will be wasting a lot of time and spending quite a lot on lodging, researching, and meeting before it leads to a successful mission or else to the dead end. This is where we are coming to play; we have been in Cambodia since August 1992 operating out of a computer business therefore it makes us one of the earliest since the country opened up and introduced a free market economy. We have extensive experiences and have built up so many contacts in government and private sectors. From these contacts and experiences, we can proceed with business opening faster and less headache.

GoCambodia assists you in setting up a business in Cambodia, collecting business information and undertaking any business projects.

GoCambodia.com is very pleased to offer above service to individual or company for a reasonable fee and we will assist you in:

* Getting a company registered with relevant government institutions
* Recommending suitable sites and acquiring it if necessary
* Providing an advertising space in leading local newspapers (to hire staffs)
* Meeting with a tax knowledgeable individual
* Meeting with a legal knowledgeable individual
* Offering business-related discussion
* Providing office space (to interview prospective employees etc.)
* Establishing a joint venture with Cambodian companies
* Undertaking any business projects
* Preparing and holding a conference in Cambodia
* Inviting bids or tenders for particular business
* Airport pickup and accommodation arrangement

Rice for Cambodian Families - $26

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Give nourishing food, and the hope for a better life, to the poorest of the poor -- families who used to scavenge on the massive, toxic garbage dump near Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Steung Meanchey is a massive open-air garbage dump on the outskirts of Cambodia's capital city, Phnom Penh. Imagine the desperate poverty that has led people to live near -- even in -- this toxic, dangerous "hell on earth," picking through the trash for anything that can be sold to recyclers to buy another day of food.

With the worldwide spike in the price of staple foods over the past year and a half, all the hard, dangerous work these families perform is often not enough even to afford plain rice. An estimated 45% of Cambodia's children suffer from malnutrition, but for children working in the dump, the rate is closer to 100%.

There is hope from an unlikely source: Cambodian Children's Fund (CCF), founded and led by Scott Neeson, former Hollywood film executive, who walked away from a successful 26-year career and sold his assets in order to help the poorest of the poor.

Cambodian Children's Fund is working to help the families and children of the Steung Meanchey garbage dump. CCF's subsidized rice distribution plan has become the lynchpin of the community food assistance program. Families who would otherwise be unable to afford the high cost of rice can buy this staple food through CCF at a fraction of market prices. Prices are pegged at pre-inflation rates of January 2008.

Through this weekly distribution process, hundreds of people are able to afford sufficient rice, keeping families healthy and together. The money CCF receives from the sale of this rice is re-invested in additional rice to keep the program going.

You can help. $26.00 purchases 50 kilos of rice for CCF's rice distribution plan. CCF is also committed to bringing clean water and education to the families of Steung Meanchey, and to the eventual goal of saving every single person from a life as "human garbage."

Cambodian Children's Fund (CCF) is a nonprofit organization working to improve the lives of Phnom Penh's most impoverished children and families. Providing hundreds of children with nutrition, housing, healthcare, and vocational training, CCF gives them the tools to break the cycle of poverty.

Upon purchase, you will receive an automated e-mail with a link to a full-color certificate of acknowledgment that you may print and frame for display or gift-giving. Adobe Acrobat Reader, or equivalent .pdf viewing program, is required to open the file. The certificate makes a great "instant" gift for an honored colleague, family member or friend.

Please note: Your purchase is tax-deductible in the U.S.A., and you will receive a receipt from GreaterGood.org for your taxes. 100% of your gift goes to Cambodian Children's Fund as a grant through GreaterGood.org. GreaterGood Network stores do not receive any profit from the sale of this Gift That Gives More™; we bring it to you in the spirit of the greater good. GreaterGood.org has ultimate authority and discretion with regard to the distribution of its funds. All expenditures made are consistent with the exempt purposes of GreaterGood.org.

Buy products from Cambodia

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agricultural products

Eighty-five percent of Cambodians are farmers; they are capitalizing on cultivating bean, corn, rice, tobacco, nut, sesame, orange etc for both local or international market and these are the hot commodities that Cambodia has been exporting and bring in to the country needed currency.

GoCambodia is ready to help you buy Cambodian agricultural products. GoCambodia can help you source the crops that you want to export and then arrange you to visit at the source if you prefer and directly negotiate with them. GoCambodia guarantees to choose across the country the best produce with top quality and reasonable prices for you.

If you are interested in buying the Cambodian agricultural products, please send the information to GoCambodia.com

Angkor Wat History

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Angkor Wat lies 5.5 km north of the modern town of Siem Reap, and a short distance south and slightly east of the previous capital, which was centred on the Baphuon. It is in an area of Cambodia where there is an important group of ancient structures. It is the southernmost of Angkor's main sites.

The initial design and construction of the temple took place in the first half of the 12th century, during the reign of Suryavarman II (ruled 1113 – c. 1150). Dedicated to Vishnu, it was built as the king's state temple and capital city. As neither the foundation stela nor any contemporary inscriptions referring to the temple have been found, its original name is unknown, but it may have been known as Vrah Vishnulok after the presiding deity. Work seems to have ended shortly after the king's death, leaving some of the bas-relief decoration unfinished. In 1177, approximately 27 years after the death of Suryavarman II, Angkor was sacked by the Chams, the traditional enemies of the Khmer. Thereafter the empire was restored by a new king, Jayavarman VII, who established a new capital and state temple (Angkor Thom and the Bayon respectively) a few kilometres to the north.

In the late 13th century, King Jayavarman VIII, who was Hindu, was deposed by his son in law, Srindravarman. Srindravarman had spent the previous 10 years in Sri Lanka becoming ordained as a Buddhist monk. Hence, the new King decided to convert the official religion of the empire from Hindu to Buddhist. Since Buddha was born and died a Hindu and since divisions between both the faiths appeared seamless, citizens were quick to follow a faith founded on tranquility without a need for material gain and power. This made the conversion relatively easy. Hence, Angkor Wat was converted from Hindu to Theravada Buddhist use, which continues to the present day. Angkor Wat is unusual among the Angkor temples in that although it was somewhat neglected after the 16th century it was never completely abandoned, its preservation being due in part to the fact that its moat also provided some protection from encroachment by the jungle.

One of the first Western visitors to the temple was Antonio da Magdalena, a Portuguese monk who visited in 1586 and said that it "is of such extraordinary construction that it is not possible to describe it with a pen, particularly since it is like no other building in the world. It has towers and decoration and all the refinements which the human genius can conceive of". However, the temple was popularised in the West only in the mid-19th century on the publication of Henri Mouhot's travel notes. The French explorer wrote of it: "One of these temples—a rival to that of Solomon, and erected by some ancient Michelangelo—might take an honourable place beside our most beautiful buildings. It is grander than anything left to us by Greece or Rome, and presents a sad contrast to the state of barbarism in which the nation is now plunged."

Mouhot, like other early Western visitors, was unable to believe that the Khmers could have built the temple, and mistakenly dated it to around the same era as Rome. The true history of Angkor Wat was pieced together only from stylistic and epigraphic evidence accumulated during the subsequent clearing and restoration work carried out across the whole Angkor site. There were no ordinary dwellings or houses or other signs of settlement including cooking utensils weapons or items of clothing usually found at ancient sites. Instead there is the evidence of the monuments themselves.

Angkor Wat required considerable restoration in the 20th century, mainly the removal of accumulated earth and vegetation. Work was interrupted by the civil war and Khmer Rouge control of the country during the 1970s and 1980s, but relatively little damage was done during this period other than the theft and destruction of mostly post-Angkorian statues. The temple has become a symbol of Cambodia, and is a source of great national pride. A depiction of Angkor Wat has been a part of Cambodian national flags since the introduction of the first version circa 1863. In January 2003 riots erupted in Phnom Penh when a false rumour circulated that a Thai soap opera actress had claimed that Angkor Wat belonged to Thailand.

Art and Handicrafts

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The history of visual arts in Cambodia stretches back centuries to ancient crafts. Traditional Cambodian arts and crafts include textiles, non-textile weaving, silversmithing, stone carving, lacquerware, ceramics, wat murals, and kite-making. Beginning in the mid-20th century, a tradition of modern art began in Cambodia, though in the later 20th century both traditional and modern arts declined for several reasons, including the killing of artists by the Khmer Rouge. The country has experienced a recent artistic revival due to increased support from governments, NGOs, and foreign tourists.

The history of Cambodian art stretches back centuries to ancient pottery, silk weaving, and stone carving. The height of Khmer art occurred during the Angkor period; much of the era's stone carving and architecture survives to the present. In pre-colonial Cambodia, art and crafts were generally produced either by rural non-specialists for practical use or by skilled artists producing works for the Royal Palace. In modern Cambodia, many artistic traditions entered a period of decline or even ceased to be practiced, but the country has experienced a recent artistic revival as the tourist market has increased and governments and NGOs have contributed to the preservation of Cambodian culture.

Silk weaving in Cambodia has a long history. The practice dates to as early as the first century, and textiles were used in trade during Angkorian times. Even modern textile production evidences these historic antecedents: motifs found on silk today often echo clothing details on ancient stone sculptures.
There are two main types of Cambodian weaving. The ikat technique (Khmer: chong kiet), which produces patterned fabric, is quite complex. To create patterns, weavers tie and dye portions of weft yarn before weaving begins. Patterns are diverse and vary by region; common motifs include lattice, stars, and spots.

Many Cambodian farmers weave baskets (Khmer: tbanh kantrak) for household use or as a supplemental source of income. Most baskets are many of thinly cut bamboo. Regions known for basketry include Siem Reap and Kampong Cham. Mat weaving (tbanh kantuel) is a common seasonal occupation. They are most commonly made from reeds, either left a natural tan color or dyed in deep jewel tones. The region of Cambodia best-known for mat weaving is the Mekong floodplain, especially around Lvea Em district. Mats are commonly laid out for guests and are important building materials for homes. Wicker and rattan crafts (tbanh kanchoeu) made from dryandra trees are also significant. Common wicker and rattan products include walls, mats, furniture, and other household items.

Cambodia's best-known stone carving adorns the temples of Angkor, which are "renowned for the scale, richness and detail of their sculpture". In modern times, however, the art of stone carving became rare, largely because older sculptures survived undamaged for centuries (eliminating the need for replacements) and because of the use of cement molds for modern temple architecture. By the 1970s and 1980s, the craft of stone carving was nearly lost.

During the late 20th century, however, efforts to restore Angkor resulted in a new demand for skilled stone carvers to replace missing or damaged pieces, and a new tradition of stone carving is arising to meet this need. Most modern carving is traditional-style, but some carvers are experimenting with contemporary designs. Interest is also renewing for using stone carving in modern wats. Modern carvings are typically made from Banteay Meanchey sandstone, though stone from Pursat and Kompong Thom is also used.

The height of Cambodian traditional lacquerware was between the 12th and 16th centuries; some examples of work from this era, including gilded Buddha images and betel boxes, have survived to the present day. Lacquerware was traditionally colored black using burnt wood, representing the underworld; red using mercury, representing the earth; and yellow using arsenic, representing the heavens. Lacquer on Angkorian stone dates to the 15th or 16 century.

In modern Cambodia, the art of lacquerwork nearly faded into oblivion: few lacquer trees survived, and lacquer was unavailable in local markets. Today's revival is still in its infancy, but 100 lacquer artists have been trained by a French expert under the guidance of Artisans d'Angkor, a company that produces traditional crafts in village workshops. Some artists are "beginning to experiment with different techniques and styles...to produce modern and striking effects."

Silversmithing in Cambodia dates back centuries. The Royal Palace traditionally patronized silversmiths' workshops, and silversmiths remain concentrated at Kompong Luong, near the former royal capital Oudong. Silver was made into a variety of items, including weaponry, coins, ceremonial objects used in funerary and religious rituals, and betel boxes. During Cambodia's colonial period, artisans at the School of Fine Art produced celebrated silverwork, and by the late 1930s there were more than 600 silversmiths. Today, silverwork is popular for boxes, jewellery, and souvenir items; these are often adorned with fruit, fire, and Angkor-inspired motifs. Men produce most of the forms for such work, but women often complete the intricate filigree.

Souvenir Shopping in Siem Reap, Cambodia

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Although bargaining at the local markets is a common practice for shoppers, it is not appropriate to do so at Artisans d’ Angkor. This is not a typical souvenir shop; this facility serves a cultural as well as an economic purpose. Artisans d' Angkor offers a business model that promotes sustainability and fair trade for the artists they employ. On a cultural level, they are preserving and promoting the traditional heritage of the Khmer empire. Reviving the traditional skills and crafts that were lost during years of political instability are a critical piece to a more unified Cambodia. On a larger scale they are providing economic support to Cambodia’s lagging job market by creating new jobs.

Artisans d’ Angkor is actually a network of ten workshops that trains and employs nearly 1000 emerging Cambodian artists. They recruit about 60 new apprentices per year providing not only a job, but a sustainable career. These organized workshops provide young people with a skilled trade and educational opportunity that would not be otherwise present in Cambodia.
Although there has been a recent boom in Cambodian’s tourist industry, it remains one of the poorest countries in South East Asia. Years of war and political turmoil have caused a deeply entrenched economic and cultural instability that has been hard for the country to overcome. The government lacks the necessary resources to provide adequate jobs, education, medical care and other basic necessities to their own people.
Shopping at Artisans d’ Angkor is one small way shoppers can use their tourist dollars for a good cause. This partnership provides shoppers with high-quality, locally produced products and the artist is guaranteed a fair wage for their labor.

Read more at Suite101: Siem Reap Cambodia Shopping Guide; Artisans d' Angkor http://www.suite101.com/content/siem-reap-cambodia-shopping-guide-artisans-d-angkor-a266790#ixzz0ydJXgROQ

Hand Made Silk Products from Cambodia

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For wholesale pricing, please contact us. For a retailer near you, click here.


Small Washed Silk Scarves Click to enlarge image	Soft scarves in every color of the rainbow to coordinate with our handbags. Available in color block design, solids and stripes. May be hand-washed. 58 inches X 18 inches with 1.5 inch hand knotted fringe.

Large Washed Silk Scarves Click to enlarge image	Same as above 66 inches X 30 inches with 2 inch hand knotted fringe. Available in color block design, solids and stripes. May be hand-washed.

Large Mya Silk Scarf Click to enlarge image	Mya silk scarf matches our Mya handbag. 68 inches X 32 inches with 3 inch hand knotted fringe. May be hand washed. Available in silver with white stripe, black with white stripe and raspberry with tan stripe. Coming soon brown, turquoise and red stripe.

Bophary Shawls Click to enlarge image	Organza and raw silk woven on one loom coordinate beautifully with our handbags. 100 inches X 32 inches with 3 inch hand-knotted fringe. Dry cleaning recommended. Available in black, silver, winter white, dark red, brown with pink iridescent, gold with brown and sage green.

Dey Shawl Click to enlarge image	Lush finished silk shawl 80 inches X 40 inches with hand knotted 3 ½ inch fringe on both ends. Dry clean only. Colors as shown.

Lavy Iridescent Shawl Click to enlarge image	Iridescent Lavy shawls 88 inches X 32 inches with 3 inch hand knotted fringe on either end. Colors as shown.

Evening Silk Handbags From Cambodia

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For wholesale pricing, please contact us. For a retailer near you, click here.


Apsara Click to enlarge image	Pleats of organza over raw silk with a zippered closure. Decorative adjustable silk handle ends in a tassel with beaded accents. Inside are a zippered compartment and a cell phone pocket. 13” tapering to 9” long 6” high. Strap drops approximately 8”. Available in black, bamboo, raspberry, turquoise, silver, caramel corn, winter white, dark red or brown.

Seyha Clutch Click to enlarge image	This tailored clutch is made of pleats of Sink Organza with a coordinating Raw Silk flap. Magnetic closure, interior zippered pocket. Available in black, bronze, dark red, silver, caramel corn and pumpkin. Measures 12.5 X 6 inches.

Moly Click to enlarge image	Moly, small rose bag with rope handle approximately 4.5 inches. Handbag made of finished silk with silk organza rose on both sides with assent beading. Moly is 7 inches long and 5 inches tall with the bottom depth 7 by 3 inches. Colors black, white, turquoise and silver.

Pich Click to enlarge image	Pich in Cambodian language means diamond with is exactly what this bag looks like. This white finished silk handbag with recessed zipper is perfect for those special evenings. Pich has straps with two beaded tassels which drop 7 inches for your wrist or you can extend the strap up to 20 inches long as a shoulder bag. Pich is 13 inches long and 5.5 inches tall. Available in black, white, dark rose and turquoise.

Bory Click to enlarge image	Bory, small shoulder bag with braided strap. Handbag 7 inches long and 5 inches tall with zipper closure. Strap drops 17.5 inches. Available in black, silver, white and French blue.

Bopha Click to enlarge image	Our newest design is created with raw silk and has a goroeous open flower blooming on the front flap. Magnetic closure; interior pocket. 10 inch long 5 inch tall; 2.5 inch deep. Strap drops 8 inches. Available in black, purple, turquoise, lotus pink, raspberry, corn or dark red.

Sitha Click to enlarge image	Pleated handbag made of finished silk has a zippered closure and soft handle. Fully lined with interior zippered pocket and cell phone pocket. 11 inches tall, 15 inches top to bottom. Handle is 1 ¼ inches wide.

Thida Click to enlarge image	This lovely vine design is stunning. Interior pocket, magnetic closure. Available in brown/taupe, gold/tan, red/taupe, black/white. 10 X 5 inches. Strap drops 8 inches.

Hand Made Silk Products from Cambodia

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Kong Large Click to enlarge image	Kong comes in madalion and leaf print. Roomy bag made of printed silk with large zippered compartments and two large outer pockets with magnetic closure and interior zippered pocket. Available in madalion print tan on taupe, black on black. Leaf print is turquoise on black, red on orange, black on silver, purple on black and gray on black. Kong measures 10 inches X 14 inches long, bottom is 5 inches deep. Strap drops 12 inches.

Daria Click to enlarge image	Sophisticated, soft tote bag with flower accents. Zippered closure; cotton lining. 18 inches wide, 14 inches all. Strap drops approximately 7 inches. Inside zipper pocket and cell phone pocket. Available in dark gray or black.

Dara Briefcase/ Messanger Bag Click to enlarge image	This versatile bag made with printed silk can be used as a purse, briefcase, messenger bag, even a diaper bag. There are two large sections inside, a zippered compartment, and small pockets to use for pens, your phone or business cards. Front flap has a magnetic closure. 15 inches long, 12 inches tall, 4 inches deep. Strap is 1 ¼ wide and drops 18 ½ inches. Available in black, with white imprint; black with black imprint; brown with taupe imprint; dark red with raspberry imprint. Matching Dara purse and business card holder available

Soria Tote Click to enlarge image	Soria Tote is a vibrant fun bag. Handbag is made of finished silk print on one side, 13 inches X 12.5 inches with recessed zipper. Shoulder strap drops 22 inches and can be adjusted, with is 1.5 inches. Inner lining cotton with cell phone and zipped pocket. Available in print as shown and navy, chestnut brown, black, oatmeal and dark red raw silk.

Mya Click to enlarge image	Large Mya tote is 20 inches long and 13 inches tall with double strap which falls 12 inches. This stitched pleated large bag has small rivets on each side of strap. Recessed zipper closure with double cell phone pockets and zipped cosmetic area. Mya comes in raw silk dark red, black, iridescent green/purple and finished stripe silk raspberry, black, brown, turquoise, dark red and silver.

Siem Reap Transportation Choices

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How to get around town...

Siem Reap is a small town. You can walk around the downtown area and still cover a lot of ground.
That said, there are several choices of transportation to get around this town. Especially useful when you're trying to visit the Angkor temples, whether near or far.

Bicycle
Since Siem Reap's terrain is pretty much flat, it's is easy to cruise around with bicycles. You can even go to Angkor Wat using bicycles, because although that's rather far, it is still doable. I personally think bicycle is the way to go for getting around town (once you get over the traffic quirks here).
You can rent a bike easily from your hotel or guesthouse. There are also many small mom and pop places that rent out bicycles. If you see several bicylces lined up by the street or major roads, you can be sure they are for rent.

The rate ranges from $1 - $2 per day, and choices vary, from a proper mountain bike with speeds, to the regular cruising bikes. They will also give you the bike lock when you rent, so you can wander around without worrying about the bike.
There is charity organization that rents out bicycles through guesthouses for $2/day. The proceed will be used to aid projects for the rural areas. You can find out more about The White Bicycles here.

Moto (Motorcycle)
Somehow, in Siem Reap foreigners aren't allowed to rent motorcycle and drive it themselves. So the next best choice is to rent one and hop on behind the driver. No helmet is provided, so hop on with that risk in mind.
If you're a solo traveler, moto would be good choice. It's cheaper than tuktuk, and faster as well. The going rate is between $6 - $8 per day.
PS. Although theoretically foreigners are not allowed to rent motorcycles, there is a tour company that does that. You can find out about dirt biking from Hidden Cambodia Adventure tours.

Tuktuk
By far the most popular choice of Siem Reap and Angkor transportation.
A tuktuk is a motorcycle pulling a hooded carriage. Some can fit only 2, some others up to 4 (or more if you can squeeze yourselves in).
It is comfortable method for exploring the area. The cushion is comfortable, you can put your feet up if you're really tired, and lean back and just enjoy the sights. The hood is also a big plus, because it protects you from the hot sun or the pouring rain.

Some tuktuks also have plastic 'doors' and 'windows'. Most of the time they are rolled up to keep them out of the way, and pulled down only when necessary. The plastic barrier comes in several sections, but they all zip up together nicely.
This feature could be particularly useful when it's raining outside or if you find the wind and dust are just too much.

Tuktuks usually cost $10 - $13 per day, and drivers usually charge few dollars more for longer distances. For a short ride to town, it' usually 2000 Riel - $1 per ride.
Also, you won't have a hard time finding an empty tuktuk. Tuktuk drivers fully anticipate Siem Reap tourism to increase, so their number seems to increase as well. Some even have a website that you can book in advance, like Mr Pik Savuth at Angkor Tuktuk, or Mr. Sotheara, at Angkorwat Driver.
Taxi, Car or Van

You can also rent a car or a van to get around. Although they are a bit of an overkill for short distances, I wholeheartedly love them for long distances.
If you plan to go to Phnom Kulen, Kbal Spean, Banteay Srei or Beng Mealea, you might want to use a car or a van. Those Angkor temples are rather far for a tuktuk ride, and the roads aren't exactly tuktuk friendly, ie. bumpy roads and dust particles flying around.
A car /van should cost $20 - $30 per day, depending on the distance. At this point it helps if you can find other people to share the ride.

So In Short...
Getting around Siem Reap is tremendously easy. Traffic isn't so bad either, merely regular slowing downs and stops at the lights.
It is still such a small town, that you can get from point A to point B in five minutes, and reach faraway Angkor temples without traffic. There is no stress at all in regards to traffic, but be forewarned that sometimes drivers go around a bit recklessly. This could look a bit alarming, but since all drivers are used to driving style, it seems they get around just fine.

Shopping

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Who doesn't like this particular Siem Reap tourist attraction?
Haggling is alive and well at traditional markets. You may want to shop around and compare prices because they all carry similar stuff. The Siem Reap tourism business seems to be growing because they recently opened up a new night market.

1. Central Market - the market for souvenirs and Cambodian trinkets. Best prices.

Siem Reap Tourism Artisans d'Angkor One of Siem Reap tourism leading industries: Artisans d'Angkor silk
2. Old Market - medium sized market selling clothes and souvenirs. Okay prices.

3. Night Market - geared towards tourists. Stays open until midnight. Highest prices. Website

4. Artisans d'Angkor - the leading Cambodian silk company. Unbelievably gorgeous stuff, but expect Western
'prices,' and no haggling. Website

5. Boutique shoppes around the Old Market area - from arts and crafts, to silk clothes and trinkets. These
small shops are fun to visit and have unique items.

So In Short...
There you have it, a list of Siem Reap attractions and activities to get you started. There are so many things to do that you won't want to leave!
Who knew that there are so many Cambodia attractions in and near Siem Reap?
And I use the term attractions loosely, becuase sometimes you will be the only tourist! Considering that Cambodia is visited by millions and millions of people, getting a temple to yourself is an unbelievable treat.

Amok Restaurant on Pub Street's Passage

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If this is your first time trying Cambodian food? Why not start with amok, their national dish?

This coconut based 'curry' dish is flavorful without being too strong and is familiar enough to many taste buds. The perfect choice for a first time encounter with Cambodian food.

Amok at the passage

The Red Piano on Pub St.
With its corner location, this Cambodian restaurant is probably the most prominent in Pub Street. You can enjoy your meal on the balcony upstairs, that way you have a great view of the scenery below.

View from Red Piano's balcony

Le Tigre de Papier on Pub St.
Le Tigre de Papier (The Paper Tiger) is one of those cute restaurants in Siem Reap. It has good food, free internet, free Wi-Fi, fast service, book exchange, and a cooking class. What more can you ask for?

Le Tigre de Papier seen from Pub St.

FCC Angkor Restaurant on Pokambor Ave.
This restaurant has a relaxing view, great service, good food, and comfortable surroundings. I'd go here again in a heartbeat. I think this is one of the nicer Siem Reap restaurants.

Relaxing view at FCC Angkor

Madam Sachiko Cookies and Cafe Puka Puka, on the road to Angkor Wat.
You simply must stop by Café Puka Puka and the Madam Sachiko Cookies store on your way back from Angkor Wat. The cookies and the shake are just the perfect way to end your Angkor Wat day tour

The best drink ever

Traditional Khmer Food Restaurant on Pub Street's Passage
The Khmer curry at this restaurant is really good! Come here if you’re looking for good, hearty, cheap Cambodian food at a nice Cambodian restaurant. They have a $3.25 daily special which includes food and drink.

Cambodian owned and run restaurant

Curry Walla on Sivatha Blvd.
One of Siem Reap's restaurants was dubbed as the restaurant with Best Value for Money in 2006, and that is Curry Walla on Sivatha Blvd. I decided to try it based on that claim alone. It turns out the food is good; there's fast, free internet; and they do delivery also. See a page of the menu here.

Curry Walla from the sidewalk

Chamkar on Pub Street's Alley
Looking for a vegetarian restaurant in Siem Reap? Chamkar is one of them, and it's easily one of the best restaurants I've tried in town. The food was simply delicious! Whether or not you're a vegetarian, don't miss trying out this restaurant. They serve Cambodian food here, but I think it'll suit most tastebuds.

Chamkar restaurant

What's Your Favorite Cambodian Restaurant in Siem Reap?

Please do share with other visitors your favorite restaurant in Siem Reap. What did you like about it? Great food? Great price? Great location? Free internet? Free delivery?

Siem Reap Tourism Attractions and Activities

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Siem Reap Tourism industry will definitely not be the same without Angkor Wat and its other temples. But you can only see so many temples without getting cross eyed!

Sooner or later, you'll be looking for other things to do around town.

Not to worry, because there are a lot of non-temple activities available thanks to the booming Siem Reap tourism industry. So let's see what they provide.

They're roughly divided into three categories:

Non-temple activities - Everything but temples.
Museums - No, not as boring as you thought. Some are interesting.
Shopping! - Places to spend your money.

Non-temple Activities

These activities are great ways to see more of Cambodia and prevent (or cure) temple burn out. They can be easily done between your temple visits because most of them are around town.

Kompong Phluk

Kompong Khleang

Cambodian village
scenery

Stone quarry

Silk cocoon

Cambodian incense

Do crocodiles count as a Siem Reap tourist item?

Some of the activities involve 'natural' attractions, so they're not made up by the Siem Reap tourism industry just to please visitors.

Kampung Phluk - a large village of stilted houses near the Tonle Sap lake. Another of my favorite Cambodia activities. Website
Kampung Khleang - an even larger village of floating and stilted houses by the great lake.
Chong Khneas - the most visited floating village due to its short distance from town.
Tonle Sap Lake and Cruise - see how the largest lake in Southeast Asia controls the livelihood of many Cambodians.
Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary - a haven for birds, a heaven for bird enthusiasts.
Apsara Dance and Dinner Show - see the temple carvings of Apsara dancers come to life. There are lots of places to choose from, but Angkor Village is one.
Spend a Day in a Cambodian Village - an unusual look into Cambodian village life. Be a Cambodian for one day!
Visit Social Foundations and Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) - see what kind of projects they are currently working on. Here is the website for Trailblazer whose project is a water filtering system.
Dirt Bike Motor Tour - roam around the countryside with your own bike. It provides a different view of Cambodia. Website
Bicycle Around Siem Reap - A great way to get to know the town, and one that is pretty easy due to the flat terrain. Most bicycles are available for rent though the hotel or hostels. There's the White Bicycle for easy rides, and Biking Cambodia for a more involved approach. Also, click on this bicycle adventure website to read more about cycling in Cambodia.
The Silk Farm - visit the farm to see how those lovely Cambodian scarves are made. A comprehensive tour from start to finish. Website
The Stone Quarry for Angkor temples - see the river where stones were carved and imagine how they were transported downstream to the temple construction site.
Visit the Buddhist Wats Monastery - you will probably stumble into one because there are several of them around town. Also, 95% of Cambodians are Buddhist.
Incense Factory - see how incense sticks are made by visiting this small family operation.
Crocodile Farm - Cambodians sure do have lots of crocodiles. They're fun to watch, but they smell bad!
Horseback Riding - ride to the lesser known temples around town. You can choose between a one hour trip to a half day or even an all day trip. Website
Free Cello Recital at the Children's Hospital - performed by Dr. Beat Richner, a Swiss pediatrician working at the hospital. Donations accepted. Website
Visit a Mosque in Siem Reap - get a glimpse of the small Muslim community in Siem Reap and visit the mosque school there.

Cambodian Krama

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I took advantage of the holiday last Monday (Ninoy Aquino day) and went pasalubong shopping at the Toul Tompong or the Russian Market. It’s much less crowded during weekdays so Philippine holidays (including Christmas) are the best time to go shopping. Naturally, among the gifts I bought were dozens of kramas, for isn’t this colorful checkered scarf a national symbol of Cambodia, along with the great Angkor Wat itself? Just check out these beauties I bought:
kramas

These handwoven cotton scarves are worn by the rural Khmers (Cambodian people) as well as those in cities. The Khmers use it for almost anything: scarves and shawls to protect from the sun, wind, and dust; slung around the waist like tapis (especially when they take a bath in the river, then they can also use the kramas as towels); as baby carriers; as headdresses; table runners; placed on chairs to dress them up during important occasions like weddings and birthdays; as pillow covers; as picnic blankets… I could go on and on.
It is also famous among tourists who use it to protect themselves from the hot Cambodian sun and from the dust. I’m not sure but I think I see the reporter Abner Mercado always sporting a krama whenever he’s on TV.

I remember we gave Sis Bride two kramas a few years ago and she would wear it in her office in Manhattan. She said that all her officemates loved it and thought that it came from Hermes in Paris. Hahaha! It just came from a cheap market in Phnom Penh! The price? I’m not telling or the recipients of my pasalubongs would find out that I’m kuripot. :)

Myself, I use it to cover my neck at night (I get sick when my neck gets cold), as a shawl (lighter than carrying a jacket), and at home cover my shoes in my shoe shelf:
shoeshelf
So check out the wooden sculpture of a Cambodian diety and an antique wooden Cambodian box… also from Toul Tompong.

Besides the different colored kramas, I also bought twenty red kramas for my friend who said he wanted like the ones the Khmer Rouge soldiers wore. FYI Khmer Rouge, which literally means red Cambodians, are the communist Cambodians who were allegedly responsible for the genocide in the country in the 1970s.

South Korea Provides 3.3 Million USD to Support Health Sector in Svay Rieng

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Phnom Penh: H.E. Prof. Eng Huot shakes hands with Mr. Kim Byung-gwan at the Signing Ceremony (Photo).

Under cooperation between Cambodia and South Korea through KOICA Cambodia office, the Ministry of Health celebrated the Signing Ceremony to get charity aid with total amount of 3.3 million USD for strengthening health sector in Siem Reap.

Mr. Kim Byung-gwan, Resident Representative of KOICA Cambodia office said at the ceremony on May 7, 2010 yesterday at MOH that KOICA has many activities to support the health sector in Cambodia “making a better world together”

Mr. Kim added that “this new centre will support the government strategies especially the project that focuses on mother and child healthcare for what they need, namely, providing treatment service in charity image.”

It should be noticed that the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) of the Republic of South Korea operated in Cambodia since 1990. This Agency supported to the development projects such as, Constructing of building for poor patients, Centre for children i.e. focuses on mother and infant healthcare.

Recently, KOICA Program officer told DAP that KOICA has a lot of important projects focuses on health sector which is its priority project. Up to the present, charity aid under the support of South Korea through KOICA Cambodia office is over 50 million$.

Concerning Good cooperation with Royal Government of Cambodia, especially MOH, some achievements emerged. First, construction of mother building and medicine centre for children including installation of medical instrument and equipment. Secondly, providing medicine which is beneficiary to medicine centre and some related equipments. Thirdly, providing training courses to medical doctors to enhance their professional capacity. Further more, to dispatch Korean experts to cooperate with doctors, including technique and implementation together.

Program officer indicated before the ceremony that, the implementation team visited Siem Reap as well. During its visit, they observed that S.R Provincial hospital is shortage in medical care which is necessary to pursue the further supported project from KOICA, and this is aiming at strengthening health sector to become better in Cambodia.

H.E. Prof. Eng Huot, Secretary of State of MOH said that “on be half of MoH, I would like to express my high appreciation that Korea has supported the health sector in Cambodia and provided extra projects to Siam Reap Provincial Hospital.”

Prof. Eng Huot added that “with the support from KOICA, it’s the testimony to push the health sector become better in Cambodia”. He said, adding that the cooperation between Cambodian and Korean government through KOICA is the mirror to show support to healthcare for poor people in Cambodia.

Prof. Eng Huot stressed that “Cambodia hopes the Republic of South Korea will pursue good cooperation with us, and this charity aid will contribute to Cambodian people who need help. Moreover, Korean government through KOICA Agency will continue this charity affair to Cambodia.”

On the other hand, Mr. Hort Sreou, Program Officer of KOICA Cambodia office mentioned that Korea has further projects which will be implemented next time and, following by its phases.

In reality, the project with total amount of 3.3 million USD will be implemented to support public health in Siam Reap for two years, dating from 2010 to 2012.

Cambodia Quality products Listing

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Blue sky Deep sides Woman hand bag. HD-BGS-22103	GinSeng board GinSeng Wine: 1Bottle 750ml cost 1USD FOB cambodia	GinSeng open Bottle with Glass We are looking for Oversea Distributors. Plea
Jar made from marble	Ly Ly Duran	LYLY CoConut
LYLY Coffee	LYLY Egg	LYLY Milk
Seminar/Tourist bag	Silver box in shape of a nandin Silver box in shape of a nandin. Made from sterlin	Silver box in shape of a tomato Silver box in shape of a tomato. Made from sterlin
Small Format Spun bag Small Format Spun woman bag. HD-BGS-22170	Tatamy	Trap Bag with Flower Star Organza, Trap Bag with Flower HD-BGS-22156

Cambodia Black pepper

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When we say about the black pepper, we will think over Kampot pepper but never say about the pepper planted in Kampong Cham province, especially in Memot district. In the fact that, I was born from farmer family, my parents farmed since they returned from the Pol Pot regime until now. My parents always have grown cash-crops in order to meet the market from coffee, cashew and pepper.

They cut down all coffee trees in the last nearly 10 years because its price was so cheap. Presently, he planted pepper and cashew instead. I now just would like to let you know that most of people in Memot district like to grow agro-agriculture.

My parents’ life as farmer is so hard because they almost have enough time to rest. They need to go to farm almost every day. Most of people who planted vine pepper have not experience. What they did is to get lesson learnt from each other.

My parents have planted pepper more than five years. In order to yield products, they need to hire workers to guard farm, spend on pesticide, gasoline, not including their own labor. And in the harvest season, they need to hire local residents to pick its pepper. And all fresh peppers are needed to dry.

Stir Fry Beef Satay with Green Peppers

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200g tenderloin beef
6 cubanelle Peppers
� Tsp black pepper
2 cayenne peppers
2 Tbsp Khmer Satay Meat Marinade
200g Khmer Peanut Sauce
1 Tbsp Lemon juice
1 Tbsp Soya sauce

Thinly slice the beef and place in a bowl. Add Khmer Satay Meat Marinade and mix well then leave for 5-10 minutes. Heat fry pan to a medium heat. Add the sliced marinated beef and stir fry until almost cooked, then toss in the cubanelle pepper. Add the lemon juice and soya sauce also. Stir fry the ingredients for about 2 minutes then remove them from the heat. Sprinkle over the black pepper and garnish with the cayenne peppers. Top it off with the Khmer Peanut Sauce and serve piping hot!

400g Chicken
300g Yams or potatoes
1 cup coconut milk
2 onions sliced in wedges
8 Kaffir lime leaves
3 cloves of garlic
1 Tsp curry powder
1 Tbsp curry paste
3 Tbsp Khmer Satay Meat Marinade
1 Tbsp fish sauce
1 Tsp salt
2 Tbsp lemon juice
300g Khmer Peanut Sauce

Cut the chicken into small pieces and place into a bowl. Add 3 Tbsp of Khmer Khmer Satay Meat Marinade and mix well. Leave for 5-10 minutes. Chop garlic into small pieces. Heat up a large pot to a medium heat and add a Tbsp of vegetable oil. Then add the garlic and the curry paste slowly. Stir-fry them well making sure the curry paste is all separated. Add the chicken pieces and stir-fry until golden brown. Then add the coconut milk and season with the fish sauce, salt and lemon juice. Stir constantly until all the ingredients are all well blended. Once it is boiled, add the yams or potatoes and the onions. Lower the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Add the Khmer Peanut Sauce and stir well then garnish with the Kaffir lime leaves. Serve immediately. Khmer Satay Chicken Curry can be enjoyed with the steamed rice, baguette or rice noodles.

Any kind of meat or seafood is suitable to be marinated for a BBQ. Use about 200g Khmer Satay Meat Marinade to marinate about 1kg worth of your favourite meat or seafood. Simply dice or slice the meat, and mix in the Khmer Satay Meat Marinade. Seafood such as scallops and mussels can be marinated in whole whereas squid must be cross cut from the back before cut into suitable pieces. This makes it easier for the marinade to be absorbed into the squid. To BBQ the marinated meat, simply place straight onto the BBQ or in a fry pan. You can also skewer the meat onto sticks. Serve with a helping of Khmer Satay Peanut Sauce.

400g Veal
100g Pork mince
3 Tbsp Khmer Satay Meat Marinade
300g Khmer Satay Peanut Sauce
1 onion chopped into fine pieces
� Tsp of black pepper
1 Tsp fish sauce
1 egg
1 Tsp of salt & sugar
2 Tbsp coconut milk

Blend the chopped onion into the pork mince and season with fish sauce, salt, sugar and pepper then beat in the egg and coconut milk. Mix well. Slice the veal thinly and cut into rectangles about 6cmx10cm. Place 1 Tbsp of mixed pork mince onto one half of the veal, roll up, and secure with a toothpick. Place the veal rolls into a larger bowl and pour about 3 Tbsp of Khmer Satay Meat Marinade onto them. Carefully stir round making sure all the veal rolls are covered in marinade and leave for 5-10 minutes. Turn the oven onto grill to about 180 degrees Celsius. Use tongs to place the marinated veal into the oven and grill for about 25 minutes. Turn the rolls over and grill for another 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and pour over the Khmer Peanut Sauce. Serve hot.

2010-11-17T21:14:00.000+07:00

On 9-10 June 2006, Star Kampuchea and a group of local organizations, associations and Trade Union Federation had organized Exhibition of Khmer Products entiled “Civil Society is a effevtive partner for Government to develop the country” at Phnom Penh Cultural Center (Chenla Theather).

Those are stands to show the Khmer Products to people, most of those are NGOs staff, Students, Common people from different NGOs and associations in Cambodia.

Acitvities of Khmer OS’ staff is
demonstrating participants about how to use and type Khmer Unicode. Most of them are so interested in Khmer Software such as Khmer Unicode Installation, Khme Email Application (Mayura) and Khmer Web Brouser (Mekhala).

that is Prasat Phnom Banna Grape Wine. One bottle is $6.