Shopping in Siem Reap

Thứ Năm, 17 tháng 7, 2014

Shopping in Siem Reap

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Whether you are looking for handicrafts or traditional and contemporary Khmer fashion, Siem Reap is an excellent place to shop for all things of Cambodiaduring your tour in this country. In addition to the classic memories of Cambodia, Siem Reap has many art galleries, fashion boutiques and trendy shops. Many shops are scattered throughout the city with a concentration along Sivutha Boulevard and close to Phsar Chas (Old Market) and Pub Street. Lanes Pub Street, including Alley West harbor, has several small distinctive contemporary art galleries and funky shops. For traditional elements and memories, let’s visit the old market – Phsar Chas.
"Phsar" means "market" in Khmer. The traditional Cambodian Phsar is a sprawling of small shops and stalls, and a visit to one is an important part of the Cambodian experience. Siem Reap's most popular traditional market - Phsar Chas (Old Market), is intended for visitors and locals, offering a wide choice of souvenirs, household items and food - a real cultural experience.


What to buy?

Hand-woven silk in Cambodia, stone products and wood carvings, statues and castings, contemporary Cambodian art, Cambodian handicrafts and traditional musical instruments, silver betel containers, colored gems and basketry are the most popular souvenirs. The most useful and one of the cheapest souvenirs that you can buy is a traditional checkered scarf of Cambodian (krama).

Cambodia silks 

Cambodia has a long and rich history in silk production stretching back over a thousand years. A fascinating way to learn about Cambodia silk is to visit Angkor Silk Farm, where you can take a free guided tour explaining the process of silk production, cultivation technique of Cambodia of Ikat mulberry and dyeing, weaving and the creation of silk fabrics. In Siem Reap, both raw and fine silks are available in the form of sarongs, clothing and various handicrafts.

Silver areca (betel) containers 


Silver areca containers are popular and traditional souvenirs. Made to hold dried betel nut, they are still used in ceremonial life and every day. Today, the containers are mainly to be sold as souvenirs but are still hand made using traditional techniques and styles.

Gem

Gems are a tempting souvenir. And markets in Siem Reap are full of jewelers. However, you need to have the knowledge or somebody who are knowledgeable about gems when buying gems.

Statues and sculptures

Statues and carvings are replicas of Angkorian era works as well as Buddhas and Hindu gods. Statues are made of stone, wood and brass. The replica of Jayavarman VII bust of Angkorian era with its graceful lines and peaceful smile is truly captivating and is perhaps the most popular statue.

Contemporary fashion and accessories

Cambodian local designers produce a wide range of clothing and accessories that bring a modern touch to traditional Khmer motifs and patterns. In the Old Market area - Alley West, you will find a collection of trendy clothes shops that sell new-style clothes, many of which are made with fabrics from local and sustainable techniques. Another popular thing that you can see around town is colored recycled rice bags that were remade and become inexpensive products such as handbags and laptop bags.