Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Russian Market - so-called by foreigners because the predominantly Russian expat
population shopped here in the 1980s - also has a large range of handicrafts and antiquit-
ies (many fake), including miniature Buddhas, woodcarvings, betel-nut boxes, silks, silver
jewellery, musical instruments and so on. Bargain hard, as hundreds of tourists pass
through here every day.
Psar Thmei
(Central Market; 6.30am-5.30pm)
A landmark building in the capital, the art deco Psar Th-
mei is often called the Central Market, a reference to its location and size. The huge
domed hall resembles a Babylonian ziggurat and some claim it ranks as one of the 10
largest domes in the world. The design allows for maximum ventilation, and even on a
sweltering day the central hall is cool and airy. The market was recently renovated with
French government assistance and is looking in fine fettle these days.
The market has four wings filled with stalls selling gold and silver jewellery, antique
coins, dodgy watches, clothing and other such items. For photographers, the fresh food
section affords many opportunities. For a local lunch, there are a host of food stalls loc-
ated on the western side, which faces Monivong Blvd.
Psar Thmei is undoubtedly the best market for browsing. However, it has a reputation
among Cambodians for overcharging on most products.
MARKET
Psar O Russei
( 6.30am-5.30pm)
Much bigger than either Psar Thmei or Russian Market, Psar O Russei
sells foodstuffs, costume jewellery, imported toiletries, secondhand clothes and everything
else you can imagine from hundreds of stalls. The market is housed in a huge labyrinth of
a building that looks like a shopping mall from the outside.
MARKET
Sorya Shopping Centre
MALL
(cnr Sts 63 & 154; 9am-9pm)
The pick of the malls in Phnom Penh, with a good range of
shops, a central location, a Western-style cinema and superb views over the more tradi-
tional Psar Thmei.
Night Market
MARKET
