The market in Siem Reap, a bustling assault on all the senses, most notably in the food hall, where the olfactory attack is at it’s highest, especially towards the end of the day. Purchases are made here with a simple nod off the head, so sunglasses are a must to avoid eye contact, unless you want to go away with two dozen crayfish!

 

Elsewhere the stall holders, mainly children, are so enthusiastic to part you and your money that it would become irritating if it were not for the happy nature of them all. Bartering is a way of life for these people, and you have to play your part. Haggling over the price is a must, but one has to bear in mind that these sellers make literally cents on each sale. Bargains can be found, and expect the usual tourist souvenirs, as well as some truly original local handicrafts. Bootlegging seems to be a national industry, expect to pay around $5 for Microsoft Office 2008, $2 for chart cd’s and $5 for not yet seen films on dvd.  If reading is your thing, books are plentiful, many on the recent troubles within the country, as well as mainstream bestsellers, between $2 and $4 each. These again are just cheap copies, don’t expect them to survive the trip home!

 

The Boom Boom Room is a must for music fans, they will load an album onto your iPod for as little as 75c. The musical collection offered is both vast and varied, covering rock, pop, jazz, blues, country etc.

 

After dark, the chance to shop is at the Night Market, which closes around midnight, with much the same fare on offer, with a bar for us blokes to spend time in whilst the women shop… A brilliant idea that could do with exporting back to dear old Blighty!

 

Well, tonight I am off to watch the Arsenal vs Chelski game, and have decided to blow the lot on an Arsenal win, That’s £8 billion Edward, and I’ll let you have the draw! Tomorrow I am off to the den of iniquity that is Phnom Penh for a few days, so I may be offline for a while. Fear not! I will be fine.