A large number of foreign residents enjoy this market’s curios and variety goods

A long time ago, this marketplace acquired the nickname “Russian Market” due to its large number of Russian customers. It is called “Phsa Toul Tum Poung” in Khmer, meaning “marketplace at a high elevation.” Offering a large number of souvenirs and assorted goods, this market is featured regularly in guidebooks and this market became famous a favorite among tourists. With its souvenir shops, the Russian Market is equal in scope to the Central Market.

The market is home to around 1,400 stores, with the number of souvenir shops increasing yearly. Many stores sell souvenirs in addition to their core business. In order to connect with the large number of international tourists, many shopkeepers speak English and Chinese.

Banh Chev Angkor

Coconut paste is rolled in a thin wrap coated with sugar and fried to make a crispy crepe-like confection, sold in bags of 12 for 6,000 riel.

Souvenir stores line the south side of this comprehensive marketplace, with food and mechanical tools on the north side. There are many clothing stores on the west side, selling affordable brand-name items straight from the factory. Rarer items are mixed alongside the souvenirs, with made-inCambodia products popular among tourists.

(Take a stroll in the area surrounding the marketplace. There are a number of interesting clothing stores and cafes.)

(Nailists are walking around the market.)

Souvenirs / Ms. Sreymov (30)

“Our store mainly sells ‘Sbaek thom’, transparent figures cut from leather. Smaller fi gures are popular among tourists. Apsara patterns sell for US$ 15  each!”

Nail Salon / Ms. Sokun (29)

“Our customers are not only Camboians but also Europeans. We’re known for our long-lasting gel nails, starting from US$ 5.”

Musical Instruments / Ms. Naren (28)

“We sell musical instruments, but we also sell souvenirs. Stone fi gurines, Buddha statues for US$ 35 a piece. Tro, a traditional instrument with a coconut body for US$ 120.”