Old Market in Siem Reap: A Guide for Visitors

Old Market is the oldest and most central market in Siem Reap. It dates back to the French colonial period, when it was the main trading hub for the city. Today, it is a bustling and colorful market that caters to both locals and tourists. You can find almost anything at Old Market, from fresh produce, meat, and seafood, to clothes, accessories, and handicrafts. Old Market is also a good spot to sample some of the local delicacies, such as fish amok, nom banh chok, and fried insects.

What to Expect

Old Market is open from 7 am to 8 pm every day, but some stalls may stay open until 11 pm. The market is divided into different sections, each with its own specialty. On the outer rim of the market, you can find stalls selling souvenirs, such as silk scarves, silver jewelry, wood carvings, and paintings. These stalls are mostly aimed at tourists, so you can expect to bargain for the prices. On the river side of the market, you can find stalls selling antiques and curios, such as old coins, statues, and pottery. These stalls are more authentic, but you need to be careful about the quality and origin of the items.

On the inner part of the market, you can find the local section, where you can see the daily life of the Cambodians. Here, you can find stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, and flowers. You can also find stalls selling meat, seafood, and poultry, which are often displayed in the open air. This section can be a bit overwhelming for some visitors, as you can see and smell the raw and sometimes bloody products. However, it is also a fascinating and eye-opening experience, as you can witness the diversity and richness of the Cambodian cuisine.

On the opposite side of the market, you can find the food court, where you can taste some of the local dishes and snacks. You can find a variety of options, from noodles and rice, to soups and salads, to grilled and fried foods. You can also find some exotic and adventurous choices, such as spiders, crickets, and scorpions. The food court is a great place to mingle with the locals and enjoy the lively atmosphere. The prices are very reasonable, and the portions are generous. However, you need to be careful about the hygiene and sanitation of the food, as some stalls may not follow the best practices. You should also bring your own water or drinks, as the tap water is not safe to drink.

Tips

Here are some tips to make the most of your visit to Old Market in Siem Reap:

• Bring cash, as most stalls do not accept credit cards or other forms of payment. The local currency is the Cambodian riel, but US dollars are widely accepted as well. You can exchange your money at the banks or money changers near the market.

• Dress comfortably and modestly, as the market can get very hot and crowded. You should also wear closed shoes, as the floor can be wet and slippery. You should also respect the local culture and religion, and avoid wearing revealing or offensive clothing.

• Bargain politely, as haggling is part of the shopping culture in Cambodia. You can usually get a lower price than the initial offer, but you should not be too aggressive or rude. You should also be realistic and fair, and not expect to pay too little for the items. A good rule of thumb is to start with half of the asking price, and work your way up to a reasonable amount.

• Be aware of your surroundings, as the market can be a target for pickpockets and scammers. You should keep your valuables and belongings close to you, and avoid flashing your money or gadgets. You should also be careful of the traffic and the motorcycles, as they can be very fast and unpredictable. You should also avoid buying any illegal or endangered products, such as ivory, tiger skins, or drugs, as they can get you in trouble with the law.

• Have fun and be open-minded, as the market is a great place to learn about the Cambodian culture and people. You can chat with the vendors and the locals, and learn about their stories and traditions. You can also try some of the new and exotic foods, and discover new flavors and textures. You can also take some photos and videos, but you should always ask for permission first, and respect the privacy and dignity of the people.

How to Get There

Old Market is located in the center of Siem Reap, and it is very easy to get there. You can walk from most of the hotels and guesthouses in the city, as it is only a few minutes away. You can also take a tuk-tuk, which is a motorized rickshaw, and pay around $2 to $5 for a one-way trip. You can also rent a bicycle or a scooter, and explore the city at your own pace. However, you should be careful of the traffic and the road conditions, as they can be chaotic and bumpy.

Old Market does not have an entrance fee, but you may need to pay for parking if you bring your own vehicle. The address of Old Market is Street 9, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia.