Society is changing in Cambodia and some of the changes are real progress. In this last of three postings about vehicles and transportation in Phnom Penh, click here to see some of “the other” modes.
Phnom Penh Transport (3 of 3)
Author: Charles Dittmeier
Who needs it?
Because there is basically no traffic law enforcement, just about anything goes here. Probably a good third of the vehicles here are not street legal for things like mirrors, license plates–and especially lights. Tonight I was sitting at a light in a tuk-tuk and twelve motorcycles passed me by. Three of them had taillights.
It’s Morning…
International Day of Sign Languages
This is International Deaf Week and this year there is a special emphasis on sign language. Here is some interesting information about a nation’s sign language:
How does sign language work?
A sign language relies on a combination of hand shapes, movements, and facial expressions to deliver messages. These can include a combination of:
- Hand shapes —20-50 hand shapes with many variants
- Orientation — This is the direction of your hand in relation to your body. For example, making a sign near the head suggests ‘thinking’.
- Location — Signs are made near different parts of the body to convey meaning
- Movement — Small or large movements of the head, arms and hands can suggest different words
- Expression — Head and facial movements or expressions are used to convey emotion and emphasis.
COVID-19 Precautions
Back to school
The government has been taking a super-cautious approach to reopening schools in Cambodia—long after neighboring countries opened theirs–so this recent picture is surprising. Only one mask is evident–and no other precautions.
The name of the school “Go-Go International School” gives an indication of how schools are just a money-making business here. Anyone can start a school and if at least one teacher can say “Good morning” in English, it qualifies as an international school which will attract middle-class families who want something special for their children.
At least the dog’s here….
Normally food places like this are bustling in the evening when Cambodians eat on the street. COVID-19 changed all that. At least this man has the little white dog he’s holding.
Topics:Coffee in hand
After the first coffee carts appeared and then coffee stands were set up on the sidewalks every day, coffee became more and more common in Phnom Penh, until now it’s everywhere. Click here to see photos of the coffee bearers.
Changes coming…
Here is an old building on Monivong Boulevard getting ready for a new life. A colonial era mansion, already once modified by the addition of the enclosed top floor, is becoming a noodle restaurant. One can hope some of the original colonial character will be restored and preserved.
Nobody home….
Today is the second day of the three-day Pchum Ben Buddhist holiday honoring the spirits of deceased relatives. For Pchum Ben, everyone must go to their home village in the provinces so that Phnom Penh is largely empty as evidenced by this row of closed shops a long a normally VERY busy road. The resultant minimal traffic makes it wonderful for me getting around on my bicycle.