Category: Daily Life in Cambodia

Ride OF Die?

This motorcycle helmet has a slogan: “Ride of Die” emblazoned on it. Probably somewhere some Hell’s Angels have “Ride OR Die” on their leather jackets, but, hey, this is Cambodia where knock-offs and undeciferable gibberish on clothing is part of the culture. The figure on the moto also looks like a knock-off image from a Super Mario video game.

Shoes for sale

Everything worn by human beings gets sold on the streets of Phnom Penh, from hair ribbons and hats to used shoes. There is quite a market in used shoes here. This wagon pulled by a motorcycle has quite an impressive assortment. For me the shoe wagon raises two questions: [1] How do you shop for shoes when the wagon comes around? Do you pick a style (boots or sport shoes or hard soles) and then sort through that category looking for the right size?, and, [2] How does a market for used shoes exist? I tend to wear my shoes till they are not good for me or anyone else.

Taking over…

This picture illustrates the chaotic, unregulated way of life in Phnom Penh. This is the street and sidewalk outside of a market in the Tuol Kork neighborhood. The fruit stalls have taken over the sidewalk and one lane of the street. Perfectly acceptable….as long as the police get “tea money” from the fruit stalls.

Something Different

This morning, after I finished mass with the Missionaries of Charity (Mother Teresa’s sisters), I was looking out the third-floor window at the traffic on Monivong Blvd, and it occurred to me that might be interesting to see. Take a look.

P.S. Well, I see that is not such a good idea. My slow Internet connection shows 2 seconds of video and then buffers for 12 seconds. Not good. I hope your connection is better!