The fish market of Kompong Luang

At the foot of Oudong ancient Royal capital, about 40 km from Phnom Penh, the village of Kompong Luang is well known for its fish market and the silversmiths. The fishmongers are busy since 3 am to sell their fishes for the wholesalers who bring it to the large markets in Phnom Penh. In the styro boxes or metallic containers, fishes are transported to Phnom Penh on a precarious motorcycle. Wonder how they can make it with the bumpy roads ! Behind the market are the fishermen who live on the boats with their family living in basic conditions. The plastic bags are the disasters of developing countries like mine. It is easy to use, to throw away. In the past, we would use lotus leaves to wrap the food or the meat.

I feel at home in these bustling places. Where ever we go, our parents made a point to visit the fresh markets. They always say that's the best place to see how people live, what they eat and have on their table. We have made many friends in those places and I am always offered a beautiful fruit or dishes to try as we pass by our regular stalls.