On April 27, 2024, Be Like Khmer's teachers and students embarked on a Community Practice trip to Central Market (Phsar Thom Thmei). The journey commenced at 8:00 a.m. as several Be Like Khmer teachers and students boarded a tuk-tuk bound for Central Market.
By 9:00 a.m., the agenda began with a brief introduction to the history of French-influenced architecture, specifically Art Deco.
“Phnom Penh Central Market, also known as Phsar Thmey which means ‘New Market’, is one of the Cambodian capital's major landmarks.
Designed by Desbois and erected in Art Deco style, Central Market was the largest of its kind in Asia when it was constructed in 1937, during the French colonial era. In an effort to preserve this unique architecture, Central Market underwent a renovation with funds from the French Development Agency before it was reopened to the public in 2011.
Central Market reflects traditional Southeast Asian architecture, featuring an enormous yellow-painted central dome with 4 wings extending to huge hallways, each of which teems with an array of shopping stalls. In fact, the major plus point of this lively market is its well shielded, properly ventilated structure that enables both sellers and buyers to engage in the trade while not being affected by monsoon rain or blazing heat.”
After a captivating historical introduction at the South Entrance of the Central Market, teachers and students embarked on a tour around the market, starting from the South wing, moving to the West, then North, and concluding at the East where a delightful array of foods and snacks awaited. Despite the scorching weather, teachers and students dispersed to explore and purchase a variety of Cambodian fruits and snacks before regrouping at the South Entrance, where our delicious adventure began.
Our Community Practice session was a fantastic opportunity to interact with local sellers, sample Cambodian delicacies, and for our students to practice their Khmer language skills beyond the confines of the classroom. Be Like Khmer, we deeply appreciate our students' determination and enthusiasm for learning Khmer. We trust that this experience has been enriching for all Be Like Khmer students and eagerly anticipate more opportunities for experiential learning outside the classroom in the future.