Seemingly unique to Cambodia are these brightly coloured hand woven mats made from soft fabric off-cuts. I never saw them in Thailand.
Bicycle street vendors sell them alongside their brushes, brooms and other home-wares. They are perfect for Cambodian houses that are tiled throughout.
Costing US 50 cents two years ago, the urge to extract more from a foreigner sets the current rate at US $1.
My landlord, noticing me negotiate US 75 cents, (in my newly learned Cambodian) suggested to the vendor that 75 cents was still way too expensive and he had to sell for US 60 cents apiece. He protested and repeatedly pointed saying 'Anglais, Anglais!' This is French, but also the Cambodian word for 'English'.
Deal done! However, on turning to leave I noticed his despondent face and I felt a little mean. Next time I know the price will be one dollar.
I have one in my bathroom :) I call it a rag mat, because I presumed it was made from rags. No two mats were the same when I bought mine from a local (non tourist) market. Can't remember what I paid, but I'm sure it was more than a dollar.
ReplyDeleteThat's interesting. I'm going to keep my eyes peeled when I'm next in Thailand. It's funny the things you notice more in some places and not in others.
ReplyDeleteAnd yes, you're right.
ReplyDeleteEverywhere I looked I saw the mats.
: )
The difference in Cambodia seems to be seeing the vendors wander the streets with the brightly coloured mats attached to their bicycle seats.