Lotus

30/03/2023

https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/war-peace-cambodian-goldsmith-turns-bullet-casings-into-jewellery-2023-03-30/?fbclid=IwAR0dWS25yR3Xyrz1TVIlymalkVpongOx9cvZ99D84nsy-B9k0EyMFpg_zuA

Every week, Cambodian goldsmith Thoeun Chantha turns about five kg of brass casings of AK-47 and M-16 bullets into jewellery.

16/05/2022

Vanra (Part 1 - Serendipity)
We met Vanra by chance. When trying to book a driver to Siem Reap, the companies we initially contacted were all booked out. One finally gave us his number as a ‘last resort’, which turned out to be the best thing that could have happened. After a previous drive to Sihanoukville that involved techno music, no seat belts and fearing for our lives, we were surprised and found ourselves smiling to Siem Reap as we travelled in style in Vanra’s spacious van. He’s educated in Khmer histories, local and international anecdotes, and even stop-offs to taste local street food. He offers luxury, eco-friendly and conscious options that support the local community. Ourselves and our children loved his humour and kindness and soon we would drive with no one else. I added him to my contacts as “Vanra - awesome driver” and recommended him to everyone I knew. Those lucky enough to travel with him will experience Khmer culture, history, security and a touch of magic.

Meet Vanra - king of eco-tourism and the most awesome driver. (He’ll also put lots of ice-cold water and a couple of cold beers in his cooler box for you.)

12/05/2022

Lita started her business with her grandmother at a young age making and selling handwoven mats. After studying business and collaborating with partners she now markets beautiful handwoven scarves that are a synergy of traditional and contemporary. They are made locally and support over 30 local artisan families to keep traditional methods with modern designs. Stay tuned for more of Lita's story.

14/04/2022

Happy Khmer New Year! 🐯

10/04/2022

There’s something for everyone at the Phsar Toul Tom Poung market. It know as the Russian market as it was a popular haunt for Russian tourists and expats in the 80s. From hand-carved statues, silk scarves, clothes to the odd ‘Guggi’ or ‘Chonel’ bag, it’s definitely worth a visit.

09/04/2022

Chhengcheang has been a seller at the Toul Tom Poung market in Phnom Penh for over 40 years. Clothes, jewelry and souvenirs are found throughout this vibrant and colorful market at amazing prices. The pandemic hit so hard that Chhengcheang had to close her stall for over 6 months. As tourists slowly return to the city, so does her business. Her and her best friend are full of smiles, laughter and positivity. Their energy is contagious and they fill their customers hearts as well as their bags.

05/04/2022

21/03/2022

Meet Sambo. She’s a 65 year old rock star who survived the Khmer Rouge. She lives at the Elephant Valley Project in Mondulkiri with her bestie Ruby. To read more about the Elephant Valley Project visit their page.

20/03/2022

Tuk tuks and Remorques are commonly used to get around Cambodia. I use one every day! Remorques are larger, traditional and more often used for families. Many are artistically decorated with hand carved images of the Angkor Wat temple. And most Remorques tell a story…

This is Sophoan, he has owned his Remorque for over 20 years working along the riverside and close to the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh. He loves his job and when I ask him if the pandemic has affected his business he smiles and proudly tells me how he has been collaborating with a hotel to help. He adds “I’ve always been here. I will always be here.” His positivity and good humor are contagious and I leave my ride feeling as happy and resilient as Sophoan.

20/03/2022

Excited to collaborate with the lovely Lita with these beautiful, consciously-made, hand woven Khmer scarves.

13/03/2022

09/03/2022

Waterfalls, ancient temples and sunrises.