Artisans Angkor is a remarkable enterprise in Siem Reap, Cambodia, that beautifully combines tradition, craftsmanship, and social responsibility. This organization is a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring spirit of Cambodia.
Artisans Angkor has breathed new life into Cambodia's traditional arts and crafts, providing employment opportunities for local artisans who are preserving and reviving their cultural heritage. The workshops showcase the exquisite craftsmanship of Cambodian artisans, from silk weaving and stone carving to woodwork and silverware.
What truly sets Artisans Angkor apart is its commitment to empowering communities. By offering fair wages and safe working conditions, this organization has played a pivotal role in improving the lives of many Cambodians. Visitors can witness the artisans at work, gaining insight into the meticulous process behind each piece.
The quality of the products available in Artisans Angkor's showrooms is exceptional. From intricately woven silk scarves to intricately carved stone statues, every item reflects the dedication and skill of the artisans. Purchasing from Artisans Angkor not only ensures that you acquire a piece of Cambodia's cultural heritage but also supports a noble cause.
Overall, Artisans Angkor is a shining example of how traditional crafts can be a driving force for positive change. It offers a meaningful and enjoyable way for tourists to contribute to Cambodia's development while taking home beautiful, handcrafted souvenirs.
Negative Review of Artisans Angkor: While Artisans Angkor is undoubtedly a well-intentioned organization, some visitors may find the prices of its products relatively high compared to local markets. While this is understandable given the fair wages paid to artisans, it might deter budget-conscious travelers.
Additionally, the popularity of Artisans Angkor can result in crowded showrooms and workshops, making it challenging to have a quiet and leisurely browsing experience. Some visitors may also prefer more authentic, rustic settings for their shopping.
Despite these minor drawbacks, Artisans Angkor's mission and the quality of its products make it a valuable stop for those interested in supporting Cambodian artisans and taking home unique souvenirs. It's essential to weigh the positive impact of your purchase against your budget and shopping...
Read moreInteresting how a free tour of an organization (corporation) that supposedly pulls the local community up by the bootstraps first asks you where you are from, and if you state America or a western country that tips, the guide asks for a tip up front. Doesn't exactly exude good will, but rather screams tourist trap.
The store pieces were pretty, and are priced high, but many trinket stores now have the same price levels. We didn't end up buying anything here, and instead got a bronze elephant carving ($50) from another store, and some nicer art pieces from Theam's house which are arguably more original.
The store itself is reminescent of walking into Gucci or Prada in Milan, an attendant will follow you each step of the way, but probably not as courteous and not as much personal space. Mimicry of the ultra luxuriant to better match the price tags. Nothing wholesome about the shop.
There are some nice souvenirs here, they are the same price at the airport unlike what others mentioned, a little metal box runs maybe 40-60 usd depending on size. A solid wood (rosewood?) elephant carving may run 79 usd and up, silk is $100 to 200 plus, and larger pieces of art or statues up to $2k (actually reasonable as you get free freight shipping to nearest port). Price is all relative, but relatively speaking nicer Thailand souvenirs are a lot cheaper, especially relative to Cambodias GDP and cost of living.
So, buy it if you like it, or buy the brand to brag about it, but I wouldn't kid myself in thinking all the profits from a purchase are really directly benefiting disabled craftsmen and their 3...
Read moreDEAR Visitors
Artisans d'Angkor is an absolute gem for anyone visiting Siem Reap and looking to delve deeper into Cambodian craftsmanship. This place offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the intricate process of creating traditional Khmer statues and other exquisite handicrafts.
The guided tour is both educational and inspiring, taking visitors through workshops where local artisans work with wood, stone, silk, and other materials. Watching the artists transform raw materials into stunning statues and sculptures gives you a true appreciation of their dedication, talent, and the cultural significance behind their work.
The staff are mostly WOMEN incredibly knowledgeable and eager to share insights about the techniques, traditions, and stories behind each piece. This makes Artisans d'Angkor not just a shopping destination but a cultural experience. Their commitment to preserving and promoting Cambodian heritage is commendable, and their products make meaningful and high-quality souvenirs.
Whether you're an art lover, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about Khmer culture, Artisans d’Angkor is a must-visit. It’s a place where creativity meets tradition, and every moment is a learning experience. Highly recommended! Ta Proum /angkor...
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