Fah Thai Magazine Sep/Oct 2017

HAPPENINGS
CAMBODIA
PHNOM PENH / SIEM REAP
PICTURE PERFECT
A renowned figure and authority on photography across Cambodia,
John McDermott has carved a reputation as one of the region’s best lens
men. His stunning monochromatic photos are unmistakable and can be
found in numerous places across the country, such as airports as well
as popular restaurants. McDermott’s passion and keen eye has seen
him amass an impressive collection of photos since he first set foot in
Cambodia in the mid-90s to photograph Angkor Wat.
For visitors eager to view his photos and take in a unique perspective
of the country, McDermott has a permanent gallery at the historic Raffles
Grand Hotel d’Angkor. His works can also be viewed at the FCC Angkor.
For budding photographers who are keen to learn from the master and
to also view and experience Angkor Wat from his unique perspective,
McDermott also hosts photography tours as well as workshops. Open
10am-10pm daily, Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, 1 Vithei Charles de Gaulle
facebook.com/McDermott Gallery
A TASTE OF HISTORY
For over two decades, the FCC (Foreign Correspondents Club) Phnom Penh
has been the meeting place in the Cambodia capital. From the very first day
of operations in 1993, the FCC has catered to intrepid adventurers, locals
and visitors; many of whom go to partake in good food, revelry and to swap
stories about their travels.
Offering a colonial-styled decor with an extensive food and beverage
selection, the FCC Phnom Penh, like its branch in Siem Reap, offers the ideal
setting for great meals and greater conversations. The FCC prides itself on
offering delicious Khmer dishes like the Fish Amok, Cambodia’s national dish
alongside mainstay international favourites such as beer-battered fish and chips.
The bar area delivers a stunning view of the Tonle Sap river and is highly
popular for its sunsets. In recent years, the FCC Phnom Penh has branched
into offering accommodation yet remains the go-to place with regular art and
photography exhibitions and music events and parties. Open daily,
363 Sisowath Quay, Phnom Penh, Cambodia, fcccambodia.com
SPOTLIGHT
Honouring Ancestors
Phchum Ben is considered one of
Cambodia’s most important festivals.
Celebrated across 15 days, the Khmer
religious festival sees Cambodians
visiting pagodas and temples to
honour their ancestors with food and
various offerings.
The word ‘Ben’ in Khmer means
to collect; ‘Ben’ also means to cup
or mould cooked rice into portions.
‘Phchum’ on the other hand means
to congregate and meet; as such the
festival often sees a huge number
of worshippers throng temples and
pagodas across the country during
the duration of the festival.
The festival culminates on the last
day with pagodas packed with
followers, all of whom offer alms
to monks; of rice dumplings and
traditional cakes which are shared
amongst the masses. For visitors,
Phchum Ben also provides an ideal
opportunity to mingle and interact
with the locals, as well as to savour
some traditional delicacies which are
unique to this festival. September 19- 21,
tourismcambodia.com
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