Soksabby Joal Chnnum Khmei!

Yes it is that time of year once again when 90% of the stores, companies, and all the government offices close, Phnom Penh empties out, the traffic is light although most drivers have seen the green light to drive like idiots (Yes even more than normal!)....Khmer New Year! This is the year of the cow so wear some red and eat some beef! Sharky's will remain open throughout the holiday as usual although running on a reduced number of staff.

This year it seems like there a lot of guys around that have left the water throwing and protesters of Thailand behind for a change of pace. (BTW-Guys that are visiting from Thailand, regardless of how much influence the Thais have in the regional politics that does not include language. There are a few of the local Khmer and Viets that may know some Thai but very few. I see guys trying to talk with the locals in Thai everyday and surprised by getting blank stares back.)

Although the traditions of throwing water and powdering the faces during this time of year are similar between Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia the Khmer do not take the water sports anywhere near as far as the Thais. Certain areas of town they go wild with the water but Sharky's is not one of them! It is a bit more subdued and leans more to the powder side than the water. The bar staff and managers get hit first and hardest but visitors not interested in those games will pretty much be left alone to their food and drinks. Those that want to join in all laughed and had a good time along with the crew.

A spread of food was laid out and Khmer music was turned up for the Sharky Girls that have been working hard all year. At closing time it was still too early for anyone to feel like going home. Then the bar closed and the party carried on over to a local disco (Dark Room) and on into the light of early morning before finally breaking up.

Some photos of the evenings events are posted below. (They seemed to be clear at the time but the alcohol may have had a hand in that!)

Sharky's wishes everyone a Happy, Healthy, and Wealthy New Year!

Sharky Dave