I’ve been based in Thailand for the past 13 years and have travelled extensively in the neighbouring countries of Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Malaysia. There are many similarities in culture, cuisine and lifestyle. And, of course, to someone has lived in and explored the region for so long, it has all become extremely commonplace. Don’t get me wrong, the colour and chaos still excites and inspires, and is fertile ground for a photographer but it seldom surprises any more. 

As a writer and a visual artist, I often find myself focusing on detail – picking up on small differences in what is a strikingly familiar environment.  On the surface, a walk through a market in Cambodia has much in common with a market in Laos.

Look closer, however, and the details surface; the way in which Khmer women selling startling red chillies bind them together in small bunches, how they tend to carry a wad of cash in their hand rather than in a purse, or place an offering of a lotus flower and a crisp bill in the hands of a Buddha image at the temple.

The technique for counting money can also vary from country to country. It’s the idiosyncrasies – the subtle cultural accent – that enliven my day as I amble through a market or explore a temple.

 You can find a few more images in the Cambodia Gallery.