Regional confab puts focus on 'sites of conscience'

Organization dedicated to preserving historical record of human atrocities begins conference with visit to Tuol Sleng.


REPRESENTATIVES from "remembrance sites" around Asia gathered in Phnom Penh on Monday for the third annual meeting of the Asian Sites of Conscience, opening the three day conference with a visit to the Tuol Sleng prison.The conference was organized by the Liberation War Museum in Bangladesh in collaboration with the Cambodian genocide research group, the Documentation Center of Cambodia (DC-CAM).


The event will bring together Asian members of the International Coalition of Sites of Conscience (ICSC), a New York-based organisation that represents 70 historic sites and hundreds of historic institutions around the world, including the Gulag museum in Russia and holocaust museums throughout Europe. Mofidul Hoque, the regional coordinator of ICSC, applauded Cambodia on the achievements of the Tuol Sleng museum and DC-CAM.


Hoque also commented on the importance of collective memory to national progress in countries with traumatic histories, saying that the organisations "want to look forward to the future".ICSC representative Bix Gabriel told the Post that she hoped that the meeting would strengthen the collaboration of the member states in their quest to share complex historical issues with younger generations across Asia.


"We recognise the power museums have to address the solid issues of today and of the past," she said. "We want to help resolve the underlying questions about why these histories have come to exist."She explained that the sites of conscience are all significant for their use of physical space to make history come alive and to speak to people today.


"[Our] sites are significant because they use the physical space of history to connect to people today," she said.Akku Chowdhury from the Liberation War Museum in Bangladesh said that it was symbolic for Asia's sites of remembrance to come together. "Our sites can reflect upon the past and connect to the future, so the same mistakes are not repeated. We are all connected. "Tuol Sleng survivor Vann Nath and ECCC spokeswoman Helen Jarvis, among others, are representing Cambodia at the conference.


Written by Georgia Wilkins

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Chambok: Community Based Ecotourism Site in Cambodia

Located at the border of Kirirom National Park in Kampong Speu Province, Chambok is commonly known as Community Based Ecotourism Site in Cambodia. Chambok provides a 40-meter high waterfall, which can be reached via 3 Km trail. Chambok serves the model of best practice in Community Based Ecotourism in Cambodia. The site was an initiative developed by a local environment organization Mlup Bai Tong in 2001 in cooperation with Ministry of Environment.
This site is developed to address the deforestation and enhance local livelihood to use the resources in the sustainable way by transferring their traditional job depending on forest to produce charcoal into the services for tourism supply site. This practice is a model of good implementation that provides the sample of Community Based Ecotourism in Cambodia, especially accelerating local lively hood. For instance, educational training programs show the benefit of forest protection and through direct income contribution can help the community to manage and protect the forest in a sustainable way for the future generation.
The site offers a wide rang of outdoor activities and attractions that visitor can experience with as below:
• Seeing the high water fall and the fabulous forest landscape
• Trekking, Hiking, Bird Watching, animal trekking or visiting the bat cave
• Swimming in a stream or riding bicycle
• Picnicking or enjoying local Cambodian food
• Experiencing Cambodian rural life style on ox cart ride or through home stay
• Watching Cambodian traditional dance and buying local handicrafts
If you are interested in ecotourism activities as above, please contact you travel agency to deal with the service provision. www.tourismindochina.com
By CHHEM Samnang

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Vietnam Tourist Arrivals Number 2.6mln

Vietnam received more than 2.6 million international visitors in the first seven months of the year, a year-on-year increase of 10.6 per cent, according to the General Statistics Office (GSO). Foreign tourists to Vietnam mainly came from Thailand, the US, Japan, the Republic of Korea (RoK), the Philippines, China, France, Singapore and Malaysia.


International arrivals from the Philippines, Thailand and Singapore rose sharply over the same period last year with 55 per cent, 41.6 per cent and 27.5 per cent, respectively, while those from China, the RoK and Japan decreased.


"In order to fulfill its target of welcoming five million international tourists this year, the tourism sector will simplify international travel business procedures and strengthen land tourism cooperation with its neighbours Laos and Cambodia," Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Tran Chien Thang said.


The sector plans to coordinate with airlines and enterprises to organise tourism promotion activities and diversify tourism products, he added. It will also continue investment in upgrading infrastructure and training human resources in an effort to improve service quality, thus increasing the number of tourists with long-time residences.


Currently, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism is preparing for the 2009 ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF 2009) scheduled to be held in Vietnam from January 5-12. One of the major activities is building a website providing tourism information on Vietnam.


This will be the first time Vietnam hosts such a large-scale event in the framework of ASEAN tourism cooperation, Thang said. The ATF was considered a big opportunity for Vietnam to promote tourism and expand tourism cooperation with other regional countries.


During the ATF 2009, the ASEAN Tourism Ministers Meeting, the ASEAN Tourism Ministers meeting with dialogue countries and the ASEAN Tourism Fair will be held. Vietnam is expected to welcome around 1,500 international delegates during the next year's ATF, including representatives of 400 travel agencies from key markets in Northern America, Europe and Northeastern Asia.


Source: VNA

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Proposed tourism law questioned

Cambodia is seeking to regulate its burgeoning tourism sector, but the draft legislation to do so puts too much power in the hands of private businesses, an industry expert warns.The government is expected next month to pass its first legislation aimed at regulating the Kingdom's rapidly expanding tourism sector, but the proposed law gives too much power to the private sector and would produce an industry built around quick profits rather than sustainability, a development expert warns.


Tourism is one of the nation's few economic success stories, making up about 16 percent of GDP, up from 6.3 percent in 2000. Tourism receipts have risen from less than US$400 million in 2003 to more than $1.4 billion in 2007, according to government figures.


But such fast growth has left the government scrambling to bring uniformity to the sector. The proposed tourism law, now under consideration at the Council of Ministers, has been in the works since 2006.


Industry sources laud the expected passage of regulatory measures, saying they would have important implications for development of the sector."We are looking forward to having a proper rule with clear policies for investment. The industry needs to know what can and can't be done," said Philip Set Kao, general manager of the Borei Angkor Hotel.


REGULATION SHOULD NOT BE LEFT UP TO Private COMPANIES.


Set Kao, who is a former president of the Cambodian Hotel Association, said the industry hopes the law will cut red tape and licensing times for new projects and force transparency."We hope to see an industry based on transparency, not on [personal] connections," he said.


However, the draft law minimises the role of government while bringing business associations in as key policymakers. The International Finance Corporation (IFC), the private sector wing of the World Bank that is playing a lead role in the law's drafting, said the Tourism Ministry would have no role in quality control measures.


According to the IFC's Business Issues Bulletin, the ministry would be responsible "only for safety and hygiene" under the assumption that "too much regulation provides opportunities for informal charges".A copy of the draft law obtained by the Post Wednesday states that any changes made to quality control standards would first require consultation with the private sector.


According to the IFC briefing, government control could "distort the competitiveness of the tourism industry. "The tourism law will provide a foundation for the private sector to self-regulate quality.... The Ministry of Tourism should resist the impulse to regulate," it said. Tour operators and those involved in drafting the law say this is necessary to ensure efficiency and competitive pricing."Having government in control of tourism is not necessarily a good thing in [Cambodia]. You can have a lot of corruption," said one source who did not want to be named. "The goal has been to keep the government role to an absolute minimum."


But one of England's top tourism experts warns that the law's free market emphasis could spell disaster for Cambodia. "Pattaya [Thailand] is one example of what can happen if you allow the private sector free rein," said Dr Tim Forsyth, from the Development Studies Institute at the London School of Economics and Political Science.


He was referring to the notoriously hard-living resort town known more for its go-go bars than its cultural attractions. "If you let companies operate without proper regulation, you don't get quality tourism," he told the Post Tuesday.With more than two million tourists arriving each year, the danger, according to Forsyth, is that Cambodia could become overrun by companies that have little or no regard for the country's image, national monuments or environment.


The result, he said, could be more sex tourism, unregulated gambling and other activities that present a threat to the sector."[Regulation] should not be left up to private companies as there is too much diversity ... between the long-term big players who want to control quality and short-term sharks who just want to make fast profits, even if it destroys localities," Forsyth said.


Cambodia's national parks could also be at risk under the new law, which appears to have no environmental provisions. That could mean more projects like the controversial golf courses and resort planned for the protected nature reserve on Bokor National Park. He added what he calls the IFC's pro-business slant, is also a serious concern.


"The World Bank is generally a pro-private sector organization and the IFC is its private sector arm, so I would think they would be very inclined towards private interests.... This law seems to make that clear." A Ministry of Tourism official, however, maintained that the government and private sector were working towards the same goal. "We consider that the public and private sector are in cooperation," said So Mara, undersecretary of state at the ministry.


Written by George McLeod


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Castaway Cambodian Islands the Next Asian hotspot

Brocon Group is to build a massive luxury resort on previously unheard of Cambodian islands. Will they be as successful as Thailand's islands, a new Asian hotspot perhaps? Property Wire's global markets expert Liam Bailey gives us his opinion.


Successful Australian property developer Brocon Group; the company behind the hugely popular French Colonial apartments in Phnom Penh, were recently given the green light for a massive $35million luxury resort development on two Cambodian islands just off the coast at Sihanoukville. I recently predicted Sihanoukville as having the potential to become a massively popular and profitable destination for overseas property investors, but when I heard about this it blew me away.


I fell for Sihanoukville because it was a virgin coastal region of Cambodia; with white sandy beaches, tropical climate. Comparative coastal areas throughout Asia have been some of the most profitable of all overseas property investment locations. Sihanoukville also wet my whistle because it was undiscovered and so, perfectly positioned to capitalise on Cambodia's recently and rapidly rising tourism -- to be further boosted by the re-launching of the Cambodia national airline.


The islands of Koh Oeun and Koh Bong, the sites of the new resort, have all the above and much more: Brocon's possession of the islands, now fully granted by the government, will combine with the island's tropical beaches surrounded by lush rainforests, to make them an exclusive island hideaway for the region's growing middle classes, which are always on the lookout for virgin beaches to stake their claim to.


The massive power of Asian regional tourism and the massive effect it can have on an emerging property market have been seen time and time again. The most comparable are the Thai islands of Koh Samui and Phuket, which saw luxury property values grow by 50% per year in 2006 and 2007, and continue to grow strongly.


The new emergence of luxury resort property on a virgin Cambodian island, which shares many of Koh Samui and Phuket's sought after characteristics, and offers the chance to get in early at low prices, is sure to become a massively profitable endeavor. 'When we heard about a luxury resort development on previously unheard of Cambodian islands, when Cambodia's tourism was just starting to sprout hot-spots on Cambodia's coastline we were filled with excitement,' said Eleanor Flanders of Buy Sell Abroad. 'We will be marketing the Brocon resort development in the UK, and depending on starting prices, which could be extremely low, we foresee annual capital appreciation of at least 20%, and the potential for rises of up to 50%. Rental yields should start at 6% and climb to around 10% over three to five years,' she continued.


In closing, the emerging Cambodian islands have all the strengths of the other Asian islands that have been so profitable for foreign property investors, with the added bonus of being a completely new kid on the block - a virgin market with proven potential if you will.


Written by Liam Bailey

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Kbal Spean or the River of 1000 Lingas : The combination of natural and cultural attraction

Located about 50 kilometers from Siem Reap town, Cambodia, Kbal Spean is one of the foremost attraction sites in the Province. The site is also commonly known as the River of 1000 Lingas. If traveling from Banteay Srey, the finest architectural temple, it will take 12 Km. Kbal Spean offers both natural and cultural attraction to visitor at the same time. It can be argued that Kbal Spean is a unique Angkorain area due to its holy and cultural aspects accompanying with the pure forest and water fall. The River of 1000 Lingas, which is located in Phnom Kulen, represents the combination of natural beauty and the religious carving stone.


The Angkorain area was constructed under the reign of King Jayavarman II in the early of 9 century. The linga is a simple phallic shape, the symbol of the god Shiva and his powers of creation. There are reportedly around 1,000 images in all. They probably served a purification purpose. In addition to the lingas along the riverbed, there are bas-relief carvings in many of the boulders along the stream. The carvings end in a small but pretty waterfall that apparently was once used as a ritual bathing spot by the king. The landscape around the stream is also rather spectacular in itself. It is no doubt that the place was the hiding spot of the Khmer Rouge during the war time. With the reclining Buddha, remarkable riverbed caving, water fall, and pure forest, Kbal Spean can be a good attraction, especially during the raining season when the place contains large volume of water, where visitor can enjoy. Regarding to religious belief, some visitors believe after getting bath there, it will bring good things and even help cure the illness.


This attraction is popular for domestic tourists while probably the international tourists may lack information and the long distance from Siem Reap town. However, to complete and explore the real travel experience in the top destination of Cambodia, Kbal Spean WOULD NOT BE MISSED. It is the golden opportunity to view all attractions of the world heritage site and economically contribute to local resident and help enhance living standard and be apart of sustainable tourism development solution in Cambodia.


By CHHEM Samnang


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Fixing allegations mar pig races

T HE inaugural Siem Reap charity pig-racing derby, Porkula 1, was marred last weekend by egregious allegations of race-rorting on a par with Cambodia's rumoured national election fixing. Geoffrey Whitty, of Fine Star wine importers, claimed his attractive racing pig was "interfered with" underneath a pool table by a well-known Siem Reap personality who cannot be named due to pernicious press freedom restrictions.


X Rooftop Bar owners Scott Interdonato and Carlo Tarabini, renowned for creating madcap events, staged the derby on Saturday night, and ten local businesses entered racing swine with all proceeds going to charities.


Grand champion for the night was rank outsider Scooter from the Warehouse, after defeating the V Brothers pig, Sir Francis Bacon.The Warehouse Bar's entry went AWOL after a late start, the trainer missing the starting call because he was preoccupied at the bar.


Linga Bar's entry Lady Linga was a favourite, mincing to the finish line in pink underwear and a matching brassiere.Tensions ran high for the V Brothers team after their pig collapsed in the holding pen, minutes before the time trials, before making a miraculous recovery and crossing the finish line at 16.3 seconds, behind Aqua Bar pig's astounding 15.6 seconds. But Aqua's entrant was disqualified as a ringer.


Red Bull overdose


Controversy pertaining to performance-enhancing drugs surrounded The Bubble Tea Shop's entry. Trainer Hong Hsin Yen openly admitted to doping her pig with Red Bull, and her pig overdosed in the Grand Prix.


The Porkula 1 pig-racing derby raised $272 from bets alone and Interdonato and Tarabini hope to host a second derby, before selling the pigs to raise another $1,200 for charity.Pork is on the menu for Friday.


Written by Peter Olszewski and Dean Willams

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Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam Publish 'Responsible' Tourism Guide

The fast growing tourism destinations of Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam have published a 148-page guide book showing where and how to enjoy responsible tourism activities in the three countries.


Over 25 activities in each country have been profiled in "The Guide to Responsible Tourism in Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam." Each activity creates income for local people, minimises potential negative tourism impacts, involves members of the local communities in running the business, conserves natural and cultural heritage, provides meaningful experiences for tourists, helps people with physical disabilities, and builds respect between visitors and hosts.


For example, the book makes it easier for tourists to trek responsibly with hilltribes, buy handicrafts that keep traditions alive, eat in restaurants that employ former street kids or people with disabilities, stay in accommodation that respects its local community, and discover nature in some of the most awe inspiring areas of Southeast Asia.


"The various recommended activities in the book show the best side of tourism," said Mr Arjun Thapan, director general of the Asian Development Bank's Southeast Asia Department. The bank supported the publication through its Mekong Tourism Development Project. "All the activities recommended in the book help alleviate poverty," he said, "but do so in a respectful and sustainable way that both the host and the visitor can be proud of." Mr Thapan said continued poverty alleviation measures through tourism are important because millions of people in the sub region still live on less than two US dollars a day.


Project coordinator, Mr Peter Semone, senior advisor at the Mekong Tourism Office in Bangkok, said: "We designed the book to appeal to tourists who want to pick up a copy and go -- and for tour operators and travel agents who would like to add responsible travel experiences to their Mekong subregion itineraries."


The colour guide book describes 82 tourism experiences from the tourist's perspective, and how that activity helps local people while respecting local culture and the environment. The book contains full contact and booking information for all the recommended activities.


The book also contains profiles of the three countries, practical information for travellers, and a list of useful resources and organisations involved with heritage, conservation and responsible tourism.


The guide was written by Mekong subregion experts Guy Marris, Nick Ray and Bernie Rosenbloom. It was edited by Ken Scott.


Statistics from the Pacific Asia Travel Association issued last month show that international tourism visitor arrivals year-to-date are growing at a rate of over 13% into Cambodia, 8% into Vietnam and 4% into Laos.


Mr Thapan said: "Our aim now is to channel that growth more equitably towards sustainable and responsible tourism operators that help us conserve culture and at the same time fight poverty." The 148-page Guide to Responsible Tourism in Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam costs US$15 (plus postage). The book can be ordered through the Pacific Asia Travel Association's online publication catalogue at: http://www.pata.org/catalogue/product.php?productid=16365&cat=0&page=1&featured. Or email publications@PATA.org. Tel: (+66) 2658 2000 ext 121.


Written by Ozgur Tore

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Going for gold ... or bronze

Despite having no hope of upstaging powerhouse nations like China and the United States at the Beijing Olympics, Cambodia's young contenders set off with a spring in their step on Wednesday, eager to show the world what the Kingdom can achieve.


"I'm very proud as is it my first time to compete at the Olympic Games," said freestyle swimmer Hem Thon Vitiny. "I've trained in swimming since I was 5 years old," the 16-year-old, who has reached the finals in international competitions such as the SEA Games, told the Post before the team boarded their flight to China where the games are to start today and close August 24.


Cambodia is one of the world's sporting minnows and for a myriad of reasons - political, geographical, financial - native athletic prowess has never really matured. While host-nation China plans to wipe the board and will not be happy unless it beats the USA in its gold medal tally, Cambodia would be content with just one medal - and a bronze at that. Here, the Kingdom is not alone; more than 80 countries of the 250 competing in Beijing have never before been on the Olympic podium.


"Our country is small, but I'm proud to represent at the Olympic games," Hem Thon, secretary general of the Khmer Amateur Swimming Federation, told the Post as Cambodia's Olympic delegation arrived at Phnom Penh International Airport. "We will at least show the Cambodian flag and its culture to the international community."


Flying the flag


Hem Thon, who was among the delegation accompanying the athletes, said the Cambodian teams do not expect to earn medals during the competitions, in which they will be competing with the top amateur athletes from around the world.


"Of course I'm strong in Cambodia, but other countries are also strong," said Hem Bunting, 25, Cambodia's top marathon runner. "After finishing the competition we will see how strong or weak we are."


Runner Sou Titlinda, 16, also left Wednesday for the Olympics. Swimmer Hem Thon Ponleu, 18, left Thursday on account of taking exams."I will try my best and I think at least we could come into the finals," Hem Bunting said before departing.


Written by Cheang Sokha

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Vietnam Airlines jet catches fire at Narita

CHIBA - An engine on a Vietnam Airlines jet caught fire shortly after it arrived at Narita International Airport early Wednesday from Ho Chi Minh City, but none of the 277 passengers and crew members was hurt, airport officials said.


The plane taxied to its designated gate and the passengers got off by around 7:55 a.m. The engine caught fire at around 8:30 a.m. and firefighters were engaged for several minutes trying to extinguish it.


The runway the jetliner landed on was closed for 14 minutes, but no abnormalities were found and no other flights were disrupted, the officials said. The cause of the fire was being investigated, they said.The Aircraft and Railway Accidents Investigation Commission decided to send investigators after judging it to be a serious incident, transport ministry officials said.

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SPEAN BRAB TES The Oldest Bridge in Cambodia constructed during the age of Khmer Empire

Located in Kampong Kdey district, Siem Reap Province, the land of foremost world heritage site complex, Spean Brab Tes -Bridge of Indication- is the oldest historical bridge in Cambodia, which was constructed during the era of the King Jayavaraman the VII. This Bridge is about 1000 years old with the length of 80m and width of about 12 m. The special unique features of the bridge are its longevity and historical architecture. The bridge stays almost the same period of Angkor Wat which has been attracting millions of tourists to pay attention on until now. This bridge was the ancient Khmer Highway as the Kingdom was known as the Khmer Empire. With its underneath holes, the bridge not only plays substantial role in transportation sector but also in field of agriculture.


Unlike the Angkor Wat World Heritage Site’s reputation, Spean BrabTes is rarely known because it is located 60 Km away from Siem Reap Town. It takes about 1 hour to travel to the site by car. However, the Bridge is interesting to see due to its longevity and historical architecture which represent the best talent of the constructors and the strength during the Khmer Empire. Under pressure of the weather condition, the Bridge has struggled with an assailant for almost a century. To complete a kind the cultural tourism, the oldest Bridge visiting should not be missed. It will offer more experiences and historical clearness about the Khmer Empire.


Without hesitation, the Bridge could diversify the attractions in Siem Reap Province in accordance with tourism development master plan conducted under cooperation between JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) and APSARA Authority. Also this plan has optimized that Siem Reap will have become the major tourism hot spot in South East Asia. Therefore, the Bridge would be a part of the crucial components accelerating the master plan’s optimization and spread out more reputation and satisfaction to both domestic and international tourists.


By CHHEM Samnang

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The cyclo tour : A special activities feature in Phnom Penh Cambodia

Cyclo tour is one among other famous tours in Phnom Penh that provide economically the best way to view the landscape in the city and contribute to the poor in urban area.


Cyclo is the common name for tricycle rickshaws and is a common form of public transport in Cambodia, consisting of a tricycle with the passenger compartment up front. Cyclos (pronounced see-cloe) are an integral part of the Phnom Penh landscape. These iconic vehicles, first introduced in 1936, remain one of the best and most economical ways to see the city. Cyclo drivers, however, is among the poorest of the urban poor in Cambodia. The exact number of cyclo drivers in Phnom Penh is not known because of the transient nature of the work, but there are nearly 1,400 registered members in Cyclo centre, a local NGO providing basic support and social services to the drivers.


The tourists will be recommended to the tourist site in Phnom Penh where the cyclo drivers can meet. To view the landscape of Phnom Penh, cyclo tour can be a better choice. Cyclo tour not only immerse you the real situation in the busy city of Phnom Penh but also help enhance living standard for cyclo drivers through economical contribution. This form of economic contribution helps the poor and plays role in sustainable tourism development by providing opportunity to local residents to get involved in business tourism.


Phnom Penh is the capital city of Cambodia and country’s commercial, economical and political hub. It is also a gateway to an exotic land. Phnom Penh City has several cultural and historical attractions including the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum, Wat Phnom, Toul Sleng Genocide Museum, and the Killing Fields. If you travel to Phnom, DO NOT miss cyclo tour, which is a rare and special activities feature in Phnom Penh. This tour will make you experience the real Cambodia in the city and it won’t disappoint you!


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Tourism responding to the Challenge of Climate Change

The conference “Tourism – Responding to Climate and Poverty Imperatives”, held in the context of ITB 2008, focused on tourism’s role in the global climate response in solidarity with other sectors. As one of the principle services exports in the world’s poorest and emerging countries, tourism has the potential to act effectively on the common cause of climate change response, linking it closely with the fight against poverty.


As the UN agency in charge of tourism, UNWTO is leading the positioning of the sector within the global efforts on climate response and poverty alleviation. UNWTO’s approach matches the road map laid out by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and the broader UN System Agenda.


The Davos Declaration Process promoted by UNWTO “urges action by the entire tourism sector to face climate change as one of the greatest challenges to sustainable development, and to the UN Millennium Development Goals in the 21st Century.”


“Climate change response and poverty alleviation are complementary goals. All tourism stakeholders will very soon support concrete consensus measures to address these challenges. Our focus on climate change and the broader development agenda coincides with the active support of the UN Millennium Development Goals”, UNWTO Assistant Secretary-General Geoffrey Lipman.


This is the message presented by UNWTO during the thematic debate ‘Addressing Climate Change: The United Nations and the World at Work’, held in February at UN Headquarters in New York. UNWTO will mobilize its more than 150 Member States and its Affiliate Members in the private and academic community, representing a network of thousands of stakeholders in the tourism family.


By UNWTO


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Cambodia: I put my paws on Angkor Wat

We tourists have multiplied, and for the ancient Angkor temples, in Cambodia, this represents a 21st century kind of stress that is spelling trouble for some of the ruins. As reported by Los Angeles Times writer Paul Watson in “Too much adoration at Cambodia’s Angkor temples,” about 300,000 tourists per year visited the site a decade ago; Cambodia’s government hopes 2010 will bring in 3 million visitors.


That’s a lot of feet stomping on centuries-old stones, a lot of dirty hands on aged sandstone slabs.And my paws and I are among those to blame. I spent three memorable days at the spectacular temple complex in 2002. I doubt that I purposely bumped up against the stones or finger-traced any carvings -– I’ve learned at least some environmental and cultural sensitivity over the years -– but color me guilty anyway; I’m sure that, inadvertently or not, I touched the wat (temple). Even if minimal, I left a little impact, particularly considering that in a place like Angkor, some of the temples have yet to be tourist-proofed.


With hope, conservationists will make headway at the site, helping to put into place plans that minimize future unintentional damage, and hopefully we tourists will try to tread sensitively. Ankgor Wat and the other temples and ruins of Angkor are truly among the world’s most wondrous sites. I wish for everyone the opportunity to explore them, and I’d like to see them again myself –- if we can prevent our curiosity from having a deleterious effect.


By Susan Derby

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A new entrance of meter Taxis would facilitate an easy accessibility in Phnom Penh City, Cambodia.

A new investment of Chinese-invested Global Cambodia Trade Development Co Ltd provides Taxi services provision in Phnom Penh city, Cambodia. A fleet of 12 shiny new taxis was deployed on the streets of Phnom Penh over the weekend by the Chinese-invested Global Cambodia Trade Development Co Ltd. The service provision would facilitate a more easy accessibility for local resident and international tourists with the affordable price and comfortable travel in the city. The company has set a two-kilometer taxi ride cost US$1 and 400 Riels ($0.10) for each 200 meters. Taxis offer a greater service in terms of comfort and safety along with lower fares.


Phnom Penh governor Kep Chuktema said at city hall that the city strongly supported the new metered taxis. While he acknowledged the complaints of Tuk-Tuk drivers that “it’s a free market and everyone should compete.” Under the company’s agreement with city hall inked in November 2007, Global would deploy 12 more taxis in the next couple of week and would operate a fleet of 60 vehicles by September 2008, said Lim. The company has invested $1.5 million in setting up the service and expected to operate at a loss of $150,000 to $200,000 in the first year, he said.


However, a new entrance of meter taxis would make harder competition for Tuk-Tuk drivers while a new substitution service provider has more advantages in the same industry. Global Cambodia Trade Development CEO Andre Lim said the point was not to compete with other services.” We just want to provide more choices to people,” Lim said. Even though there is a clear statement of Global Cambodia Trade Development CEO, it will have unavoidable effects for the Tuk-Tuk drivers. Despite the fact that meter Taxis have a better service, it is optional service for the customer and it depends accordingly to the customers’ preference. The more service providers the more choices customers could make and the better serves is offered.


By CHHEM Samnang


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The listing of Preah Vihear Temple as world heritage site could boost Cambodia Tourism

Preah Vihear is one of the most fascinating places in the world, with its ancient ruins and mysterious temple. Preah Vihear temple is the historical site named “Se Khari Svarak” means “power of mountain” and was built at the end of 9th century and at the beginning of 10th century by four Cambodian kings namely: Preah Bat Yak So Varman I (AD 889-910), Preah Bat Sorya Varman I (AD 1002-1050), Preah Bat Chey Varman VI (AD 1080-1109) and Preah Bat Sorya Varman II (AD 1113-1150).


After having been listed the Preah Vihear, a temple built in at the end 9th century, as a world heritage site, Cambodian was very happy with victorious event of the nation and celebrated a congratulation party at stadium in Phnom Penh. Listing Preah Vihear Temple as a world heritage site could not only help preserve the temple but also reflect an economic miracle that would help mitigate poverty, one of the most crucial Millennium Development Goals of Cambodia, through the tourism economic contribution while Cambodia’s Tourism Action Plan targeted 3.2 million tourists by 2010 and 5 million tourists in 2015. Preah Vihear's World Heritage listing reflects the success of the Cambodian Government's Economic Quadrangle policy.


It is no surprise to say that Preah Vihear Temple is one of the most foremost temples in Cambodia. Significantly, promoting the Preah Vihear site as a Cultural Development Area would be an option to enable Cambodia to enjoy economic benefits and let the world to increase cultural understanding as well as cultural link in the region via tourists flow.


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Volunteer Tourism not only immerses the real travel Cambodia but also act as humanity

Volunteer tourism “makes use of holiday-makers who volunteer to fund and work on social or conservation projects around the world and aims to provide sustainable alternative travel that can assist in community development, scientific research or ecological restoration” (Wearing, 2004,p.217). Volunteer Tourism becomes increasingly important for those interested candidate in sustainable travel and humanity activities during the gap year and holiday.


Cambodia is now one of the must-visit destinations in South East Asia. With its pristine beaches, ancient temples and exotic jungle, it's easy to see why its turbulent history is now becoming an increasingly distant memory. This beautiful country is at peace, and Cambodians are focused on building a positive future. Visit Cambodia and you will be amazed by the juxtaposition of vibrant cities, achingly beautiful scenery and famous historical landmarks like Angkor Wat. However, Cambodia offers far more attractions than temples. Go elephant trekking in the East, try snorkeling and dolphin-spotting in the seas surrounding Sihanouk Ville, or take in the sunset with a bottle of Angkor beer at a local beach bar.


In harmony with the humanity activities and be apart of social welfare acceleration, you can take a golden opportunity to experience the real travel in Cambodia and explore the deep culture of the people through many types of special interest tourism activities such as ecotourism, cycling tourism, adventure tourism, agricultural tourism. Specifically, a type of volunteer tourism can be a good way to learn about Cambodia and communicate well with local residents. The Cambodia project is located in the town of Siem Reap near the UNESCO designated World Heritage Site of the Angkor temples (http://www.globalteer.org/projects/cambodia.html). If you are interested in a sustainable travel and community development, why DO NOT join a volunteer program that would immerse you!


By CHHEM Samnang


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Tourists to Asia Pacific spoiled by listing of eight new World Heritage Sites

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (eTN) - Tourists heading to Asia Pacific this coming summer can now follow the trail of seven new World Heritage Sites, following the latest official listing by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in Quebec, Canada on Monday.


The sites in Asia Pacific listed are the Kuk Early Agriculture Site (Papua New Guinea), Chief Roi Mata's Domain (Vanuatu), Preah Vihear Temple (Cambodia), Le Morne Cultural Landscape (Mauritius), Fujian Tulou and Mount Sanqingshan National Park (both in China).George Town and Malacca join two other listed sites, Mulu Caves and Kinabalu National Park, as Malaysia's new World Heritage Sites. The recognition marks the end of an almost 20-year odyssey, started in 1998 by Malaysia to have both sites listed by UNESCO.


Looking forward to the tourist spin-offs following listing of both cities, Shafie Apdal, Malaysia's minister for culture, arts and heritage, said the hotel, transport and food industries in both sites will further thrive with the world recognition. "Some of our historical sites are around 400 years old, especially those in Malacca. This recognition can also dispel the notion that we live on trees, or Malaysia isn't safe."Malaysia, according to Apdal, will be inviting foreign expertise to preserve George Town and Malacca. "It will be of value to experts conducting studies on history."


Lim Guan Eng, chief minister of Penang, said a committee will be formed so the state can fulfill and comply with the "parameters" of a living heritage and cultural site, in addition to the expected surge in historical and heritage tourism.The challenge now, is to prevent heritage buildings from being left derelict, or modernized into glass boxes," said Dr. Choong Sim Poey, president of Penang Heritage Trust.


In recognition of their listing status, the sites listed will now be eligible for financial assistance and expert advice from the World Heritage Committee to support activities for the preservation of its sites.


By Yusof Sulaiman

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10,000 Cambodians rally to celebrate ancient temple's World Heritage status

Cambodia - Cambodians celebrated the U.N.'s listing of an 11th-century Hindu temple as a world cultural landmark with a mass rally, fireworks and plenty of nationalist songs Monday.A crowd estimated by authorities at 10,000 — some wearing white T-shirts emblazoned with the image of Preah Vihear temple — gathered to cheer the recognition by UNESCO's World Heritage Committee a week ago.


The listing angered political leaders in neighboring Thailand, and sparked small protests by some Thais who feared it would jeopardize their country's claims to disputed land adjacent to the site. Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister Sok An, who headed his government's lobbying efforts for the temple's status, recounted what he called repeated attempts by Thailand to prevent Cambodia from unilaterally pursuing its goal.


He dismissed as unacceptable Thailand's demand for a joint application with Cambodia because that would mean Phnom Penh would have to share ownership of the site."Our cause is just and fair. Our achievement is of great significance given the tough struggle we have managed to overcome," Sok An said to loud applause. "It also further reaffirms that Preah Vihear temple is Cambodia's."


In 1962, the International Court of Justice awarded the temple and the land it occupies to Cambodia, a decision that still rankles many Thais even though the temple is culturally Cambodian, sharing the Hindu-influenced style of the more famous Angkor complex in northwestern Cambodia.


Some Thais have been protesting the UNESCO listing near the border and demanding the eviction of Cambodians living on land near the temple. In response, Cambodia has sealed off access from Thailand to the temple, forcing many Cambodian vendors who survive on income from tourists to close their shops, said Hang Soth, director-general of the national authority for Preah Vihear temple.


He said some villagers were surviving on food aid sent by the Cambodian Red Cross.Cambodian Foreign Minister Hor Namhong has accused Thai opposition politicians of exploiting the cross-border dispute to advance their own domestic political agenda and warned they might endanger bilateral relations.


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Green Zone takes root to Siem Reap

A joint German and Cambodian regional economic development program to develop an agricultural “green zone” around Siem Reap at a cost of about $20 million is gaining momentum, with five districts selected for the project’s first phase.


Four German organizations – GTZ, DED, InWent, and KFW – have guaranteed 12 million euros for the project, and the Cambodian government has committed to contributing an additional 10 percent of this figure, or 1.2 million euros.GTZ program leader Martin Orth, based in Siem Riep, told the Post that the project would both beautify and economically enrich the target districts.


The simple objective, he said, was “to grow vegetables and raise animals for the platters of the tourists who come to Siem Reap. The main theme is to link the tourist boom in Siem Reap to the rural areas.”He pointed out that 50-80 percent of the vegetables and about 75 percent of other foods consumed in Siem Reap were imported and that Siem Reap performed poorly in passing on money derived from tourism revenue to the general population.


“The pro-poor impact of in-destination tourism revenues is estimated at 27 percent in Luang Prabang, Laos, and 26 percent in Da Nang, Vietnam,” he said. “But the pro-poor impacts are an extremely low five percent in Siem Reap.” “We want to turn the areas surrounding Siem Reap into a natural green zone and turn the poor districts into rich districts so that people can earn more money to better support their families,” Siem Reap governor Sou Phirin told the Post.


“This project, it is hoped, will help to expand economic growth in the rural areas of Siem Reap province.” Phirin identified the debut districts as Pouk, Angkor Chum, Varin, Svay Leu and Sot Nikom. He said that three of the chosen debut districts, Pouk, Varin and Angkor Chum, were in Khmer Rouge hands as recently as 1995-97 and that there was much underutilized land. Land speculation, especially in Pouk district, he added, was rapidly encroaching on agricultural areas.


“We are now surveying the geography in the chosen districts and developing the human resources to carry out this project which will be officially started at the end of this year,” Phirin said.The wide-ranging green zone program would also help develop infrastructure in the target districts with more paving of local roads, for example.


The program would aim to revitalize and promote the local handicrafts industry since most of the souvenirs and handcrafts sold in Siem Riep tourist markets were, like foodstuffs, imported.The green zone project had its genesis in 2005 when the Council of Ministers requested assistance from German organizations to help farmers reap some of the benefit from the millions of dollars that pour into the province each year from international tourism.


Joint program preparation missions worked together in 2006 to define the scope and areas of German support, and in 2007 an agreement was struck to jointly tackle the problem that too few benefits from the booming tourism economy were trickling down to the local population, especially the rural poor, creating a disparity between the booming Siem Reap urban area and surrounding areas that were among the poorest in the Kingdom.


The regional economic development program officially began in October 2007 and was to last for eight years, with a completion date for the first phase scheduled for September 2010.Siem Reap deputy governor Bun Tharith earlier this year led a Cambodian delegation to Germany to learn about green zone projects firsthand. He told the Post that Germany in the past decade had had success with similar projects in other countries.“People will be provided with business capital and technical training and will then be integrated into the basic community project for a sustainable joint benefit,” Bun Tharith said.


By Yun Vann and Peter Olszewski

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Cambodia Ecotourism Project wins a 2007 Responsible Tourism Awards

Ecotourism is a responsible tourism to natural areas which conserves the environment and improves the welfare of local resident. With its definition, Cambodia ecotourism project wins a responsible tourism award in best practice of Responsible Tourism.


Tourism is arguably now the world's largest industry, and ecotourism among its fastest growing segments. But mass ecotourism is a relatively new phenomenon, the name itself being coined only recently, during the 1980s. In fact, as recently as the 1970s, tourism and the preservation of natural habitats were viewed largely as incompatible pursuits.


Ecotourism is definable meaning and has been defined differently according to the contexts of each country. However, ecotourism has the same share goals. Ecotourism is highly climate sensitive sector and is more than simply taking tours to view wildlife in a natural habitat; it is also a mechanism for protecting this environment and all its inhabitants. Regarding to ecotourism context in the country, Cambodia has plenty of potential ecotourism resources in many provinces such as Battambang, Preah Vihear, Banteay Meanchey, Siem Reap, Kampong Tom, and northeast provinces of the country, especially the special species and unique ecotourism products in the South East Asia. The special features of ecotourism in Cambodia include flooded forest, the largest lake in South-east Asia, deciduous dipterocarp forest, grasslands, semi-evergreen forest, freshwater wetlands, particularly the surrounding natural resource of the Tonle Sap Great Lake.


With ecotourism context in Cambodia, Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) has established a pilot ibis ecotourism project at Tmatboey in Kulen Promtep Wildlife Sanctuary, Preah Vihear province, the only known site where both Giant and White-shouldered Ibises breed and can be reliably seen. The birds are found in the forests surrounding the village, which are a mosaic of seasonally inundated dipterocarp deciduous trees. This project was awarded as a winner of “Wild Asia’s 2007 Responsible Tourism Award” which is organized by Wild Asia. The awards act as both a showcase for these exemplary resorts and as an inspiration to others. By sharing the winners' best practices and demonstrating how easy and beneficial Responsible Tourism is to implement, this a award program hope other operators will consider “Responsible Tourism” to be apart of their business strategies.


By CHHEM Samnang

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Palm Village: Natural and Khmer Style Guest Houses in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Located in Kok Chork, Commune, Siem Reap Province, “Phoum Thnot” which is known as “Palm Village” in English- natural Khmer style Guest Houses built of palm tree- are strange and unique houses that possibly serve those who love the natural beauty, quiet and privacy life. This natural resort was established in 2001 and finished in 2003.


The special feature of this resort is that it is a rare and first tourism village that represents and promotes a Khmer style lodging industry and also provides the real Khmer food in Siem Reap, the land of famous heritage site in South East Asia. Its popularity has increased since there are many natural lovers have accessed the site. In harmony with attraction diversification of Siem Reap’s master plan that is one of strategic solutions, the Palm Village itself helps diversify attraction in Siem Reap as well as Cambodia.


To experience the real way of life and real travel in Siem Reap and Cambodia, Palm Village can be a good destination to relax and view the community life style. If traveling to Siem Reap Cambodia, DO NOT miss the golden opportunity to visit the heritage site and other attractions include Palm Village that many kinds of experiences and economically contribute to local resident and help enhance living standard and be apart of sustainable tourism development solution in Cambodia.


By CHHEM Samnang

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Cambodia Travel, Cambodia Tourism, Cambodia 2007: Tourism in brief

Cambodia is rich in cultural, historical and natural resources. In 2007, Cambodia received 2.01 million of international tourists, an 18.5 % increase, which created US$ 1400 million of revenue, a growth of 33.46% over 2006 for the country, that provided 300 000 jobs. Tourism sector has represented a crucial role among all sectors in Cambodia.


Ministry of Tourism of Cambodia estimate that in 2010, international tourist will increase up to 3.2 million and up to 5 million in 2015. Tourism sector has contributed to accelerate economic, create jobs, and alleviate poverty, which is one of the foremost Millennium Development Goals of Cambodia. “Of all international arrivals in 2007, 55.61% visited the Siem Reap Angkor Complex and 44.39% visited Phnom Penh and other destinations.” (Ministry of Tourism’s Annual Report, 2007). Specifically, male accounted for 55.10% while female


Based on arrival volumes, the Republic of Korea was the major source market for Cambodia and the next most important source was Japan, USA, Vietnam, China, Taiwan(China), Thailand, France, United Kingdom and Malaysia. The major modes of arrivals in Cambodia are arrival by air and by land and water ways. The 1, 296, 513 international visitor arrived by air which is a share of 64.34% and the rest arrived by land and water way, accounted for 35.66 % of the total international arrivals in Cambodia.


By CHHEM Samnang

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Angkor temple shooter to turn his lens to Preah Vihear

A Japanese photographer who has spent 15 years and millions of dollars shooting the Angkor Wat complex will now turn his attention to the controversial Preah Vihear temple, government officials said.Baku Saito, a 60-year-old freelance photographer, has won praise from Cambodian officials for restoring Khmer pride through his depictions of the ancient stone carvings at Angkor Archaeological Park.


His photos have toured the world and are now making their way through Cambodia in the “Holy Faces of Angkor” exhibition, which is being shown at the Cambodia-Japan Cooperation Center, inside the Royal University of Phnom Penh, until May 31. Deputy Prime Minister Sok An said the government was proud of Saito’s work because it brought Cambodia’s rich past to the world stage and helped strengthen the roots of Khmer people.


“We learned that his job wasn’t done in one or two days, in fact it took more than 10 years and cost him millions of dollars,” Sok An said at the exhibition’s opening on May 17.He added that Saito was now considering turning his lens on Preah Vihear temple, an ancient set of Hindu ruins on the Thai border that is at the center of a long-running territorial dispute with the neighboring kingdom.


Ek Buntha, deputy director general of cultural affairs at the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, said Saito “plans to take photos at Preah Vihear for the next half-year.” In the mid-1990s, Saito was part of a Japanese-funded team documenting the Angkor ruins. He was tasked with photographing the stone faces at the Bayon temple and his since built a portfolio containing hundreds of images of the site.


The photos I took are not just for fun,” Saito said on May 17. “I took them to show the world and make people aware of the richness of Khmer culture” in the 12th and 13th centuries.He estimated that his craft has cost him $5 million over the years, although his photos now fetch $4,000 to $5,000 each.


By Kay Kimsong


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The Tour to Koh Pdao, Kraties Province: A symbol of community support and experiences of the real life

Cambodia is an agricultural nation and 80 percent of populations are farmers. Specifically, Cambodia has many famous agricultural provinces. Significantly, Cambodia has potential in Agritourism, a type of special interest tourism that possibly accelerates tourism development to grow and enhance local resident living standard with the existing agricultural product.


Certainly, Cambodia Rural Development Team, a local NGO registered with the Ministry of Interior that bridges the gap between sustainable rural development and conservation to further degradation of Cambodia natural heritage, has been working in a project that promotes volunteer tourism to get involved in agricultural activities in Kratie. The CRDT community development tour aims to offer foreign visitor to travel up the Mekong River from Kratie Town and visit the communities. It gives a rare glimpse of how Cambodia live in the countryside and how “Dolphins for Development” project actually work. Visitors are able to travel with CRDT team to visit beneficiaries, learn about their lives and stories in their home as guest.


To get involved in the tour organized by CRDT to Koh Pdao, Kratie Province for 2 and half days is the way to contribute economic benefit to local community because CRDT is not the private organization. The tour totally costs 55 USD and 20 USD for each additional day. To participate in the tour help improve lives of the villagers and contribute to the conservation of the endangered Irrawady Dolphin.


By CHHEM Samnang


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A product from north east province of Cambodia

If you want to discover the best of Cambodia, nature and wildlife of the Mekong River will be appreciatory and why do not go to Kratie province. It's located in northeastern Cambodia. It may take about 6 hours to travel by car from Phnom Penh to Kratie town (315km) crossing the National Road 6, 7 and 13. The Mekong River is extremely beneficial to crop and rice cultivation of the farmers in Kratie province. Furthermore, tourists could travel by boat or speedboat to view the nature and living along the Mekong River Bank. More importantly, Irrawaddy dolphins, mainly known as PHSAUT in Khmer, can be viewed at Kampi pool in Kampi Village, Sambok commune, Sambok district 15km north of Kratie City.


While arriving at Kratie, you would not miss to buy the tasteful Nem, roll made of hashed fish meat wrapped and cooked in banana leaves, for your families, friends, or colleagues. NEM can be eaten as a snack or with rice according to one's interest. Some people who prefer eating NEM said NEM in Kratie is tastier than that in Battambang. Thus, let's see how NEM is made in Kratie province.


In Kroko Village, 3km north of Kratie town, Aunty MEX told us about how to make NEM. She produced NEM for sale as a family business with the help of her daughter and two sons whenever they are free from their study. She said she could make NEM with an average 500 per day and it costs 100 Riel per NEM. However, she could make more than that depending on the customers' demand. First, we have to ensure that all ingredients are ready to be used for making NEM.


The main element of NEM is fish meat; kind of fish depends on the fish availability and one's interest. The other ingredients are toasted rice, ginger, star gooseberry leaves, banana leaves, chilies, sugar, salt and seasoning.


The fish meat is shredded or crushed, and mixed with toasted rice, ginger, sugar, salt and seasoning. Hashed fish meat is rolled into small ones with chili slice and star gooseberry leaves. At last, they are wrapped in banana leaves and tied with wire. One day later, NEM is ready for eating.


By Khmer Product Promotion Team


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The rare sights of Cambodia along Mekong River

The new project along the Mekong River Route through STEUNG Treng and Kratie is being developed to help mitigate the region’s poverty and improve local living standard, promote conservation, and put Cambodia on the world map as an ecotourism destination.


Marcus Sandford, chief technical advisor for the Mekong River Discovery Trial project said that “The goal is to get a small percentage of travelers off the highway and onto the river.” He added that the Mekong River is not only wonderful but also a biodiversity sanctuary with 36 globally threatened species.With Stung Treng and Laos Border Crossing opening, the coalition has come together for the tourist flow into Stung Treng and neighboring Kratie.


The Ministry of Tourism of Cambodia, the UN World Tourism Organization and the Netherlands Development Organization (SNV), have prepared a strategy to develop ecotourism along this stretch of the Mekong. The project will offer canoeing and houseboat stays on the river. On land, there will be tours by horse-cart, home stays, and new eco-lodges in addition to the improvement of the existing bike trial. There are many interesting pagoda to view including the 100- column temple.


One of the largest Mekong islands in the area, where is known as Koh Trong, is a great place to meet locals and it can be reached in a 10-minute boat ride from Kratie and bicycle around the 14km island loop. The rare Irrawaddy dolphin number is estimated about 80 in the deep pools of the Mekong from Kratie to the Laos border. Dolphin watching is one of the substantial of ecotourism activities in the region and is listed on the agenda.

By CHHEM Samnang

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New Angkor museum has eight galleries and a sound dome

The new $15 million Angkor National Museum, built with Thai investment, officially opened in Siem Reap with a ribbon cutting ceremony November 12. SIEM REAP - The new $15 million Angkor National Museum, built with Thai investment, officially opened in Siem Reap with a ribbon cutting ceremony November 12.


By the next day, crowds of tourists were wandering through the museum's eight galleries. The museum includes a "sound dome" where visitors can hear readings of ancient Khmer texts and it has a replication of the sunset over Angkor Wat.


Audio tapes are being produced in seven different languages. Multi-lingual tour guides are available.


In addition to the galleries, the museum has a "cultural mall" with various restaurants some for families and others for fine dining, as well as boutiques and a spa. "We've had really good feed- back so far and we are delighted," said Nina Lee, the museum's marketing director.


"The exclusive gallery of 1,000 Buddha images has been very popular." Lee said the museum is designed to offer information about Cambodia's present and past. Prime Minister Hun Sen, who presided over the ceremony with his wife Bun Rany, said private investment in museums will help Cambodia to combine heritage preservation with development.


"We must encourage private companies to build museums," he said. "They will help us to preserve and also draw profit into the country with more tourism."Hun Sen's daughter, Hun Mana, is chairwoman of the new museum. Lee said Hun Mana comes "very frequently to monitor what is going on. Everything goes through her."


An unidentified Thai business interest has a 30-year concession to run the museum. The managing director is Sunaree Wongpiyabovora, from Thailand. Entrance fees are $12 for foreigners and $3 for Cambodians. A press release called the structure a "world class museum" and "a cultural learning institute that enhances artefact preservation, collection and restoration."


Despite private funding, the museum was developed in close collaboration with the Cambodian government. The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts (MCFA) provided the curators. All of the artefacts in the museum will be looked after by MCFA and Angkor Conservation, the organization which oversees the management of Angkor temples. "The museum will give its visitors a deeper understanding of Khmer history so when they go to the actual temples they will have a better experience," said Lee. "We want the museum to help Cambodians, especially the younger generation, to understand more about their history." Written by Cat Barton


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Overcrowding Tourists at Angkor Wat

The large number of tourists visiting Angkor Wat has become a problem of overcrowding in the famous archaeological and historical heritage site in Siem Reap. Expert and conservationists and about 225 scientists attended the meeting on restoration and preservation of ancient Angkor sites, held in Siem Reap on June 4 and 5, 2008.


Despite the fact that authority put strong much effort on site management, the overcrowded tourist leads to serious problem and many major site are being damaged unintentionally. Tourists cannot be stopped, but the appropriate strategies should be taken in to the priority consideration in order to fix the problems that may seriously occur effectively and on time. Diversification of attraction for tourists to visit can be a strategic solution of the site. One of the organizers, UNESCO's Program Specialist Philippe Delanghe, said that the development of new attractions is a priority for managing tourist traffic.


However, development of new attractions must be in sustainable manner and not damaging, while maintain and contribute economical benefit to all stakeholders and have the same share goals and interests.

By CHHEM Samnang



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Tourism Cambodia Ethnic tourism in Rattanakiri

Ethnic tourism is becoming increasingly important in the region where indigenous people live. Ethnic tourism is related to the more popularly known nature or eco-tourism. In nature tourism, people visit a region, usually in a third world country, in order to enjoy its natural beauty (Boo, 1990, Whelan, 1991).

Ratanakiri became a Cambodian Province in 1960, during the reign of King Norodom Sihanouk. The capital city, Banlung, is in the highlands on National Road No.19. The name Banlung actually refers to the District, while the town is known as Labansiek. Rattanakiri. The area of Rattankiri Province is 11,052 Square kilometers and contains of 94243 people. In mineral wealth, Ratanakiri boast gold, gemstones, granite and onyx. Fertile red soil, water sources, wildlife, the weather and the scenery are some of its assets. The province is famous of the ethnic minorities that is uniquely different from others province of Cambodia. There are numerous kinds of ethnic groups living in the province that drive Rattanakiri to be the ethnic tourism site in the northeast of Cambodia. There are 8 hill trip ethnic groups in the site such as :1) Tumpoun 24.13 %, 2) Kreung 18.89 %, 3) Kavet 2.65 %, 4) Kachok 2.65 %, 5) Charay 19.47%, 6) Prou 7.54%, 7) Phnong 0.24%, 8) Lun 0.20% and total percentage of ethnic group is 75.77 %.


They make their living through traditional cultivation and harvesting link directly to the seasons. These people have a good knowledge of the forest. Surprisingly, some of ethnic groups strongly believe in intangible spirit. The province is not only rich in natural resources and agricultural products but also cultural assets of the ethnic groups living there. The cultural assets of the ethnic groups in Rattanakiri such as traditional dressing, way of life, regional festival, houses and handicraft, and the hospitality, could be interesting for visitors to experience a kind of special interest of tourism in Cambodia.

By CHHEM Samnang

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Cable Car and Air port construction proposal in Preah Vihear

Preah Vihear temple, one of the popular heritage destinations in Cambodia, received 110, 000 visitors last year and this number is expected to rise when the accessible road is improved. Prime Minister Hun Sen last month inaugurated a 118 km road, linking to Preah Vihear’s Provincial capital Tbeng MeanChey with the temple.


According to the senior government official on 14 May, An Indian Company has unveiled the multimillion-dollar proposal to construct the air port serving the Preah Vihear Temple. Hong Soth, the director of the Preah Vihear National Authority, said the cable car is included in the proposal. This proposal would be potential to attract more tourists to Preah Vihear Temple. The proposal is in processing and five members team of the company has arranged the further talk with the government.


In order to minimize the negative impact of vibration destruction, the air port is expected to build 32 km from the temple in the case that the proposal is approval. Cambodia officials hope that the temple will be listed in the World Heritage Site but this is not yet preceded due to the disputation over the surrounding land ownership with Thailand.


By CHHEM Samnang


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Reaching Sihanouk Ville, the paradise gateway of Cambodia, by Cruise

Enjoying Cruise Vacation? Are you going to connect to Cambodia, the yet undiscovered, charming, smiling and exotic Kingdom, with the cruise experiment? The appropriate time is now and the place is Cambodia. Do not waste your time.

With Asia Cruise with Royal Caribbean, you can reach Sihanouk Ville, where is known as the paradise gateway of Cambodia. You are able to start from many ports in Asia countries such as Hong Kong, China; Singapore; Shanghai, China, to enter Cambodia. Spending your time in the cruise not only to Cambodia, but also Indochina and any other Asia countries will provide you the special experiences of vacation. It is such as cool journey with luxury facilities and services you have ever imagined.

For more information, please do not hesitate to visit and to see the 2008 and 2009 Schedule of Cruise, which include Sihanouk Ville, Cambodia and other Asia countries.


By: CHHEM Samnang


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Cambodia Vietnam Improve Cross Borer Links

Tourism in Cambodia has grown rapidly in number of tourists. Cambodia is rich in cultural and natural resource; as a result, Cambodia is noticed and ranked as one of the foremost destinations in Southeast Asia. According to Ministry of Tourism in Cambodia, international tourist arrival in 2007 was 2.1 million and grew 18.5 % and it is expected that the number will increase up to 3.2 million in 2010. In cooperation with Vietnam, Cambodia has developed the cross border link in order to facilitate more convenient travel between the two border countries.


At a meeting held in Ang Yang province Vietnam, an area known to Khmers as Kumpuchea krom, official from the Cambodian Ministry of Commerce and industry inked as Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Vietnamese Commerce Ministry to help increase cross border trade.


The meeting focused on infrastructure improvements and markets and economic zones in the border area between Cambodia and Vietnam.The amount of cross border trades has mushroomed in recent past years, growing at an annual rate of over 30%. Between 2001 and 2007, total cross border trade turn over between the two countries was over US$ 3.06 billion, of which Vietnam exported US$ 2.83 billion worth of goods to Cambodia and imported US$ 228.6 million of goods from Cambodia.The two Countries aim to increase two way trade turnover by 27 per cent every year to reach US$ 2.3 billion in 2010 and US$ 6.5 billion in 2015.


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The famous film, actress and temple complex, all in Tomb Raider

Film tourism is a growing phenomenon worldwide, fueled by both the growth of the entertainment industry and the increase in international travel. To get to know Cambodia, one of the most famous films called Tomb Raider, the fantastic and enjoyable movie, taken apart in the area of famous temples in Siem Reap, Cambodia, can be one of the thousand ways that make you interesting both the amazing cultural destination in Cambodia and the most famous Hollywood Star, Angelina Jolie, known as Lara Croft who plays substantial role in Tomb Raider


Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie has been awarded Cambodian citizenship in recognition of her environmental and conservation work in the country. King Norodom Sihamoni signed a royal decree approving the citizenship on 31 July 2004. Regarding to the film, The Cambodian temple complex, where Croft must retrieve the half of the triangular MacGuffin, is at Siem Reap in Cambodia, where she arrives, with game-style ease, onto Phnom Bakheng, a hill topped by a Hindu temple (though the site later became a Buddhist centre).


This film is absolutely cool. Jolie is a talent and active actress in this film. She made the whole film interesting and performed well with the most famous Angkor, the largest the religious monument in the world and a World Heritage Site.


Prepared by CHHEM Samnang


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Angkor Golf Resort in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Angkor Golf Resort in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Cambodia opened has opened the new goal course near the famous temple of Angkor. The circus ground looks green and beautiful with the palm Tree of Cambodia. The Angkor Golf Resort gives a kind of sport tourism and adds more attractive the top destination of Cambodia where is called Siem Reap.


A land of treasure world’s heritage provides special features of modern golf facilities and services for the golfer .It could be interesting for the new explorer who aims to test the new experience golf in Siem Reap, Cambodia. It is the first time of golf era in the land of Angkor Wat, which known as the foremost building and admirable architectural building in southeast Asia and the worldwide.


Nick Faldo has opened Angkor Golf Resort in Siem Reap and predicts great things for his company’s first course in Cambodia “Befitting a golf course designed by a master, Angkor Golf Resort has been built and constructed to the highest standards with every contour painstakingly shaped to meet Faldo’s discerning eye. But what is special about this course is that we, with the help of Nick’s expertise, have created something that will take golf to a whole new level in this country and the region.”, added Adam Robertson, Operations Manager of Angkor Golf Resort. Nick Faldo stated that “All of my favorite design elements: visibility, definition, strategy, challenge, variety, balance, playability and enjoyment are here at Angkor Golf Resort.”


The Angkor Golf Resort has been designed of 18 holes. The next phase of construction at Angkor Golf Resort will see an integrated resort and luxurious residential community. The resort will offer a relaxed and secluded lifestyle in the heart of Cambodia’s most popular tourist destination.


By CHHEM Samnang


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The Bokator, the great ancient Khmer martial art

Disappear for long time ago, the fine art would never be heard and known until it is revitalized and taken to be represented. Bokator is nothing new. It is the ancient Khmer martial art, depicted in carving on the wall of Angkor Wat. Master Sam Kim Saen is the grand master of Bokator who revived the art from near extinction said, “Bokator was sleeping for nearly a thousand years. Now we will make it live again in Cambodia.” Since 2004 master has been teaching Bokator to the new generation of Khmers. “This is something to make them feel proud,” he said, “Now; they know the power of the Khmer. They know that we are capable to of doing good things, strong thing like our ancestor who built Angkor Wat. In the old day, martial arts were kept secret. During the Pol Pot regime, Khmer Rouge tried to find the martial arts master and killed them. During Vietnam Regime which fallow, learning martial Khmer art was consider illegal. Conversely, Bokator course is opened in Cambodia and start every morning till evening, six days per week.


There are about 10,000 techniques in modern Bokator, divided into forms or series of movements based on animals. The ancient master watched the animals and trees in nature and they saw they each had the way of defending themselves. The learner can be tested and ranked in the form of color Krama. A beginner wears white krama. The instructor wears the black Krama and the grand master wears the gold one. Unlike Khmer Boxing ( Bradal Serei), Bokator is an art like Apsara Dancing of singing. Bokator Students do not use medicine, but they use spirit power. The art is closely tied to the religion.“God made us with two hands comes from Buddha. The right hand comes from Brahma. Buddhism teaches us not to fight. Therefore, when someone strikes, you block with your left hand and say, ‘Please stop’. If he strikes again, you block with the left hand and say, ‘please stop’. If he does it again you block with the left hand and strike him the right. The right hand comes from Hinduism, so the right can fight,” the master was quick to explain this is the theoretical basis for art.


By CHHEM Samnang


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Cambodia Travel, Cambodia Tours: Tourism Development in Sihanoukville

As Sihanoukville take off as a tourism hub, Cambodia tourism authority and developers say that preserving the natural harmony and health of its beaches and coastline is the a priority.

Officials in Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism have echoed concern about pollution as tourism grows in Sihanoukville, and say they are trying to take more thoughtful approach to development. With funding from Asia Development Bank (ADB) the government has advised a wastewater treatment project that will be implemented in coastal area currently under development to make sure water does not become polluted and that waste form development project does not reach the sea. “We have to develop these beaches with proper environmental protection,” says Dr Thong Khon, Secretary of State of Tourism Ministry. The ADB funding will also go toward training lifeguard and building Watchtowers along popular beaches. Prime Minister Hun Sen himself lunched the project in Sihanoukville, on 2 August. Development plans for the region go well beyond the beach. To make Sihanoukville a more attractive destination for tourist the government is working for revamp Sihanoukville Kang Keng Airport so tourist can travel a circuit between Siem Reap, Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville. The Air port would also make a transit to the airport in Rattanakiri Province, in Cambodia north’s east. According to the Cambodia Travel Agent Association, cruise to Sihanoukville are already popular, and carrying passenger from China, Europe and the United States dock at Sihanoukville’s port at least one each week. Tourism officials are also optimistic that a recent agreement reach by ASEAN to exempt member countries from paying visa fees when visiting other member countries will increase regional visitor traffic. Kun Kam Eng, a father of two, spent a recent weekend with his family on Ochheuteal Beach. “We are rich in having so many beautiful places to visit,” a 45 old was please to report as he looked out to the water. “I love the beaches in Sihanoukville, so I hope they always stay clean and fresh. Our Seawater is sweater is so clean, the sand is very white and the view of the sea is totally paradise. Sihanoukville Governor Say Hak is optismistic that Sihanoukville develop will help improve people lifestyles of people living in Sihanoukville municipality. As a part of this effort Prime Minister Hun Sen has strongly encourage people to engage in “home stay” business, renting local home to tourists. With the huge influx of visitors during national holidays, the home stay policy could help put money directly into villagers’ pockets.

Sihanoukville is not only the paradise on Cambodia coast. Many islands have yet to see development for tourism and the beach in and around Kompot and Kep are idyllic. Several hotels Mangers in Sihanoukville say their businesses base on the beaches and as long as beaches remain the main attraction for domestic and foreign tourists, the hospitality industry will continue to grow.

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Cambodia Travel, Cambodia Tourism, Cambodia Capital City: Market in Phnom Penh

Many of Phnom Penh main attractions including, the National Museum and Royal Palace congregate along rive front. But this vibrant capital is filled with far more than culture and color, and some of the best places to witness and unmatched charm of the city are at its traditional markets.

Phsar Thom Thmey market, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

The oldest markets are Psar Thom Thmei, Psar Kandal and Psar Chas, which literally translate to old market. Psar is thought to derive from Arabic word for bazaar and, indeed, many of Phnom Penh’s market scenes appear more reminiscent of a Turkish fair than an outdoor and market place in Southeast Asia.

Located near the main post office by Wat Phnom, Psar Chas sells CDs, DVDs and books; religious offering such as shrines and fresh fruit, and vegetable, fish and poultry. Numerous tables set up out side the market offer shoe repair and shines, while hairdressers and make up shops occupied the inner portion. This is one of the few markets in the city that sells food late and many motorbike driver and local Khmers arrive at night for bit to eat. Stalls which fluorescent light sell Chinese style roasted duck and chicken and whole families come to enjoy bread with pâté, rice soup, friend meatball, and quail eggs, which are especially popular among Khmer women.

Psar Kandal, near the river on street 13, also offers visitors a taste of local life. The markets boast an abundance of food stall where you can eat for as little as 2,000 reils (US$ 0.5). It also sells house wares, hardware and children’s toys. Fruit and vegetable are not hard to come by but if it is coconut you are after, head to Psar Doem Kor, on Mao Tse Toung Boulevard near Inter-Continental, where truck loads of coconut are imported daily from Kompot Province.

Psar Thom Thmei’s 1930’s Art Deco design has made it a Phnom Penh landmark. Laid out by French town planner Ernest Habrard, this airy, open market is the commercial hub of the city, offering from fried spiders to CDs. Literally “The New Market”, but better known as central market, Psar Thom Thmei’s central yellow dome sprout four wing, chockfull of stalls selling clothing, shoe, bags and souvenir, including coins, Khmer antique, silver plates, silk, stone, statuettes and bronze figurines. Beneath the dome sit rows of lit glass cases displaying tray of gold and silver jewelry. The Central Market is also famous for its fresh jasmine flower which Khmer use in their lavish wedding ceremonies and offer to monks on religious occasion. Price varies, but hard bargaining is conventional.

The city’s second most visited is Psar Toul Tumpoung, or the Russian Market, a name earned for its popularity during 1980s among the city many Russian expatriates. A market has gain reputation for cheap DVDs and clothing, and is also hotspot for locals in searching snacks. For the travelers, the markets present the large selection of Buddha image and woodcarvings, betelnut boxes, silk, silver jewelry and classic musical instruments.

(By: Prak Chan Thul)


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Cambodia Culture: How to Sleep, Walk, Stand, Sit, and Speak

Every culture trains its children to become good members of society in order to insure harmony, peace, and stability. Cambodian parents teach their children how to sleep, walk, stand, sit, and speak. For the parents, the values below capture the essence of a well-mannered Cambodian.

How to Sleep

• You must wake up before sunrise or you are lazy.

• Sleeping places in the home are determined according to status. (Cambodian families often live in one or two rooms, and everyone sleeps on the same bed, a large slatted wooden platform about eight- or ten-feet square. The parents sleep at the "head" end and the youngest children sleep at the "foot.")

How to Walk

• Tell people where you are going and when you are coming back. (This is important to show respect to others and to keep them from being embarrassed if someone asks and they don't know where you are.) • If someone of higher status is passing you, bend lower (from the waist) than that person.

• Don't make sounds with your skirt when you walk.

• Don't wear shoes or hats when you enter a house or temple.

• Close doors softly when you go through them.

• When you meet someone on the street, ask where they are going.

How to Stand

• Stand with your arms crossed at the waist. (Arms at the side means you are signaling that you are strong. Hands on the hips or arms behind your back or across the chest means you are rich, powerful, threatening, or disrespectful of other people.) How to Sit

• Sit with your legs straight down. (Crossing legs shows disrespect.)

• Never put your feet on a table or show the soles of your feet to others.

• Men can sit on the floor in the lotus position while eating.

• Women must sit on the floor with legs aside.

How to Speak

• You must speak softly and gently.

• Show feelings only at home.

• Children have no right to speak unless spoken to.

• A guest is polite and doesn't talk unless spoken to.

• Let others talk more than you.

• There should be limited talking at meals. Speak only if spoken to.

• If you speak with anger or emotion or express feelings, you will not be respected. You are behaving like an immature and uneducated child.

• Patience is a virtue. (Parents make a comparison between a gasoline fire which ignites quickly and burns to nothing, and a charcoal fire which is difficult to start but cannot easily be extinguished and becomes more intense.)

• Do not make aggressive movements or gestures--such as making a fist, pounding the table, or throwing something--while speaking.

• Moderated feelings are best, i.e., those that are neither very happy or very angry or sad.

• Giving criticism or discussing an individual's problems must not be done in public. (That person will lose face, want revenge, and will be unable to accept your idea.) If you must give criticism, do so in private and indirectly. Talk around the issue, ask for information about the issue, and then let the individual reach her own conclusion in her own time and way.

How to Eat

• Men can eat a lot but must not eat fast.

• Women can eat only a small amount.

• Take food only when asked or directed to.

• Use the communal spoon. Not using it indicates you are insincere or not part of the group.

• People of high rank do not expect to have to get their own food (especially at a buffet). They are often seated in a private or special place and served by others to show status and respect.

• All guests must be served water or another drink even if they come for only a short visit. Give a drink rather than ask what they want which is impolite. If asked, they are obligated to choose the least expensive drink.

• If guests come during a meal, they must be invited to eat.

How to Greet

• Offer a traditional greeting with hands in front of face, palms together, in prayer-like fashion.

• Men can shake hands with men.


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