Experience Cambodia A Learning Journey in the Kingdom of Wonder: 10 Day Tour
On this journey, you will experience the rich culture, nature, and history that Cambodia has to offer. You will learn about development from leading NGO's that are creating positive change, participate in morning meditations and learn about Buddhism to broaden your understanding of Khmer culture. Get ready to explore this fast-changing country full of stunning landscapes, ancient temples, and bustling cities. You will learn about complex development challenges, inspiring initiatives, and the turbulent past this country has faced. The trip includes: All accommodation based on twin sharing Local guesthouses, a retreat centre, and homestays All meals (though, we recommend giving a few nights free on rest days) and drinking water Entrance fees, guides, and transportation for all listed activities (mostly tuktuks, but bus for longer journeys) Trained and experienced instructors (x2) to lead and facilitate the trip Donation to all social impact projects (e.g. NGOs) visited 10% VAT and all other government taxes The trip does not include: Cambodian tourist visa Travel insurance (all participants must have travel insurance which covers emergency medical evacuation) Travel to/from Cambodia Snacks and drinks other than water Meals listed as exceptions above Personal expenses (souvenirs etc.)
Day 1: Arrival Arrival and transfer from Siem Reap airport to Battambang Overnight in Battambang. Day 2: Battambang Orientation: Preparing and planning for the trip ahead Overnight in Battambang.
Day 3: Battambang Early morning countryside bike tour including a visit to Battambang s Killing Fields, meeting with peace builders and other activists. Today explore- Local livelihoods, understanding 20th century Cambodia, on-going peace, and reconciliation efforts. Overnight in Battambang. Day 4: Battambang Meeting with NGOs / social impact project. Today explore- orphanage/volunteer tourism, residential vs. home-based care, and community development. Overnight in Battambang.
Day 5: Banteay Chhmar Transfer to rural homestay; meet host families, explore the community. Overnight in Banteay Chhmar. Day 6: Banteay Chhmar Learn about (and participate in) daily life in rural Cambodia. Today explore- cultural immersion and daily life in rural Cambodia. Overnight in Banteay Chhmar.
Day 7: Siem Reap Morning exploration of ancient temples; transfer to Siem Reap. Overnight in Siem Reap. Day 8: Siem Reap Meet with NGOs / social impact projects. Today explore- social enterprise, education and youth, income generation, and livelihoods. Overnight in Siem Reap.
Day 9: Siem Reap Today will be spent exploring the mighty Temples of Angkor! Today explore- cultural immersion, tourism and tourism management in developing countries. Wrap up and reflection activities Overnight in Siem Reap. Day 10: Departure Departure from Siem Reap.
Buddhism lessons Buddhist philosophy is a cornerstone of Khmer culture, and learning about the core teachings allows travelers to connect with Cambodia and its people on a deeper level. Our Khmer facilitators run brief, informal daily Buddhism classes, as well as morning meditation sessions to calm the mind and set the tone for the day. Khmer lessons Informal and interactive language lessons allow travelers to quickly pick up keywords and phrases, and connect with the people and communities they are visiting. While the alphabet may look a little daunting Khmer grammar is actually rather straightforward, and travelers will soon be surprising Khmer friends and host families with their newfound linguistic abilities!
Facilitated activities Facilitated educational workshops and discussions are a core component of our travelers experiences, and are designed to encourage critical thinking around complex issues, support personal growth, and maximize the learning potential of visits, meetings, and other activities. Our facilitators have a great deal of experience in delivering these. Shared meals Cambodia boasts a delicious culinary heritage, full of subtle flavours, rich aromas, and a myriad of regional influences. Exploring the Kingdom s favourite dishes is integral to immersing in Khmer culture, and throughout our adventures, travelers primarily eat local cuisine. We do this not only to showcase the delicious local flavours but sharing meals in the traditional Khmer family style supports the creation of a communal atmosphere and a connection to local culture. Reflections We believe that dedicated time for facilitated reflections and debriefs is integral to supporting travelers in processing new experiences and ideas, and provides travelers with the opportunity to consider how their time in Cambodia may impact them in the future.