Experience Cambodia - Field Research Project

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December 30th 2008

Published: December 30th 2008

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Experience Cambodia A journey of new discoveries

Siem Reap

A journey of new discoveries...

On the 23rd November, fifteen students including myself commenced a twelve day academic field trip to Cambodia. The purpose of this journey was to observe the role that tourism has in a developing country while the objective was to critically analyse the impacts of tourism as well as learn about the history and culture of Cambodia.

This journey of new discoveries began in Siem Reap - referred to as the tourist capital and home to the world’s largest religious monument - Angkor Wat. Two days were allocated for temple touring and an afternoon to visit the nearby Vietnamese Floating Villages. In the evenings, we were able to choose from an extensive range of restaurants, bars and clubs as well as enjoy some late night shopping at the local night markets. After an exciting and awe-inspiring few days in Siem Reap, we continued our journey south to Phnom Penh - the nation’s capital, to explore the history and atrocities which occurred at the S21 Museum and Killing Fields. In the afternoon, we visited the popular Russian and Central Markets which were filled with activity and excitement. Local produce and goods were available to purchase as too were the many local delicacies

Siem Reap

A night out with new friends...

for those a little more adventurous. Following our short visit to Phnom Penh, we continued to move further south to the rural landscapes of Kampot and the French-influenced resort town of Kep. We spent a few days exploring these picturesque villages before travelling west to the beautiful Sihanoukville - Cambodia’s premier beach resort. The final days of our enlightening and educational journey to Cambodia were spent here, soaking up the sun’s rays and enjoying the company of others as well as sampling the great selection of trendy bars and restaurants which aligned the sandy beach strips of Sihanoukville.

Despite decades of civil war and political unrest, the Cambodian people are very happy and content in their surroundings. It was simply amazing to witness how others in a developing country live and for me personally, it placed emphasis on the simple things in life that we - who are more fortunate - take for granted such as food, housing and clean drinking water.

Remnants of the communist regime and the epoch of the Khmer Rouge have left considerable scars to those who have been left behind. However it was incredibly inspiring to see how well the Khmers have responded

Siem Reap

No trip to Cambodia is complete without a crazy tuk-tuk ride...

to the years of brutality that they were forced to endure. Cambodia is a place rich with history, culture and beautiful natural landscapes. I believe these few images which were taken during our time in Cambodia capture these qualities as well as reveal other amazing attractions which until now have been some of Cambodia’s best kept secrets.

Additional photos below

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