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Category: Travel

Discover the vibrant lifestyle of Cambodia with the Angkor Times’ “Living in Cambodia” blog. Get the latest blogs and updates on everything from shopping and dining to travel and tourism. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, explore insights on the best places to shop, top travel destinations, and tips for enjoying all that Cambodia has to offer. Stay connected with the culture and everyday life in this fascinating country.

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: September 28, 2023In: Travel

What are Opportunities and Challenges Await Cambodia’s Tourism Sector in 2023?

A recent gathering organized by AmCham brought together key players in Cambodia’s tourism industry to assess the prospects and obstacles facing the sector as Cambodia strives to become a prominent global tourist destination. This event provided a platform for tourism stakeholders ...Read more

A recent gathering organized by AmCham brought together key players in Cambodia’s tourism industry to assess the prospects and obstacles facing the sector as Cambodia strives to become a prominent global tourist destination.

This event provided a platform for tourism stakeholders to delve into the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead, particularly following the government’s commitment to elevate Cambodia to a leading position on the global tourism map.

Opportunities and Challenges Await Cambodia’s Tourism Sector in 2023
Opportunities and Challenges Await Cambodia’s Tourism Sector in 2023

During the AmCham event titled “Where is Cambodia’s Tourism Industry Heading?” held at Raffles Royale Hotel on September 26, 2023, Sok Soken, Minister of Tourism, outlined Cambodia’s ambitious vision.

He emphasized, “Our ultimate goal is to realize our vision to contribute to Cambodia’s prestige and resilience through positioning Cambodia as a leading global destination enshrined with rich diversity, boundless opportunities, and genuine compassion.”

Soken elaborated that this vision could be achieved through a strategic approach encapsulated in five pillars known as BUILD and three strategic goals known as the 3Ds.

BUILD encompasses Brand management, Unique selling points and marketing, Inbound design quality travel, Leverage on tourism endowment and diversification, and Develop competitive tourism sites.

The 3Ds represent Designing institutional structure, Digital transformation, and Developing capability.

Soken stressed that combining BUILD with the 3Ds would drive a fresh initiative to enhance the performance of officials within the Ministry of Tourism at all levels, fostering stronger cooperation with stakeholders at the sub-national, national, and international levels.

Din Somethearith, President of Cambodia Tourism Federation, highlighted a decline in air travel among tourists visiting Cambodia, dropping by half compared to 2019 when two-thirds of total international visitors arrived by plane. This decrease has major implications that need careful examination.

Ivana Tranchini, Country Manager for Visa in Cambodia and Governor of the Board of Directors of AmCham, pointed out the importance of digital forms of payment for travelers in Cambodia, aligning with evolving consumer preferences in the Asia Pacific region.

She noted a significant increase in the use of contactless payments by travelers and highlighted shifting consumer preferences towards eco-sustainability in travel choices.

Opportunities and Challenges Await Cambodia Tourism Sector 2023
Opportunities and Challenges Await Cambodia Tourism Sector 2023

These shifts, she emphasized, underscore the need for collaboration to revitalize Cambodia’s tourism sector. In addition to traditional tourism operators and hospitality businesses, other sectors like banks, marketeers, FMCG companies, and technology players also share responsibility in realizing the country’s tourism goals, especially as the services sector gains prominence in the economy.

Somethearith advocated for tourism diplomacy to promote Cambodian food and culture and recognized the influential role of expats as goodwill ambassadors for the tourism sector.

Hy Sothea, President of Cambodia Hotel Association, acknowledged substantial growth in the hospitality industry in recent years, even though the sector was severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

He noted that despite the challenges, the government had taken proactive measures to promote the sector, including early relaxation of pandemic restrictions.

However, the slow rebound of Cambodia’s tourism compared to neighboring countries can be attributed to several factors, including a negative international media image and sluggish return of Chinese tourists due to various economic factors.

Despite these challenges, some positive developments, such as the return of Qatar Airways and the reopening of Siem Reap Airport, provide hope for the sector.

Sothea expressed optimism for potential new connections with India and the United States and called for government support for the hospitality industry, citing its job creation potential and its ability to drive economic growth.”

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Micaela Love
Micaela LoveExperienced
Asked: January 26, 2022In: Travel

Getting Involved in Volunteerism At the Floating Village

There is always good works to be done in Cambodia and in rural areas is no different. The Honorable Vibol Penh has shared many ways individuals can get more assimilated with giving back, even without experience or knowledge of the ...Read more

There is always good works to be done in Cambodia and in rural areas is no different. The Honorable Vibol Penh has shared many ways individuals can get more assimilated with giving back, even without experience or knowledge of the areas in Cambodia. To start, he encourages colleges to organize community study programs. These programs include university students visiting a dilapidated school and donating what they prefer; usually pens, pencils, bread, toothpaste, and any clothing items.

After visiting, there are hopes of the students taking initiative to come back to the same area, hopefully, with other compassionate individuals to start fundraising. Monk Vibol Penh encourages others to sell fruit, ask international friends, or come up with a unique way to give back, long term, to the communities most in need in the floating village. In doing this, students were able to fundraise and build the first junior high school in 2016.

Not only were undergraduate students able to assist in Team Khnorng (in Plov Touk Commune, Kompongh Leng District, Kompong Chhnage Province) but they continue going back to help after building their school. One villager, who noticed the project happening, has stated, “Since the past, there has never been students from provinces per cities coming to visit our community except this time.” It was apparent how meaningful each individuals presence and compassion for others meant to the villagers.

To understand just how critical volunteerism is in the floating village, one must comprehend how isolated the village is from the city. Mr. Try, a council member in the village, states there are about 300 families in his community. To visit the floating village, it is about a 2-3 hour long car ride to get to the area from Phnom Penh city. If anyone is injured or hurt, they need to take a boat to the province, which can be 2-3 hours, as well, just to land. Most families have little hope in education when they are worried about survival; such as water levels rising, having to migrate to higher ground in the mountains, or fish being harder to catch. It had been almost uncomprehendeble to hear of students in the village making it to 6th grade level. Now, with the help of the community, there is hope in this community and in the surrounding districts.

The most amazing part, according to Vibol Penh, is that now villagers are believing in the power of education and are now hopeful and encouraged for their own children to attend. Although this is extremely encouraging, it is also a long process when improving conditions of the school. Currently, the roof is made of zinc, which makes the classrooms extremely hot for students but when faced with no other options, the students are still excited and absolutely thrilled to attend and be given an opportunity.  The other problem is that since there are only three classrooms built for over 300 families, students take turns to get an opportunity and place in the classroom. This can make for incomplete study programs, unless we continue working together and encouraging others to continue assisting in this vulnerable area.

Another problem that this community is facing is that the community is continuing to grow and the amount of fish is dwindling, which not only results in poverty but also results in a lack off nutrients. The Honorable Monk Vibol Penh suggests we take responsibility by helping make others aware of this need for the community, fulfilling our social responsibility, to create a sense of mutual help in Cambodia,  to provide sustainable development for the floating villagers, and to truly see the long term benefits of education. Every child should be given the opportunity to learn and attend school.

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Kun Kanha
Kun KanhaExperienced
Asked: April 26, 2021In: Travel

Is Koh Rong worth visiting?

Koh Rong is located near Sihanoukville it approximately take 5-7 hours. It depending on the mode of transportations that you choose. To answering the question, Koh Rong isn’t the worth visiting, but in fact it’s one of the beautiful scenery ...Read more

Koh Rong is located near Sihanoukville it approximately take 5-7 hours. It depending on the mode of transportations that you choose. To answering the question, Koh Rong isn’t the worth visiting, but in fact it’s one of the beautiful scenery that you cannot get over its Island. Koh Rong is named as an ‘island paradise’ by visiting tourists, the island boasts pristine white sandy beaches, warm crystal-clear ocean waters, and a hot tropical climate.

Spending your holiday in Koh Rong paradise is such an experience in this beautiful kingdom. In addition, the beaches are beautiful, white sand and crystal clear water. For such a small and rustic place you would think there’d be nothing to do but sit on the beach make a small party, cooking, dancing and relaxing such a freedom holiday you cannot miss.

Koh Rong was full of super friendly people and the hikes, beaches and little beach bars were spot on! The island is quite huge and largely unexplored. The area near to port have many guest house, eateries and pubs to hangout. The vast stretches of soft white sand beach with hardly many crowd to disturb are just awesome. High point is known as a rope park, which the views are spectacular, it is really like being in another world.

Plus, if you’re lucky you might see a monkey from a distance! Best to get lost in off beaten path to enjoy the beauty to most. It is so relaxing and rejuvenating. Rest all of the island is your own and no one will disturb your peace. I hope to go the place again and again in future.

A beachside village with backpacker hotels and bars on the beach in Koh Rong island in southern Cambodia | Cambodia Time

A beachside village with backpacker hotels and bars on the beach in Koh Rong island in southern Cambodia | Cambodia Time

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: January 21, 2026In: Travel

New Water Based Eco Tourism in Preah Sihanouk province: What You Need to Know!

A New Eco Tourism Experience Takes Shape in Ream Preah Sihanouk province is preparing to introduce a fresh eco tourism attraction designed to blend water based recreation with a relaxed natural dining experience, adding new energy to the coastal tourism ...Read more

A New Eco Tourism Experience Takes Shape in Ream

Preah Sihanouk province is preparing to introduce a fresh eco tourism attraction designed to blend water based recreation with a relaxed natural dining experience, adding new energy to the coastal tourism scene. Located in Ream commune of Kampong Som city, the upcoming site aims to draw both local and international visitors looking for something beyond the usual beach activities. Scheduled to open in late January, the project reflects the province’s ongoing efforts to diversify its tourism offerings while highlighting the area’s natural environment and coastal charm.

Preah Sihanouk to launch new water-based eco-tourism attraction

Provincial Leaders Review Progress and Approve Development

The plan to launch this new attraction was officially shared during a site inspection held on Monday, led by Em Pheap, Deputy Governor of Preah Sihanouk province, alongside Kheang Phearum, Director of the Provincial Hall’s Planning and Investment Department, and other relevant officials. The technical working group visited the site known as the floating pier and water sports activities to assess readiness and ensure preparations were aligned with development goals, according to information released by the Preah Sihanouk Provincial Information Department. During the visit, Pheap confirmed that the provincial administration has agreed to support the project as part of its broader tourism development strategy.

Boosting Tourism Through Water Recreation and Nature Inspired Dining

Provincial officials see the project as a new tourism product that will strengthen the appeal of Ream and contribute to the overall attractiveness of Preah Sihanouk province. By combining water based recreational activities with dining in a natural setting, the site is expected to offer visitors a more immersive and relaxed experience. Pheap also emphasized the importance of responsible development, asking technical officials to carefully study potential environmental impacts and support the site owner in arranging the surroundings to meet required standards. He further encouraged the business owner to speed up the application process for all necessary licenses to ensure the attraction operates fully within legal frameworks.

Construction Timeline and Soft Opening Plans

According to the Provincial Information Department, construction of the new tourism project began in January 2024 and has progressed steadily. The project is now approaching completion, with a soft opening scheduled for January 30, 2026. This timeline reflects careful planning and coordination aimed at delivering a quality attraction that meets both visitor expectations and regulatory requirements, while supporting sustainable tourism growth in the province.

European Cuisine and Healthy Dining on the Water

Beyond recreational activities, the site will feature café services offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a relaxed waterside setting. The restaurant will focus mainly on European cuisine and healthy food options, using fresh and natural vegetables, fish, and meat. Meals will be prepared by experienced and highly skilled chefs, positioning the venue as a place where visitors can enjoy quality dining while surrounded by the calm atmosphere of Ream’s coastal environment.

Conclusion

The launch of this new water based eco tourism attraction marks another step forward for Preah Sihanouk province as it continues to expand and modernize its tourism offerings. By combining recreation, nature, and quality dining, the project has the potential to attract a wider range of visitors and encourage longer stays in the region. If developed responsibly and managed well, it could become a standout destination that supports sustainable tourism and reinforces Preah Sihanouk’s reputation as one of Cambodia’s most dynamic coastal provinces.

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: February 17, 2025In: Money, Travel, Work

What Are the Key Challenges Keeping Cambodia’s Poor Trapped in Poverty?

Poverty Gap in Cambodia: A Growing Concern for Business and Social Development. The widening gap between the rich and poor in Cambodia has raised alarms among business leaders, investors, policymakers, and social development advocates. While Cambodia has experienced remarkable economic growth ...Read more

Poverty Gap in Cambodia: A Growing Concern for Business and Social Development.

The widening gap between the rich and poor in Cambodia has raised alarms among business leaders, investors, policymakers, and social development advocates. While Cambodia has experienced remarkable economic growth over the past two decades, income inequality remains a persistent challenge, creating socio-economic barriers that affect business sustainability, investment opportunities, and overall development.

Phnom Penh from Top Views 2025

The Growing Divide

A recent Oxfam report has highlighted a global trend in which the wealthiest individuals continue to accumulate vast amounts of wealth, while those living in poverty struggle with rising living costs, debt burdens, and limited opportunities. Cambodia mirrors this global issue, with the disparity between the affluent and the underprivileged becoming more pronounced.

The report revealed that in 2024, the world saw an increase in billionaires, with their collective wealth rising by $2 trillion. In Cambodia, economic growth has not translated into equitable wealth distribution, leaving vulnerable groups, particularly informal workers, in precarious financial situations.

Income Inequality in Cambodia

Despite steady economic expansion, the reality for many Cambodians remains challenging. The official minimum wage for garment workers in 2025 is set at $208 per month—far below the demands of labor unions and insufficient to keep pace with inflation and rising living costs. This issue is further exacerbated by wage disparities across sectors, particularly affecting women in tourism and construction, who often earn $5 less per day than their male counterparts.

According to the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training, Cambodia’s economy grew by 5.3 percent in 2024, with garment and manufacturing exports increasing by 23.5 percent. Over 100 new factories were established, generating over 100,000 new jobs. However, these economic gains have not significantly improved the financial security of informal workers, who earn around 30,000 riel ($7.80) per day—barely enough to sustain a family.

Challenges Faced by Informal Workers

Informal sector workers, including food cart vendors, market sellers, and construction laborers, face multiple hardships, including:

  • Declining income levels and job security
  • Mounting debt from microfinance institutions and informal lenders
  • Loss of land and property due to weak social justice protections
  • Health risks and lack of adequate healthcare
  • Psychological stress due to economic pressure and unstable living conditions

According to Vorn Pov, President of the Independent Association of Informal Economics, the absence of business opportunities and social justice perpetuates economic disparity in Cambodia. He argues that while wealthier individuals benefit from government support and land concessions, the poor are often excluded from economic growth and struggle to maintain stable livelihoods.

Government and Policy Responses

The Cambodian government has implemented various initiatives to address poverty and promote economic growth, including:

  • Expanding vocational and technical training programs
  • Collaborating with private enterprises to create job opportunities
  • Strengthening the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) for informal workers
  • Encouraging foreign investment to boost industrial growth

However, experts argue that these measures are insufficient without a concrete policy on a national living wage. Khun Tharo, Programme Manager at the Centre of Alliance of Labour and Human Rights (CENTRAL), emphasized that many workers depend on overtime and additional benefits to make ends meet, leading to increased stress and mental health issues.

Key Recommendations to Reduce the Poverty Gap

To achieve more inclusive economic growth and reduce the poverty gap, stakeholders must focus on the following key actions:

  1. Establish a National Living Wage – Conducting a comprehensive study on living costs and implementing a wage policy that ensures a dignified standard of living for all workers.
  2. Enhance Social Protection – Expanding access to healthcare, education, and housing assistance for low-income individuals.
  3. Promote Business and Investment in Vulnerable Communities – Encouraging entrepreneurship and SME growth to create sustainable employment opportunities.
  4. Strengthen Social Justice and Governance – Implementing policies that protect vulnerable groups from land dispossession and financial exploitation.
  5. Support Gender Equality in the Workplace – Bridging the gender wage gap and ensuring fair compensation across all industries.

Conclusion

Cambodia’s economic growth presents significant opportunities for investment and business expansion, but the growing poverty gap remains a critical issue that must be addressed. For businesses, investors, and policymakers, ensuring economic inclusivity is not only a moral obligation but also a strategic necessity for long-term stability and development. By implementing policies that promote fair wages, social justice, and equal opportunities, Cambodia can work towards a more balanced and prosperous future for all.

What are your thoughts on the widening poverty gap in Cambodia? Share your insights in the comments below.

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