Many travelers cite Angkor Wat, one of the great wonders of the world and the symbol of the heart and soul of the Cambodian nation, as one of the highlights of a visit to South East Asia. However, few tourists venture beyond the glory of the temples into wider Cambodia to discover other aspects that make up this diverse and captivating country.
Cambodia is a country rich in culture, nature, history and tradition. However, it has also been devastated by recent wars. Although tourism has grown dramatically in recent years, much of Cambodia still remains in poverty. Increasing numbers of visitors can also have negative environmental and social and cultural consequences and typically these impact the poorest of people.
The International Finance Corporation’s Mekong Private Sector Development Facility is working in Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam to promote the development of sustainable or ‘destination friendly’ tourism. This is tourism that is commercially viable, but at the same time creates broader benefits for society and supports conservation of the natural, historic and cultural resources on which tourism depends. This edition has been realized in partnership with the German Technical Cooperation (GTZ), which is active in promoting communitybased tourism in Cambodia. GTZ’s training and development program involves the local population in planning processes and targets reducing poverty through tourism.
This booklet presents a wealth of remarkable initiatives which not only provide ideas for a richer travel experience, but also the opportunity to contribute in some way to improving the welfare of local people. Through these initiatives, you will have the opportunity to learn more about Cambodian life and its challenges, marvel at the stunning scenery, get up close with the local wildlife, or help to conserve the cultural heritage for future generations.
So during your visit to Cambodia, stay a little longer, buy local products and support some of the initiatives described in this booklet. Not only will you have an even more memorable experience (and one you can recommend to others), but you will also ensure that tourism is benefiting a much wider range of people.
Visit www.stay-another-day.org to see what’s available in other countries If you visit any of the initiatives, please mention the ‘stay another day’ booklet or website, as this helps us track the impact of our project.
| January 2007 |
SIEM REAP
PHNOM PENH
KAMPOT
BATTAMBANG
PREAH VIHEAR
KRATIE
SIHANOUKVILLE
KOMPONG CHAM
KOMPONG SPEU
KOMPONG THOM
STUNG TRENG
