Package Description
Cambodia offers a profound mix of emotions and discoveries. You are transported back to the glory days of what was once Southeast Asia's most formidable empire, while also confronting the harrowing reality of a period when the Pol Pot regime led to the deaths of nearly a quarter of Cambodia's population. In the present day, Cambodia stands as a safe, inviting country, presenting an exceptional opportunity for students keen on exploring themes of development, ecology, politics, and the history of Southeast Asia. This 7-day educational excursion to Cambodia is crafted to offer students a variety of extraordinary experiences, from engaging authentically with their Khmer peers, participating in an exhilarating 'Great Race' city adventure, to learning local culinary arts through a hands-on cooking class, and the invaluable chance to interact with a survivor and former members of the Khmer Rouge Regime.
Designed with a focus on service-learning, the trip includes a rigorous service initiative where students will collaborate with villages in a secluded district to support a local community through a sustainable farming project. Above all, the trip aims to be deeply rewarding, ensuring students have a fun and unforgettable introduction to Cambodia, one of the most hospitable nations in Asia.
Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Cambodia! Upon landing in Phnom Penh, a driver will greet you and take you to your hotel for check-in. Settle in and enjoy a welcoming dinner at the hotel, marking your first night in Cambodia.
Stay: Phnom Penh
Meals: Dinner
Day 2
Exploring the Capital: Phnom Penh
Kick off the day with breakfast before setting out 15 kilometers from Phnom Penh to the Beoung Cheoung Ek Memorial Museum (The Killing Fields), guided by your tour leader. Following this, return to Phnom Penh to visit the Tuol Sleng Museum (S21) and watch a documentary shedding light on the Khmer Rouge regime's atrocities. Pay respects at the massive Stupa, housing skulls and remnants from this dark period, erected for annual memorial ceremonies.
Post-lunch, delve into Cambodian culture with tours of the National Museum and the Royal Palace, including the Silver Pagoda, admiring its unique architecture and the Throne Hall’s opulence.
Cap off the day with a Cyclo ride along the Mekong Riverfront to Wat Phnom, immersing in Phnom Penh's vibrant atmosphere.
Stay: Phnom Penh
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3
Journey to Siem Reap
After breakfast, take a brief 45-minute flight to Siem Reap. Meet your local guide upon arrival and proceed to Camp Tbeng in the peaceful Tbeng village, about 30 minutes from Siem Reap. After a camp introduction, check into the traditional long house and enjoy a barbecue welcome dinner. The evening includes a heartfelt talk from a landmine victim, sharing his life story.
Stay: Camp Tbeng
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4
Community Service at Camp Tbeng
Start with breakfast at the camp before heading to a local school for a service learning program. Students will split into groups for various tasks, ranging from educational activities with local children to hands-on projects improving school facilities, guided by local experts.
After lunch and a Khmer language session at the camp, return to the school to continue your service work, concluding the day back at the camp for dinner and rest.
Stay: Camp Tbeng
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5
Habitat Building in Camp Tbeng
Post-breakfast, engage in building or restoring homes for local families in need, creating durable structures designed to last and improve daily living conditions. Work under the guidance of professional builders, with a house blessing ceremony marking the project's completion.
Lunch will be served at the project site or camp.
Stay: Camp Tbeng
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6
Culinary Experience and Return to Siem Reap
Learn the art of Cambodian rice noodle making with a local family, from rice milking to noodle forming, and prepare a traditional fish soup. Share this meal with local students and teachers for lunch.
Afterward, pack up at the campsite and head back to Siem Reap, where your evening includes an Apsara Dance Performance during dinner at Kannell Restaurant.
Stay: Siem Reap
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7
Discovering Angkor's Heart
Discover the marvels of Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, and Angkor Wat, experiencing the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant and end the day with a sunset view from Bakheng Mountain or Pre Rup Temple.
Dinner at a local restaurant wraps up the evening before returning to your hotel.
Stay: Siem Reap
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8
Departure from Siem Reap
Enjoy your final breakfast and a morning at leisure in Siem Reap. At 11:00 am, depart for the airport for your flight back to Dubai.