Travel to Teach: Volunteer in Cambodia

After three decades of civil war Cambodia is finally back on the Southeast Asia travel map. Densely forested mountains, mighty rivers and serene beaches provide the backdrop to this eclectic country whilst colonial French architecture, ornamental Wats, ancient temples and tiny wooden houses all tarnished by Cambodia's turbulent history decorate its towns. The poverty and the scars of its past are unavoidable yet the Khmer people deal with it with grace, charm and warmth.

Volunteer Locations

Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is the capital of Cambodia; it is an energetic city which is home to approximately one million people. It is the commercial, political, and cultural hub of Cambodia. Phnom Penh was once known as the 'Pearl Of Asia' and is once again on the upswing. This can be witnessed especially along the riverfront street known as Sisowath Quay where many cafes, restaurants and trendy shops have opened in the past few years.

There are a variety of western style restaurants and bars in close proximity to the more traditional Khmer street vendors throughout the city. In addition to the eateries the bustling Russian and Central Markets are great spots for shopping and souvenir hunting. Sightseeing opportunities abound within the city including The National Museum, the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.

Just a few kilometers outside of town The Killing Fields are a worthwhile yet heart wrenching afternoon journey. For weekend excursions, Siam Reap and the stunning temples of Angkor Wat lie a few hours to the north and the laid back beach town of Sihanoukville is a just few hours south of the city.

Sihanoukville
The coast of Cambodia may seem an unlikely choice for a tropical beach getaway but more and more that is what the southern coast of Cambodia is becoming known for - it’s beautiful and relaxing beaches. But do not be completely fooled by the vistas as there is still a lot of assistance needed in this tropical setting.

Sihanoukville is the largest town along the southern coast and was founded in 1964 as the main port city for Cambodia. It lies just 3 hours south of Phnom Penh and midway along the coast and thus just a few hours from both Thailand and Vietnam. It attracts tourists from abroad and within Cambodia and welcomes more tourists every year. Like the rest of Cambodia, it is a location on the upswing. It has even recently opened an airport. The town of Sihanoukville is surrounded by beaches on three sides, the south, west, and east. And off the coast in the Gulf of Thailand lie many small islands which are popular for day trips in which one can indulge in snorkeling, diving, and game fishing.

Cambodia Information

Full country name: Kingdom of Cambodia
Located: Southeast Asia; bordered by Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and the Gulf of Thailand
Area: 181,035 sq km
Population: 13.88 million
People: 90% ethnic Khmers, 1% Chinese, 5% Vietnamese, 4% Other
Language: Khmer, English, French
Religion: 95% Buddhist, Cham Muslim and Roman Catholic
Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write total population: 73.6% (male 84.7% / female 64.1%) (2004)
Government: multiparty democracy under a constitutional monarchy
Money: Local currency Riel although US Dollars are widely accepted
Climate: tropical; rainy, monsoon season (May to November); dry season (December to April); little seasonal temperature variation
Economy - overview: Since 1999, the first full year of peace in 30 years consitent economic frowth has been made. From 2001-2004 the economy grew at a rate of 6.4% driven mainly by tourism and the garment industry.
Sights: Angkor Wat at Siam Reap, Phnom Penh, Shianoukville, Kompong Luong and Battambang