By Nicola Winter
Most of the world’s least developed countries (LDCs) are avoided or overlooked by tourists. However, tourism can make valuable contributions to the economic growth of a country, and many LDCs have amazing things to offer their visitors. For those who wish to help make a difference in the world, there are great options for adventure and relaxation all while helping a developing country’s economy grow in a sustainable and eco-friendly fashion.
This Week: Cambodia
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| Royal Arms of the Kingdom of Cambodia (Photo by Sodacan) |
Impact on economic development
During the late 1990s, Cambodia’s economy suffered a regional economic crisis, and was subjugated to political instability and civil unrest. As a result, Cambodia’s economy, foreign investment, and tourism all fell dramatically. 1999 marked the first real year of peace in three decades, and since then, the economy’s growth has been on the rise at a rate of around 5 percent per year. According to the United Nations Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (UN-OHRLLS), this growth “has been largely driven by expansion in the clothing sector and tourism.” In 2004, Cambodia was approved to join the World Trade Organization (WTO), making it only the second least developed country to become a WTO member since the organization’s transition from the General Agreement on Trade and Tariffs in 1995 (the other is Nepal).
The World Travel and Tourism Council estimates that tourism will make up 17.5 percent (US$2,053 million) of Cambodia’s GDP in 2009, and account for 13.7 percent of total employment. Export earnings from international visitors is expected to contribute 23.6 percent (US$1,572.9 million) of total exports, and real GDP growth from travel and tourism is anticipated to average 5.7 percent over the next ten years. Though in a ranking of 11 Southeast Asian countries, Cambodia came in seventh in terms of absolute size of its tourism industry, the country ranked first in the relative contribution tourism makes to the economy. By 2019 capital investment resulting from travel and tourism is estimated to grow 6.8 percent. Finally, a report by the United Nations World Tourism Organization lists Cambodia as one of the few countries that are developing, or that already have a national strategy or plan for eco-tourism development.
Why you should go
Jungles, beaches, ancient architecture, and culture are four very good reasons to visit. Cambodia has some of the best ancient architecture in the world, the most well known is the temple at Angkor Wat. Built in the 12th century, it has become a symbol of Cambodia and is the most visited place in the country. Prasat Preah Vlhear is another Angkorian structure, perched on a cliff overlooking the mountains. Though it is quite a trek to reach this ancient pilgrimage site, the view and splendor of the surroundings makes it well worth it.
The capital city Phnom Penh has been called “one of Asia’s undiscovered gems.” With great museums, a vibrant mix of old a new culture, and the location of the Silver Pagoda in the Royal Palace, which has over 5,000 silver floor tiles, there is no doubt why the city was once known as “the pearl of Asia.”
Pristine beaches and diverse rainforests are also a great reason to visit. The Koh Kong Conservation Area had been very well preserved due to its remote location, and is the second largest virgin rainforest in Southeast Asia. This area is home to the famous mangrove forest Peam Krasaop Wildlife Sanctuary, and many other nature preserves, which make for amazing wildlife viewing opportunities.
Cambodia’s beaches are some of the best in the world. On Koh Kong Island and Sihanoukville tourists will find white sand, snorkeling, and all the other features of paradise. While Sihanoukville has become more popular with tourists over the past few years, Koh Kong Khoa is a short boat ride from the main land, has many unspoiled and sparsely populated beaches. Finally, the province of Ratanakiri boasts magnificent waterfalls, a wildlife sanctuary, mountains, clear volcanic lakes you can swim in, and a large, diverse local population with its own culture, language, and customs.
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| Angkor Wat Temple |
Recommendations
Being a responsible traveler is key to aiding development. Here are a few recommendations on travel companies, hotels, guide groups, and other travel aids that focus on sustainable tourism through being eco-friendly, and operating in sync with local communities to raise living standards while preserving local culture.
Responsible Travel is a British company which operates worldwide, in an effort to promote “a better way to see the world” though responsible tourism. They offer a variety of types of excursions (i.e. family- or adventure-focused trips), or private tailor made holidays. For each vacation and trip described, there is also a section detailing how the trip you choose will impact and help the local community and general economic development of the country.
Website: http://www.responsibletravel.com
Stay Another Day is an initiative to promote sustainable tourism in Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos. “The goals of Stay another Day are to give tourists an opportunity to learn more about the Cambodia of today and help NGOs and socially responsible enterprises to sustain and expand their worthwhile work by drawing more tourists to them.” They suggest different activities that help immerse visitors in the local culture, all while helping to support local industries, organizations, and non-profit groups.
Website: http://www.stayanotherday.org
Cambodia Community-Based Ecotourism Network is the only locally based tourism group in Cambodia that seeks to build local capacity, and “serve, support and promote community for poverty alleviation and conservation.” They are partnered with some 30 different organizations and groups, all of which meet their standards of promoting sustainable tourism for economic development, and provide various services to these groups in addition to helping travelers enjoy a responsible and fun vacation.
Website: http://www.ccben.org/index.html
Safety
Though there have been political tensions in Cambodia, and clashes along the Thai boarder, the U.S. Department of State does not advise against traveling in Cambodia. It is suggested that tourists make a point to avoid any political rallies, large public gatherings, and the area along the Thai boarder. Also, due to past wars and conflict, some land mines do remain. It is advised that travelers do not wander indiscriminately through rural areas without a guide. As always, exercise caution in keeping personal belongings close, and remain alert for pickpockets.
For more information on safety, visit: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1080.html#safety
For more general information about visiting Cambodia, please visit the following sites:
http://www.tourismcambodia.com/
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/cambodia
