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INTRODUCTION TO CAMBODIACambodia, located in the heart of Southeast Asia, is arguably the jewel of the region. Undiscovered for centuries, its wealth of natural beauty and rich heritage continue to amaze and astound, with Angkor, the world renowned cultural heritage site dating back to the earliest days of cultured civilization, attracting visitors from all over the world.Towering over the surrounding tropical forests, Angkor Wat exists as one of this planet’s last great, unexplored tourist destinations. Situated amongst one of the world’s great irrigation systems close to the Tonle Sap, itself possibly the most amazing inland expanse of water on Earth, Angkor is simply incomparable. Not only did the skilled and hardworking Khmers build Angkor Wat and the architecturally different but equally stunning Bayon, Banteay Srei, and Ta Prohm temples, but also more than 100 other impressive monuments and temples in and around the ancient capital. Many of the temples are decorated with intricate carvings detailing the glorious past of this proud and ancient culture including the fascinating solar calendar on Angkor Wat’s eastern wall which had remained undeciphered until only recently. With much of the hinterland reached by many of the country’s inland waterways including the Mekong river, many visitors take the exhilarating boat trip to Siem Reap, the home province of Angkor Wat, passing on the way the many fishermen and unique floating villages of the Tonle Sap lake. Everywhere one goes in Cambodia beautiful landscapes await from lush green rice paddies to the red earth of Rattanakiri, with ubiquitous sugar palm trees dotted all over the country. Cambodia’s northeastern province of Rattanakiri is the home of several ancient and indigenous hill-tribes. These intriguing indigenous tribal people with their primitive lifestyles are threatened, though largely untouched by modern society and retain their own particular languages, cultures, rituals, and beliefs. Cambodia is a must, as all its previous visitors will testify, especially to visit Angkor Wat. Not only does that first spectacular glimpse of Angkor Wat amaze and perpetually remain in the memory, but so too does Cambodia as a whole. Who could possibly forget the other facets of this marvel: the charming smiling faces of the Cambodians, the beautiful unspoiled palm fringed beaches with white sands and turquoise sea; gentle waves lapping on the shore. The beach resort of Kompong Som (Sihanoukville) is one of nature’s paradises. Like Sri Lanka or Thailand before the developers moved in, Kompong Som is home to one of the world’s last natural beach destinations. Looking back to shore one only sees the sea, white sand and green hills in the background. Don’t forget about the delicious fresh fruit and succulent seafood available here, the mountain top views that stretch forever or the vibrant markets burgeoning with exotic produce. Cambodia assaults the senses leaving memories of a once mighty country that stay in the mind undiminished by the passage of time. The sights and sounds of a unique land with a tragic past captivate more and more people every year and offer a genuine experience for all who are fortunate enough to discover Cambodia. Without doubt, with its inherited wealth, Cambodia, has enormous potential for tourism, either as a single destination or part of an Indo-Chinese tour, especially for those wishing to escape the tourist traps of the world or discover one of the great cultures of the world that should rank alongside that of Egypt and the other world renowned destinations. Though still in its infancy, the tourism sector is attracting investors both domestic and international who are venturing into this market, evident by the international standard facilities becoming available. Geography Cambodia covers a land area of 181,035 sq. km, which is the size of Missouri and a bit over half the size of Italy or Vietnam. The country's maximum extent is about 580 km from east to west and 450 km from north to south. Cambodia is bounded on the west by Thailand, on the north by Thailand and Laos, on the east and south-east by Vietnam, and on the south by the Gulf of Thailand.Cambodia's dominant topographical features are the Mekong River and the Tonle Sap (Great Lake). The Mekong flows some 400 km across the country. At Phnom Penh, it splits into two major branches, the Bassac River and the Tonle Sap River. The plains of Cambodia are surrounded by the Cardamon mountains to the west and the Dangrek mountains in the north. In the north-eastern corner of the country, the plains give way to the Eastern Highlands, a remote region of densely forested mountains and high plateaus that extend eastward into Vietnam's Central Highlands and northward into Laos. Phnom Penh is the capital. The second largest city is Battambang. Other major cities are Kompong Cham, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, Kandal, Prey Veng, Takeo, Kompong Thom, Svay Rieng, and Kompong Speu. Climate and Seasons Situated in the tropical zone, Cambodia benefits from a great amount of sun almost year-round. Each season has its own beauty and refreshing changes in weather. There are two seasons: monsoon season and dry season. The humid, rainy season lasts from May to October due to southwestern monsoons. Temperatures range from 27-35 degrees C, with humidity up to 90%. The hottest month is April when the temperature can reach 38 degrees C. The cool, dry season lasts from November to March with temperatures ranging from 17-27 degrees C. December to January is the coolest period. Population/Language Total population is approximately 10.7 million. Cambodians comprise a variety of people who are commonly called Khmer, and they constitute 90-95% of the population. The population also includes a variety of ethnic backgrounds: Chinese, Vietnamese, Chams (Khmer Islam) and the ethnic hilltribe, called Khmer Loeu.The Cambodian language - called Khmer - is part of the Mon-Khmer family. Khmer, Thai, and Laotian are in the same linguistic family. Given the French colonial presence, many older, educated Khmers speak and read French. Now, English is more popular with the younger generation, especially for business purposes. The literacy rate is low at around 50 to 60%. Religion Though abolished during the Pol Pot regime the official religion is Theravada Buddhism, which is also practiced in Laos, Thailand, Burma, and Sri Lanka. Theravada Buddhism was introduced to Cambodia in the 12th Century by King Jayavarman VII, where it replaced Hinduism. Much of this is in evidence at Angkor Wat where Buddhist statues sit atop Hindu plinths.Ethnic Groups The largest ethnic group is the Khmers. Of the minority groups the largest is Vietnamese. There are also a significant number of Chinese descendants who dominate the business community and indigenous minority groups of Hmong, Pong, and Tai amongst others who are collectively known an Khmer Leu.History Cambodia has a rich history which can be traced back to the 1st century AD when it was part of the kingdom of Funan. In the middle of the 6th century, the Kambujas, who lived in the north of Cambodia broke away from Funan and a new power, called the Chen La, assumed control of the country.The Angkor period of Khmer history, which lasted from the 9th to the mid-15th century, further illuminated the already colorful Cambodian culture. During this period, Cambodian architecture, cultural, and military achievements were at their peak. The Angkor temples were built in this period. The most famous, Angkor Wat, was built in the 12th century by Suryavarman II. Cambodia was a French protectorate from 1863 to 1953. The country regained its independence in 1953 and lived in peace with its neighbors until the late 1960's. In 1970, General Lon Nol conducted a coup d'état supported by the United States. The civil war between Lon Nolists and Khmer Rouge groups began in Cambodia. In 1975, the Khmer Rouge under Pol Pot overthrew the Lon Nol regime and began a reign of terror and genocide, where more than 2 million Cambodians were killed or died of starvation, sickness or hard labor. Toward the end of 1978, Vietnamese forces entered Cambodia and fought against the Khmer Rouge. On October 23, 1991, the Paris Peace Agreement was signed by the four major internal political parties of Cambodia and 19 countries to end the fighting and to hold general elections. The current coalition government took office in November 1993, following UN-supervised general elections where over 90% of the eligible electorate participated. Government Cambodia's Constitution was promulgated in 1993. Cambodia became a constitutional monarchy with King Norodom Sihanouk as Head of State. The country is committed by the Constitution to follow the path of democracy and pluralism. There is a threefold separation of powers in Cambodia (as in the United States): the legislative, the executive, and the judiciary.
These 3 major strategic tasks will be simultaneously carried out as the 3 different end lines of a tie to keep Cambodia on track towards political stability, democracy, respect for human rights, national reconciliation, and economic and social development with realism. Economy The policy of the Royal Cambodian Government is to encourage all types of industries as long as they contribute to the growth of the economy. Economic reforms have been established in areas of banking, taxation, and customs. Private investment is the highest it has ever been. More than $2.5 billion have been registered since the introduction of the Foreign Investment Law in August, 1994. The Government has succeeded in reducing inflation from 31% in 1993, to 26% in 1994, 3.5% in 1995 and 9.8% in 1996. Monetary stability against the U.S. dollar is being maintained. There is a good environment for foreign investment in Cambodia.Agriculture and Forestry Rice, which supplies about 75 percent of the calories consumed by Cambodians, is grown on over 90% of the currently cropped areas. The total worked land in 1994 (1.8 million ha) was less than in the 1960's (2.5 million ha). In 1964, Cambodia exported 569,000 tons of rice. Cambodia is expected to become self-sufficient in rice in 1995 and may have a surplus to export after years of shortfalls. Other food crops include maize, root vegetables, oleaginous plants, and garden vegetables.Cambodia's rubber plantations, although old, are still a valuable economic asset. They are second only to timber as a source of export earnings and are the major employers of labor in Kompong Cham and Prey Veng. Production increased from 17,645 tons in 1985 to 40,000 tons in 1994. In 1966, Cambodia exported 50,782 tons of rubber. In 1995, FAO (the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization) estimated that Cambodia could produce at least 600,000 tons of rubber annually. The new expansion is in the northeast provinces of Cambodia, Ratanakiri and Mondulkiri provinces. Forestry, with large stocks of teak and rosewood, is one of Cambodia's most valuable assets. Production was 325 thousand m3 in 1991, but this dropped to 133 thousand m3 in 1992. The Royal Government has banned timber exports and has encouraged local wood processing. Fishing Fish and fishery products contribute about 5% of Cambodia's GDP and are a main source of protein in the diet. There is potential for export. Also, fish culture shows great commercial possibilities.Industry Only a small part of the work force is employed in the industrial sector. This sector is largely undeveloped with factories operating at low capacity because of outdated machinery, shortage of raw materials, poor management, and shortages of electricity. Light industry is generally better developed than heavy industry. 30 garment factories are in operation for export. Garments were exported at the rate of $26 million in 1995. The more developed industries include household goods, textiles, soft drinks, alcohol, nails, jute sacks, tires, tools, pharmaceutical products, and cigarettes.Oil and Gas Presently all commercial energy used in Cambodia is imported. It is, however, believed that there could be a significant potential for natural gas and oil in Cambodia. Contracts have been issued for offshore exploration and further contracts are expected to be issued. Estimates have been put at 1 to 5 trillion cu feet of gas and 30 to 180 million barrels of oils.Mining Mineral exploitation in Cambodia is mainly artisanal mining of gold and gems. Cambodia's mineral resources are not well documented, but there is a potential for production of phosphate, granite, limestone, sand, gravel, cement, clay, bauxite, zinc, and copper. Three foreign companies are exploring for gold in Cambodia. A cement factory is going to be rehabilitated.Health All visitors to Cambodia should have up to date inoculations as recommended by their doctors. Visitors should take preventive measures against mosquitoes as in any tropical country, especially at dusk. Health insurance, especially medical evacuation cover is recommended as international standard healthcare is minimal, especially in rural areas.Food Rice and fish are the main staple of the typical Cambodian diet though many dishes are prepared with beef, pork or chicken. Seafood is abundant in coastal areas with shrimps and crab amongst the favorites. Local specialties include Amok (fish cooked in coconut milk) and a variety of soups, and curries similar in taste though not in spiciness to Thailand. Phnom Penh is truly cosmopolitan with Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Thai, Vietnamese, Malaysian, Nepalese, Indian, Turkish, Mexican, French, Western and other restaurants dotted around the capital.Entertainment There is a large choice of entertainment venues around Phnom Penh from lively nightclubs to quieter social venues to karaoke bars and fully licensed casinos. For those interested in cultural offerings there is traditional Cambodian music and dance, especially the graceful and popular Apsara dancing which dates back to the Angkorian period, the Russian trained royal ballet, performances of classical Western music and the French Cultural Center offers something different every night from dance to theatre to cinema and music. Bars and nightclubs are widely available especially overlooking the river., One such place is the Foreign Correspondents Club, an interesting meeting spot for expatriate residents and foreign visitors. In addition, many international hotels provide live entertainment for their guests such as jazz pianists and vocalists singing contemporary ballads. Cambodia’s guests are never short of anything interesting to do regardless of taste and personal preference.Handicrafts and Souvenirs Cambodia is widely recognized as being associated with beautiful carvings though many of the artisans were executed during the Pol Pot regime. Cambodia is home to some of the most exquisite religious sculptures in the world, many of which command extraordinary prices on the world market. Woven silk products are highly popular as are basketry, gold and silverware, and all kinds of jewelry made from precious stones including the famous Pailin rubies. Also to be found are traditional musical instruments, paintings, and ornate stone rubbings taken from the temples.Sports facilities All the major international hotels have the usual range of sport and leisure facilities including multi-gyms, saunas, pools, and tennis. There are also independent fitness centers around the capital including the International Youth club with an Olympic-sized swimming pool. Near the center of town is the Olympic stadium with free access to the running track and sports field.Currency and Banking The official currency if Cambodia is the Riel which come in denominations of 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10,000, 50,000, and 100,000 notes. However, in the major towns and cities US dollars can be freely spent though travelers are recommended to use smaller denomination notes as change may be difficult. Most places will refuse old, tatty, or damaged US bills. Due to the economic problems in the region the currency has slipped from 2500 to the US dollar to around 3700 to 3900 to the dollar at the time of publication meaning Cambodia is an even better value for money tourist destination than before. Popular local and international currencies can be exchanged openly and freely and there is no black market. Major credit and charge cards are only accepted in a few places so travelers’ checks or cash are recommended.Tourism Cambodia has a lot to offer. The country offers a rich cultural and historic heritage and many fine natural attractions. The world-renowned Angkor Wat, unspoiled beaches, coral islands, beautiful mountains, and forests make Cambodia a unique travel destination. The number of tourists grows every year : 1993 = 118,000 tourists, 1994 = 177,000 tourists, 1995 = 220,000 tourists, 1996 = 300,000 tourists. Cambodia hopes to attract a million tourists by the year 2000.International Relations The Kingdom of Cambodia pursues a foreign policy of peace, friendship, and cooperation with all countries and has diplomatic relations with over 80 countries. In July 1995, Cambodia became an observer of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) and expects to be a full member in 1997. There are over 50 international organizations and non-governmental organizations operating in Cambodia, as well as local NGOs.Cambodia-U.S. Relations The United States has lifted the U.S. trade embargo against Cambodia imposed in 1975, has normalized relations with the Royal Government of Cambodia, and upgraded its diplomatic mission in Phnom Penh to a full embassy. For its part, the Royal Government also has recently reopened its embassy in Washington in July 1995.In recent years, trade between the United States and Cambodia has increased. U.S. exports to Cambodia totaled $21.4 million in 1996 and $7.4 million from January to March 1997, and imports totaled $4.2 million in 1996 and $4.5 million from January to March 1997. The Royal Government and OPIC have signed an agreement. There are around 110 U.S. companies and companies representing U.S. products in Cambodia. American businesses and investors are involving in import-export, services (press, restaurant, legal advisor, teaching, transport), construction (Route 4 restoration project), oil prospecting (UNOCAL Cambodia, Triton Energy Corporation, Exxon), and manufacturing (Coca-Cola, textiles), and energy. Cambodia received MFN status from the United States in October 1996. GSP was granted by the U.S. and came into effect on August 1, 1997. The Royal Embassy of Cambodia The Cambodian Embassy, located in Washington, D.C., serves as Cambodia's official presence in the United States. The Embassy represents Cambodia in political and economic relations with the United States Government, and social and cultural exchanges with the United States.The Embassy also issues visas to persons planning to travel to Cambodia and provides assistance to Cambodian nationals in the United States. The United States Embassy to Cambodia The United States Government has an official embassy in Cambodia located at #27 Street 240, Phnom Penh.Travel Information All visitors, whether for social or business purposes are required to obtain a visa before entering Cambodia. Travel to Cambodia has become easy to arrange and carry out. There are several airlines that provide flights to Phnom Penh. While visiting in Cambodia, it is easy to find adequate accommodations. Hotels and guest houses provide clean, safe, western-style accommodations at a reasonable price. Cambodia's food is similar to that in Laos, and to some extent, Vietnam. Also, if one chooses to dine with western-style meals, they are available.Travelers normally arrive in Cambodia at the International Pochentong Airport. The terminal has been recently renovated and the runway extended to take larger aircraft. The national airline, "Royal Air Cambodge" flies to neighboring countries and internally. A number of other regional airlines such as Silkair, Thai Airlines, and Vietnam Airlines are also available. An airport tax of $20 is charged to all passengers leaving Cambodia. Business Resources Many resources have become available to support business activities and foreign travelers. A few hotels and restaurants accept payment by Visa and Master Cards. Travelers checks denominated in U.S. dollars can be exchanged for Cambodian Riel (approximately US$ 1 = 2,800 Riel) at some banks.Telephone and facsimile service is available at all major hotels. There are also over 60 public pay phones around Phnom Penh. Overseas calls are handled by satellite. Facsimile connections and direct telephone service can easily be established from offices and private residences. Visa Information Cambodian tourist visas are obtainable upon arrival at Pochentong International Airport and at Siem Reap International airport. The application procedure is very simple and takes approximately ten minutes to complete. One passport photograph is required and the one-month visa costs $20. Similarly, an extendible business visa is also available upon arrival and costs $25.To further ease the application process, Nine Dragons Tours, as part of their customer care policy, will facilitate the application prior to arrival. Clients may fax or e-mail their personal details though they must still bring a passport photo with them. Arrival and departure cards and customs declarations forms, usually issued on the airplane, must be completed on arrival and kept until departure. Getting There There are direct flights to the capital of Phnom Penh from Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Hong Kong, Vientiane, and Guangzhou. All of these cities serve as gateways to Cambodia meaning Cambodia is easily reached from further afield. Cambodia can also be reached by road from Thailand and Vietnam. Another exotic way to reach Cambodia is by river boat or sea cruise.Direct flights exist from Bangkok to Siem Reap, the home of Angkor Wat, and schedules have been expanded to twice a day. For those with limited time Nine Dragons Tours can organize special accompanied excursions in conjunction with other tour operators for those vacationing in Thailand but still wish to experience the wonders of The Lost City of Angkor. |
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