Cambodia: Construction & Cultural Exchange

Introduction

Cambodia is a country of incredible beauty and interesting history best known for its monumental temples and captivating nature. It was once known as the Khmer empire and later was a French protectorate for almost 100 years until 1953 when it gained its independence. The following years of political unrest, war and corruption have not broken the spirit of the Cambodian people who remain open, welcoming and positive.

This specially designed project takes place in a small, rural village which will give you a taste of what rural Cambodia looks and feels like, while at the same time allowing you to explore some of Cambodia’s highlights, as Siem Reap is located only two hours away. Samraong, whose name translates from Khmer into “impenetrable jungle”, is a town located in northwestern Cambodia, close to the border with Thailand.

Daily Life

The aim of this project is to improve the quality of life for under-privileged citizens in and around Samraong. The construction projects greatly improve the environment of the poverty-stricken people within this area. The main focus is on the local school dedicated to the poor which is attended by over three hundred children every day. There is a focus on light construction work and you will be expected to help paint the school buildings, make tables & chairs, construct and renovate the playground, make pathways, build toilets, repair the school walls and help build the new classrooms. Other construction efforts might be carried out in the local village renovating and building houses and sanitation facilities) or working on construction projects at the local hospital.

With this authentic taste of Cambodian rural culture, you will gain a truly unforgettable and life-changing experience, through your accommodation, the food and the daily interaction with the locals.

You will assist the local people with the development construction projects Monday to Friday. On the weekends, you will be able to enjoy your free time and explore at your leisure.

Travel & Accommodation

Upon arrival you will be met at the airport by a project representative and taken to the project HQ.

You will be staying in single gender rooms with a maximum capacity of 4 per room. They are equipped with a fan, a cold shower and wifi.

Laundry facilities are limited, so you should expect to wash your clothes by hand during parts of your trip. However, there are some places in the town where you can do laundry for a small cost. All our visitors are expected to be environmentally aware and to use all resources with restraint; especially water, paper and electricity. You’ll be expected to clean up after yourself, and play your part in keeping the accommodation neat and organised.

There are bikes available at no extra cost, which you can use to explore the area during your free time.

All your meals are included during your stay; they’ll be traditional Cambodian food, including plenty of rice dishes. If you have any specific dietary requirements, please let us know before you arrive, and we’ll ensure there is plenty for you to eat.

Requirements

• Minimum age 18.
• Passion and enthusiasm for working with a local community, lots of energy and creativity.
• No previous skills are necessary, however you will need to speak English at a native or near-native level.
• Minimum 2 weeks commitment – 30+ hours a week
• CRB Police check (or equivalent) showing that you have no previous criminal convictions
• Necessary vaccinations.
• Necessary flight & visas.
• Full travel & medical insurance. Please see our info pages for more information and to get a quote.

Extra Activities

Those looking to get off the beaten track should read our Top 5 Things to do in Cambodia. Sandwiched between the more touristy Thailand and Vietnam, Cambodia is a traveler’s hidden treasure. Explore ancient Buddhist temples and bustling outdoor markets, or simply relax with an all inclusive yoga retreat. Cambodia is waiting for you.

Visit Temples

Some people only go to Cambodia to see the amazing temples scattered around the country. Step into these holy places and experience where the ancient monks once lived. Or explore modern ones where they still live today! The most famous one is Angkor Wat, which is close to Siem Reap. Angkor Wat ruins are approximately 900 years old, and are part of an entire park that you could get lost in for hours. Two more beautiful temples that we recommend in Siem Reap are Angkor Thom and Ba Yon Temple. There you will see colossal carvings of Bodhisattva’s, elephants and intricate demons and gods. Just make sure that you don’t walk into the wrong room with shoes on!

Visit The Killing Fields

You might not want to bring the kids here, but if you want to dive into Cambodia’s past you must see the Killing Fields. This memorial in Phnom Penh commemorates a very dark part of Cambodia’s history. These unfortunate mass graves were a product of the Cambodian Genocide in the 70’s. This happened during the reign of Khmer Rouge, who murdered close to two million people. The grave is a sight that you will never forget. This is a terribly tragic, yet intriguing, window to the Cambodian culture that tourists should pay homage to.

Go to a Cambodian Market

Asian outdoor markets are often quite the eye-opener to Western visitors. Fresh vegetables, living fish and souvenirs all in one bustling place. Shop like a local but still get souvenirs, and finish the experience with some homemade noodles. We recommend The Central Market and the Night Market in Phnom Penh. Any of the markets near Angkor Wat in Siem Reap are great. You can even sometimes find tours to take you to all of them if you can’t decide on only one!

Phnom Penh Royal Palace

This entire compound is a feast for the eyes. The stunning architecture replicates the Buddhist temples you’ll see all around Asia. With glimmering golden towers contrasting white walls and expansive courtyards and walkways, you are sure to be in awe. Here you will get a full understanding of the grandeur of the royal Cambodian ancestors.

Do a Yoga Retreat

When your feet are tired from temple-hopping, finish your stay in with a relaxing yoga retreat. Cambodia has hundreds of affordable, secluded and spiritually gratifying yoga experiences. Wake up to the sound of gongs, chant your heart out and truly relax and experience real yoga. You can stay anywhere from a few days to a few months, and all yogi levels can find the right retreat for their needs.

Costs

€400 Euros per week

* Check the latest currency conversions with xe.com
** All payments incur a 5% bank transfer fee
*** Placements are confirmed with a 1 week deposit

What’s Included:

Project Fee includes food, accommodation, airport pickup, orientation, in-country support and project activities.

Private rooms are available for an additional €100 per week.

What’s not included:

Flights, insurance, visas (if applicable) and vaccinations. Full assistance will be provided in getting all these arranged if you choose our Premium Support.

Premium Support Upgrade

We understand there’s a great deal to plan and organise for your trip. When booking a Placement, many of our participants choose to purchase our Premium Support Upgrade to benefit from the expertise, knowledge and experience of our Project Coordinators.

We can provide the personal advice you need to ensure your trip is organised with excellence and planned with efficiency; ensuring the very best experience possible. Read more about how we can help you.