Director of Product Development Alexander Leven on his trips to Preah Vihear, Cambodia. 

Q: What excites you most about Cambodia?

A: The contrasts! It is fascinating to see that on the one hand it is one of the youngest countries on our planet, essentially starting over since 1979 and just finding its ways now. But on the other hand, it is a country with a long and great history being the home to the ancient Khmer empire.

Q: What are the countries’ key attributes and why?

A: One might think that the world wonder like Angkor temples exceeds all else. And indeed you see Angkor everywhere, but the truth, like in so many other places is that the Cambodian people make the country the great destination it is. Their friendliness and smiles are authentic and one feels welcome among them with their warm heartiness.

Q: It is often sold as an-add on destination. Why is this?

A: A number of reasons lead to this, but primarily limited infrastructure as well as limited access and limited awareness of what the country has to offer. In the perception of most people, Cambodia is just this small country without much more than Angkor Wat. Neighbors have higher marketing budgets and easier airline access. 

Q: How can it be sold as a standalone destination?

A: By informing the potential client about the diversity of attractions the country has to offer. There is much more to Cambodia than Angkor Wat. There are beautiful beaches in the south, the biggest lake in south East Asia, minority villages, waterfalls and endless palm tree spiked rice fields. We have remote jungles with exotic wildlife perfect for hiking, camping and natural exploration. Cambodia is for example home to some of the rarest and most interesting species of birds like the Sarus Crane or Giant Ibis. It is one of the last countries where you can feel like a true explorer.

Q: Describe three of the most innovative programs ASIA DMC offers

A: Beyond Angkor is a loop starting and ending in Siem Reap going to the remote temples of North West Cambodia. The highlight of the trip is the stunning cliff top temple of Preah Vihear with its marvelous views over Cambodia and Thailand. Other visits include Beng Mealea and the lost capital of Koh Ker. Depending on the client we will mix it up with some wildlife exploration in the jungle or some light cycling and hiking for the active visitor.

Our sustainable Cambodia itinerary is for the traveler who likes to give back while visiting. It includes overnight stays in communities that try to create an alternative income for the locals through tourism. Chi Phat for example used to be a poacher village until people recognized that the nature needed protection as resources diminished too fast.

Our art and lifestyle itinerary shows Cambodia from its modern side. Cambodia has a great history of arts with the temple carvings, traditional dancing and boxing being just a few that survived the Khmer Rouge. One can see the creative spirit all over the country if one knows where to look. Further, all existing itineraries can be customized to meet your client’s personal needs.

Q: What changes would you like to see in the industry to better facilitate tourism development? 

A: Firstly, further development of the remote infrastructure as well as more measures to develop the main attractions in a sustainable way. Specifically the Angkor Park will require sustainable management of the masses. The next big developments will happen along the coastline and I am afraid that that it will be more mass than class, it would be great if there is a long term plans implemented including smart zoning based on longevity, not simply the quick-dollar.