CAMBODIA STUDENT SERVICE & TRAVEL TRIP

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Student Service Trip in Phnom Penh & Siem Reap, Cambodia

Friday, July 18th - Sunday July 27th (dates tentative)

Cost: $2500

This is a private trip curated for the International Service Club of Sumner High School

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Why Cambodia?

Siem Reap is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Angkor Wat, constructed in 1150 CE. Angkor Wat comprises more than a thousand buildings and is one of the great cultural wonders of the world. In contrast, Cambodia's recent history (1970s) includes a terrible genocide that took over 2 million lives and has shaped modern Cambodia. We'll spend two days (at the start and end of our trip) exploring Phnom Penh, the country's capital, to learn first-hand about the ancient and modern history. 

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When we're not learning about history or experiencing Cambodian cultural activities, we'll volunteer our time at a non-profit school, ABCs and Rice, in Siem Reap. Volunteering includes supporting the local teachers in English instruction and providing art and athletic activities for the students. This is a trip for those interested in deeply engaging in culture to better understand our world. In the evenings we'll support social enterprises through dining, entertainment, and sustainable shopping. Students will engage in daily reflection time to build community and collectively synthesize what they're learning and how to stay connected to this experience and knowledge as they return home.

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Why Eco-Travel?

This trip has been planned with intention to support the Cambodian people through eco-tourism. Our hotel, Baby Elephant, focuses on environmental responsibility through recycling services, operating an organic garden, composting and sourcing local food to ensure a positive relationship with nature. In addition, they support the local community by providing equitable and fair employment. 

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What's Included in the $2500?

• Two nights accommodations in Phnom Penh (private accommodation)

• Six nights accommodation at Baby Elephant ​in Siem Reap (shared accommodation)

  • Ensuite bathrooms

  • Daily a la carte breakfast

  • Complimentary potable water

  • Use of the hotel's swimming pool and amenities

• Daily community dinner

• Entry and tour of Angkor Wat Complex

• Evening entertainment activities (voted on by students)

• All ground transportation services including transport to and from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap

• All tips, taxes, and service fees while in Cambodia

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Logistics

Tentatively, we plan to fly out of Seattle on Friday, July 18th. We'll arrive in Phnom Penh the morning of Saturday, July 19th with ground transport to Siem Reap on July 20th. We'll spend July 20th-July 26th in Siem Reap and return to Phnom Penh on the evening of July 26th. On the morning of July 27th we'll take our return flight. Considering the time change, we will land in Seattle on the 27th. Once flights are determined, I will send an email and additionally offer a zoom call to support booking of the flight and visa application. Please feel free to reach out directly should you have specific questions or concerns regarding airfare and transportation.

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Payment Process

Once registration is approved, a $500 non-refundable deposit is due for each guest. All payments are due no later than March 15th, 2025 (4 months ahead of our trip). Payments can be made via PayPal, Zelle, or Venmo. All participants will require a valid international passport that is less than 6 months from expiration. An online visa is required.

*Note that your Package does not include airfare ($1200-1800), cost of visa ($40), spending money (suggested $250), required trip insurance ($150-200). An agent will be provided for trip insurance in your confirmation email.

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Learn more about the non-profit school we will support - ABCs and Rice. 

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