Gap Year Programs in Cambodia
Gap Year Programs in Cambodia
Intro
Cambodia, the Empire of Temples, takes up a central part of the Indochina Peninsula and has Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos as its neighbors. This recently growing in popularity South East Asian destination has some falling in love with it at first sight and the other not wanting to come back ever again. If you find other South East Asian countries intense, double that and you have Cambodia at its best.
Visiting the land of Khmers, prepare yourself for amazing food and delicious chocolate-tasting coffee. Siem Reap takes you back in time to the magical Angkor Empire, waters of Tonle Sap amaze with their diversity, Phnom Penh offers a unique urban jungle experience, and Kampot gives this world the best pepper. On the other hand, the Killing Fields and S21 Museum fill you with dread and sadness over the brutal Khmer Rouge regime. Traveling over land in Cambodia is an experience in itself...the roads are far from perfect, the horns never stop, and the Khmer karaoke is blasting full volume out of your rather aged tour bus’s speakers. All locals singing along of course. Fasten your seat belt (what seat belt?) and enjoy the ride! Remember one thing though, never take the night bus. Just don’t!
Program Types
Volunteering
Cambodia being one of the poorest countries in the world, boasts a huge number of volunteering opportunities. Mainly in schools and orphanages, there are a number of opportunities for qualified teachers and carers. There’s also a lot of work available in the medical sector, desperately needing to improve its standards. Rural development programs offer several volunteering placements.
Traveling
Cambodia is a country for well-seasoned travelers not afraid of a challenge! But for those who brave it, boy does it pay back! From the fore mentioned temples galore to sandy beaches you can jump in both feet and have the ride of your life (quite literally) and if you have the courage, go explore the countryside. You won’t regret it!
Adventure Travel
Cambodia is a gem when it comes to adventure travel. Its unexplored and largely unspoiled landscape makes it one of the prime adventure travel destinations. You’ll find anything you want here, from trekking, kayaking, and scuba diving to dirt biking and motorcycling and all that in awe-inspiring surroundings. A must for any challenge seekers!
How
Visas for Cambodia
- All travelers except citizens of Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, and Laos need a visa to enter the Kingdom of Cambodia.
- Tourist visas are valid for 30 days and the official price is $20. However, this may vary if you are using agencies when crossing over land from any of the neighboring countries. If issued in advance, a Cambodian visa will be valid for 90 days.
- To apply you will need one or two passport photographs. This depends on where the application is made.
- Citizens of most countries can also apply for an e-visa, which can be obtained on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation website and will cost $25 instead of the usual $20 (applying on arrival).
- While at the border, be prepared for several scams and a lot of corruption. Keep your cool and politely decline any offers if approached by strangers.
