Cambodia Tour Information Pack 2015

Cambodia
Bringing Back What Was Lost
Tour 2015
Immerse yourself in the Cambodian culture and make a difference
by contributing to the wellbeing of local communities!
When: 1st – 15th June 2015
Where: Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Kampot, Kep
Contacts:
Zoe Condliffe
zoe.c@culturalinfusion.org.au
or 0432 849 505
Jim Wakelam
jim.wakelam@victas.uca.org.au
or (03) 9251 5492
Week 1 – Sightseeing in Cambodia taking in the traditional wonders of Angkor Wat temples
and the vibrant capital of Phnom Penh from an insider’s view, finished by relaxing on the
coast.
Week 2 – Immerse yourself in the world of community development initiatives, making
your own unique contribution to a dynamic, fledgling organisation working with young
people through community arts.
Purpose - We support responsible and ethical travel. This tour has the goal of supporting a
vulnerable community through engaging skilled international participants in a crosscultural knowledge exchange.
This culturally immersive experience offers you the opportunity to deeply engage with
Cambodia’s complex political history and developmental challenges, including visits to key
temples such as the Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and Bayon Temple. Also you’ll visit museums
such as Landmine museum and Angkor Borei. Participants will experience all that
Cambodia’s rich culture has to offer including traditional rural life in Kampot, Cambodian
market life and opportunities to plunge yourself in to the delicious Cambodian cuisine!
What will we provide?
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One week’s accommodation free in return for your pro bono expertise
volunteered to Mayibuye and Lightbox in Kampot (2.5 hrs south of Phnom Penh on
the beautiful Kampot river and surrounded by forests, rice paddies, villages) Local
English speaking Tour Guide
Uniting journeys person
All accommodation, transport and tourist arrangements taken care of by a travel
agent and experienced local guide
What to expect:
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Comfortable, private accommodation with en suite
Comfortable in-country transport
In-country support
Fully planned itinerary
Project support
Unique volunteering opportunities and community engagement
Enjoy Cambodia in the cool season
Want to participate?
We are seeking creative, energetic and skilled people of any age over 18 from diverse
walks of life to participate in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. You will journey to
Cambodia for two weeks to tour the country, learn about the culture, relax and take it in,
and work with local NGO Mayibuye Cambodia and partner enterprise Lightbox to develop a
social enterprise into a functioning and viable business, and improve arts programs in rural
communities. This is an opportunity use your personal knowledge and expertise to give
back to a community in need.
Participants must be:
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Passionate about making a difference in the lives of others
Willing to give their skills and expertise to a good cause
Good at working in a team
Professional and hardworking
Cultural Infusion and Young Opportunities Australia are delighted to announce a
collaborative Cultural Tour to Cambodia in June 2015. We’re partnering because we believe
in the power of travel to promote equality, social justice and intercultural understanding.
Travelling alongside other like-minded Australians, you will spend two weeks visiting local
communities and actively engaging in Cultural Infusion’s performing arts projects on the
ground. Use your skills to make a real difference in the lives of disadvantaged young people
by participating in their Youth Camp and Performance Troupes.
This culturally immersive experience also offers you the opportunity to deeply engage with
Cambodia’s complex political history and developmental challenges, including visits to key
temples such as the Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and Bayon Temple. Also you’ll visit museums
such as Landmine museum and Angkor Borei. Participants will experience all that
Cambodia’s rich culture has to offer including traditional rural life in Kampot, Cambodian
market life and opportunities to plunge yourself in to the delicious Cambodian cuisine!
Uniting Journeys & Jetaway
A shared initiative of Australian owned travel provider Jetaway Travel Pty Ltd and
the Commission for Mission of the Uniting Church in Australia (Victoria & Tasmania.)
Uniting Journeys offers well researched travel opportunities for people who think deeply
about their travel. Uniting Journeys offers well researched travel opportunities for people
who think deeply about their travel. Uniting Journeys are competitively priced adventures
in small groups, using accommodation options, transport services, suppliers of meals,
entertainment, services and even shopping jaunts that are as ethically sound as our current
research can recommend. We are constantly improving and developing our offerings, each
tour has a local guide and an experienced and carefully chosen host who monitors our
providers, and advocates for responsible travel initiatives.
Cultural Infusion
Cultural Infusion is a social enterprise that works in education, youth, communities and the
arts to promote cultural harmony and well-being for a more cohesive and richer society.
Cultural Infusion is dedicated to promoting equality, social justice and encouraging a
broader understanding of culture across our community for the benefit of all. Cultural
Infusion recognises the benefits of cultural diversity and works to promote intercultural
understanding. Our education, youth and community programs build cultural harmony and
wellbeing through cultural presentations, workshops and engagement programs that act as
a bridge to intercultural understanding.
Mayibuye Performance Troupes
Mayibuye Performance Troupes are an initiative of Cultural Infusion. Mayibuye Performance
Troupes ENGAGE through the performing arts, EDUCATE for global citizenship and EMPOWER
youth to become positive leaders in their communities.
During the Khmer Rouge Regime, artists were targeted in the genocide. We’re working to
regenerate the traditional arts and support future generations to be creative and engaged
citizens. Our programs deliver traditional Khmer arts and dance and creative arts to
Chumkriel State School and Chumkriel Language School students within the existing school
curriculum. We work with schools and learning centers who are eager to create
opportunities for young people that they otherwise would never have access to including
dance, visual arts and life skills. We envision a generation of young Cambodians who can
express themselves, think creatively and problem solve.
15 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival - Siem Reap
(Breakfast)
On arrival at the airport you will be met by your local English speaking guide and transferred
to your hotel for check in 14:00.
This evening dinner will be at Marum, a newly opened restaurant which is a sister restaurant
to Romdeng and Friends training restaurants in Phnom Penh. 33 students and 15 trainers are
currently employed by an NGO that have been working with street children and other
marginalised young people since 2005 in Siem Reap. The food is mostly tapas style though
main courses are also available (closed Sundays). Overnight in Siem Reap.
Day 2: Siem Reap
(Breakfast)
Start your tour to the most spectacular temples at the ancient city of Angkor Thom, the
last capital of the Great Khmer Empire under the reign of Jayavarman VII. This city is
surrounded by an 8 m high wall, drawing a perfect square. Enter the city through the ancient
South Gate, an impressive stone gate carved with Elephants and four giant faces. On each
side of the entrance path a row of 54 gods or demons is holding the sacred Naga snake.
From here, continue to Bayon Temple in the exact centre of the city. This 12th century
masterpiece is a study in grandeur and is well-known for its 54 towers with enigmatic faces
representing the 54 provinces of the Great Khmer Empire. The Terrace of the Elephants and
the Terrace of the Leper King are also must-visits as they are both known for their intricate
bas-reliefs.
Take a break before you continue to Ta Prohm. Ta Prohm is unique in that it has been left
largely as it was found: overgrown by jungle trees and vines, with many parts of the temple
crumbling to the ground. This makes the ‘Tomb Raider Temple’ one of the most picturesque
and memorable of the Angkor temples.
Now you are ready for the highlight: The magnificent Angkor Wat. Built during the reign of
King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century, Angkor Wat is constructed following the model
of the temple mountain symbolizing Mount Meru, the home of the gods. Inside the temple,
the walls are covered with stone carvings and bas-reliefs depicting Hindu mythology and the
wars Suryavarman II fought during his reign. Angkor Wat is well known for the more than
2,000 Apsara dancers decorating the temple. Construction is thought to have taken around
thirty years of intensive labor. Today, Angkor Wat is figured on Cambodia's national flag as
the temple symbolizes the soul of the Khmer people.
You will be there during sunset time, when Angkor Wat is less visited and the Apsaras will
shine in the most beautiful light. Return to Siem Reap. Overnight in Siem Reap.
Day 3: Siem Reap
(Breakfast/Dinner)
This morning visit the Landmine Museum which promotes mine awareness and education.
Mr. Aki Ra, the museum founder, was a child soldier during the Khmer Rouge regime and is
today working as a de-miner. The museum serves also as a rescue centre for a number of
landmine amputee children that Aki Ra had brought off Phnom Penh’s streets or from
impoverished rural communities.
On the way back to Siem Reap stop visit palm sugar community (seasonal). Free in afternoon.
Overnight in Siem Reap.
Day 4: Siem Reap – Phnom Penh
(Breakfast)
After breakfast transfer to Phnom Penh with approximately 6-7hours drive. Stop along the
way see the view of local house/field etc... Arrive Phnom Penh in late afternoon and directly
to hotel for check in. Free evening and an opportunity to explore any number of eating
places that your Guide can tell you about. Overnight in Phnom Penh.
Day 5: Phnom Penh
(Breakfast/Dinner)
This morning you will have a tour of Tuol Sleng Prison (S-21) and the Killing Fields at Choeung
Ek is a sobering reminder of the evils of the Khmer Rouge regime. Although not a joyful
tour, visiting these monuments unlocks keys to understanding the development of this still
developing country. Free in the afternoon.
This evening you will be treated to a delicious Khmer dinner at Friends restaurant, a lovely
charity restaurant where former street children are taught the principles of hospitality.
Overnight in Phnom Penh.
Day 6: Phnom Penh
(Breakfast)
Spend half day in the local market in Phnom Penh. Take a tour to the ‘Russian Market’.
Test out your bargaining skills as you wander through the stalls filled with souvenirs, local
handcrafts, and electronic goods. OR travel to the impressive Central Market, one of the
city landmarks. Originally completed by the French in 1937, this striking structure is known
as Psar Thmei in Khmer or New Market. The huge dome is wonderfully ventilated, a
testament to the design, and this market is loaded with anything and everything available
in Cambodia. Buy with caution, as this market has a reputation for overcharging or 'shaving
your head' as Cambodians like to call it. Overnight in Phnom Penh.
Day 7: Phnom Penh – Kampot
(Breakfast/Dinner)
Early morning leave Phnom Penh in a southern direction for Takeo Province.
On the way, you will pass Tonle Bati, a recreation area where the Khmers like to spend their
leisure time. However, during the weekdays, the site is quiet and peaceful. Tonle Bati
Temple is an Angkorian-style temple and remains largely intact. The pretty garden around
it makes it a great treat.
Continue to Takeo, a small town that is truly Cambodian in every sense.
Observing the small city life is quite interesting, as basically anything beyond your
imagination happens here in terms of transportation, market life and business, and little
children are lined up along the road to welcome everyone with a “Hello Mister”. Board a
fiberglass motorboat in Takeo that will zip you along an ancient canal to the archaeological
museum of Angkor Borei and the temple ruins of Phnom Da. On the way, you will have the
chance to see rural life in Cambodia.
Later we onward our journey to the graceful riverside town of Kampot. We check into a
comfortable hotel for the night.
Dinner at Khmer Roof café. Overnight in Kampot.
Day 8-13: Kampot
(Breakfast - Lunch)
Work with Cultural Infusion’s Program in Chumkriel community, Kampot Province. Where
you will be engaging in local programs with over 400 children and youth from rural
communities, working with local Khmer staff to develop community initiatives.
Day 14: Kampot
(Breakfast - Lunch)
A morning drive to Kep 20km from Kampot visit the Crab Market where an ocean side cluster
of a dozen-plus rickety old wooden shacks hug the water's edge selling famous Kep seafood:
Crab, shrimps, squid and fish. You also visit pepper farm and salt farm. Overnight in Kampot.
Day 15: Kampot - Departure
(Breakfast - Lunch)
Free at leisure until transfer back to Phnom Penh airport for departure flight (approximately
3 hour drive)
***END OF SERVICES***
Information & Training
Successful applicants will be provided with:
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Packing List
Fundraising Guide
Code of conduct
A handbook including information on health, location, security, culture, currency,
language and airport procedures.
In-country orientation
Eligibility
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Applicants must be 18 or over
Must have a valid passport with an expiry date of at least 6 months after return date
Participants must be willing to obtain a police check and a working with children’s
check
All applicants must be able to meet all payment deadlines
Participants will have an interest in dance, international development, cultural
diversity, youth work, social welfare and/or community development
Important Dates
Cambodia Tour: 1st - 15th June 2015
Application open – 25th March 2015
Applications close –14th April 2015
1st Payment Twin or Double Share Due ($1290.00) – 17th April 2015
1st Payment Single Supplement Due ($1621.00) – 17th April 2015
2nd Payment Flights Due (Approx. $950.00-$1200.00) – 27th April 2015
3rd Payment Due ($600.00) – 29th May 2015
Rates & Conditions
Accommodation
City
Hotel
Room Category
Siem Reap
Soria Moria Boutique
Superior Room
Phnom Penh
Frangipani Royal Palace
Deluxe Room
Kampot
Provided by Cultural Infusion
TOUR PRICES (Excludes airfares): PRICING: Based on SGL/TWN / DBL share: Prices have
been converted from US Dollars to Australian Dollars and are subject to currency
fluctuation until paid in full.
Cost Description
Twin or Double Share
Single Supplement
(please add to the above cost if you would like your own room)
Cost of flights to be confirmed after booking. Flights will
be arranged on your behalf, at cheapest possible cost.
Price Per Person
$1890.00
$331.00
Approx.
($950.00 - $1200.00)
Inclusions
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Accommodation in TWN/DBL room with daily breakfast
Meals as mentioned (Breakfast - Lunch – Dinner)
English speaking local guides
Tours and transfers as mentioned by private air conditioned vehicle unless stated
otherwise
International airfares (ex. Melbourne)
Entrance fees for mentioned visits
Daily drinking water and cold towels
Exclusions
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Visa for Cambodia (Visa issued on arrival for most nationalities, USD30/pax, please
bring 1 passport photo).
Any surcharge/extra fees for visit of the Angkor Historical site imposed by the Apsara
Authorities in Siem Reap which are subject to change without prior notice
Other meals than mentioned
International flights
Camera/video entrance fees if applicable
Personal expenses (drinks, laundry, telephone, tips etc)
Travel insurance including recommended helicopter evacuation for Cambodia
Other services not clearly indicated in the package inclusions above
Important Notes
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Travel insurance is compulsory (covering emergency medical evacuation) for trips
to Cambodia. We may need to see policy numbers of participants insurance who
don’t wish to take up the Jetaway offer.
Confirmations
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Please note that all the above services & package tours have not been booked yet,
they are proposed for your information only. We will not launch any reservation
before we receive your confirmation.
If one or some proposed service(s) is (are) not available at the moment of booking,
we will try to find out other possibility/options or other similar service(s) in order to
avoid as many important changes as possible.
Jetaway - Travel Information
Jetaway:
All passengers who are travelling internationally must hold a current passport with at
least 6 months validity beyond their return date to Australia.
It is each passenger’s responsibility to check that they have the correct Documentation
and visa requirements prior to departure from Australia.
Airlines terms and conditions:
All airfares carry certain booking, amendment and cancellation conditions. These do vary
between the airlines and the type of fare purchased. Please be aware that most special
airfares are usually non-refundable and changes are not permitted.
Approximate baggage allowance
First Class: 40 kg free baggage allowance per person.
Business Class: 30 kg free baggage allowance per person.
Economy Class: 20 kg free baggage allowance per person.
For travel to and from the USA, the free baggage allowance is 2 pieces per person.
Please check with your consultant for dimension and weight information as details do vary
from carrier to carrier.
Passports
A valid passport is required to travel internationally and must be valid for at least six
months after your return date to Australia.
Visa and documentation responsibilities
It is the passenger's responsibility to ensure they have the appropriate documentation
including visas. We are happy to assist you in determining visa requirements wherever
possible.
Frequent flyers
If you are a member of an airline frequent flyer programme, please retain your boarding
passes and copies of tickets for point verification against your statement. Without these
you may be unable to claim points. Not all fares accrue points please check with your
airline frequent flyer department.
Cancellation and amendments
Fees are charged for both amendments and cancellation of flights and services, by
Jetaway and our third parties. If you do have to cancel your reservation you will be
advised of these amounts. Travel Insurance usually will cover cancellation costs please
speak to your insurance provider.
Conditions
All arrangements are subject to the supplier's (transport/accommodation/tour provider)
regulations and conditions detailed on tickets, vouchers, travel brochures, at
accommodation premises, on transport vehicles, or as advised at the time of booking.
Reconfirmations
It is not necessary to reconfirm your flights directly with the airlines, however schedule
changes may occur prior to departure. Please feel free to contact your consultant before
departure to see if there have been any changes.
Travel insurance
Travel Insurance is compulsory and Jetaway Travel can issue a policy on your behalf.
Please seek a quotation from your consultant as soon as your booking is confirmed.
Payment
All prices quoted are for payment by cash or cheque only. If you wish to pay by credit card
service fees of between 2% - 3% apply depending upon the type of card used.
Vaccinations
Vaccinations may be required or suggested for overseas travel. Please refer to your usual
medical practitioner for full advice and assistance.
Direct deposit payments into our bank account:
National Australia Bank
Account Name: Jetaway Enterprises PTY LTD
BSB Number: 083 004
Account Number: 12 430 1323
PLEASE PLACE YOUR SURNAME IN THE REFERENCE
Travel insurance claims:
As cancellation fees apply, travel insurance is available from this office. For Travel Insurance
purchased outside of Jetaway Travel, a processing fee of not less than $110.00 will be
charged if any claims assistance is required.