Cambodia is on the rise globally with booming commerce and foreign investment. It also is a center for international development with over 3,000 officially registered non-governmental agencies within its borders. Nestled between Thailand, Vietnam and Laos, with nearly 15 million people, Cambodia suffered more than its fair share of war and trauma during the 20th century. 

While memories of the Khmer Rouge’s genocidal rule in the late 1970s remain, Cambodians have demonstrated remarkable resolve in moving past the devastation of the Khmer Rouge years. They clearly are rebuilding their country to create a new and better era.

Our home base is a town in a province of the same name. Battambang Province is Cambodia's rice basket, renowned for delicious food, friendly people and breathtaking landscapes. It is ideally situated for exploring traditional Cambodia. Battambang town features charming colonial architecture and a relaxed pace unlike Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s busy capital and largest, most cosmopolitan city.

Service is the centering lens for learning about Cambodia. Projects mix construction and social service with development organizations that primarily focus on children as well as historic and cultural preservation. Some of our projects and activities may intersect with Sarus Exchange Program. Founded by VISIONS’ Southeast Asia Coordinator Wes Hedden, Sarus builds peace and understanding by engaging university students from Cambodia and Vietnam who live and work together for a month in both countries. For the most part, the service projects will be focused at an orphan center just outside of Battambang.

Cambodia has two UNESCO World Heritage sites and seven more sites under consideration. Few countries can boast such splendid ancient temples and such natural beauty. We will take weekend excursions to places of cultural and historical importance, including Angkor Wat, Tuol Sleng Prison, the Royal Palace, and the National Museum, to name a few.

VISIONS Cambodia is for the adventurous participant with prior travel experiences. Minimum age is 15.

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