Cambodia has this way of capturing you, almost from the moment you step off the plane. The countryside is something out of a dream—endless rice paddies stretching under big skies, and the sound of nature is just everywhere. It feels peaceful and timeless, like you’re stepping into another world. And then the cities? They’ve got a whole different energy. They’re buzzing with life, but in a way that still feels grounded. The people are probably what struck the most. There’s this warmth to them—smiles everywhere, even from strangers—and this sense of pride in their culture and their history that you can’t help but respect.

What really stands out is the mix of past and present. You’ve got these ancient temples like Angkor Wat, which are unreal, but the country itself is moving forward in such an inspiring way. The spirit of Cambodia is so alive—resilient, proud, and full of stories that live not just in books but in the everyday lives of the people.

Tourism in Cambodia is the lifeblood of the country, especially with iconic spots like Angkor Wat and those stunning tropical islands. It’s amazing how much this industry brings in, but it’s a double-edged sword. Take Siem Reap or Sihanoukville, for example—these places have exploded with new hotels, casinos, and resorts. While this creates a ton of jobs and boosts the economy, you can’t help but feel that some of the natural beauty and local vibe are getting overshadowed by the crowds and construction. It’s bittersweet—there’s this constant dance between growth and keeping things authentic.

But Cambodia is catching on; more people are seeing the value in sustainable tourism. There are growing efforts to preserve what makes these places special by working directly with local communities. So, it’s becoming easier to travel in a way that leaves a lighter footprint, letting us soak up Cambodia’s magic while helping to protect it.

Then there’s the shift in tech—especially in cities like Phnom Penh. People are all over social media, and you’ll see a lot of young Cambodians streaming, sharing, and staying connected. It’s fantastic for them to have this window to the world, but as soon as you venture out into the countryside, it’s like stepping back in time. In rural areas, it’s harder to find reliable internet, which naturally limits people’s access to resources, opportunities, and information.

But hope is on the horizon. Phnom Penh is seeing a rise in start-ups and projects that teach digital skills to young people, so they’re gaining the tools to connect and create. Cambodia might not be quite as plugged in as its neighboring countries yet, but the energy for change is there—and it’s only a matter of time.

Education is another big hurdle—and maybe the biggest opportunity, too. There are still deep scars from the past, with many adults lacking basic literacy skills, and in some rural areas, kids often can’t access quality education. But more and more, people realize that learning is the path to a better life. There’s a growing interest in English and digital skills, especially among the younger crowd who are hungry for a shot at something bigger, whether it’s tourism or tech.

One of the most uplifting things happening in Cambodia right now is the wave of social entrepreneurship. It’s not just about making money—it’s about doing good. You’ll find markets selling fair-trade crafts, cafes with a cause, and shops where what you spend goes directly to local projects. Everything from fair-trade products to water access initiatives are part of this movement, making a real impact. And as a traveller, it’s meaningful to know that every dollar spent can go toward building a better future for Cambodia.

In summary, tourism in Cambodia is booming, thanks to its iconic sites like Angkor Wat, but it’s a double-edged sword. While it brings in jobs and boosts the economy, places like Siem Reap and Sihanoukville are seeing huge growth, which can sometimes overwhelm the natural beauty and local feel. But there’s a shift towards more sustainable tourism, with local communities stepping in to preserve what makes Cambodia unique. The tech scene is growing, especially in Phnom Penh, where young Cambodians are gaining digital skills. And the rise of social entrepreneurship is making a real impact, with businesses focused on doing good and supporting local projects.