Empowering Communities: A Hands-On House Building

• Morning:

  • After breakfast, you’ll visit the local family receiving their new home. This is a heartwarming introduction, as you’ll hear the family’s story and learn about their hopes for a better future.
  • Begin the construction process by clearing the land and setting up foundational pillars. Under the guidance of experienced local builders, you’ll participate in the vital first steps of creating a stable structure. This hands-on start allows you to see the immediate impact of your efforts on the family’s lives.

• Afternoon:

  • Work alongside local builders to reinforce the structure, secure framework elements, and install floorboards. As the house begins to take shape, you’ll feel a sense of camaraderie and accomplishment, knowing your contributions are making a significant difference.
  • Next, start adding exterior walls and setting up windows, steadily working to bring the house closer to completion. Each nail hammered and each plank laid reflects the dedication and teamwork that embodies this project.

• Morning:

  • Begin the day by installing the remaining walls, applying a second coat of paint, and collaborating with the roofing team to ensure secure coverage. As the structure nears completion, you’ll witness how every detail matters in creating a loving home.
  • Finish setting the interior and exterior touches, which may include painting and final structural adjustments. Engage with the family, who will often join in to help and share their gratitude.

• Afternoon:

  • Complete the final touches on the home, including installing doors, and windows, and cleaning the construction site. Experience the rewarding moment of seeing a finished house, ready to welcome its new family.
  • Take part in a small celebration with the family and local builders to commemorate the completion of this significant project, sharing stories and laughter.

• Morning:

  • Attend the emotional house handover ceremony, marked by a traditional blessing led by a holy man. This ceremony is rich in symbolism, as blessings are offered to the family and the house, invoking protection and prosperity. Share in this joyous event and connect with the local community, who come together to celebrate this milestone.
• Afternoon:
  • Visit the APOPO center to learn about the remarkable HeroRATs trained for landmine detection. This innovative project showcases how animal intelligence can aid in community safety and rehabilitation, highlighting Cambodia’s journey towards recovery from its past.
  • Following this, tour the War Museum, where you will gain deeper insights into Cambodia’s history, including the impact of war and the resilience of its people. Understand the struggles faced by communities and how they have worked towards rebuilding their lives.

• Evening:

  • Cap off your day with an unforgettable performance at Phare, The Cambodian Circus. This unique circus combines acrobatics, theater, and dance, showcasing the talents of young Cambodian artists and telling vibrant stories of their culture and traditions.

• Morning:

  • Discover the Floating Village and flooded forest of Kampong Phluk. Experience a boat ride through this unique ecosystem where stilted homes rise above the water, and observe the daily life of the communities that depend on the Tonle Sap Lake for their livelihood. This exploration provides insight into the sustainable practices of local fishing families.
• Afternoon:
  • Engage in an educational exchange at the Volunteer Building Community Centre, where you’ll play games and learn traditional Khmer dance with local youth. This joyful interaction fosters cross-cultural friendships and creates lasting memories as you share laughter and stories.

• Evening:

  • Participate in a serene meditation session with a Buddhist monk. Reflect on your journey and the spiritual aspects of your experiences while learning about mindfulness practices that promote inner peace. This calming conclusion to your day encourages personal growth and self-reflection.

Full Day:

• Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kulen Mountain, starting with a scenic trek through lush landscapes to visit the stunning waterfalls. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pools and take in the serene surroundings.
• Visit the Big Buddha, an impressive statue overlooking the area, and learn about its significance in Cambodian culture. Discover the River of a Thousand Lingas, where ancient carvings beneath the water showcase the deep spiritual roots of Hinduism in Cambodia.
• This full-day trek not only offers adventure but also allows you to connect with Cambodia’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

• Early Morning:

  • Rise early to witness the majestic sunrise over Angkor Wat, one of the most iconic sites in the world. Guided by an expert, explore the intricate carvings and centuries-old stories that adorn this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover the historical significance of Angkor Wat as a symbol of Cambodia’s national pride.

• Morning and Afternoon:

  • Continue your exploration with visits to the Bayon Temple, famous for its massive stone faces representing compassion, and Ta Prohm Temple, where ancient trees intertwine with crumbling stones. The lush greenery creates a magical atmosphere, illustrating the delicate balance between nature and human creativity. Learn about the temple’s history and how it became a key location in the Tomb Raider film, adding to its allure.

Morning:

• After a hearty breakfast, bid farewell to the friends and memories made during your journey. Reflect on the friendships forged and the meaningful experiences shared as you check out and enjoy transport to the airport for your return journey, leaving Cambodia with unforgettable memories.

Inclusions: Breakfast, airport transfer.
Exclusions: International airfare, travel insurance.