The Magnificent Siem Reap: Seven Freebies

Call us cheap, but the best things in life really are the freebies. They say there’s no such thing as a free lunch, but in Siem Reap there’s a free swim, a free gig and free cycling. So if you time to spare, but no cash to spend, before you go robbing banks, check out 7Days’ top seven things to do in temple town by spending zip, zilch, nada. (Source:thephnompenhpost)

Ride A Bike If you’ve got yourself two wheels, then you’ve no excuse for boredom. Both the bustle of the town and the calm of the countryside can be explored at their best by bike. Whether you ride to Tonle Sap or pedal to the Baray, you can have yourself a day trip on the cheap – and for sun-worshippers, there’s no finer way to get a sun-kissed glow. And the workout will put your gym membership to money-wasting shame. Better still, Vicious Cycles run free countryside cycles for anyone with a bike every Saturday morning. Tours like this can normally cost $25, so when you think about it, you’re practically making money by heading along.

Take In A Temple So you might not get in the grand circuit of Angkor in the minutes between 5.30pm and sunset; but if you’re prepared, you can take in the sunset from one of the smaller spots. A temple pass isn’t required after 5.30pm, so if you’re lucky enough to have the time to take in the temples at a snail’s pace, you can spend weeks, even months, clocking up half-hour complimentary visits.

Lend a Hand (or an arm) While volunteering for just the day can sometimes do more harm than good – and many places will charge you for the pleasure – there are some opportunities around town to help out for free in a responsible way. The River Garden welcomes guests for two-hour teaching slots four times a week while both Kantha Bopha and Angkor Hospital for Children are always looking to suck some willing blood. So if you have an afternoon or a pint of O positive to spare, plenty of places would be happy to have you.

Meet a Monk Whatever your denomination, spending time in the presence of monks in a town like Siem Reap can make for an enlightening experience. Venues like The Peace Café, Karavansara and The River Garden provide distinct opportunities to spend time with monks, meditate, chat or learn about Cambodian customs both on-site and at the pagodas. While donations are welcome, the events are generally held free of charge. If you’re feeling a little braver, venture into a pagoda yourself. Once you’re respectful you’ll be surprised how easy it is to make a new saffron-clad friend.

Splash Around There’s nothing quite like a day at the beach: sun, sand and a chance to splash around. While Siem Reap isn’t parked near the seaside, it does provide the coastal experience and you don’t have to pay for the pleasure. Leave the pricey pools in town, make like a local and head for the West Baray instead. Avoid hidden charges for rubber rings, hammocks and food by bringing along a towel or yoga mat and picnic instead. Now all you need is a bucket and spade and you’re set.

Learn the Language There are many ways to bag a free Khmer lesson in Siem Reap. If you’re looking for the less-than-formal version, simply shoot the breeze with every waiter, driver and seller you encounter. If there’s one thing the locals love, it’s to impart a little colloquialism on visitors and see a foreigner twist their vowels around the native tongue. If you prefer a classroom setting, the Peace Café has free lessons on weekends from 4-5pm.

Go to a Gig You need to be made of some kind of rock formation to not to give money after seeing this show. But technically, Beatocello – a unique, musical "concert" at Kantha Bopha hospital – does have free admission. Each Saturday at 7pm, cellist Beat Richner, who sidelines as a doctor turned superhero, gives a performance at his children’s hospital in Siem Reap. It’s an enlightening evening, as the gifted cellist plays music and gives insight into the work of the five Kantha Bopha hospitals around the country. And while admission is free, the $5 millon raised each year by the concerts shows that a donation on the way out,  however small, will go a long way.

Grand Water Festival Cancelled

On Thursday, October 13, 2011, Prime Minister Samdech Akeak Moha Sena Thapdey Techo HUN SEN announced the cancellation of this year's Water Festival which was due to take place in the capital from November 9 to 11.  Speaking at a special Council of Ministers meeting to assess damages caused by the floods in the Kingdom, the premier told the council that the funds for the annual three-day Water Festival celebrations could be better utilised to help the tens of thousands of families affected by the disasters instead.

The nation's biggest annual festival usually attracts about two million citizens from the various provinces around the country to the capital to enjoy boat races, fireworks and concerts. Unfortunately, the weather has caused the country to suffer it's deadliest floods since 2000, forcing Prime Minister Samdech Decho Hun Sen to decide on calling off the event in the capital.  Prime Minister Samdech Akeak Moha Sena Thapdey Techo HUN SEN also felt that the precariously high water level of the Tonle Sap river that flows through the city would present a "high risk" to revellers.

However, Samdech Techo affirmed that the Water Festival celebrations can still be held in the provinces if at local level, the respective provinces could afford the expenses.

Cambodia Green Advanture

What Community-based Eco-tourism means to you?

In brief, Community-based tourism (CBT) is a form of responsible tourism that supports local communities and improves livelihoods. The tourism destination is managed by the local community members themselves.

CBET helps protect nature and support the lives of the local community. It provides alternative income which encourages the community to protect its natural resources rather than destroy them through unsustainable use.

Through CBET visitors get the change to have to know local Cambodian people, enjoy their hospitality, join them in their everyday life and learn about their culture and environment. This authentic form of tourism takes visitors to their communities and beautiful natural areas. Come and experience the real culture, the real nature and the real Cambodia.

List of CBET sites around Cambodia:
1. Ang Trapeang Thmor Community-Based Ecotourism Site, Banteay Mean Chey
2. Banteay Chhmar Community-Based Tourism Site. Banteay Meanchey
3. Chambok Community-Based Ecotourism Site, Kampong Speu
4. Chi Phat Community-Based Ecotourism Site, Koh Kong
5. Koh Pdao Community Development Tour, Kratie
6. Osvay Community-Based Ecotourism Site, Stung Treng
7. O'Russey Kandal Community-Based Ecotourism Site, Stung Treng
8. Prek Toal Community-Based Ecotourism Site, Battambang & Siem Reap
9. Preah Rumkel Community-Based Ecotourism Site, Stung Treng
10. Prek Thnout Community-Based Ecotourism Site, Kampot
11. Thmatboey Community-Based Ecotourism Site, Siem Reap
12. Virachey National Park Community-Based Ecotourism Initiative, Rattanakiri
13. Yeak Laom Community-Based Ecotourism Site, Rattanakiri
14. Khmer Village home stay, Kampong Thom
15. Sambor Prei Kuk, Kampong Thom
16. Koh Preah, Stung Treng

What do you get by going on a CBET trip? 

It is a different experience than going to a destination of mass tourism. Some things to consider in advance:

Cultural exchange
Most of the time, the people of the community will be just as curious and excited about you, as you are about them. A visit to their communities gives you the chance for cultural exchange. Respect cultural sensitivities and don't give the local people the feeling they are zoo animals. If you are truly interested in Cambodian culture, a visit can give you unique insights in the people, environment and culture of the destination.

Home-stay
Some projects offer the possibility of a home-stay. This means you will spend the night in the house of a local family. The houses are prepared for your visit and will be equipped with mosquito nets for example. If you can't live without your hot shower and comfort, a home-stay is not for you. A home-stay won't provide you luxury, but it will be an unforgettable experience! You will experience the daily life of the community. Your host family will welcome you in their house, look after you and tell you all about their life!

Who benefits
Part of the fee of visiting a CBET site is being invested in environmental conservation and community development. Therefore, you may pay a little extra. With your support the community will benefit and the environment will be conserved. By paying entrance fees, hiring local guides, doing home-stays and purchasing local products, you can support nature conservation and sustainable livelihoods.

How to behave
Try to learn about the community before you go and behave in an appropriate way during your stay. Some guidelines:

• Wildlife and Forest Conservation
  • Do not eat, buy, or encourage in any way, wildlife trade and the capture of wildlife. This includes buying of animals out of pity.
  • Take all non-biodegradable rubbish out with you as there are no waste management facilities in the villages.
  • Try to conserve water. 
  • Bury any human waste and toilet tissue at least 50m from water sources.
  • Take a collective responsibility to ensure fires are safe and well extinguished before departing a camp or lunch site.
  • Please do not collect plants and specimens from the forest as souvenirs. Remember that people are a vital part of conservation and that they and their way of life deserve respect.
• Respecting Cultural Values
  • Dress modestly. Cover legs and shoulders whilst in the village. Nudity is offensive, so also dress modestly when bathing.
  • Take your shoes off when entering a house or your home-stay.
  • Displays of affection should not be made publicly.
  • Don't become drunk or use drugs.  
  • Don't flirt with local people. Be respectful at all times. 
  • Try to meet with the village committee.
  • Please do not give money or gifts to children or beggars.
  • Ask before taking photographs of local people.
  • If you are inclined to leave a tip or want to make a contribution, please leave a communal amount for everyone to share in order to diffuse any jealousies or perception of inequity.

Tourist activities in Cambodia

A vacation is defined as leisure time away from work devoted to rest or pleasure.   Vacation to some is to surrender oneself to total freedom and travel in search of pristine beaches in some exotic destinations.  Yet to others, a vacation is when you would want to explore new exotic territories or to adventure into something you had always wanted to do but didn't find the time to. Whatever your desires may be, recreational opportunities abound in Cambodia.
The pristine beaches of Cambodia are described to be amongst the best in the world and what other place is there where one can be mystified by the grandeur and charms of an ancient city such as the Angkor or be romanced by the culture of a populace that was once recognised as one of the most powerful in the continent of Asia.  Cambodia - A World of Wonder awaits you.
Here are some recommended activities to entertain you during your visit to Cambodia.  Click on them for details.

Cultural Tourism: 

• Visit the magnificent Angkor Wat, a heritage of humanity and world wonder
• Explore other ancient Khmer temples such as those in Siem Reap, Preah Vihear, Kandal, Takeo, etc
• Tracing frescos and murals of the ancient temples.
• Visit Buddhist pagodas and museums in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh
• Visit monuments in Phnom Penh, e.g. the Independence Monument
• Watch kites flying in Phnom Penh; a tradition dating back many centuries.
• Join and observe the Royal Ploughing Ceremony
• Watch Buffalo Races during Pchum Ben Festival
• Watch boat racing in Phnom Penh & Siem Reap during Water Festival
• Participate in Khmer traditional games and dancing during festivals such as the Khmer New Year, etc
• Visit the indigenous people of the rural areas.

Eco Tourism:

• Visit floating villages of the Kampong Phluk Commune in Siem Reap Province
• Bird-watching is a popular recreation at the Prèk Toal habitats in Siem Reap Province
• Visit wildlife sanctuaries in the Provinces
• Take boat rides on the Tonlé Sap Lake and along the mighty Mekong River
• Watch fishing activities on the Tonlé Sap Lake and the mighty Mekong River
• Kayak through the Mangroves in Koh Kong
• Explore and take a hike through the jungles of the Angkor area
• Rent a bicycle and cycle around the countryside of Siem Reap
• Explore mountain caves/ caverns in Kampot Province
• Trek on elephant back through the jungles of Mondulkiri or Rattanak Kiri
• Explore and relax on the Tonsay Island in Kèp City
• Enjoy the pristine beaches of Rong Island in Sihanouk Ville
• Visit the waterfalls in Kampot Province and Kampong Speu Province
• Swimming and scuba-diving in Sihanouk Ville, Koh Kong Province, and Kèp City
• Explore coral reefs at the bottom of the sea of Sihanouk Ville
• Boat ride through the mangrove forest at the Ream National Park in Sihanouk Ville
• Spot sea dolphins at the Ream National Park in Sihanouk Ville
• Go sailing and paragliding in Sihanouk Ville
• Island hopping; discover the many islands of Koh Kong Province
• Hike to the Chambok Waterfalls at Kirirom National Park in Kampong Speu Province
• Cruising down the river from the Andong Toek to the Village Chi Phat in the southern Mountain Range of the Cardamom
• Trek the jungles of the Mountain Range of the Cardamom
• Go Camping in the jungles of the Mountain Range of the Cardamom
• Visit the Pong Roul Waterfall on the Srè Ambel River
• Visit the Ramsar wetland in Stung Treng
• Cruise down the Mekong River from Stung Treng to Kratie
• Spot and observe the Mekong River dolphins at the Kampi resort in Kratie
• Trek the Virachey National Park in Rattanak Kiri
• Swim in the crystal clear waters of the Yeak Laom Lake, Rattanak Kiri
• Visit the Bousra Waterfalls in Mondul Kiri
• Visit the Srè Pok Wilderness Area in Mondul Kiri
• Elephant riding in Rattanak Kiri and Mondul Kiri
• Meet the indigenous people of Rattanak Kiri and Mondul Kiri provinces
• Discover the trails of the mighty Mekong River.

When Night Falls

• Watch cultural performances over dinner
• Visit the Casinos in Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, Pailin and Bavet
• Visit the pubs, karaoke bars and night club
• Take a night cruise up the mighty Mekong River
• Go to the Night Markets in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap

Raffles Properties in Cambodia get Refurbishment

Opened in 1929 and 1932 respectively, these are the only luxury hotels in Cambodia that pre-date the civil war and the Khmer Rouge era.  They were brought into the Raffles portfolio in 1997 after thorough and sensitive modernization.    The hotels were the work of French architect Ernest Hébrard based in Hanoi, who was responsible for the design of many buildings constructed in French Indochina in the early 20th century.  So it is appropriate that French interior designers based in Ho Chi Min City should be playing a starring role in the next chapter of their lives.

Over the next few months both hotels will be given the investment, attention and creativity they deserve.  The design company NOOR (www.noorvn.com) was given the brief to breathe new vitality, elegance and comfort into the interiors by subtly updating the hotels’ much-loved French Colonial, Art Deco and Khmer style and ambiance.

John Johnston, President, Raffles Hotels & Resorts, said:

“Raffles Hotel Le Royal and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor are without doubt the hotels in Cambodia with the most heritage, character and atmosphere.    In the last year, we have introduced the legendary Raffles Butlers at both hotels, to give our guests truly personalized service 24-hours a day.    This refurbishment is the next chapter:  it will reinstate the hotels’ original exotic glamour and take them up to the next level of comfort and luxury - for real 5-star service and style.”

The design thread comes from the hotels themselves, as they are so distinctive and bursting with character.  After researching the Indochine era, NOOR has brilliantly incorporated the original French Colonial and Art Deco elements into the new architectural detail, textures and colours.

Khmer artwork, both original and newly commissioned, has been sourced from local artists – from silverwork and wood carving, to lacquers, boxes and sculptures.  Luxurious Cambodian silks, the use of Khmer patterns and Art Deco colours will add another layer to the rich new schemes, which include:

At both hotels
- upgrading and refreshing the State Rooms (double rooms) - giving them gleaming new wooden floors using dark, sustainable local woods, seductive Jim Thompson fabrics and local Cambodian silks, for a luxurious, authentic, romantic colonial feel.  Further rooms will be refurbished in 2012.

At Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh
- In addition to the staterooms, above, there will be two new Balcony Suites overlooking the gardens.

- The famous airy Lobby and the Conservatory Bar are being discreetly transformed and brought up to date.  The layout will be cleverly re-configured, the lighting updated, the best furniture restored and new pieces commissioned.

- Meeting rooms and the Ballroom will be refurbished, with new colour schemes, sound and light systems.  Raffles Hotel Le Royal offers meeting spaces for up to 300 guests for bespoke private events.


At Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, Siem Reap
- the total refurbishment and upgrading of the two enormous private villas in the hotel’s lush tropical gardens, to create the most distinctive, impressive and private accommodation in Siem Reap  - for families, friends and couples on romantic travels.    For over 75 years, a visit to the ancient temples of Angkor has been synonymous with a stay at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor – and there could be nowhere more atmospheric than its villas.  Each villa has two spacious bedrooms, an enormous drawing room and dining area, a kitchen and wine cellar and private terraces. 

- Villa Uma will be contemporary colonial, with a glamorous new plunge pool, decking, daybeds and landscaping, sleek, modern colonial furniture and new wooden flooring throughout.  In contrast, Villa Kama will retain its traditional colonial feel with teak furniture, decorative Khmer touches, rich carpets, Deco style furniture and new lighting.  Outside, updated landscaping will be complemented by rattan furniture and new planting. 

The refurbishment will be complete by November 2011 – making Raffles Hotel Le Royal and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor amongst the very best hotels in this beautiful, fascinating country.

Source - hotelnewsresource

Raffles Le Royal, Phnom Penh

Raffles Grand D'Angkor hotel, Siem Reap

Yoga at a temple impresses uptight expats

Joel Altman stretches out with a guest in front of Bakong temple

A new yoga and meditation retreat in Siem Reap’s countryside is quickly gaining a reputation as the weekend destination of choice for expats wanting to enjoy some personal time.

And the retreat owner, Joel Altman, said that’s just the beginning of what he has planned for stressed-out Siem Reapers.

The Hariharalaya Retreat Centre is named after the ancient capital of Cambodia, which originally encompassed the land around the Roluos group of temples.

Checking in at the retreat involves a twenty minute drive out of Siem Reap, and a 1,200 year journey into the past, according to Altman, who claims that guests meditating at the retreat can tap into the “mystical energies” of the nearby Bakong and Preah Ko temples.

“The temples here particularly are powerful temples,” he said. “The Bakong temple in particular is built like Mount Meru which is the mystical mountain of the Hindus, so the energy of the temple with its sacred geometry is a great aid to meditation.”

The retreat has seven bedrooms, priced from $13 to $23 dollars a night including meals, and bookings have been solid among tourists and expats alike since it opened in January.

Housed in an airy two-storey mansion on the outskirts of Roluos Village, and within walking distance of Bakong and Preah Ko, the retreat provides guests with the choice of structured yoga and meditation classes, or the option of doing their own thing and enjoying the sauna, music room, creative arts space and volleyball court.

Kundalini yoga classes and Tai-Chi classes are also available.

Altman, who trained as a linguist and translator in Quebec, said he ditched his studies in lexicography, (the science of compiling dictionaries), for thirteen years on the road as a travelling yoga teacher and student, with several stints in Indian ashrams.

And he says the thousand-year-old meditation techniques he learnt there can be applied to any frazzled denizens of modern Siem Reap.

“What we basically practice here is the traditional Hatha yoga set in the morning, the traditional methods that have been taught in India. It works through different breathing, standing, and sitting postures, and it’s about going inside, feeling the energy circulate, and working not only with the physical body but with what they call the body’s magnetic field.

“The idea is that our bodies are emanating electric energy, and by strengthening this field of energy we become more healthy, and we’re protected from disease.”

For those more interested in caring for their stomachs than their souls, Hariharalaya also has a range of $20 weekend cooking courses, which include yoga beforehand to prepare students for the six hour culinary marathon ahead.

“It’s about healthy cooking options,” Altman said.  “We focus on Cambodian cooking, what’s available, where can you find it in season, where you can find it in the market, how you say it in Khmer.

“So far we’ve had an Indian cooking class on dips and dressings, and the next class is healthy deserts.” 

With an upcoming calendar of classes by guest yogis and meditation teachers, as well as the release of a brand of Hariharalaya health snacks, Altman says he hopes the retreat will continue to develop.


(Source:phnompenhpost)

Birds Seen In Cambodia

The forests and floodplains of Cambodia form refuges for many threatened bird species that have been extirpated from much of their former range. These include critically endangered waterbirds like giant and white-shouldered ibis as well as three species of critically endangered vultures. Great opportunity for bird-watching.

The Masked Finfoot is globally endangered, with estimates of less than 2,500 left globally, due to human disturbance and habitat loss. This mysterious fellow is seen in Cambodia.

(Source: MOT)

Cambodia – South East Asia’s new beach destination

Countries in South East Asia have some of the most stunning beaches in the world, which is why they attract so many beach going tourists. Most people are likely to head to the beaches of Thailand’s tropical islands, Indonesia’s beautiful Bali or Malaysia’s coast, however, one South East Asian country that has been overlooked on the beach front, is Cambodia.

Well known for its mysterious temples of Angkor, bottle green jungles and it’s terrifying past, people forget that Cambodia has a beautiful coastline. Unlike the beach hot spots of Thailand, Indonesia or Malaysia, Cambodia’s beach tourism is still relatively undiscovered allowing you to experience this pristine beauty as nature intended.

Cambodia is slowly carving out its place among the Asian beach players and, with new hotels and resorts going up, the coastal tourist infrastructure here is growing.

Sihanoukville is the largest town along the coast and has a buzzing, typically Cambodian atmosphere. It’s not the prettiest of towns but, is home to six beautiful and laid-back beaches. These beaches vary from those with lively bars and restaurants, with fresh seafood barbecues, to new resort developments and those left untouched, expanses of soft sugar-like sand and azure water gently lapping the shore. The beaches are particularly good for swimming.

The town of Kep lies further up the coast and has very little in terms of tourist infrastructure, even though this was actually Cambodia’s first beach resort. Kep used to be the getaway for Cambodia’s wealthy who would come here on weekends from Phnom Penh. Luxurious beach side villas were built here.

Today, Kep has a small beachfront, but some of the best seafood around. Its best beaches however, lie off shore on its peaceful islands.

The beaches of Koh Kong lie close to the border with Thailand and are emerging as popular destinations with divers, eco-tourists and beach goers alike. The beaches range from those with tourist hotels and casinos, to small and untouched, upmarket and tropical island paradises. Diving, island hopping and hiking in the stunning Cardamom Mountains with its gushing waterfalls and jungle foliage are popular pursuits here.

Cambodia has so many islands and coastal beaches waiting to be discovered and before long they will be fully marked on the tourist beach trail. Sihanoukville and Koh Kong will soon become attracted as ever before. (Source: iwantsun.co.uk)

PCHUM BEN or ALL SOULS DAY

Running for 15 days, usually from the end of September into October, this festival is dedicated to blessing the spirits of the dead and is one of the most culturally significant in Cambodia.  The exact date defers year to year as determined by the lunar calendar.  Each household visits their temple of choice and offers food to the monks. Offering of food is a meritorious act and is one of the oldest and most common rituals of Buddhism. During the Pchum Ben festival, people bring food to the temple for the monks and to feed hungry ghosts who could be their late ancestors, relatives or friends. Pagodas are usually crowded with people taking their turn to make offerings and to beg the monks to pray for their late ancestors and loved ones. Many remain behind at the temple to listen to Buddhist sermons. Footnote:- "Hungry ghost" is one of the six modes of existence in the ‘Wheel of Life’. Hungry ghosts or ‘Preta’ which means ‘departed ones’ in Sanskrit, are pitiable creatures with huge, empty stomachs and pinhole mouths; their necks are so thin they cannot swallow, so they remain hungry.  It is believed that beings are reborn as hungry ghosts because of their greed, envy and jealousy. Cambodians leave food offerings on altars and around temple grounds for hungry ghosts.  Pchum Ben is a festival that features food and entertainment for such hungry ghosts.

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Cambodian Regatta on 09-11 November 2011 (Water & Moon Festival)

The Regatta, the Procession of Illuminated Floats
The Salutation to the Moon & the Offering of Bananas & Ambok

The Cambodian regatta “water festival” dates back to ancient times, which is closely related to the annual cycle of the waters of the River Mekong. The Mekong River always swells during the wet season and ebbs during the dry season. When the waters of the Mekong River begin to ebb, the water festival is always held annually in front of the Royal Palace and boat racing is constantly conducted along the Sap River in Phnom Penh Capital, Cambodia. It shows Khmer cultural tradition, artistic talents, good merit, peaceful preference, human happiness, social solidarity, national conscience, physical agility, outstanding bravery, great perseverance, and strong will of the Cambodian people in protecting national independence, territorial integrity, people’s lives, public property, ancestral legacies, and national honour against all stratagems of enemies’ aggression. It also expresses the development of various agricultural products favoured by the fertile land, which combines with industrious behaviour, great patience, creative ideas, and tireless effort in rice production of all our farmers.

On 09-11 November 2011, the water festival will be jubilantly held in Phnom Penh to commemorate the undivided strength of the powerful Khmer marine forces in the ancient Khmer Empire and to show a wide range of travel and transport possibilities by water.

The History of the Regatta

The history of the Regatta Festival has been chronicled by the Cambodian people and by foreigners for a long time. In fact, the festival is depicted in stones of the Angkorean period. There are three different histories to the festival, each quite distinctive.

1. According to the chronicle of King Jayavarman VII in the ancient Academic Buddhist Institute, it is claimed:
   In the 12th century of the Angkorean era, Cambodia had achieved peace and prosperity following Preah Bath Jayavarman VII’s success in a naval war with the neighbouring Chams. The war victory (1177-1181 AD) liberated Cambodia, inscribed on the bas-relief of the Bayon Temple and the Banteay Chhmar Temple. On the bas-relief, there are images of the navy with the photograph of Preah Bath Jayavarman VII bravely wielding a fighting stick and bow on the royal barge.
2. According to documentation written by Mr. Thach Pèn, the lay teacher of the Academic Buddhist College in Khleang Province, Kampuchea Kraom, it is mentioned that:
   In the Longvèk era (2071 BE, 1528 AD), Preah Bath Ang Chann I appointed Ponhea Tat to the position of King Tranh (Regional King) of Kampuchea Kraom, Bassak Region. The Regional King assigned a royal administration to defend his region. He divided his navy into three groups boarding different types of boats:
   1. The Vanguard, riding a boat similar in shape to today’s racing boat.
   2. The Reserve Army, riding two rowing boats abreast.
   3. The Bassak Army, riding a larger boat with a roof, a fixed oar and a sail, similar in shape to a junk on the Bassak River, used primarily to store the army’s supplies.
   The fighting styles were dependent on four ministers on advice of King Tranh of Kampuchea Kraom and all the regional kings. During the period of the full moon in November, four ministers mobilised their troops for a campaign for one day and one night. The navy was ordered to a boat race on the River Peam Kanthao in Khleang Province at a junction of the rivers. Racing there allowed easier access for many provinces. Afterwards, it became a popular cultural event, providing the navy with a good opportunity to show their military prowess.
3. The water festival is said to be one of the most spectacular traditional events, similar to some festivals held in the north of Europe today. Some traditionalists claim the history of the festival lies in close connection with the history of Buddha. However, others translate that the festival represents a thanksgiving to the Gods of Water and Earth for providing the livelihood and welfare for the Cambodian people. This final translation follows the tradition of Brahmanism and relates to the practical geography and the daily life of the farming community.

The water festival is held on the full moon in November coinciding with the rainy season. During this time, the lakes flood creating great seas and in turn, it is time to harvest the rice.

When the Mekong River swells during the period August to November, the waters flow into the Tonlé Sap Lake from the south to the north. Then in the low water season following November, the lake waters ebb and the flow reverses back from the Tonlé Sap into the Mekong River from the north to the south.

This annual flooding of the Mekong River, with its source in Tibet, provides the livelihood for many Cambodian farmers. The silt carried by the floodwaters is extremely fertile providing a rich resource for Cambodia. The crops produced in the low water season are essential to the welfare of the Cambodian people.

For this reason the Khmer people choose the full moon of Khè Kadek as the time to conduct the water festival, the procession of illuminated floats, the salutation to the moon, and the offering of bananas and Ambok as a means to express their profound thanks to the Mekong River and Sap River.

The festival is usually held for three days, i.e. the 14th and 15th of the waxing moon and the 1st of the waning moon. Festivities take place in front of the Royal Palace.

The Festival of Illuminated Floats

This festival consecrates Preah Changkaum Keo (the main parts of Buddha) and the Buddha footprints detailed below. The Khmer people conduct this festival during the full moon of November, as they believe that it will bring great merit and prosperity to the country.

In the Pali Teathavong scripture, four Preah Changkaum Keo are dedicated in four directions:

• Traitroeng Paradise
• Naga World
• Srok Kunthea
• Toan Borakaling Roath

In Pali Pheana Veara, the Buddha footprints are located in five directions:

• Sovann Mealika Barapoat
• Sovann Barapoat
• Soman Koda Barapoat
• Yoonka Borei
• Stoeng Neamatea

In the prose and Pali praise of Preah Bath “Yorsa Baté”, Buddha’s footprints are located in five directions as in Pheana Veara.

The Festival of the Salutation to the Moon and the Offering of Bananas and Ambok

In the first phrase of Pali scripture of Baramathatibani Atha Katha Chariya Bedak, the Great Buddha became incarnate as Sasa Bandit, meaning “Wise man born in the form of the Rabbit”. On the full moon, Sasa Bandit resolved the eight Silas and offered his flesh as a true gift to achieve enlightenment. Indra decided to test the facts by disguising himself as an old Brahman and begged for Sasa Bandit’s flesh as food. Sasa Bandit told the old Brahman to light a fire and once the fire was burning strongly he shook himself three times to let the insects perching on him escape and then leapt into the flames. Fortunately, the flames did not touch Sasa Bandit and the old Brahman hurried to carry him to the moon in his arms. He drew an image of the rabbit on the moon in Maneang Sela “plaster” and wished the figure of the rabbit long life. Under the power of the Buddha and the resolution of Indra, the shape of the rabbit has appeared in the moon ever since. To reflect this belief, the Khmer people celebrate it annually during the full moon of Khè Kadek. They prepare special cakes, Ambok and bananas to salute the moon.

Events Schedule: Wednesday, November 09, 2011 - Friday, November 11, 2011

Location: Phnom Penh

 

Our beaches are a priceless asset, says Prime Minister

Sihanoukville
CAMBODIA’S precious coastal areas would boost local and international visitor numbers, as well as attract still more private investment, Prime Minister Hun Sen said yesterday.

In May, the Kingdom’s beaches were officially recognised as a member of the Club of the Most Beautiful Bays of the World.

Now Hun Sen, who was speaking at a celebration of the Kingdom’s admission to the club at the Independence Hotel in Sihanoukville, anticipates a jump in visitors to the region, thereby acting as a catalyst for Cambodia’s economic growth.

“Coastal areas play a very import-ant role, and they rank just behind Phnom Penh and cultural sites like Angkor Wat in terms of attracting investors and driving the national economy,” he said.

Hun Sen said there were 117 private investment projects worth US$10.7 billion taking place along the country’s 450-kilometre coastline, amounting to 42 per cent of all investments nationwide.

“We appeal to all private investors who want to invest in the area: do not destroy the environment, and protect and conserve our natural resources, our cultural heritage and history in our beaches,” he said.

To become a member of the Club of the Most Beautiful Bays of the World, a country must fulfil specific requirements, including having projects in place that protect the country’s natural resources.

The beaches must also exemplify natural beauty and have the potential for economic development.

The club, established in Berlin in 1997, has certified 33 beaches in 27 member countries so far.

The number of international tourists visiting Sihanoukville increased by 7.5 per cent to 90,000 visitors during the first five months of 2011, compared with the same period last year.

Hun Sen said the country was aiming to double that number by the end of the year.

Galip Gur, president-elect of the club, yesterday praised Cambodia’s beaches, saying he expected them to draw the same kind of attention the prime minister had called for.

“Cambodia’s beaches have a lot of potential. I hope they will attract more and more international visitors to come here,” Gur said.

“As part of the membership, we are sharing our experience to help and develop Cambodia’s coastal areas and boost the tourism sector in the Kingdom.”

Kong Sangvar, managing director at Orchestra Travel and Tours in Phnom Penh, said he hoped the membership would help promote Cambodia as a top tourism destination.

“I hope that membership of the club offers the potential to develop our national economy,” he said.

(Source: phnompenhpost)

Ancient bronze back in Kingdom

UNIQUE KHMER BRONZE BOAT PROW ORNAMENT

 

AN ancient bronze boat prow ornament from the finest flowering of the Khmer empire has been handed over to the National Museum of Cambodia by retired Thai-based collector Douglas Latchford.

The intricately cast bronze, dating from between 1080-1181, is the only one of its kind ever found.

“This particular one is also depicted in the stone relief on the south wall of the Bayon temple,” said Latchford, who has been collecting Khmer and Indian art for the past 50 years.

“It’s a beautiful piece and the only boat prow of its kind ever found,” said the Thailand-based collector, who is now in his 80s but shows no sign of diminishment in his enthusiasm for art.

Latchford was in Phnom Penh over the weekend to present his bronze to the National Museum and to launch his new book Khmer Bronzes: New Interpretations of the Past, his third volume written with co-author Emma C Bunker.

It’s the fifth piece of important Khmer art that Latchford has presented to the museum, and he also raised funds to install a modern lighting system in the galleries last year.

“When I was younger I had the opportunity, travelling in and out of Cambodia, to study Khmer history as well as Khmer sculpture,” said Latchford, who is probably the world’s premier collector of art from that period. “I have a passion for Asian art, especially for ancient Khmer sculpture and jewellery.”

Secretary of State at the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts Chuch Poeurn welcomed the donation, saying that the prow’s beauty demonstrated the talents of Cambodian ancestors in metal work.

He appealed for more collectors to return ancient objects to the museum to help Cambodians research and document their history for a younger generation.

The book Khmer Bronzes contained many items from the National Museum in its pages and would help lure tourists to Cambodia to see the artifacts for themselves, he said.

Museum director Oun Palline said that within the past 10 years, the National Museum had received 306 objects donated by foreign collectors, while 1600 items had been given by Cambodian residents.

“We have found a noticeable increase of delivery of artifacts by Cambodians, government leaders and state institutions,” she said. “In the near future, the National Museum plans to organise a temporary exhibition displaying all the artistic objects it has received.”

(Source: phnompenhpost)

Siem Reap city rated 7th best cities in the world

Siem Reap City of Cambodia has been rated 7th best city of Top 10 cities in the world by a famous travel and leisure magazine based in New York City of United States of America in association with ROI Research Inc. The characteristics of the best city are Sights, culture/arts, restaurants/food, people, shopping, and value.

Top 10 Cities:

1. Bangkok, Thailand

2. Florence, Italy

3. Rome, Italy

4. New York City, USA

5. Istanbul, Turkey

6. Cape Town, South Africa

7. Siem Reap, Cambodia

8. Sydney, Australia

9. Barcelona, Spain

10. Paris, France