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Travelling to Cambodia?
Want information on safe travel?
Travelling through Cambodia is a roller coaster of emotions. When visiting the Angkor Temple complex, you are surrounded by indescribable beauty, with ancient temples seemingly rising from the jungle. It is a breathtaking experience and you could spend days exploring the temples.
While exploring the temples you will be met by groups of smiling kids, trying to sell you a handmade bamboo flute, a bottle of water, a scarf, any number of things. This can become tiring, but try to keep in mind, these kids are trying to make a living. Often the money they make is the only source of income for their family.
Street Children
In Cambodia you will be confronted with situations that may shock, and distress you, the image of street children is one not easily wiped from the mind. When coming in contact with these children it is important to ask yourself a few questions before you act, so that you are clear on the individual child's situation.
- Don’t give the child money, this can encourage begging and potentially puts children in unsafe situations.
- Food or drink is generally ok, although keep in mind that the child may be under the care of an organisation where they can receive these things in a safe environment - off the street, although this is not always the case.
Sex Tourism
Child sex tourism is a problem in Cambodia, and many children are at high risk of physical, psychological and sexual abuse and exploitation at the hands of tourists, especially those children on the streets.
Child Wise is an Australian based non-profit organisation, which works to protect children from sexual abuse and exploitation both in Australia and throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
Cambodia-wide Hotline
A 24 hour Cambodia-wide hotline, staffed by Khmer, Vietnamese and English operators is available by telephoning
023 720 555.
Use this hotline if:
- You feel you have witnessed any situations which indicate children are being sexually exploited
- You have any concerns about a friend, family member or work colleague who may be sexually exploiting children while travelling in Cambodia.
- You are offered sexual services involving children while you are in Cambodia.
