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So what is a social enterprise? Exactly how are we different from other companies? As a responsible traveller, why is travelling with us so much more beneficial for your destination, and more rewarding for you?
Firstly, Cambodia To Show dedication, in-depth knowledge, experience and sensitivity to our surroundings delivers much more than a 'tour'. We incorporate aspects of history, art, nature and culture into all our journeys, enriching your visit with true insight into the country.
Secondly, our business was created with the sole aim of generating income and opportunities for self-development for people and projects in developing countries. To this end, all our profits are reinvested, either to in-country development and conservation projects or in the capacity building of local people.
So when you travel with us, you take a carefully-created journey which will enrich your visit with a true understanding of the country. And because your visit will be providing the people you meet with direct and tangible benefits, you'll feel great ... by doing good. It's as simple as that.
To understand more about our way of working, our people and the projects we work with, just click on the red phrases at the top of the page.
DONATE
At Cambodia To Show, follow the adage 'take only photographs, leave only footprints', but truly responsible travel also relies on cultural understanding. It concerns being directly involved with the people on the ground, both those providing the actual services and the general population, especially those in need.
It means ensuring local staffs are well paid, have their opinions valued, feel empowered and have opportunities for self-development. It means that donations are accounted for and their effectiveness monitored. It means viewing tourism as a means for cultures to learn about each other and benefit from each other.
We work closely together with the local people and projects to realise this aim, and are continually monitoring the progress we make. Self-administration of projects and funds ensures that 100% of our support goes directly to the people who need it. In addition to the direct on-the-ground work we undertake, all our in-country operating materials are sourced or produced locally, wherever possible by local non-profit organizations.
To help you in gaining a true understanding of the place you are going to visit (and therefore really get the most from your trip) we also send you our own "country pack" on booking. This includes guidelines on how to minimise your effect on the environment, an introduction to the local language and advice on dressing appropriately and behaving responsibly when visiting.
In our office too, we "practice what we preach". All of our staff's flight carbon emissions are offset (and we offer clients incentives to do the same). Every sheet of paper gets used on both sides, and we both buy recycled paper and recycle our paper waste. We use various methods to reduce our usage of energy. Small things, but added together they can make quite a difference.
THE PEOPLE
Cambodia To Show was formed in 2001 by an English/Dutch couple and has stayed true to its original ethos of using responsible travel as a means of generating income for communities in developing countries.
Debbie Watkins and Marc Lansu met while working voluntarily for local organizations. Both were taking year-long breaks from their high-flying corporate careers to travel the world. They decided to stay on to 'do something useful' and became captivated by the region and the warmth and sincerity of its people.
Cambodia To Show was formed from their desire to provide a true 'up close and personal' insight for visitors; and also to provide work, training and a sense of purpose to local people in need.
Debbie and Marc married in a Buddhist ceremony in December 2001 and now have two young sons. In keeping with their original philosophy, as the company has grown, increased responsibility for the planning and running of trips has been given to local people.
Guides and tour leaders all receive environmental-awareness training, which they share with travelers and their local communities, and we work closely with local conservation organizations in undeveloped areas.
Our tour leaders are all local people who have been personally chosen and trained by us, and have been able to realise their potential and work towards a better future for themselves and their families. Encouraged to have an input on how the company operates and develops, our team brings constructive criticism, fresh ideas and a deeper level of interaction with our clients.
“The pleasure in the trip was enhanced by your openness and genuine love of what you're doing” Phally Louem Cambodia
Cambodia To Show. 68 St Peter's Street, Cambodia N 232 Taphul Tel: (855) 12 51 61 03
THE PROJECT
At Cambodia To Show work with a number of local projects with a range of different focuses. Our experience of each country we visit has enabled us to identify where assistance is most needed and to concentrate our support in areas that give each country the greatest benefit.
• Social welfare. Most developing countries have no social services support, and as a result many of the poorest sections of the community are left to fend for themselves. We support a number of projects who provide hope and a way out of the poverty trap for people forced to live on the streets.
• Rehabilitation. Both Cambodia and Laos still bear the legacy of recent conflicts in the form of land mines and UXO (Unexploded Ordnance), which continue to kill and maim. We work with both those clearing these devices and groups providing assistance to people who have already suffered injury.
• Conservation. The price of development is biodiversity: forests and wildlife are often the first to go. Primary forest and endangered species are much prized to overseas markets, and plantations offer a quick payback. We assist groups working with endangered species, and support community-based programs which encourage low-impact tourism to provide hunters and loggers with an alternative means of income.
• Heritage and culture. Extreme poverty can cause people to think in the short-term, looting national treasures and selling tribal heirlooms in order to buy their next meal. Often local cultures and traditions can be lost, too, in a country's rush for development. We are involved with a number of organizations supporting the preservation of traditional crafts and skills, and educating local people in the importance of preserving their heritage.
A hand up, not a handout. Due to our personal involvement with the places we visit, we have also been able to provide assistance to individuals who have shown initiative and a willingness to work hard. Cambodia To Show has sponsored a number of young local people throughout their university careers, and provided them with emotional and professional support. We have helped a number of other people, too, with interest-free loans to help them realise their potential.
Our journeys often include visits to some of the projects we support, helping you to get a real understanding of the country.
THE FUTURE
At Cambodia To Show, believe that truly responsible travel should benefit both you and your destination in equal measures. You gain an insight into other countries and cultures and lean a little bit about yourself in the process. Your destination receives economic benefit and opportunities for self-development - but never at the sacrifice of their culture or integrity.
The continued positive feedback we have received is proof that this is a sustainable approach, and one that can be repeated anywhere. Due to demand (from many clients who email us every year asking what our next destination will be!), our aim is to expand into other locations that combine unique and interesting sights and cultures with a need for economic assistance.
We are already undertaking research and cultivating relationships in a number of destinations, with a view to adding one or two countries a year. We welcome suggestions on new destinations to add to our tours. Please contact us with travel ideas and to subscribe to our mailing list.