Poverty Tourism in the Kingdom of Cambodia
Written by Belle Vang
Come monsoon season, my partner and I landed in Cambodia–the air thick with anticipation and gratitude to share common ground with one of the lands my ancestors had once crossed. I was overjoyed on my first tuk tuk ride; it felt incredibly surreal to have the humid air blowing through my hair and appreciating the months of thrifting linen clothes to prepare for this warm moment.
It always seemed like a distant, privileged dream to connect with our motherlands, but the time for me had finally arrived. Eager to explore, my partner and I checked into our stay and Google’d local restaurants to try out. A high-end, generous meal cost the equivalent of a Happy Meal in California; we were both stunned and excited to try everything we could.
In the heart of Siem Reap’s markets, we stopped by a random shop for the tourist city’s infamous $5 foot massages. Many of the locals spoke broken English, so I struck up light conversation, asking them what restaurants in the area they would recommend.
“I only buy direct food [groceries] because I can’t afford to eat in this area,” they responded.
The realization of our privilege struck a chord, casting a shadow over the remainder of our massage. It was a sobering reminder of the disparity that exists between tourists and locals in destinations heavily reliant on tourism.
As we traveled back to our Airbnb, I couldn't shake the weight of our encounter with the locals. The economic challenges exacerbated by the pandemic, coupled with the enduring impact of historical conflicts such as the Vietnam War, underscored the fragility of the region's economy.
Reflecting on our experience, I realized the importance of conscientious tourism – an approach that seeks to support local communities rather than exploit them for personal gain. While the desire to connect with one's roots and appreciate culture is admirable, it must be accompanied by a commitment to uplift and empower the communities we visit.
In sharing this account of our journey, my intention is not to shame or condemn, but rather to spark a dialogue about the ethical implications of travel. It is imperative upon travelers to critically examine our impact on the places we visit and strive to leave behind a positive legacy for future generations and existing communities.