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September 2024 Forum Retreat - Cambodia
Every year, our group of seven Kiwi entrepreneurs embarks on a journey to explore new parts of the world. It’s not just about travel – it’s about deepening our bond as a forum, experiencing unique adventures, and sprinkling in a dash of entrepreneurial practice. Our previous trips have taken us to incredible places like Dubai and Chile, and this year, we chose Cambodia.
None of us had been to Cambodia before, and we arrived with open minds and a sense of adventure. Here's a glimpse into our incredible experience:
A Feast for the Senses: Food Tour in Phnom Penh
We kicked off our first evening with an immersive food tour that was nothing short of a sensory assault. We made nine stops at local food carts and small restaurants, sampling a range of traditional Cambodian dishes. From fragrant curries to crunchy street snacks and delectable pastries, the food was fantastic. Of course, the adventurers in us couldn’t resist trying more daring items—tarantulas, frogs, and even crickets! The lively atmosphere of Phnom Penh's night markets, buzzing with activity and brimming with fresh produce, meat, fish, and an array of bugs and reptiles, was truly eye-opening.
A favorite moment was our stop at a roadside dessert stand run by an elderly couple who had been serving their famous coconut pancakes from the same spot for 13 years. Their dedication and the simplicity of their offering was a beautiful reflection of Cambodian culture.
Treasure Hunt Through the Streets of Phnom Penh
The next day, we set off on a treasure hunt through the streets of Phnom Penh. Our mission? To locate parts of a stolen sacred statue and return them to the Museum of Archaeology. Armed with clues, we wound our way through hidden alleyways, visited local homes, and even stopped by a Buddhist temple, where were blessed by a monk and given our next clue. It was a fascinating way to experience life behind the scenes, and it gave us unique insights into Cambodian culture and daily life.
Exploring the Royal Palace
In the afternoon, we visited the Royal Palace, an oasis of calm amidst the city's bustling streets. The towering spires and manicured gardens were a stark contrast to the vibrant chaos outside. As we wandered through the palace’s courtyards and halls, we marvelled at the rich history and the role of Buddhism in Cambodia’s politics and culture. Our day ended with a toast to our adventures at a fine dining restaurant, where we were treated to exquisite dishes—even some sprinkled with gold flakes!
Deep Connection and a Humbling Experience
Our last full day in Phnom Penh began with our forum monthly meeting, during which we shared our timelines. The closeness of the group allowed us to go deep, strengthening our bond. In the afternoon, we visited Flame, an NGO founded by a dedicated New Zealander. Flame provides education to children living in Cambodia’s slums, and one of our forum members helps support a medical van that serves remote communities. Hearing the children’s stories was incredibly humbling, especially when we realized that the cost of our fine dining the night before could have funded a year of schooling for a child.
That evening, we unwound on a sunset cruise along the Mekong River. As we sipped cocktails and watched life along the riverbanks, we reflected on the profound impact of our experiences so far.
A Somber Visit to the Killing Fields
Before leaving Phnom Penh, we visited the Killing Fields, where up to three million people were killed during Pol Pot’s reign from 1976 to 1978. It was a confronting and deeply emotional experience, but it was an essential part of understanding Cambodia's history and the resilience of its people.
Siem Reap and the Magnificence of Angkor Wat
From Phnom Penh, we took a short flight to Siem Reap, home to the world-renowned Angkor Wat. We stayed in a gorgeous seven-bedroom villa, complete with a pool and a dedicated staff to attend to our every need.
Our adventure started early the next morning with a sunrise visit to Angkor Wat. The sheer size and intricate carvings of this ancient temple complex were breathtaking, and watching the sun rise over the ruins was a meditative experience.
After breakfast and a refreshing swim, we set off on a cycling tour through the surrounding temples. The shaded paths, lush rice paddies, and scattered ruins made for an awe-inspiring ride. And it was great to escape crowds and enjoy the peace of the surrounding forest, soaking in the beauty of Cambodia’s ancient history.
Jeep Adventures and a Magical Farewell
Our last day in Cambodia was a mix of adventure and relaxation. We started the day with a pharmacy run (Cambodia’s affordable prescriptions are a well-kept secret!) and a quick visit to the local markets for souvenirs. Then, we were off in vintage military jeeps to explore the countryside. We passed through villages, watched local life unfold, and eventually arrived at a giant ancient lake. The surprise awaiting us? A champagne reception at the lakes edge followed by foot massages, an ox-cart ride and a magical dinner in a remote village, sharing cocktails and reflecting on our extraordinary journey.
As we boarded our flight back to New Zealand, we were filled with gratitude for the experiences we had shared. Cambodia had surprised and humbled us in so many ways, and we left with a deep appreciation for the country’s rich culture, history, and people.
Reflections and Key Takeaways
1. Cambodian cuisine is extraordinary. From street food to gourmet dining, everything we ate was amazing, and even our two gluten-free members had plenty of options, including Cassava Baguettes!
2. Tuk-tuks are the ultimate mode of transportation. They’re cheap, breezy, and a fun way to navigate Cambodia’s cities.
3. The Cambodian people are incredibly resilient. Despite their tragic recent history, the kindness and strength of character we encountered everywhere was inspiring.
4. There’s so much more to Cambodia than Angkor Wat. While Angkor Wat was a highlight, the country has so much more to offer, and we all wished we had more time to explore.
Our Cambodia retreat was more than just a trip—it was a journey of connection, learning, and growth. We returned home with a newfound appreciation for this incredible country and for the deep bonds we share as a forum.
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