Cambodia experienced a remarkable surge in domestic trips across its bustling capital, Phnom Penh, and its 24 enchanting provinces from June 26 to July 2. The total trips recorded amounted to 306,524, with an impressive 33,469 - or 10.92% of the total - made by international travellers, The Ministry of Tourism reported on July 3.
Drawing on data from the tourism departments of the capital and each province, the ministry unveiled the most popular getaways during this period.
With its tranquil beaches and lively nightlife, Preah Sihanouk led the way, attracting 65,872 visits. It was closely followed by the ancient wonders of Siem Reap with 31,634 trips, the vibrant Phnom Penh with 31,424 trips, and followed by the picturesque provinces of Kampot, Kampong Speu, and Kep with 28,851, 15,049, and 12,326 respectively.
“The numbers of these visitors increased by 3.78 per cent, compared to the previous weeks. In the first six months of this year, the total number of domestic trips was about 11.1 million – an increase of about 75 per cent year-on-year,” reported the ministry.
Ho Vandy, an adviser at the Cambodia Association of Travel Agents (CATA), told The Post that this resurgence highlighted the substantial growth in both domestic and international visitors as a promising development for Cambodia’s tourist sector.
“This growth just might signal a return to pre-pandemic levels of tourism in the next two to three years,” he envisaged.
Vandy also proudly celebrated the new milestones that have spurred the swift revival of tourism following the country’s reopening.
“As a private tourist institution, we did celebrate new achievements that have stimulated a rapid growth of tourism after we had reopened the country,” he disclosed.
Vandy applauded the collective efforts of all stakeholders, including the Ministry of Tourism, the private sector, and all Cambodians, for their pivotal role in promoting the nation’s tourist destinations to attract pre-pandemic levels of international travellers.
