From Golden Hours to Happy Hours

Dear valued partners and friends,

I hope you’re enjoying your well-deserved pockets of rest wherever you are in the world!

Speaking of rest, I was reminded of an interesting story about a seemingly uneventful night after a long day at work. One evening, I came home to unwind and catch up on some news. That’s when I stumbled upon a curious report: according to a recent survey by Mornings.co.uk, Cambodia has been ranked first among the world's 72 most beautiful sunrise locations.

It made me pause and think, what’s the big deal about a sunrise?

Without thinking too much about it, I went to bed to finally take my well-deserved rest. The next morning, as I watched the sun rising from my window, it hit me: the sunrise signifies a new beginning, a fresh start. And although it sounds cliche and overused, it's something we often take for granted, forgetting about the new promises and possibilities each sunrise brings.

That’s why, for this edition of our newsletter, we were inspired to uncover the mysteries and marvels of Cambodia's golden hours. We invite you and your travellers to delve into the twilight wonders that grace our land. From the majestic temples adorned with the sun's gentle glow to the pristine landscapes of a UNESCO heritage park, where rare birds take flight against the backdrop of breathtaking sunsets.

But our exploration doesn't end with the fading light of day; we also venture into the vibrant heart of our city, where an emerging pulse of nightlife will further ignite the spirit of adventure. Through these shared experiences, we hope to kindle a deeper appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us.

In addition, we are pleased to share updates on the ongoing production of the destination highlights from the previous newsletter. Significant progress is underway, with plans for on-ground inspections and the crafting of these new offerings by the third quarter.

Join us as we embrace the magic of twilight and discover the boundless possibilities that await us in the golden hours.

Tŏu’ aôy ban sŏk!

Yours,

Villy

A Renewed Twilight of Travel Awaits

We are excited to share some fantastic news that is sure to delight your guests and enrich their travel experiences in Cambodia. The Authority for the Protection of the Site and Management of the Region of Angkor (APSARA) National Authority has announced the reopening of twilight viewing at the iconic Pre Rup Temple, one of Cambodia's most revered cultural and tourist attractions. After extensive repairs, the temple is now safe and ready to welcome visitors from around the globe.

Pre Rup Temple is renowned for its breathtaking views, especially during sunset when the temple's warm-coloured stones glow with a mesmerising golden hue. This phenomenon is made possible by the unique blend of brick, laterite, and sandstone. Beyond its visual appeal, the temple is a testament to Cambodia's rich historical and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the intricate lintels and carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, gaining insight into the religious and cultural practices of the Khmer Empire. The temple's construction using finely cut stone blocks, or ashlars, showcases the advanced engineering skills of the ancient Khmer builders.

Pre Rup promises an unforgettable visual and cultural feast that captivates the heart and soul. We invite your guests to experience the magic of the temple, where every sunset paints a story on the canvas of time.

Sail Through Water's Mysteries at Sunset

Still in Angkor, we are thrilled to unveil an exciting addition to your travellers' itineraries: the Jayatataka Baray Boat Tours to enjoy sunset viewing like no other!

In collaboration with prominent heritage preservation organisations like UNESCO, this new tourist boat service will set sail at Jayatataka Baray, promoting and preserving Cambodia's rich cultural and historical significance. The expansive ancient reservoir, nestled near Neak Pean Temple in the Angkor Archaeological Park, was once a vital source of irrigation and a site for ceremonial activities during the Angkorian period. Today, it offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in its profound historical legacy.

Beginning with eight boats, each accommodating three tourists, the service promises a serene journey through the reservoir's tranquil waters. Your guests’ experience will culminate in relishing rare bird sightings against the backdrop of breathtaking sunsets — indulging in the natural beauty and historical significance of the Angkorian era. As demand grows, plans are in place to expand the fleet, ensuring that more visitors can partake in this enchanting tour.

Phnom Penh’s New Nightcap

Even as the day ends, new exhilarating journeys still await your travellers! We invite them to the heart of Phnom Penh's vibrant culture and nightlife with the upcoming Phnom Penh Pub Street! Scheduled for completion by year-end, this exciting development promises to redefine the city's entertainment scene. We beckon your adventurers to stroll through charming local food and drink stalls, indulging in delectable cuisines and beverages. As the night further falls, they can immerse in the pulsating energy of the main Pub Street, alive with music, laughter, and endless excitement. With its expansive sightseeing zone offering captivating experiences, Phnom Penh Pub Street is poised to become the next must-visit destination for visitors seeking adventures beyond the usual temple thoroughfares.

Sustaining Our Sustainability Commitment

Sustainability remains at the heart of our operations as we expand our offerings. We are dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism practices that benefit both the environment and local communities. We’ve recently partnered with eco-friendly accommodations and transfers, supported local businesses and organisations like 2Fol Foundation, and crafted curated tours with eco-conscious activities, ensuring our guests enjoy authentic and responsible travel. This commitment is further reflected in our plastic-free office, minimal paper use, and energy-efficient practices.

Hotel Promotion

We invite your guests to discover the allure of Raffles Hotel Le Royal Phnom Penh with our exclusive promotion! They can enjoy 30% off their stay and indulge in a complimentary upgrade towards more luxury and sophistication. Nestled in the heart of the city, this iconic hotel offers a timeless retreat with elegant accommodations and world-class amenities.

Stay Dates:
May 1st, 2024 to September 30th, 2024

Booking Dates:
Until September 2024

Upgrade:
Free for the next room category, excluding Landmark Suite & Le Royal Suite

Note:
Applicable to new bookings only and requires a minimum 2-night stay

News on the Ground

Cambodia Angkor Air is set to launch direct flights between Phnom Penh and New Delhi on June 16th, marking the first-ever direct route between the two countries. Flights will operate four times weekly, on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.

Meanwhile, Singapore Airlines is expanding its flight services to Cambodia, increasing seat capacity on its Singapore-Phnom Penh route starting June 1st, 2024. Flights SQ157 and SQ158 will now be operated by the Airbus A350-900, offering 40 Business Class and 262 Economy Class seats, nearly doubling the previous capacity. These flights will operate on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

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