Embrace Cambodia 2026

Every day is packed with awesomeness, but some of our highlights are:

VILLAGE PROJECT

We spend a full five days at the Restore One School. Whether you’re helping out a teacher, painting a new toilet for a local family, or simply speaking English with a student, the main thing you need is a good attitude and a willingness to give anything a go. Most of the work is very simple—just a hammer and nails or a paintbrush. Plenty of people have come before you with zero building experience and ended up creating something truly special.

Just bring your hat, closed shoes, a water bottle, and that great attitude. What you leave behind will last long after you’ve gone—and it’ll make a real difference to the people who receive it.

And while you’re working, you’ll be side-by-side with amazing locals, having chats and getting a glimpse into their everyday lives. If you’re open to it, this experience can leave a mark on you just as much as you leave one on the village.

CULTURE AND HISTORY

We journey to places where Cambodia’s ancient culture is honoured and remembered—sites that give powerful insight into the country’s rich history and the devastating impact of the genocide. These visits can be deeply moving, but they are a vital part of understanding the resilience and spirit of the Cambodian people.

Make no mistake—this is not a journey of sorrow. Cambodia is alive with energy and hope. Its cities, markets, and villages pulse with color, creativity, and warmth. We climb temple steps guarded by mischievous monkeys, meet artisans bringing traditional silk spinning back to life, explore palaces and museums, and even encounter highly trained rats that help clear landmines—an astonishing and inspiring project.

This is the real Cambodia—raw, beautiful, and unforgettable. We don’t just see it. We connect with it. And we leave changed by it.

MEALS & ACCOMODATION

This trip is a bit of a foodie adventure—with a good dose of heart. Cambodia is full of amazing food, and many of the places we eat at are run by charities or social enterprises. We call it eating with justice—enjoying great meals while supporting something worthwhile.

Along the way, we’ll share the stories behind these places and the people they help, all while tucking into some seriously tasty food. In the village, we have our own chef preparing our meals, mostly vegetarian.

Dietary needs? No problem, let us know when you book.

In Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, we stay in pretty terrific places, 4-star accommodation in locations close to the markets, river, cafes and spas. The guest house we call home while in the village is rustic but very comfortable with air conditioning and flush toilets (that work most of the time :)

Here's a brief outline of our Itinerary; there will be changes, but that's all part of the adventure in Cambodia! Other activities, such as a village bike ride and afternoon/evening walks, will also be included where weather and time permit.

Part 1

Saturday, Oct 31-DAY 1: Phnom Penh

We arrive in Phnom Penh in the afternoon and immerse ourselves straight away with a tuk-tuk ride to our accommodation. We'll enjoy a Welcome dinner with the Women Embrace Adventure and Restore One host. You will receive an in-depth outline of this unforgettable adventure and get to know the team before retiring to your room for a much-needed rest after a long day of travelling.

[Accommodation: Pehn House, 34A Oknha Chhun St. (240), Phnom Penh, Cambodia/twin share, Meals: D]

Sunday, Nov 1-DAY 2: Phnom Penh

Visit the Killing Fields - we take you to where the genocide of Cambodia is remembered. These places provide insight into Cambodia's history and the subsequent poverty that affected the country. These are emotional places, but they are essential visits to put everything else that you see on your trip into perspective. (Our village is surrounded by killing fields as well). In the afternoon, you’ll have time to relax at the hotel /around the pool or take a walk around town. Tonight, we may have the opportunity to dine with some of the Restore One University students. It is a real treat to spend some time and chat about some of Restore One's amazing success stories. [Accommodation: Pehn House, 34A Oknha Chhun St. (240), Phnom Penh, Cambodia/twin share, Meals: B, L, D]

Monday, Nov 2-DAY 3: Phnom Penh

Beginning the day, we visit the Restore One Sewing Project and have an exciting slum challenge planned. We'll be honoured guests at Sokhun's home for lunch today, and in the afternoon, we visit the She Rescue Visitor Centre. Over this hour, we will get an understanding of child sex abuse and human trafficking in Cambodia. Bring a few $$ for gifts to take home. [Accommodation: Pehn House, 34A Oknha Chhun St. (240), Phnom Penh, Cambodia/twin share, Meals: B, L, D]

Tuesday, Nov 3-DAY 4: Phnom Penh

Today, we visited the famous Russian markets and the social enterprise of Daughters of Cambodia. After lunch you are free to get a massage, explore more or just relax by the pool. Tonight we will head out for our last night in Phnom Penh. [Accommodation: Pehn House, 34A Oknha Chhun St. (240), Phnom Penh, Cambodia. /twin share, Meals: B, L, D]

Part 2

Wednesday, Nov 4-Monday, Nov 9-DAY 5 – 10: Kampong Thom Village

We pack up and head out of the city to spend 6 days in the village - where we get to make a real difference! Kampong Thom is the second-largest province in Cambodia, and the village where we work is one of the poorest in that province. Throughout the week, we'll have many different volunteer opportunities, from hygiene classes to assisting with teaching to building or painting. It's not all work; we'll visit the Thousand Step Temple and a working silk farm. [Accommodation: Romchong Guest House /twin share Meals: B, L, D]

Part 3

Tuesday, Nov 10-DAY 11: Village-Siem Reap

In the morning, we say goodbye to the village and travel to Siem Reap and spend the afternoon visiting the famous temples at Sunset. [Accommodation: Aviary Hotel 9 Preah Sangreach Tep Vong St, Krong Siem Reap 171202, Cambodia/twin share/twin share, Meals: B, L, D]

Wednesday, Nov 11-DAY 12: Siem Reap

We wake up early to visit the Angkor Wat site. Head back over 1,000 years and explore these incredible marvels of human endeavour. This is a truly inspiring site that must be seen to be believed; better still, we will see it at sunrise! Lunch is at your leisure (plan approx $8 USD). You can participate in a couple of activities during the afternoon or just relax. [Accommodation: Aviary Hotel 9 Preah Sangreach Tep Vong St, Krong Siem Reap 171202, Cambodia /twin share, Meals: B, D]

Thursday, Nov 12-DAY 13: Siem Reap

This morning, we visited the non-profit organisation APOPO. Learn all about the hero-rats who save lives by detecting landmines in Cambodia and around the world. We spend some time in a heritage museum/art gallery that is truly stunning. Lunch is at your leisure (plan approx $8 USD). The afternoon is then yours to relax or explore the city. [Accommodation: Aviary Hotel 9 Preah Sangreach Tep Vong St, Krong Siem Reap 171202, Cambodia twin share, Meals: B, D]

Friday, Nov 13-DAY 14: Siem Reap

Today is a free day to enjoy the sites in and around Siem Reap. Grab a tuk tuk and head to the markets or to the day spa, hang by the pool, visit the pagoda, it's up to you! Lunch is at your leisure (plan approx $8 USD). Tonight is our celebration dinner, where we will reflect on our amazing adventure and share our highlights and what we have learnt from our Cambodian experiences. [Accommodation: Aviary Hotel 9 Preah Sangreach Tep Vong St, Krong Siem Reap 171202, Cambodia /twin share, Meals: B, D]

Saturday, Nov 14-DAY 15: Siem Reap-Flights Home

After breakfast, we will say our goodbyes to the beautiful people of Cambodia and catch our transport to the airport to make our way home [Meals: B]

Whats Included in your Adventure?

• 14 nights accommodation, twin share in Hotels and Guest House

• 14 Breakfasts, 11 and 14 Dinners (and the food is amazing)

• Activities outlined in the itinerary (we really do cram a lot in!)

• 5 day Volunteer Project in a village

• All internal transport ( tuk tuks and air conditioned mini vans)

• Australian Women Embrace Adventure Host that will be with you every step of the way to support, encourage and, sometimes, help push you just that little bit out of your comfort zone

• Australian Restore One Host who has extensive in country knowledge and the village to guide us

• English speaking, Cambodian Local Guide and interpreter

• Group first aid kit and your WEA hosts have full wilderness first aid training.

• WEA Goodies

• Photos of your adventure to share

Whats not included in your Adventure?

• Flights

• Compulsory travel insurance

• Alcoholic beverages

• Visas

• Airport taxes (if any) on arrival and departure from Cambodia

• Items of a personal nature, such as WIFI charges, massages and laundry

I am thinking about coming on my own, is this ok?

Not a problem at all! Lots of women come on their own to our adventures. Your Women Embrace Adventure hosts will make sure everyone meets at the airport. We always have lots of fun, there is no pressure, no judgment, and lots of encouragement from everyone. By the end of our trip, you may have just found some new adventure friends!

How many women will be in our group?

A maximum of 16 plus your WEA host and Cambodia guides– this ensures everyone has a great time and gets to know each other.

Who is this adventure for?

This adventure is for all women, 18 and above.

Can I book a Single Room? Limited single supplement may be available at a cost of approx $500 USD for 14 nights total, if interested, let us know at the time of booking.

Do I Need Travel Insurance?

YES, travel insurance is required, and it is essential that you purchase travel insurance at the time of your booking. Credit Card travel insurance may not cover the full costs of evacuation or if you can not travel, choose your comprehensive travel insurance wisely.

Do I need a visa to travel to Cambodia?

Yes – you can purchase before we leave and Katrina will add details of this onto our group page, it is a simple process!

The cost is approximately USD $35 for a 30-day visa. Please make sure you have at least one empty passport page and 6 months’ validity on your passport from the date you will be departing Cambodia. Visas and passports are your own responsibility and we cannot be held liable for any issues or costs incurred relating to these. Costs are approximate and subject to change.

Do I need vaccinations to travel to Cambodia?

This depends on your home country and your vaccination history. You should visit your Doctor or local travel clinic and see what they recommend.

How much spending money will I need?

This largely depends on you. All accommodation, activities outlined on the itinerary, breakfasts, most lunches and dinners are included. There are three lunches that are at your leisure in Siem Reap, the average cost is about $8 USD for lunch and a drink. Any additional food such as snacks, morning or afternoon tea are up to you. We recommend the use of US dollars, bring them along with you, purchase a travel card at home, and you can also withdraw cash from cash points in the major cities whilst you are away. Bring spending money to buy souvenirs, massages, and or some fair trade products from NGOs such as Restore One, Friends, Daughters and She Rescue.

What is not included in the Adventure cost?

• International Flights (Cambodia, Return)

• Visas

• Airport taxes (if any) on arrival and departure from Cambodia.

• Compulsory Travel insurance

• Alcoholic beverages

• Police Check/Working with Children Check

• Items of a personal nature such as WIFI charges, massages, souvenirs and laundry

I am not sure I can fundraise $1,300?

We totally understand that fundraising can be daunting, BUT believe us, it is not as hard as it seems. Our past three Cambodia teams have raised well over $70,000 combined, through social media posts, trivia nights, movie nights, selling wax sandwich wrappers, Zumbathon, high tea to name a few). The great thing is we get to see and work in the school and village where your fundraising money goes. The joy that comes from making a difference is worth the little bit of effort to fundraise - believe us, it is life changing. Please speak to Katrina or Sharon at WEA if you have any concerns about fundraising and we can help you - we are here to help!

Where will my fundraising money go?

The money raised will go directly to Restore One which will help with building projects, teachers wages, school supplies . Restore One have taken important strategic steps to prevent financial waste and ensure that contributions go directly to the communities where we work. You can be assured that the money you work hard to raise goes directly to the community.

Is Cambodia safe?

Like any country in the world, there will always be some dangers (even when in your home country!) and it is important to exercise common sense, particularly when in major cities and tourist destinations. However, Cambodia is a very safe country to travel in and around. You’ll also be with our experienced team throughout your stay and will be travelling with a group.

When should I book airfares?

Only book airfares AFTER you receive an email from Women Embrace Adventure to do so. Airfares are not included in the package price, you will need to book and pay for your own airfare to Phnom Penh and return from Siem Reap. We will share our flight details with you when it is time to book flights.

When does my deposit have to be paid?

The non-refundable $600 deposit needs to be paid upon booking. Places are limited to 16 so we recommend you do this as soon as possible. Once we have received your deposit we will send you a confirmation email, and lots of details about your adventure.

What is the full cost of the trip?

The full cost of the trip is AU $3,995/pp twin share*

This amount covers all inclusions outlined

Payment plans and limited single supplements may be available.

*T&C apply.

Bottom Line...they are good people from Lake Macquarie, NSW, Australia, making a real difference in the world.

'Our mission is to break poverty; one child, one family, one community at a time.'

Fundraising Component of the Women Embrace Cambodia Trip

You may be wondering why is there an aspect of fundraising in this Adventure. The simple answer is because we want to make a difference.

Kampong Thom, where we will be volunteering, is the second-largest province in Cambodia, and the village where we work is one of the poorest in that province. Education is crucial here. Without it, the best-case scenario for local children is a life of subsistence farming or labouring. The worst case (and a very real possibility) is a life of slavery, sexual or otherwise.

Until recently, the local primary school consisted of two classrooms in one aged, small building. These rooms were often empty because the underpaid teachers could not even afford transport to work. Even on the few days of the week when the teachers were present, overcrowding and malnourished children made for a poor learning experience.

Now things have changed for the better. In partnership with the community and Cambodia’s Department of Education, Restore One have funded and constructed a preschool and two new primary school buildings for a safer, more practical learning environment. This has added four new classrooms to the school, which will service approximately 200 students.

Restore One is not-for-profit organisation dedicated to developing and empowering impoverished communities in Cambodia. As the name suggests, we bring about change and restoration, one community at a time.

Why Cambodia? Cambodia was a broken country, one of the most disadvantaged societies in the world. Once one of the most promising economies in South-East Asia, it was torn apart by the genocidal Khmer Rouge regime between 1975 and 1979. During this period, the social and economic fabric of the nation was all but destroyed. Entire cities were evacuated, with infrastructure left in ruins. Most of the population was forced to work as slave labour in rice paddies. Up to 2 million people (a quarter of the country’s population) died as a result of starvation, disease, torture and executions. This is history for the rest of the world, but for the people of Cambodia, the legacy of this period is disturbingly real. Reports of economic growth are deceptive, because the wealth often does not flow through to disadvantaged rural communities.

What Makes Restore One different?

1. Our focus is local Our overriding passion is to bring about change in Cambodia, one community at a time. We develop and maintain close local-level relationships, because they are key to any positive change.

2. Our approach is practical At Restore One, we do not believe in “bandaid” solutions. We change lives in a tangible, sustainable way. From houses for the homeless to micro-business for the unemployed, we judge potential projects with one question: “Will this have a genuine and lasting impact on the lives of these people?”

3. We partner with communities Who is in the best position to judge what a community needs? The community itself. Everything we do at Restore One is driven by consultation and feedback from those we are trying to help. We have local employees who manage relationships with the communities where we work. We utilise local labour in our projects, and consult closely with local leaders.

4. We have low administration costs We have taken important strategic steps to prevent financial waste and ensure that contributions go directly to the communities where we work. For example, we obtain volunteers for some sections of our organisation that would normally have a high salary cost, such as media and marketing. We have also made significant savings by not operating an office in Australia, where work is done remotely.

To find out more about Restore One and their great work please visit their website

www.restoreone.org.au

The Women Embrace Adventure Team goal is to raise $15,000 to help Restore One continue to educate and influence local children, families and communities.

Each person joining us in Cambodia needs to be committed to raising $1300. This may sound daunting if you have not been involved in fundraising before, but we are here to help you every step of the way. The fundraising is separate from the cost of the Adventure.

We’ll set up an individual fundraising page for you that is connected to a Women Embrace Adventure Team Page. This means anyone who donates over $2 to this amazing cause through your link will receive a tax receipt.

Social media is a great way to ask for donations. You can post a link directing people to your fundraising page. WEA will help with ideas on how and when to post your link.

Our past three Cambodia teams have raised over $70,000 combined and the great thing is we get to go and see and work in the school and village where our fundraising money are spent. The joy that comes from making a difference is worth the little bit of effort to fundraise - believe us, it is life changing. Please speak to Katrina or Sharon at WEA if you have any questions about fundraising and we can help you with tips and ideas.

Cost: $3,995/person twin share

A deposit of $600 is required upon booking online on WEA Website. You will be invoiced for the remaining balance, due on or before July 27, 2026, payable by direct deposit (no fee), credit card (fee applies).

Fundraising Pledge: $1,300 (Separate and in addition to the cost of the adventure)

Cancellation Fees Apply:

When you book with us at Women Embrace Adventure, we work hard to organise your adventure right from the start; we forward book and pay our third party providers early to ensure everyone can have the best experience possible. The reason we have cancelation fees is the money you pay in deposit, holding fees and payments are used to pay other small tourism businesses and local guides. You book, we work hard to make sure you have a fantastic trip!

Cancellation Fees Schedule:

· Prior to 90 days before the trip departure, we reserve the right to charge any administration costs and any trip cost incurred by us prior to the time of cancellation

· Between 90-60 days before trip departure-75% Of the Adventure Cost plus any administration costs and any trip cost incurred by us prior to the time of cancellation

· Between 59-30 days before trip departure- 85% Of the Adventure Cost plus any administration costs and any trip cost incurred by us prior to the time of cancellation

· Within 30 days of the trip departure - 100% Of the Adventure Cost

· Once the trip has commenced, there will be no refunds granted.

If the final balance is not received by the due date, we will regard the booking as cancelled and normal cancellation fees will apply.

*Read our full Covid-19 and T&C's for full details https://www.womenembraceadventure.com.au/t-c Full t&c

It is required that you have a purchased comprehensive travel insurance policy at the time of booking. Full terms and conditions apply, kindly read prior to booking.

By making a booking, you agree to, understand and accept our terms and conditions, including these Terms and Conditions, our Covid-19 Policy and the Waiver of Liability.

Your booking is final once your payment is processed and a confirmation email is sent to you.

This is a women's only adventure.

Valid for travel for October 31, 2026 departure.

Valid for sale until sold out.

Advertised prices are per person, twin share and do not include return airfares/transport to start in Cambodia or required travel insurance.

Prices are correct as of 15 Oct 25 and are subject to availability, withdrawal and change at any time without notice due to fluctuations in charges and currency.

A non-refundable deposit of $600 per person is required to secure your booking.

Full price $3995

You will be invoiced for the balance owing, is payable via direct deposit, PayPal or credit card (fees apply).

Travel insurance is mandatory and can be invaluable if you need to change your plans, become ill or injured before or during your adventure. You are required to source and purchase travel insurance upon booking. We will ask you to provide proof of your purchase, including company name and policy number. You'll need travel insurance coverage for the duration of the booking period until the completion of the adventure. Ensure the insurance covers cancellation, travel plan change, evacuation, and repatriation.

By booking this adventure, you agree to the fundraising component, signing and adhering to the Restore One Volunteer Agreement policies, and obtaining a working with children/police check.

All current government safety and health guidelines at the time of booking and departure must be adhered to. Any additional costs related to but not limited to government travel restrictions and third-party changes are the responsibility of the individual traveller and not Women Embrace Adventure. If this trip is undersubscribed or in circumstances where external events affect the viability or safety of this trip to go ahead, Women Embrace Adventure reserves the right to cancel or reschedule and to exclude/remove any participants from this trip. Your booking is non-transferable. Women Embrace Adventure works with 3rd Party providers and can not be held responsible for changes made by said providers, including but not limited to the itinerary, price, cancellation, or force majeure.

If the final balance is not received by the due date, we will regard the booking as cancelled and normal cancellation fees will apply.

Cancellation Fees Apply:

· Prior to 90 days before the trip departure, we reserve the right to charge any administration costs and any trip cost incurred by us prior to the time of cancellation

· Between 90-60 days before trip departure-75% Of the Adventure Cost plus any administration costs and any trip cost incurred by us prior to the time of cancellation

· Between 59-30 days before trip departure- 85% Of the Adventure Cost plus any administration costs and any trip cost incurred by us prior to the time of cancellation

· Within 30 days of the trip departure - 100% Of the Adventure Cost

· Once the trip has commenced, there will be no refunds granted.

*Read our full T&C's for full details https://www.womenembraceadventure.com.au/t-c Full t&c