I recently had the opportunity to visit Phnom Penh (Cambodia) and was pleasantly surprised by what I saw. The streets were fairly well maintained and the air clean (i.e. visibility was good). Here are some pictures:
This is one of the common noodle dishes eaten by the general populace (it goes by the name Nom Bonh Chok). You have the choice of 3 different soups - the traditional Cambodian soup (a blend of spices, mainly ginger); Thai hot and sour soup; and a yellow curry. I had the traditional Cambodian soup. The condiments include raw vegetables (basil leaves; tapioca leaves etc) fresh lime; pickled cucumber and raw green chilli padi.
I also had the opportunity to visit the Royal Palace or at least the grounds surrounding the King's residence. The gro
unds included the Coronation Hall (where the coronation ceremony and other official ceremonies are held); a pagoda (where the King worships); dance halls etc. Very interesting from an Incentive Travel point of view. I kept asking the Cambodian government officers (whom I was with) if there was a possibility of private sector companies using the Palace for a dinner (like treating award winners on an incentive trip to a "royal" banquet within the palace grounds). Sad to say the response was not very encouraging. However, when it comes to incentives, its very much about being creative and finding unique things to do/experience within unique settings and venues.The incentive travel organisers who have done well are those who have been able to cross creative boundaries in coming up with once-in-a-lifetime experiences for the travel award winners.
