Cultural Immersion in Cambodia by Shelley Seale

Sustainable travel is a way of traveling responsibly that seeks to minimize the environmental and cultural impacts of tourism, with the premise that tourism does not have to threaten the cultures and environments of popular destinations and fragile regions. It respects and protects the natural and human environment, benefits the host community, and allows indigenous people the right to control their own future.

And the benefits for travelers are immense as well; a more meaningful experience that enriches their lives long after they return home. True cultural exchanges bring the world closer together, making positive contributions to host communities and providing lasting effects to the visitors.

Carpe Diem Travel, based out of London, is a social enterprise – a not-for-profit business created to "give something back” – providing direct and tangible benefits to your destination. All of the company’s profits are reinvested into projects that help local people realize their potential, build their futures, and improve their environment. They operate on the belief is that travel is not just a series of “been there, done that” photos – it’s an opportunity to learn about other cultures and their way of life. Their trips are for a maximum of 10 people, so that groups don't smother the small communities they visit and can make use of more unusual forms of transport. Additionally, guests are sent their own handwritten travel guide, to help them prepare for their trips. This invaluable pack includes information about the history, language and culture, as well as details of certain special places that will be visited.

A sample Carpe Diem trip is a 14 Day Cultural Immersion trip to Cambodia. This tour is designed from the ground up to provide a real understanding of the history and culture of the Khmer people. During the 14 varied and interesting days, guests will visit not only Cambodia's highlights such as Angkor Wat and the Royal Palace, but also get well away from the tourist trail, meeting the country’s people and understanding more about their culture and way of life.