The morning sun brushed the towers of Angkor Wat with gold, and I walked among the ancient stones dressed in traditional Cambodian attire. Each step echoed through corridors carved with stories of kings, gods, and the people who shaped our heritage. It was more than a visit; it was a journey through time, where history and modern life met in a delicate balance.

What struck me most was how alive the culture still feels. Monks chanted in quiet courtyards, artisans crafted delicate carvings, and local families welcomed visitors with smiles and shared meals. These encounters reminded me that tourism is not just about sightseeing; it is about connection. Each person I met carried a story of resilience, pride, and hope, and through their stories, I saw the soul of Cambodia.

Angkor Wat, while world-famous, is only one chapter of our nation’s story. Beyond the temples lie hidden gems: the vibrant floating villages of Tonle Sap, the quiet rice fields of Takeo, and the riverside communities where generations maintain traditions with care. These places are not just destinations; they are living classrooms, where young people like me learn the value of preserving culture while welcoming the world.

As a youth ambassador, I believe our role is to amplify these voices. Tourism should celebrate authenticity and respect. By sharing the experiences of local communities, from their festivals to their music and food, we can encourage travelers to connect meaningfully with our culture rather than just taking photos. Every interaction has the power to educate, to inspire, and to leave a positive impact.

Participating in the Mekong-Lancang Youth Tourism Ambassador Program has shown me that youth are the bridge between tradition and innovation. We can tell stories digitally, organize immersive experiences, and create platforms for rural communities to thrive while protecting their heritage. We are not just observers; we are storytellers, innovators, and advocates for sustainable tourism.

When I stood before Angkor’s reflection pool, I realized that tourism is not just about sharing monuments; it is about sharing values: respect, sustainability, and pride in our culture. I want every visitor to leave not only with memories of beauty but with understanding, connection, and inspiration.

Cambodia has many voices, and youth like me are here to help them be heard. From Takeo to Battambang, from Kampot’s pepper farms to Koh Kong’s mangroves, each community has stories worth sharing. Tourism guided by respect and curiosity can connect people across borders, foster learning, and empower local livelihoods.

Through my voice as a Youth Tourism Ambassador, I aim to create experiences that are memorable, meaningful, and mindful. Every visitor can see Cambodia not just as a place of wonders, but as a land of living culture, warm people, and traditions that endure through generations. Tourism can be a force for good, and together, we can make it inclusive, responsible, and transformative.

Standing in Angkor Wat that day, I felt a sense of pride and purpose. I realized that storytelling is more than words; it is a bridge between cultures, a way to honor heritage, and a tool to inspire change. This is the story I want to share with travelers, with communities, and with the world.

“Tourism is not just about visiting;  it is about connecting, understanding, and respecting people, culture, and heritage.”

By: SOM Rachna

Youth Tourism Ambassador – Cambodia