About Cambodia
Cambodia is a Southeast Asian nation whose landscape spans low-lying plains, the Mekong Delta, mountains and the Gulf of Thailand coastline. Phnom Penh, its capital, is home to the art deco Central Market, the glittering Royal Palace and the National Museum’s historical and archaeological exhibits. In the country’s northwest are the ruins of Angkor Wat, a massive stone temple complex built during the Khmer Empire.
Capital: Phnom Penh
Currency: Cambodian riel
Official language: Khmer
Government: Unitary state, Parliamentary system, Constitutional monarchy, One-party state, Elective monarchy
King: Norodom Sihamoni
Continent: Asia
Population: 16.94 million (2023)
About Siem Reap:
Siem Reap is the second-largest city of Cambodia, as well as the capital and largest city of Siem Reap Province in northwestern Cambodia. Siem Reap has French-colonial and Chinese-style architecture in the Old French Quarter and around the Old Market. In and around the city there are museums, traditional Apsara dance performances, a Cambodian cultural village, souvenir and handicraft shops, silk farms, rice paddies in the countryside, fishing villages and a bird sanctuary near Tonlé Sap, and a cosmopolitan drinking and dining scene. Siem Reap city, home to the famous Angkor Wat temples, was named the ASEAN City of Culture for the period 2021–2022. Today, Siem Reap has many hotels, resorts, and restaurants, due to its proximity to the Angkor Wat temples, Cambodia’s most popular tourist attraction.
A Brief Overview Of Cambodia
Cambodia is a Southeast Asian country bordered by Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and the Gulf of Thailand. Its capital and largest city is Phnom Penh. Known for its rich history and cultural heritage, Cambodia was the center of the powerful Khmer Empire from the 9th to 15th centuries, with the iconic Angkor Wat temple complex as a testament to its grandeur. The country endured a tragic period under the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s, which resulted in the deaths of around two million people. Today, Cambodia is a constitutional monarchy with a developing economy based on tourism, agriculture, textiles, and construction. Despite its challenges, Cambodia continues to rebuild and modernize while preserving its cultural identity.
Where We Serve In Cambodia
ISL works within a variety of communities and organizations in Cambodia. ISL serves two communities. One is Siem Reap city where ISL partner with Enjoy Church Siem Reap. Another community that ISL serves is in Ron Ta Aek district which is about 40 minutes from the hotel by bus. ISL partners with Freedom Life Center for this community.
The Need In Cambodia
Cambodia’s healthcare system faces challenges typical of developing nations: infrastructure gaps, urban-rural disparities, workforce shortages, and funding constraints. However, these challenges present numerous opportunities for improvement and investment.
Our Partnerships
As with any great work, it takes great relationships to get the job done. That’s why ISL Cambodia has partnered with nonprofits, NGOs, and governmental and religious groups and
institutions to better serve the people of Cambodia.
Children’s Homes: Freedom Life Center
Nursing Homes: Enjoy Church
Schools and Universities: Angkor University
What To Expect As A Volunteer
You’ll arrive in Siem Reap city, Cambodia via the Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, which is located about 50km from the downtown area. After going through Customs and retrieving your luggage, you will be met by an ISL staff member and transported by taxi, van, or bus (arranged and paid for by ISL) to your hotel or guest house in the province closest to your work site. Airport to hotel travel times vary from 40 minutes to 50 minutes. Daily travel time from housing to the work site varies from 15 minutes to 25 minutes. On your recreation day, travel may take up to a maximum of one and a half hours. Housing locations may change as you move to a new work site or as you travel to your recreation day location.
Cultural Exploration
Learn how to cook one of many famous and delicious Cambodian dishes, one of which is Kor Kor (Stir vegetable soup with fish or pork and ribs)
Learn the basics of Khmer Traditional dance Ramvong, Ram Kb’ach, Saravan etc.
Walk around the city and explore parks, old colonial-style buildings, theaters, and museums.
Enjoy the vibrant colors of the many tropical fruits and vegetables grown in Cambodia, and taste the season’s latest harvest. Some markets are open during weekdays and offer a variety of fresh fruits and veggies, as well as typical Cambodian foods such as chicken fried rice, Fish Amok, Bro Hok, Samlor Kor Kor, fried chicken with ginger and so on.
Recreation
Many opportunities exist …
Ziplining
Boarding water ski
Phnom Kulen Naitional Park
Lodging
Siem Reap, a vibrant city in northwestern Cambodia, is not only the gateway to the iconic Angkor Wat temples but also a welcoming place for students and professionals alike. For medical students visiting for clinical rotations, volunteering, or academic programs, finding suitable lodging is essential. Here are some key options and considerations:
1. Affordable Guesthouses and Hostels
Siem Reap offers numerous budget-friendly accommodations ideal for student travelers. Many guesthouses provide clean, safe, and comfortable rooms with Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and daily cleaning services. Popular options include:
• Onederz Hostel Siem Reap – Centrally located, with shared and private rooms, a rooftop pool, and strong traveler reviews.
• Lub d Cambodia Siem Reap – Offers a modern hostel experience with coworking space, great for students needing study time.
2. Short-Term Apartments
For longer stays, furnished apartments can provide greater independence and comfort. Apartments can range from $200–$500/month depending on size and location. Look for:
• Proximity to hospitals or clinics
• Reliable internet and utilities
• Safe neighborhoods like Wat Bo or Sok San Road
3. Homestays
Staying with a local Cambodian family can offer a more immersive experience. Homestays often include meals and are a great way to learn about local culture. Be sure to clarify language barriers, house rules, and expectations in advance.
4. University or NGO Housing
If you’re working with a local hospital, NGO, or university, ask if they offer housing or have recommendations. Many organizations provide dormitory-style or partnered accommodations for visiting students.
5. Safety and Practical Tips
• Choose accommodations with good reviews and in well-lit, central areas.
• Ensure there’s access to clean water, mosquito nets, and basic first-aid.
• Many places offer laundry and transportation services—ask in advance.
Whether lodging in a hacienda on the beach of the Sea of Cortez in Puerto Penasco, Mexico; a walled convent in the heart of Alajuela, Costa Rica; or in an apartment situated above the bustling metropolis of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, ISL’s lodgings for volunteers are unique and carefully chosen based on very important criteria. Accommodations are safe, clean, and within a reasonable driving distance to service sites and recreational opportunities. Volunteers are provided their own bed, easy access to restrooms andshowers, and meeting spaces for training and fellowship. Many ISL accommodations are unique and may include retreat houses, guest houses or home stays – all of which provide a distinctive cultural experience. ISL Country Coordinators provide a description of your lodging in the Final Trip Document posted to your My ISL Portal prior to your departure.
Country Coordinator: Chanleak Chea, Cambodia
Where is he from? Where has he lived?
Chanleak Chea is from Kampong Cham province. Now he and his family live in Siem Reap City.
What does he love most about his country?
What he loves most is the spirit of the people- their resilience, kindness, and sense of community. No matter the challenges, they stand together.
What is his family like?
They are really close and supportive of each other. Everyone has a great sense of humor, so there’s always laughter at home.
Where did he grow up? What was his childhood like?
I grew up in Kampong Cham province. My childhood taught me a lot. Some parts were fun and carefree. Other helped me grow and learn resilience.
What was the most impactful moment for him during his education?
The most impactful moment in my education was during my final year of college when I had to give a presentation in front of a large audience for the first time. I spent weeks preparing and practicing. When I finally delivered it successfully, I realized I was capable of more than I gave myself credit for. That moment helped me gain confidence and changed how I approached challenges in both academics and life.
What has he worked in besides being the Country Coordinator?
I am a part time location pastor for Enjoy Church Siem Reap. I work on Saturday and Sunday
At what point did he realize what his calling was?
I realized my calling when I joined a conference run by Empower Youth Australia. They taught the participants how to identify their dreams and how to put their dreams on paper. I recognized I was most fulfilled when I could find the key to identify how to make my dream come true. Since then, I’ve felt driven to pursue my calling because it allows me to make the kind of impact I want to.
What was his path to becoming the ISL Country Coordinator?
I would say, this happened through connections I have in America.
How long has he been working with ISL?
A brief summary of what he does as the Country Coordinator?
As a country coordinator, I facilitate international electives by coordinating placements for students with local hospital and doctors. My responsibilities include organizing clinical rotations, ensuring cultural and professional orientation, acting as a liaison between students and local people, and providing logistical and administrative support to ensure a smooth and enriching experience for all participants. I organize accommodations, transportation and whatever it takes for the work of ISL.
What inspires him most about what he does?
It is the opportunity to bridge cultures and foster meaningful learning and experiences. I love working with people. I love helping communities. So being the ISL Country Coordinator is a great opportunity for me to share God’s love with people.