Study Abroad Programs in Cambodia

Leaving South Africa to come teach in Cambodia was one of the craziest ideas I ever came up with, but it turned out to be the BEST times of my Life!! Working and getting to know amazing people from the start and the process was with no flaws from the word go. The ongoing & continuous support filled with amazing experiences is something I will never exchange for anything!!! Ok, I will exchange their contact details to others to experience amazing service and make lifelong memories!

The hardest part about doing something new, is always the first step. Moving to a new country and look to start down a new career path would definitely fall under "something new". Xplore Asia made the first step, and the second step AND the third step just easier. The support the team offers is genuine and very helpful. When I first arrived, I still hadn't gotten a placement at a school, which is normal considering it was near end of the term. However, the team worked hard every day to get me one and within a month I had a placement in Phnom Penh. They have a team locally that will answer any questions, give advice and sometimes plan events for the teachers in the area. Cambodia itself is incredible! The culture is rich, and the people are some of the friendliest people you will ever meet. I have been here for two years so far and will be continuing for at least a few more. As with any journey there are challenges but if I ever needed help with any of them Xplore Asia's team helped. As a new teacher looking to build a solid teaching foundation, I appreciate all the support from the school and Xplore Asia!

I was lucky enough to be placed at a school in the province of Ratanakiri. Beautiful people, staff and children alike. The staff are so welcoming, the children so polite. It was extraordinarily difficult to leave my family at the age of 55, but the experience has been with it. And I get home as often as I can.

This was an incredibly full and insightful experience for me as a pre-physical therapy student. I had never had language or cultural experiences like this before, and I learned so much. Everyone at IMA and the hospital was patient and kind to me and supportive of all of my experiences (good or challenging). I loved this internship and would highly recommend it to other students interested in healthcare, rehabilitation, and global medicine. Thank you for everything! Cusco, Perú was a surprise, to say the least. I had not expected to fall more in love with healthcare—or with a place—quite so much. To start, I was nervous to begin my International Medical Aid (IMA) adventure, but I had been in uncomfortably new situations before. I had jumped into the unknown and reminded myself that it wouldn’t be unknown forever. When I first arrived, I remember thoroughly investigating the schedule and looking around at my fellow cohort members. Little did I know that my roommate would become one of my best friends and that I would learn more about what it means to become a healthcare provider—and future physical therapist—than I ever thought possible. One of the most memorable lectures given, in my opinion, was about the differences between Peruvian and U.S. healthcare systems. Dr. Fabricio began the lecture by asking us to define the word health. Health. This word is used in almost every sentence or conversation in the healthcare profession—it’s literally in the name of the field. So it was surprising when we all looked a little incredulous and were unable to give an articulate answer. Health is defined as the complete state of well-being (Fabricio 2025). This understanding—that all parts of being human are essential to understanding the whole—is fundamental to healthcare and especially meaningful in physical therapy, where we treat function, lifestyle, and the person as a whole. I loved this lecture in particular because it highlighted how being holistic is important in becoming and being a great clinician. One of the primary differences between Peruvian and American healthcare is the emphasis on understanding other approaches to medicine, including traditional or holistic methods, apart from symptom-based diagnoses. From herbal remedies such as coca tea to alternative religious or spiritual solutions, doctors in Peru look at a multitude of options when working with patients. “The investigation of plant mixtures used in traditional medicine in Northern Peru yielded a total of 974 herbal preparations used to treat 164 different afflictions” (Bussmann et al. 2010). Traditional medicine is given serious consideration alongside formally trained medicine. There isn’t always a black-or-white solution, but rather many different ways of solving a given issue. This holistic approach is incredibly different from how allopathic medical training in the United States often functions, which is primarily symptom-based. This was very impactful to me, as I think that holistic healthcare is often lacking in the United States. It is invaluable to look at the entirety of a person’s health rather than just their symptoms. One of the main aspects of healthcare that was further developed during my experience with International Medical Aid was the reminder that, whether as a physician, physical therapist, or any provider, you are working with people—not just their symptoms. Your patients are more than the sheet of paper in front of you. A very interesting traditional medicinal approach that was widely used was chewing coca leaves. “Andean Indians have used coca leaves (Erythroxylon coca and related species) for centuries to enhance physical performance” (Casikar et al. 2010). It was common knowledge that coca tea was invaluable at high altitudes and for physical exertion in the Andean climate. For many problems involving headaches, nausea, or other symptoms of altitude sickness, coca leaves were prescribed. While there are some traditional medicine types in the United States, most are not considered central in general practice and are rarely integrated into mainstream care. As I am from a moderate altitude, I did not drink coca tea very often, but the times that I did, I noticed that the caffeine and properties of the leaves helped to alleviate uncomfortable symptoms I was experiencing. One of the most memorable times that I took advantage of coca leaf properties was on IMA’s clinical outreach day in a rural community in the Andean mountains. The community was settled at approximately 13,000 feet in elevation, so I had a slight headache driving up. This was one of my favorite days during my IMA experience due to the connections I made with the doctors and community members, as well as the sheer amount of knowledge I gained. I learned more than I could have imagined about rural health clinics—how doctors and providers properly evaluate patients in low-income settings and how to ask genuine questions that look at an entire person, not just their pain. As someone interested in physical therapy, this was especially powerful: I saw that medicine and rehabilitation are about the health of a person’s life and who they are, not just their list of symptoms or their diagnosis. I was able to see the true care that doctors and providers put into their work and their patients. This is what I wish to emulate when I become a physical therapist. I want to truly see people for who they are, not just their problems or functional limitations. International Medical Aid was an incredibly impactful experience that I would recommend to any student interested in cross-cultural experiences in healthcare, especially those exploring careers in physical therapy, rehabilitation, or patient-centered care. I am incredibly grateful to the IMA staff and the doctors at EsSalud for their patience and guidance, without which I would not have created such valuable connections or learned so deeply about what it means to be a healthcare provider.

My experience so far in Cambodia is truly a great experience. When I first arrived, I definitely had a culture shock but with the help of Xplore Asia, my transition into a new country has been a lot smoother. I’ve learned that the Cambodians/ Khmer people are extremely kind, generous and helpful also. If you need any assistance with anything, there isn’t a helping hand that’s far away. I really adore the Cambodia/ Khmer community- they’re all about community and teamwork! The food here is amazing! My favorite dish is the Curry Chicken and Rice. I have it maybe once a week but there’s plenty of food you can choose from. Last but not least, I really love being a teacher here. My students are eager and ready to learn everyday! I learn a lot from them as well. Overall my experience in Cambodia has been one of the most rewarding experiences and plan to stay for a while to fully immerse in the culture!

My semester with Pacific Discovery surprised me in the best way possible. I don’t know what I expected going into the trip, but what I got was an adventure full of ups and downs, personal growth, adventure, physical, mental, and emotional challenge, new friends, life long memories, and a widened perspective. Having traveled alone before, I was surprised by how this program in specific is unlike any trip I could have planned on my own. The effort and heart put into it really shows and it was the perfect way to be introduced to South East Asia.

My time is Southeast Asia was something I will never forget. I got to build incredibly friendships with people and experience a lot of firsts. We went zip lining , snorkeling, to the beach and we volunteered with amazing foundations. We learned Thai and experienced what it was like to live with a host family. Overall this trip has taught me a lot about myself and I would recommend that everyone study abroad.

My time abroad in Thailand and Cambodia was my first time ever leaving the United States. It has always been a dream of mine to travel and I’m forever thankful to Carpe Mundi for giving me the opportunity. The 2 months I spent in Southeast Asia were the best 2 months of my life. I got to hike with elephants, go zip lining, scuba dive in the warm waters of Cambodia, explore huge cities, and spend time volunteering with local people and communities. I made deep connections with my host family and the people in my cohort. Not only did I get to experience all of these amazing things and make life long friendships, I was also able to learn more about myself. I discovered more about who I am as a person and the different things I am interested in. I was also able to push myself out of my comfort zone and try things I never thought I would be able to do. This experience is something that will last with me for the rest of my life.

Pacific Discovery's Southeast Asia program was the perfect mix of volunteering, adventure travel, independent exploring, and personal development. My program leaders Jess & Devin are some of the coolest people I know and they were always there to support us. It was very clear while traveling how much effort was put into planning the program and if you are at all thinking about traveling with Pacific Discovery I would say you ABSOLUTELY should.

Those 3 months were some of the most incredible of my life, and I will be eternally grateful to Carpe and all the amazing people who make these trips happen. So I wanted to say thank you! I still think about the trip everyday, and I am filled with so many memories and experiences that will carry on into the rest of my life, and hopefully keep me traveling for a long, long time! I have the travel bug now for sure. The Southeast Asia trip was just unbelievable; I have nothing but good things to say about it, and if any future students have any questions about anything..packing or what to expect, etc, i would love to be of help! I hope to stay part of the carpe family and maybe one day even lead a trip of my own! I just wanted to let all the staff at carpe know how much this trip meant to be, and what a great program you guys have. The trip has changed my life. Thank you for everything!

This was the first time I had ever left the United States. Being Cambodian I was really drawn to the South East Asia Program since my dad didn't really teach me very much about our heritage. I was very afraid at first but as it came closer to the day we would leave I was so excited. To partake in the Meditation retreat in Thailand, the ancient temples of Angkor Wat and the home stay in Sapa, Vietnam I can safely say that this was the most transforming experience I had ever had in my life. I learned more about myself, others, and the world in the three months abroad than the 20 years I had in Portland, Oregon. If you have any doubts or inclinations not to travel but you want to Carpe Diem will help you and you will learn along the way.

I didn't know what to expect from this experience, but when it happened it was a journey that changed my perspective in many ways. Carpe Diem education gave me an opportunity to travel and learn. I was challenged mentally and emotionally and was able to get out of my comfort zone which was something I never knew would be possible. I grew as a person. The Overseas educators were supportive and pushed us to get out of our comfort zones. The culture, the history, the food, and meeting new people was incredible. I surrounded myself with new adventures and through that I discovered myself.

Carpe Diem was a last minute decision for me. I didn't know what to do with my semester free and out of the blue Carpe showed up. I had no idea what I was getting myself into but I didn't look back. The trip felt very real. A lot of these programs can be a lot of bullshit where you go to a "remote country" and live it your way when you should be living it their way, if that makes sense. Carpe Diem made it as real as possible. This included talking about how problematic it was that we were all there doing this and realizing our privilege and also respecting that their culture is their culture and not ours to take. Very well done.

It is ridiculous to think that one could choose one event that alone led to the most learning. The course was an entity built up from thousands of minute segments. Simply labeling one of these moments as "the most influential" is like trying to feel the power of a storm from a single raindrop. The course was profound, sincere, authentic, influenceable, and unforgettable. Health and Safety: Knowledgeable instructors kept our safety a priority.

Weather you are called by the the vibrant, green rice patties of southeast Asia or the warm plains of west Africa, responsibly traveling the world with Where There be Dragons is an elucidating experience. Dragons courses are intentionally designed to foster a global citizen. My Dragons-Cambodia course revealed a way of life that is very different from my familiar, midwestern comfort zone, but simultaneously impressed upon me that we all share one world. Cambodia is especially beautiful, full of rice, ice coffee, wrinkled smiles, beeping motorbikes, incense, and saffron robes. However, it is also plagued with political vice, human rights violations, limited access to education, and a cruel past. The spirit of Cambodia is infectious--full of determination, kindness, and potential. What I learned in and about Cambodia has translated into all aspects of my approach to life.

It's been two years now since I went to Cambodia with a small group of committed peers and instructors, and I still feel its influence on my life every day. This program, with its absolutely authentic commitment to cultural engagement, deep questions and challenging scope, has fundamentally shaped the way I approach the world and helped me grow in incredible ways, as well as giving me lifelong friends and partners in change. I don't think there is anything like it!

Like my peers, my experience with this program was absolutely incredible--there simply aren't words to describe how much the things I've learned from it are a part to my life, two years later. This experience kindled a fire and fervor that is with me always. When people ask me why I am the way I am, I almost immediately respond with this experience. I went into it thinking it would be a great way to experience a new culture, spend a summer, and, embarrassingly, pad my resume. I left feeling stronger than I ever felt was possible, with a deeply-rooted sense of the world around me and an unquenchable thirst for adventure. Academics: I learned Khmer language and culture with a depth and breadth that I would never have known otherwise. Living Situation: Authentic. Cultural Immersion: It was as absolutely as it possibly could have been for a six-week program--the homestays are phenomenal. Program Administration: The leaders are mentors in the most genuine sense--they care deeply and inspire endlessly.

When I first heard about the Where There Be Dragons programs, I honestly figured that it would be a good way for me to grab a college's attention. I mean, what admissions officer wouldn't look twice when your application says you've been to Cambodia or Bolivia? But the Dragons trip to Cambodia ended up being so much more to me, more to me than could be explained by words alone. Cambodia changed me. My interactions with native Cambodians, with the group leaders, and with my fellow students, led me to realize that life cannot simply be categorized as a list of events or a path from A to E, stopping at points B, C, and D on route; you may start at A, but you could end up at B, E, or Z. I strongly believe that the Cambodia, Development and Peace would, as a wise friend of mine once said, stay with you forever because you can never forget an experience that you love and that changes you. Academics: My grasp of Khmer was never quite up to the level of the other students, though this was more because I knew French and spoke it with the natives rather than Khmer. The teaching was fantastic, however. Cultural Immersion: I describe the trip to my friends and family as one of cultural immersion. You don't need to actively try to be part of Cambodia; you just are, every minute of every day that you are there. The home stays, in particular, get you intimately familiar with the local populace, so much so that its heart wrenching when you eventually do have to move on from each home stay.

Looking back, my experience with Dragons was absolutely life-changing. It has shaped who I am in fundamental ways. My time in Cambodia taught me so much about community, culture, religion, travel, development, and family. My fellow students remain some of my best friends. My instructors remain some of my most influential mentors. Cambodia remains one of my favorite places in the world. If you are looking for a unique, rugged, real study abroad experience that will teach you more than any classroom, then do dragons!!!

I can't stress enough how amazing my experience was in Cambodia. I am confident that I would not have had as unique or fulfilling a journey with any other organization. Where There Be Dragon's gave me more than I signed up for, exceeded all my expectations, and opened the gate for so much personal growth and sense of self. I still feel the positive effects of the trip to this day, two years later, and I can only say Akun Char'ah. (Thank you very much!) Living Situation: In terms of living situations, we moved around often enough to see almost the whole country, but stayed in one place with enough time to adjust and get rooted in the culture there. I always felt safe and that my essential needs could be met wherever we were. As I spent more time in Cambodia, I grew comfortable in the country and was proud of the moments where I felt pushed out of my comfort zone, but overcame this with Dragon's help. Cultural Immersion: A major focal point of this trip was learning to be a traveler, instead of tourist, and how to have the most local experience possible. For example, we were never stuck on a tour bus or eating at an American fast-food restaurant while in Cambodia. The hours I spent with my host family and with Mara, our in-country instructor, are some of the most profound memories I have. The simple task of mailing a letter by myself in the city turned into an all-day affair, which strengthened my sense of direction, provided time to practice my language-skills in a real-life situation, and totally gave me a sense of pride and accomplishment. Program Administration: The three instructors that coordinated and led my trip with Dragons are still some of the most inspirational people I have ever met. They take the time to meet with students individually throughout the course to make sure that everyone is getting the most out of the experience, and personally establishing and meeting goals. My instructor team led us enough so that I felt I could trust them no matter what, or go to them if I was struggling, but they gave us enough space to explore and grow on our own. They are also some of the most fun people I know- there was rarely a time when we were not laughing, dancing in the mid-day rain, singing on a bumpy tuk-tuk ride, or holding hands and watching the stars.