Until recently, Cambodia was known as a closed nation that lagged behind, as compared with the competitive economies of Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines. However, the influence of India and China in Cambodia has enriched the economy and allowed the growth of this country to new heights. With various tourist attractions on the list such as Phnom Penh and the Angkor Wat, you can add Siem Reap as a promising attraction in Cambodia for holiday getaways.
Golf developed in Cambodia only during the 1990’s. Although golf spread throughout the country relatively late, more elite golfers and hobbyists look at Cambodia as their haven, and tourist spots were developed as event organizers were invited. Who would not want to play in a course that boasts the view of Angkor Wat?
The development of golf came with Cambodia’s political and economic openness. With the entry of the country to ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations), and with its increased diplomatic relations with golfing countries like Japan, China, South Korea, Singapore, and Thailand, golf became a favorite pastime for the political elite. Even Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen is an avid golf player who became known as the ambassador of golf in the country.
There are two major golf courses in Cambodia. One of them is the famous Siem Reap or the Angkor Golf Course. Developed by PGA legend Nick Faldo, Siem Reap is a tourist attraction for being the gateway to Angkor Wat. You can see the remnants of colonial architecture, as well as the traces of ancient villages and pagodas that make Sim Reap a pleasant town to travel around. Leisure golfers and professionals will feel how the city will develop as time goes on. More bars, restaurants, spas, and hotels are being constructed to accommodate tourists.
Siem Reap is only a few minutes’ ride to Tonle Sap. Tonle Sap is the largest lake in South East Asia and the most crucial water supply to beginning Siam and other pre-colonial civilizations. You can take a luxury cruise on the lake and view the floating villages that depict the uniqueness of the place. Once you are done with a complete round of golf, you can take a drive to Tonle Sap and go bird watching, and meet local craftspeople and silk weavers.
With the rich culture that supports Angkor Wat, leisure golf in Cambodia is reaching new heights. Cambodia is hoping to expand their roster of golf courses to eight by the year 2010 and become the main attraction for tourists who are interested in the sport. Cambodia hosted its first international golf tournament last November in Phookeethra country club in Siem Reap. With the influx of golf talent and sports organizers, Cambodia can assume tremendous growth in both its sports program and tourism, as they attract foreign tourists who are looking for golf resorts exactly like what Cambodia has to offer. Certainly, golf in Cambodia will take a positive turn, as it becomes a regional player in hosting golf events with Thailand and Malaysia. We might not wait too long for that to happen.