Fresh off the welcome upsurge in tourist arrivals, authorities in Kampot revealed ambitious new infrastructure projects to woo more tourists. On Tuesday, Kampot Provincial Governor Mao Thunin announced plans for the largest ship with a restaurant on top as well as a beach in front of the international tourist port, among other mega projects.
The meeting also recognised the earnest efforts of the civil servants and municipal authorities in performing their duties. It noted that there has been a reduction in complaints from the public at large about the authorities, indicating the spirit of active participation in serving the people.
The past months have been witness to dedicated efforts from the authorities in a variety of projects. They include the construction of beaches, parks, statues of fish and seahorse, water cannons and the tallest clock. These projects have been undertaken for the purpose of luring national and international tourists to Kampot.
The meeting revealed that the current month would also see ambassadors and diplomats from 18 countries, in addition to hundreds of Cambodian leaders making the trip to Kampot. The provincial administration has numerous infrastructure development projects in store, all of which are unique historical triumphs for the region.
Among them are traditional Khmer-style bridges, generating electricity from the largest fans on a bridge, construction of the largest ship statue housing a restaurant on top and the development of a beach in an international tourist port.
Outlining the most pressing challenges for the promotion of tourism in Kampot, Chhay Sivlin, President of the Cambodian Tourism Association (CATA), told Khmer Times on Tuesday, “While Kampot’s infrastructure is improving, it still lags behind more developed tourist destinations. Limited road access, inadequate public transportation and the condition of some tourist sites can deter visitors.”
The rainy season can affect accessibility to certain attractions and deter tourists, especially those looking for beach activities, Sivlin continued. While there are charming boutique hotels, the region lacks a variety of luxury accommodation options that might appeal to higher-end tourists.
“Kampot’s potential as a tourist attraction is deeply rooted in its rich history and unique charm,” said Jean-Benoit Lasselin, Managing Partner, C4 Adventures. During the French colonial period, Kampot was an important trading hub and remnants of this era can still be seen in the city’s well-preserved colonial architecture. These historical buildings give Kampot a distinctive character that sets it apart from other destinations in Cambodia.
Jeremie Clement, General Manager of the Peninsula Phnom Penh said, “Kampot can position itself as a fun and authentic destination in Cambodia by offering packages that combine both mountain and beach experiences, with activities designed to make tourists stay longer. For example, a package could include trekking on Bokor Mountain followed by relaxing at the beach, creating a well-rounded experience.”
Actively promoting these options through social media, particularly TikTok, will help attract millennials who are drawn to visually engaging destinations and exciting adventures, Clement added.
To appeal to more traditional tourists, Kampot needs to keep focusing on its unique local products, such as the famous Kampot pepper, which reflects the region’s cultural heritage. By promoting both its adventurous and authentic side, Kampot can attract a wider range of visitors.
According to Soy Sinol, Director of Kampot Provincial Department of Tourism, over 1.3 million tourists made a beeline for Kampot province in the first half of the current year. This was a 29.99 percent boost from the corresponding period in the previous year. Of this figure, 62,000 were international tourists.
(Source: khmertimeskh)