Family Travel Forum

Cambodia’s Siem Reap Alive With Travelers

June 2005

Within sight of ruins nearly 1,000 years old, the little Journeys Within B&B (toll free USA 877/454-3672) and tour company is celebrating its first year in business in Cambodia. Founded by American ex-pat husband/wife partners Brandon and Andrea Ross, the Siem Reap-based business hosts travelers visiting the famous Buddhist shrine of Angkor Wat and guides them on personalized tours of Vietnam, Myanmar (Burma) and this fall, along the mighty Mekong River from China to Vietnam.

According to the company, its First Time Asia Tour, which includes Thailand’s fascinating museums an palaces in Bangkok; a stop at the northern hill city of Chiang Mai for elephant rides; a beach stay on lovely Phuket; and the Angkor Wat site in Siem Reap; is the most familiar with families. Ms. Ross notes, “We have specific guides we use for tours with children who have a great way of making information not too overwhelming.”

Back at the Journeys Within B&B, five more bungalows are being added, including a two-story family suite with a king-bedded room and bath upstairs, and a sofabed, bathroom and kitchenette below. Additionally, a swimming pool and a Baby Ross are expected in time for summer. Visiting families should plan on staying a few days, as there are local opportunities for hot air balloon rides, visits to a nearby lake and the village school, and walks to a “very ruinous” temple that kids can climb through. The Ross’ have recently begun a Give and Take Tour, providing volunteer opportunities in Cambodia and support for local schools and village wells to improve drinking water.