SIEM REAP, Cambodia: Beneath the warm November sun casting a golden glow over the towers of iconic Angkor Wat in Cambodia's Angkor Archaeological Park, a quiet wave of optimism is sweeping through this ancient kingdom.
As the peak travel season kicks off, the historic stones of Angkor Wat are once again echoing with the footsteps of global travelers, bringing a renewed sense of hope to the locals who depend on them.
"Currently, tourist numbers are modest and have not increased significantly," said To Mach, a souvenir vendor. In previous years, sales were better, but now, due to the weak economy and recent conflicts, sales have dropped significantly.
"I'm eager to see more foreign and domestic tourists come and visit the Angkor Wat because when more foreign tourists come, my sales will improve," the vndor added. "I want to encourage tourists of all nationalities to come and visit Cambodia as the kingdom is safe."
The kingdom's high tourist season, running from November through February, with December and January marking the vibrant crescendo, is officially underway. While the initial trickle of international visitors is gentle, it represents a vital turning point.
"International tourist numbers remain modest due to the global economic slowdown and our recent border conflict," said Nou Rattana, a tuk-tuk driver. Since the start of this high season, international tourist numbers at Angkor have gradually increased. It's expected that from mid-November, more international tourists will be coming.
"I'm really keen to see more local and foreign tourists visit Siem Reap province," said the driver. "When more tourists visit, it will directly improve the livelihoods of our local people."
Joining the chorus of hopeful voices is Un Kimyoeun, an English-speaking tour guide who walks the historic pathways of the Angkor Archaeological Park daily.
"Since the start of 2026, international tourist numbers have dropped significantly due to the recent Cambodia-Thailand border conflict," the guide said. "But since this November, we have seen a welcome increase in both national and international tourist numbers. Within Asean, I believe Cambodia stands out as one of the safest destinations for both international and domestic tourists."
Spread across a sprawling 401 square kilometres in north-western Siem Reap province, the Angkor Archaeological Park is the crown jewel of Cambodia's tourism.
It encloses 91 breathtaking temples built between the ninth and 13th centuries, monuments that have survived centuries of change and are now waiting to welcome the world back. - Xinhua
