PHNOM PENH: 2023 is a big year for Cambodia as the Kingdom has its first new Prime Minister in nearly 40 years, the economy recovers from Covid and Phnom Penh hosts its first Water Festival in four years. Over the weekend, nearly a quarter of the country’s population is estimated to have gathered in the capital city to see dragon boat races, fireworks, concerts and vendors selling delectable treats and souvenirs. Many foreigners could also be spotted among the festivities, some being pleasantly surprised that their holiday coincided with one of the country’s largest celebrations. EAC News was on the scene to get a sense of the Water Festival from an outsider’s perspective.
Perahta from Belgium arrived the day before the festival and had no idea she would be joining in with millions of Cambodians to celebrate the end of rainy season. This is her first time in Cambodia and she noted the good vibes and safe environment within such a massive crowd, especially as a lone female tourist. “For me, it’s interesting to see all this and it’s good vibes here,” she said. “When you travel alone [here], it’s not a problem, for a woman. I think everything is ok.”
Travelling from England, Lucy did not know she was staying at the heart of the festival along the riverside until her hostel’s employees excitedly informed her. “Yeah, it’s brilliant! I’m staying in a hostel which gives me an amazing view of the river, so I’ve been watching them train for the last two days, which was very cool,” she said.
Some international tourists came to see the spectacle and learn about the significance of the festival. We spoke with three Polish tourists who had been in Siem Reap when locals told them about the festival’s epicentre taking place in Phnom Penh. “We just [found out] two days ago from local people,” said one Polish tourist. “They told us it’s one of the biggest festivals in Cambodia and it starts today for the ending of the rainy season and to give thanks for the good weather and the earth.” His friend said they were making the most of their time in Cambodia and discovering new things all the time. “Everything is interesting. The crowd is interesting, the boats are very fascinating,” he said. “We went to see the cocoon farm for the silk on the island.” He was optimistic about Cambodia's tourism industry growing. “We see Cambodia developing. We are happy that the King is also watching the race, so everybody feels connected with the people. I think more and more tourists will come to Cambodia to celebrate and to have a good time,” he said.
Bodin and Darren were visiting from Australia and had returned to accompany their Khmer families to the biggest celebration of the season. They both expressed appreciation and excitement for Khmer festival culture. Bodin brought his family from Sihanoukville to enjoy the festivities. “Cambodia, you know, they put on a good festival and my beautiful family wants to see it. They have never come before,” he said.
Darren was here for Khmer New Year in April and keeps coming back to experience what makes Cambodia special. “The people are so beautiful,” he said. “The food, the culture, Angkor Wat, the temples and Buddhism. It’s a very beautiful place, very kind.” Darren was happy to see the culture he admires putting on yet another fun event. “It’s been really really good. I’ve loved every minute of it so far. Everybody’s out having a really good time,” he said.
Nearly 340 boats with over 20,000 rowers from across the country brought visitors from around the world to celebrate Cambodia's unique draw. With a boat from the Kampong Cham Province being declared the fastest in the country, the Water Festival successfully concluded Tuesday evening having united people in the spirit of unity, joy and cultural preservation.
