G Adventures’ annual community tourism summit, GX Cambodia, has begun in Phnom Penh, with 600 participants in attendance, including 18 Canadian travel advisors who earned their spots primarily by selling G Adventures trips. The event, now in its 4th year, aims to boost tourism in the host country while promoting sustainable travel practices, following successful editions in Peru, India, and Jordan.
This year’s gathering brings together travel advisors, industry partners, travelers, and media representatives, culminating on World Tourism Day, September 27. The summit is part of G Adventures’ broader mission to support destinations in need of tourism, showcasing the transformative power of community-focused travel.
Showcasing Cambodia’s Potential
G Adventures founder Bruce Poon Tip emphasized Cambodia’s need for tourism and its potential as a destination, highlighting its tourism assets and the transformational impact of responsible travel. Speaking at a festival fair featuring Planeterra projects, he noted, “GX comes to a country that really needs tourism, and GX is a celebration of the right kind of tourism, community tourism.” Poon Tip also shared his discussions with Cambodia’s Prime Minister, showing the country’s suitability for the summit due to its rich cultural heritage and the positive changes tourism can bring when done responsibly.
The event features a festival fair showcasing projects by Planeterra, G Adventures’ non-profit partner. Planeterra focuses on community tourism, supporting local initiatives and environmental restoration through tourism revenue.
Impact and Engagement
Kelly Galaski, Planeterra’s vice president, explained how tourism can uplift communities and support social enterprises, cooperatives, and women’s groups. She highlighted that tourism revenue helps fund environmental restoration and community development projects. The summit includes fundraising activities for Planeterra, such as a wish tree and a dunk tank, where participants, including G Adventures president Jamie Sweeting, took part for a good cause. Despite some rain, the festivities maintained high spirits.
G Adventures’ managing director, David Green, noted the ripple effect of GX events on sales and destination interest. He encouraged travel advisors to participate by selling G Adventures trips or through wildcard entries, such as fundraising for Planeterra. Green also highlighted the Change Makers incentive, which offers spots at GX for top performers, and emphasized the importance of supporting Canadian businesses, noting G Adventures’ 36-year commitment to community-focused travel.
Exploring Cambodia
Over the coming days, attendees will explore Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, visiting iconic sites like Angkor Wat, Sambor Prei Kuk, and the Royal Palace. Cambodia’s Minister of Tourism, Huot Hak, welcomed the group at a special event held at Wat Phnom, a Buddhist temple grounds opened exclusively for the GX group. He wished attendees memorable experiences and unforgettable memories during their stay in Cambodia.