How Local Teamwork Saved a 45-Jeep Expedition
We received an incredible assignment from one of our long-standing clients. A massive group of over 90 French tourists wanted a fun and adventurous full-day jeep tour in Siem Reap. “Oh, and by the way,” said Exo Travel (the company giving us the booking), “they all want to travel as one group. So, we’ll need 45 jeeps. Can you make it happen?”
EXO Travel is a Destination Management Company (DMC) and a certified B Corporation focused on creating responsible, sustainable, and culturally immersive travel experiences in emerging Asian and Middle Eastern destinations. They are specialists in MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) services, including large-scale Jeep expeditions.
Absolutely, we can make it happen! Our seasoned office team sprang into action and managed to secure all 45 jeeps. While CambodiaJeep operates 18 of its own, the rest were expertly sourced and hired from other local jeep owners. It took a phenomenal amount of coordination, but once again, our team pulled off a logistical triumph!
The guests were staying at the luxurious Sofitel Hotel, a 5-star resort in Siem Reap. The sight as they were collected was utterly magnificent: 45 jeeps lined up in perfect formation on the hotel’s parking lot! The convoy then set off, rumbling its way through the beautiful Siem Reap countryside.
The Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort is a 5-star luxury hotel renowned for its colonial-inspired French and Khmer design, lush tropical gardens, and exceptional service, located close to Angkor Wat.
The Power of the Green Season
September is known as the Green Season. The result is that the rice fields look absolutely stunning and green; however, this season also brings the chance of rain. The day before, the skies absolutely poured, and it rained heavily all night long. Luckily, the morning brought a break in the weather and the sun peeked out. However, the heavy rain meant we had to adjust our itinerary. The small paths through the rice fields we planned to use were now completely submerged.
Our dedicated scouting team was out early to inspect the route. Due to the high water levels that had flooded many roads, they decided on a minor course correction. Just as they neared the Golden Silk Farm, they spotted a few people diligently working on a brand-new bridge! The force of the water had washed away a section of the road, making it impossible for vehicles to reach the farm.
The amazing staff at the Golden Silk Farm were constructing a temporary bridge right then and there so our jeeps could cross! Wooden planks were rushed in, and in less than two hours, the bridge was finished! A huge thanks to the Golden Silk Farm team for making sure our guests could still enjoy their visit!
Golden Silk Pheach is a social enterprise that preserves the traditional Khmer art of weaving rare golden silk. Providing employment for former orphans and disadvantaged women in the Banteay Srei district.
Had the bridge not been completed in time, or if it wasn’t sturdy enough, we had a challenging backup plan ready. This alternative route—driving down small, overgrown tracks and even through a stretch of shallow water—would have been a serious adventure for 45 jeeps. But it was possible! Fortunately, the new bridge was finished and solid. Adventure saved!
After a fascinating visit to the silk farm, the guests were treated to an excellent lunch at Bong Thom Homestay, where they could trade exciting stories about their morning adventures.
Bong Thom Home Stay is a community-based tourism venture offering a farm-based cultural experience. But also traditional Cambodian meals made with local products in rural Siem Reap.
In short, thanks to the fantastic cooperation with local providers in Siem Reap, we once again delivered an unbelievably beautiful and adventurous day to a very large group of tourists!
Are you wondering how we can elevate your next MICE event? Find out more here!
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