New Hope is a Cambodian Non Government Organization that provides hope for some of the country's poorest families. In particular, they provide education and support for children and it was our privilege to see the place in action this morning. The visit began by our group being picked up by Tuk Tuk from the hotel and driven to the premises on the outskirts of Siem Reap. After some introductions and when the children returned to class, we were allocated rooms to visit, and in my case I went to a small English class of children 13 and 14 years old. The teacher asked me what my occupation was and after learning I was a retired teacher he handed the class over. In the short time available I read part of a book and explained words, sang songs and played a game. After that, our group was driven into the nearby village and we saw first hand the poverty in which the people were living. It was interesting that the girl assigned to look after us (Pipi) was a 'graduate' from New Hope and she was in her 3rd year at university. Needless to say she was a great ambassador for the organization and they were very proud of what she has achieved.
After our tour of the village we returned to the school for an early lunch at their hospitality training facilitity. All of the young people there had been students at New Hope and they served up a delicious lunch for us to enjoy with a drink they prepared as well. We had to leave by 12.30 to check out of the hotel although we did have 2 rooms allocated to freshen up before heading to the airport at 3.15pm.
Our plane was late leaving Siem Reap but there was no rush at Saigon as the Sydney link was a little late as well. A flawless 3 weeks in Vietnam and Cambodia and thanks to Tinh for his superb organization and attention to detail.
Part of the New Hope school and restaurant training facility
There were about 70 children in this class aged from 3 to 8
A beautiful moment, Dr Jill with a 6 week old baby from the village.
Jill giving Chris a donation from 2 of our travelers. Chris comes from Umina and volunteers her time for 2 months of the year to look after sponsorship.
In the hospitality restaurant
The well presented meal they cooked for us
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