Fobotravel

About the Operator

Vibol has been involved in tourism since 1998 when during his school holidays he would take visitors as a motor taxi driver to the Temples of Angkor. After graduating high school, he was trained by the Ministry of Tourism and became a professional English speaking tour guide. He attended the University of Build Bright at night and earned a degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management. During this time in 2004, he was chosen by the International Youth Exchange to travel to Sweden. In 2008, he traveled to Australia on another cultural exchange program and had the opportunity to travel all around the country. Vibol continued his studies at Build Bright University in Siem Reap, Cambodia where he received a Master's Degree in Business. He became a tour leader for many international companies and traveled around Indochina. While working with an international team, he established OPA0001. His goal is to ensure that visitors to Indochina enjoy a safe and memorable holiday while being responsible "green" travelers. See the real Indochina with OPA0001!

Fobo Rating Details

Has received positive reviews - OPA0001has received many positive testimonials from its past customers from all over the world.

Ben Sempala-Ntege, London – “His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester has asked me to thank you most sincerely for your hospitality and organization in the arrangements for his visit to Cambodia from the 26th to 28th June 2010. It was a most enjoyable two days and clearly a large number of people worked very hard indeed both in view and behind the scenes. His Royal Highness would wish to pass on his thanks and appreciation to all those involved for such an informative and interesting visit. On a personal note, may I thank you for all your hard work and support in planning this visit. It was a privilege for me to be educated about your humbling Khmer history. Could I also ask you to pass on my sincere thanks to Sarun. The Duke of Gloucester would like me to convey his very warmest regards to you and everyone at Green Era Travel, and he wishes the very best of luck for the future to you all.”

Is green and responsible in its operations - At OPA0001, we do all we can to mitigate the negative aspects of tourism and maximize the positive aspects on the environment as well on the local population. In an effort to reduce the carbon emissions caused by air travel, our travel routes within Indochina are planned to have as little air travel as possible. We have the utmost respect for local customs and traditions, and we provide you with all the information you need to make your trip safe, comfortable and enjoyable. You will visit the most interesting venues, while learning about local history and the people that live there. You can have an entertaining and informative trip, and enjoy the hospitality of Southeast Asia, and at the same time give support to the local community. We urge visitors to buy locally made products and to patronize local businesses (restaurants and shops) which will create more employment. Because of the tragic past histories of several Southeast Asian countries, poverty is still prevalent, and we support NGOs dedicated to improving conditions in the community. In order to provide a small amount of assistance to such organizations, $10 from each booking contribute to the charity organization providing education to poor children, and developing local communities. As stated above, always ask local people before photographing them. Even when photographing children, ask beforehand. It is recommended that you not buy from children selling on the streets on the theory that this encourages them to be on the street, and they wont go to school. However, they are bringing income to their families, and they are learning about entrepreneurship. Use your own judgement regarding this. But it is advised not to give money to begging children, especially those carrying babies. There will always be an adult handler nearby waiting to take the money. You may bring toys for children at an orphanage or school, however please do not bring battery operated toys, or toy guns or other toy weapons. It is strongly advised to not buy any artifacts. Many archeological sites have been looted, thus robbing countries of their history and cultural heritage. It is illegal to buy and export cultural artifacts without a license. Plus, fake artifacts abound, and it is almost impossible for non-expert to tell the difference. It is recommended that you do buy new handicrafts produced by local organizations supporting local crafts people. It is also illegal to purchase any wildlife products from endangered species. After habitat destruction, the illegal trade in wildlife is the second largest threat to species extinction. When shopping in local markets and small shops, bargaining is the norm. However small shopkeepers make their living in these shops, so please bargain only if you really think the price is too high. As much as possible, try local food. You never know what you may like. Also try fresh fruit from the local market. We all want to have a clean environment. However, local people often seem oblivious to the pollution around them. But you can set an example by not throwing your trash around. It may not always be possible to find a trash can, so keep your trash with you until you can dispose of it properly. Plastic bags are a major cause of pollution. When shopping, put your purchases in your bag or backpack so you do not have to take plastic bags. If you do take plastic bags, try to reuse them.