Cambodia to Introduce ‘Film Tourism’ Packages to Boost Tourism Industry
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has announced plans to introduce special packages for "film tourism" in Cambodia, following the success of promoting the country through international films like Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, starring Angelina Jolie.
Incentives for Film Crews
- Film crews will enjoy discounted ticket prices to selected locations, such as within the Angkor Archaeological Park.
- Designated locations for "film tourism" will offer special prices for crews during shooting.
- Incentives will be provided to film companies upon completion of filming.
New Policy for Cast and Crew
- Individual members of cast and crew will receive a package price instead of being charged individually.
Impact of Film Tourism
- Many international tourists have cited films like Lara Croft: Tomb Raider as their inspiration to visit Cambodia.
- The Cambodian government aims to boost the tourism sector, which was affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, through initiatives like the e-arrival system and promotional events like the Gumball 3000.
Suggestions for Modern Tourism Promotions
- Tour guides have encouraged the government to implement more modern tourism promotion strategies, similar to those used in Thailand.
Current Ticket Prices for Angkor Site
- Ticket prices for the Angkor site range from US$37 for a one-day pass to US$72 for a seven-day pass.
- Nearly 700,000 foreign guests visited the Angkor Archaeological Park in the first nine months of 2024, generating over US$32 million in revenue.
This initiative to promote "film tourism" in Cambodia is a strategic move to attract more visitors and boost the country’s tourism industry. By offering incentives to film crews and implementing modern tourism promotion strategies, Cambodia aims to recover from the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic and enhance its position as a top tourist destination.
Film tourism has proven to be a successful marketing tool, as evidenced by the influence of movies like Lara Croft: Tomb Raider in attracting tourists to Cambodia. By capitalizing on this trend and providing special packages for film crews, Cambodia can further leverage its cinematic appeal to attract more visitors and drive tourism revenue.
Furthermore, the government’s efforts to streamline ticket purchasing processes and introduce innovative initiatives like the e-arrival system demonstrate a commitment to enhancing the overall tourism experience in Cambodia. These measures, coupled with strategic partnerships and promotional events, are instrumental in revitalizing the tourism sector and positioning Cambodia as a premier destination for travelers worldwide.
In conclusion, the introduction of "film tourism" packages in Cambodia not only showcases the country’s cultural and historical heritage but also highlights its potential as a vibrant and dynamic tourism destination. By embracing the power of film and leveraging it to attract visitors, Cambodia is setting the stage for sustained growth and prosperity in its tourism industry.