Volunteering in Cambodia was a deeply alive experience. Through Worldpackers, I arrived at PCF School, a school where English is taught to children. From the very first day, I knew I wouldn’t just be teaching. I would be learning too, often in the most unexpected ways.

My routine naturally formed around the school and community life. I slept in a simple cabin and shared meals as a family, with chickens walking around, dogs and cats coming and going as if it were the most normal thing in the world. Before classes, I would stop by the school cafeteria to buy some snacks, and then I’d head straight to teach. Classes were offered throughout the day, in the morning, afternoon, and evening. I chose mostly afternoon hours, and sometimes I taught at one in the afternoon, right in the peak of the heat. There were moments when I felt like I might pass out, but we were all there together, sweating, laughing, and carrying on.

Lesson preparation usually happened at night, during dinner. It was a shared moment, relaxed and full of conversation, where learning happened naturally. I taught English, yes, but in that process I was constantly learning too. Sometimes it was language, sometimes creativity, sometimes patience, or new ways of explaining things.

The children of the host family were always around, present, helping and learning. The girls, especially, were incredibly intelligent, curious, and attentive. Those kinds of young minds that truly impress you and stay with you long after you leave.

Beyond the school itself, volunteering gave me the chance to meet people from all over the world who were living the same experience. You share stories, meals, lessons, and the simple desire to be there. It becomes a very human and enriching exchange.

Having the opportunity to do this volunteer experience changed the way I travel. It’s something I highly recommend if you want to experience a country from the inside, connect with real people, and live something that goes far beyond tourism.

If you’re considering doing a volunteer experience in Cambodia or something similar and would like real guidance from someone who has lived it, feel free to contact me and I’ll be happy to help you explore options aligned with what you’re looking for.

If this opportunity resonates with you, please send me an email and include “Volunteer Experience – Cambodia” in the subject line so I can provide you with the appropriate guidance and next steps.