The training focused on at-risk spots of Angkor Archaeological Park. ANA
The Apsara National Authority (ANA) recently concluded a training course provided to 155 travel agents about the general history of Angkor Archaeological Park, the development and repair of its temples and areas which need safety measures in place for tourists.
ANA spokesman Long Kosal said on Sunday that the Department of Tourism Development of Angkor collaborated with the Department of Conservation of Monuments in the Angkor Park, archaeologists and Angkor Training Centre to enhance the ability of 155 travel agents.
The training focused on the risk at temples in Angkor Archaeological Park and how to correctly explain Angkor’s history to tourists. The training lasted one month and ended on September 30, Kosal said.
“We organised training [sessions] many times but not for the same skills. We changed [to teaching] different skills following the requirements of recent times.
“Our officials are still lacking [in certain areas]. We will further open vocational training and find national and international coaches to train people in the tourism industry,” he said.
The head of travel agents in Angkor Park Lim Sru told The Post on Sunday that the training was mainly about different risks at the temples.
Among the 155 participants in the training were the chief and deputy chief of the main areas at the Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, Pre Rup, and Bakong temples.
The training taught participants to understand the role of travel agents in explaining to national and international tourists the general history of Angkor Park, its history of conservation and repair, at-risk locations and prevention measures in place at various temples to restore them.
“Through this lesson, local travel agents can take part in observing, giving information to tourists and preventing possible risks at the temples. It also teaches primary rescue [methods] for tourists who have health issues while visiting the Angkor Park,” he said.
The Post could not contact any of the 155 trainees for comment on Sunday.
ANA deputy director-general in charge of the Angkor Tourism Development Department, Sok Sangvar, said during the closing ceremony at Bakong temple on Friday that he is thankful for all the trainers who took part in providing knowledge and experience to the travel agents.
He said the travel agents who took part in the training will take their knowledge and use and share it in their daily lives.
