On the issue of tourism potential of Cambodia

This article discusses the tourist potential of Cambodia. General characteristics of Cambodia and statistical data on development of this industry are given. Key factors attracting tourists to Cambodia are pointed out. The authors conclude that the popularity of Cambodia as a tourist destination is influenced by geographical characteristics of the country, its rich history and traditions, cultural entertainments, opportunities for water and gastronomic tourism, availability of transport and competitive prices. Among current problems of the tourism industry of Cambodia are the following ones: a lack of professionalism of employees in the spheres of tourism and service, sanitary code violation and a limited choice in public catering institutions. It is pointed out that tourism in Cambodia is a fast-growing industry which is becoming the main sector of national economy. The article contains references to research of other authors on tourism in Cambodia. Based on previous research and the current state of the tourism industry, the authors offer their solutions to existing problems, such as marketing of current tourist destinations of Cambodia and their promotion in target countries, estimation and satisfaction of needs of international tourists, development of country’s image with the help of advertising and Internet, training of future employees in the spheres of tourism, service and hospitality business at specialized Russian universities and creating the Russian-Cambodian college of tourism for preparation of qualified staff...