WhatsApp

Race Across the World at Angkor: Cambodia Bets on Film Tourism

The BBC series films at Ta Prohm, reigniting interest in Siem Reap, 20 years after Lara Croft.

tourism

Updated 2026-08-21 5 min

✨ Summarize this article with AI

ChatGPTPerplexityClaudeGeminiGrokCopilot

In short

  • ●The BBC series 'Race Across the World' filmed at Ta Prohm, Angkor, in August 2026.
  • ●Cambodia uses this filming to promote film tourism, two decades after Lara Croft.
  • ●This media exposure could attract more visitors to Siem Reap, benefiting expats and local businesses.
  • ●The government plans new measures to encourage foreign productions.
2026
Broadcast year
Ta Prohm, Angkor
Filming location
Lara Croft (2001)
Previous reference
Phnom Penh Post
Source

Key facts at a glance

  • Filming confirmed. The BBC series 'Race Across the World' filmed scenes at Ta Prohm in the Angkor park in August 2026.
  • National strategy. The Cambodian government uses this filming to promote film tourism, as it did with Lara Croft in 2001.
  • Expected impact. A 15-20% increase in visitors to Siem Reap is expected within 12 months of broadcast.
  • Economic benefits. Local hotels, restaurants, and agencies should benefit from increased footfall.
  • Incentive measures. The Ministry of Tourism plans new tax advantages for foreign productions.

How it happened

From preparation to broadcast, here are the key steps of this film tourism initiative.

  1. May 2026: The production of 'Race Across the World' obtains filming permits from APSARA.
  2. June 2026: Site preparation, including Ta Prohm, with temple protection measures.
  3. July 2026: Main filming at Angkor, with local and international crews.
  4. August 2026: Official announcement of the filming by the Ministry of Tourism, relayed by the media.
  5. September 2026: Launch of a promotional campaign 'Cambodia: The Movie Destination' on social media.
  6. 2027: Season scheduled to air on BBC, with episodes featuring Angkor.
  7. 2027-2028: Assessment of tourism impact and adjustment of incentives to attract other productions.

Breakdown

Film tourism could have varying effects across visitor segments and local stakeholders.

SegmentFigureDetail
International visitors+15-20%Expected increase after the series airs.
Regional tourists (Asia)+10%Increased interest from neighboring markets like Thailand and Vietnam.
Hotels and guesthouses+12% bookingsRise in overnight stays in areas near Angkor.
Restaurants and shops+8% revenueDirect benefits from increased footfall.
Travel agencies+20% inquiriesNew tour packages featuring filming locations.

What it means for Siem Reap

  • Increased customers for expat-run restaurants, bars, and hotels.
  • Seasonal job opportunities in hospitality and tour guiding.
  • Opportunity to diversify activities with visits to filming locations.
  • Enhanced appeal of Siem Reap for digital nomads seeking an inspiring setting.
  • Need to adapt to a busier tourist season with peak periods.

How to avoid trouble

  1. Step 1: Stay informed about filming periods to avoid areas closed to the public.
  2. Step 2: Prepare your business for increased demand by boosting stock and staff.
  3. Step 3: Update your offerings to include themed tours of filming locations.
  4. Step 4: Collaborate with local authorities to comply with site protection rules.
  5. Step 5: Diversify your income sources to avoid relying solely on tourism.
  6. Step 6: Use social media to promote your business to new visitors.

Frequently asked questions

What is 'Race Across the World'?
It's a British reality TV series aired on BBC, where teams travel around the world without flying, following a given route. The 2026 season included Cambodia.
Why is Ta Prohm a popular filming location?
Ta Prohm is famous for its trees embracing the ruins, a spectacular setting already used in the film 'Lara Croft: Tomb Raider' in 2001.
What impact will it have on expats in Siem Reap?
Expats may benefit from increased customers in their businesses and job opportunities in the tourism sector, but also from a busier season.
Does the Cambodian government support film tourism?
Yes, the Ministry of Tourism plans tax incentives and facilities to attract foreign productions, as was done for Lara Croft.
When will the series be broadcast?
The broadcast is scheduled for 2027 on BBC. Episodes featuring Angkor should boost interest in Siem Reap.

Free expat guide

Visa, housing, health — in your inbox.

🧭

Published by

Siem Reap Hub

The community guide for expats and travelers in Siem Reap, Cambodia