“During that time was a civil war. We had no school to study. No teachers to teach as well.”

The Green Leaf Boutique Hotel is located in Siem Reap, Cambodia and offers a way for travellers to give back to communities during their stay. This non-profit hotel uses its funds to provide water wells, filters and baskets to rural communities in Cambodia.

They also purchase school supplies for students and make an effort to encourage young girls especially to pursue an education. Listen as you hear our #impact Podcast co-host Carol Li speak to Lin Chheouy, co-founder of this hotel, to learn more about this country’s history, his personal story and why this hotel plays a role in rebuilding rural communities in Cambodia.

In this episode, you will learn about…

  • Issues that people in Cambodia, especially in rural communities, are facing
  • Lin’s story and why he believes in the Green Leaf Hotel’s work and vision
  • How the Green Leaf Boutique Hotel started 
  • What you can do to get involved in helping to provide clean water and school supplies to communities in Cambodia

As a Cambodian who grew up in a rural area himself, Lin understands the hardships people faced especially after the civil war. He struggled to pursue an education, but after he moved to the city and went through school, he eventually became involved in the founding of this hotel.

“That is my experience and why I love to be involved with this project. I love this job. I love this because we help our community. ”

Are you or anyone you know travelling to Cambodia soon? Want to find a way to give back during your trip? Interested in efforts to provide access to clean water and education? Have you ever wondered how developing nations are uplifting their own communities? Is cross-cultural exchange something you want to learn more about?

You can learn more about the Green Leaf Boutique Hotel, ask about volunteer opportunities and book a reservation on their website. You can also get connected to them on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube

“Do not be scared of Cambodia anymore. When you do come, please look around and help when you can. We are still develop[ing].”

*all photos courtesy of The Green Leaf Boutique Hotel

Special Thanks to Carol Li, our #impact Podcast Ambassador Seoul, who brought this beautiful and inspiring story to our listeners from around the world.