Photo via Twitter/theGLboutique
Cambodia's Green Leaf Boutique Hotel has only been open for a few months, but already the country's first and only non-profit hotel is making a difference.
On Monday, the Siem Reap accommodation's owner and operator announced hotel revenues have funded several projects, including education programs for more than 3,000 families and renovating a local orphanage.
Founded by a group of Canadian humanitarian workers, the unique concept was inspired by and ideal for tourists interested in giving back.
"This is a very unique concept we have here. Instead of taking advantage of the massive influx of tourism and profiting from it, we decided to use the revenues from the hotel and do something good," said co-founder Amir Azimi in a statement. "We strongly promote sustainable tourism, eco-tours, yoga and health retreats. Basically tourism with a cause."
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"You will feel good about your stay knowing that the money you spend here is helping the community."
What's Inside?
In addition to providing guests with the opportunity to participate in volunteer projects during their stay, the hotel offers a slew of luxury amenities and services.
Wi-Fi, shuttle service and breakfast are all complimentary at this 10-room boutique hotel.
Guests can also rent mobile phones, E-tuks and bikes.
When it comes to relaxing, guests can go for a swim in the pool or set some time aside to take advantage of the hotel's spiritual and yoga services.
The highlight of Green Leaf's eco-friendly amenities is its interactive digital menu system that allows guests to place food and drink orders via a tablet.
Ideal Location
Siem Reap, where the hotel is located, has emerged as a popular tourist destination of late, with TripAdvisor recently ranking it No. 2 in the world.
Over the past three years, the resort town's tourism figures have doubled.
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The hotel is located just minutes from a handful of major attractions, none more popular than Angkor Wat, a temple complex that Lonely Planet ranked as the No. 1 destination.
What's more, 80 percent of the staff at Green Leaf grew up at the local orphanage the hotel is now supporting. And Azimi said the group plans to completely take over management of the orphanage in the near future.
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