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February 14, 2020 | Last Modified: 2020
Travel Experience
Located at Kampong Chhnang at the southernmost tip of Tonle Sap Lake, the Smiling Gecko project envelops sustainable practices that elevate mind, body and soul. Funds derived from the project goes towards helping the local people find sustainable ways to lift themselves out of poverty. A guest house with a kitchen was built on the project site. It opened its doors in November 2015. During a two-day trip, visitors will have the opportunity to gain an insight into the structures of our innovative and holistic social project and the work we do on the ground. You will receive a guided tour of the Smiling Gecko Farm, including a visit to the various cluster projects.
Responsibility
In Cambodia, Smiling Gecko Cambodia is newly founded and operating various projects regarding support, initiate and operate charity projects for families and village communities. Farmhouse Smiling Gecko was supported by the Swiss Hotel Management School Lucerne (SHL) during the first few years to develop specific learning programmes for local staff, while students of the hotel management school made their know-how available to various other Smiling Gecko projects. Today, the farmhouse is run by an experienced Swiss hotel manager who manages the local staff and teaches the apprentices. At the same time, she is coaching a Cambodian hotel manager who will hopefully soon take over full responsibility for the farmhouse. Currently, the resort provides 32 local people with employment in the hotel and restaurant business, so they can earn a living for themselves and their families.
Business Case
The Farmhouse Smiling Gecko is supported by Fundaziun Uccelin established by the Swiss top chef Andreas Caminada to promote excellence in cooking and service. As part of this close cooperation, professionals who have completed the Uccelin course work for four to eight weeks in Cambodia, acting as mentors and tutors of the local kitchen and service teams. By staying at Farmhouse Smiling Gecko, guests support our cluster project and contribute to its success.
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