Have you ever wondered where your friendly receptionist learnt how to beam that warm Cambodian smile? How the chatty barman learnt to speak impeccable English or why your fresh bread tastes so good? It’s not by coincidence…

Many of these enthusiastic young hospitality workers have been highly trained at one of three hospitality schools in Siem Reap: Paul Dubrule, Sala Bai and Shinta Mani.

Since the upsurge of tourism in Siem Reap the need for good hospitality training and hotel schools is essential to cope with the growing demands of tourists. According to the Cambodian Ministry of Tourism, Cambodia welcomed 2,015,128 visitors last year (2007) compared to 1,700,041 in 2006. Over the next two years visitor numbers are forecast to increase even more rapidly, especially from the growing European and Chinese markets. Young Cambodians need to be geared up for this influx and these schools provide the means to do so.

Siem Reap is a town of contrast, with 5-star luxury resorts close by local communities living in wooden huts with no electricity or running water. Homeless children run barefoot in the streets alongside beggars, limbless from landmine incidents. This disproportionate balance of wealth can, at times, be extreme. Despite rising tourism numbers, Siem Reap remains one of the most impoverished provinces in Cambodia. When chambermaids earn approximately US$ 100 a month in a hotel, compared to the average annual income per person of approximately US$ 430, it is not surprising these schools are seen as golden opportunities for poverty stricken Cambodians.

The hotel schools offer subjects in front office management, food and beverage, housekeeping and tourism. Classes range from baking, knowledge of wines to responsible travel. Increased numbers of visitors to Siem Reap bring positive economical impacts, but also negative social and environmental impacts. With this in mind, students are taught to buy locally from suppliers and encourage guests to use local restaurants so that some of the economic benefits remain in their communities. What’s more, they are trained in initiatives to help and support vulnerable children and the avoidance of human trafficking.

Each school is very different in their approach, but each offer scholarships to a very lucky few; turning 100’s away every year. Tim, Front Office Manager at Shinta Mani, says it’s hard saying no and often those who are unsuccessful leave in tears. This anguish is often realised as youngsters have missed an opportunity to sustain a future and pull them, and their families, free from the poverty cycle. Selection process is tough but thorough as the schools go out to rural villages, speak to families, neighbours and villages chiefs to ascertain the depth of poverty and the impact the success of the trainee could have on the entire family.

Sala Bai social workers spend more than six months to interview and select. Their criteria for selection is not only poverty, they also accept young girls who, without an education, could end up in poorly paid or less wholesome jobs.

Paul Dubrule offer paid placements for students who are sponsored to participate by their employers. In addition they offer 30 scholarship places a year. Shinta Mani and Sala Bai only offer scholarships and thus, rely heavily on donations to support their students.

Graduates land trainee positions at the ever increasing number of the hotels in town. All schools boast a truly impressive 100% success rate in job placement. Prior to this, students are given workshops for job interviews and CV presentations. Paul Dubrule students can achieve esteemed internships in international hotels and five of the 2007 graduates are currently in Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and Australia and help as an inspiration to fellow students.

Shinta Mani offers each student a paid allowance of US$ 10 every month, a uniform and meals whilst at work. In addition, their families are given a monthly allowance of rice. Guests are welcomed to visit families and experience a different side of Siem Reap, by joining staff on rice deliveries in the beautiful Cambodian countryside. At Sala Bai accommodation is also offered, as placements are advertised throughout Cambodia and students leave their family homes to attend.

All three schools welcome guests to enjoy their hospitality. Whether staying the night or enjoying lunch, guests can contribute to the students learning experience. A practical lesson with real life travellers is more rewarding and challenging than serving other students. It is also an opportunity for visitors to Siem Reap to make a difference, in a small way, as profits generated go back into improving the schools or into scholarship funds.

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Jo Hansen

Business Development Manager at Mekong Experiences

With more than 20 years of experience from the tourism and hospitality sector, Jo completed a Masters in Responsible Tourism Management at Leeds Metropolitan University in 2009, firmly cementing her values in promoting sustainable development. Drawing heavily upon her sales, marketing and events experience within hotels, she works passionately with projects and organisations on a grassroots level in Cambodia to build bridges between poverty alleviation and tourism.

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