When people think of Siem Reap, the awe-inspiring towers of Angkor Wat usually come to mind. It’s an icon we are deeply proud of, but those of us who live, work, and create here know that our province is so much more than its ancient stone walls. Siem Reap is alive with winding rivers, lush rural landscapes, vibrant cycling trails, rich artistic traditions, and an extraordinary community spirit.
On September 29, 2026, the local tourism community gathered at the Commune at Rose Apple Square for the Cambodia Branding Forum (CBF 2026), hosted and organized by Millennium Destinations in co-hosting partnership with the Siem Reap Tourism Alliance (STA).
At CWE TRAVEL, we were honored to be at the heart of these conversations. As a female-led business committed to empowering women and elevating local communities, representing the voice of women in travel at CBF 2026 was both a privilege and a powerful reminder of why we do what we do.
A Seat at the Table: Women Driving Destination Transformation
The morning kicked off with high energy and a shared vision: How do we make Siem Reap irresistible in a changing tourism world?
Our Founder & Managing Director, Ms. Hong Ho, took the stage alongside an inspiring lineup of local innovators, change-makers, and industry pioneers for the Plenary Panel. Together, we explored how changing market trends, AI, and evolving traveler values are shaping our destination’s future.
Standing shoulder to shoulder with inspiring women leaders—including Ms. Akim Ly (Adventures Cambodia), Ms. Sathya Sor (Artisans Angkor), Ms. Sokleang Kim (Ladies Tuk Tuk Association), and Ms. Maulita Sari Hani (Planeterra)—amplified a fundamental truth: Women are no longer just supporting tourism in Cambodia; we are leading, innovating, and reshaping its destiny.
From soft adventures and cultural discovery to outdoor sports and wellness, women bring a distinct perspective to hospitality and travel design—one grounded in empathy, cultural preservation, sustainable community development, and deep storytelling. At CWE TRAVEL, we believe that when you empower women in tourism, the benefits ripple across entire families and communities.
Co-Creating the Future: Product, People, and Place
Following an inspiring community coffee break, the forum transitioned into action-oriented co-creation workshops divided into three key pillars:
1. Product: Designing Active & Adventure Experiences
How do we give visitors compelling reasons to stay longer, explore deeper, and venture beyond the traditional circuits? The Product workshop focused on developing market-ready active and adventure journeys—from cycling through rural villages to adrenaline-filled outdoor activities. Travelers today want meaningful stories and active participation, not just passive sightseeing.
2. People: Turning Local Talent into Sustainable Opportunities
In the People workshop, discussions centered on skills, creativity, and entrepreneurship—especially for youth and local women. We explored how to bridge the gap between local talent and tourism markets, shifting from standard service models toward true local stewardship and economic sovereignty.
3. Place: Shaping Neighborhoods and Spaces People Love
The Place breakout looked at placemaking—how local culture, arts, and community identity can bring public spaces to life. By creating vibrant, welcoming spaces, we build a destination that isn’t just incredible to visit, but deeply rewarding to live in.
Turning Big Ideas into Action
The forum concluded with concrete commitments. Rather than leaving ideas on paper, facilitators shared priority actions, potential partnerships, and tangible next steps to propel Siem Reap’s active and adventure tourism forward.
The day wrapped up with an introduction to the Cambodia Ecotourism Network (CEN) and an eco-networking reception, where attendees raised a glass to new collaborations and fresh beginnings.
What This Means for You and CWE TRAVEL
At CWE TRAVEL, our participation in CBF 2026 isn’t just about attending events—it’s about actively shaping the experiences we curate for our travelers.
We are committed to:
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Promoting authentic, active, and eco-friendly journeys that showcase Siem Reap’s hidden natural beauty.
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Empowering local women and local entrepreneurs across every layer of our supply chain.
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Creating travel experiences that matter, helping you build meaningful connections with our lands, culture, and people.
Siem Reap is stepping into an exciting new era of active exploration, community strength, and female leadership. We invite you to step off the beaten track with CWE TRAVEL and experience the vibrant heart of Cambodia like never before.
Are you ready to plan your next sustainable adventure in Cambodia? Reach out to the CWE TRAVEL team today, and let us design a journey that inspires.