Our Story & Impact - CWE Travel Cambodia

It started with one dream.

Growing up in a small rural village near Siem Reap, our founder Hong learned that opportunity was never equally shared. Like many Cambodian women, she witnessed mothers, sisters and daughters working tirelessly while remaining underrepresented in leadership and business.

Beginning her tourism career in 2013, Hong gained experience across hospitality, guiding, tour operations, cycling tours and community tourism while completing her university education. Each traveler she met strengthened one belief: Cambodia deserves to be experienced through the people who know it best, and women deserve an equal opportunity to lead that experience.

When the COVID-19 pandemic brought tourism to a standstill, she saw not only hardship but also a chance to rethink tourism. In 2023, she founded CWE TRAVEL—not simply as another travel company, but as a platform where tourism creates opportunities for women, youth and local communities while offering visitors authentic, meaningful journeys.

Why We Exist

Cambodia is far more than its iconic temples. It is the warmth of village hospitality, the wisdom of Buddhist traditions, the beauty of lotus farms, the flavours of family kitchens and the stories shared by local communities.

Our mission is to connect travellers with the real Cambodia while ensuring that tourism benefits the people who call it home.

Women Creating Lasting Impact

Women are among the most powerful drivers of sustainable economic growth. Around the world, evidence shows that when women earn an income, they are more likely to reinvest in their children’s education, family wellbeing and their local communities.

At CWE TRAVEL, empowering women is not charity—it is a long-term investment in Cambodia’s future. Every female guide, driver, operations professional and local entrepreneur we support contributes to stronger families, resilient communities and a more inclusive tourism industry.

Our Impact Philosophy

Every booking creates a ripple effect.

Authentic experiences for travellers.
Meaningful careers for women.
Income for local businesses and communities.
Respect for Cambodia’s culture and heritage.
Responsible tourism that protects people, places and traditions.

Meet the Team

The Local Hearts Behind Every Journey

At CWE TRAVEL, every unforgettable journey begins with the people who make it possible.

We are more than a travel company—we are passionate Cambodians, storytellers, local experts, and proud ambassadors of our country’s rich culture and traditions. As a female-led tour operator in Cambodia, our team believes that travel has the power to connect people, preserve heritage, and create meaningful opportunities for local communities.
Every member of our team shares one common purpose: to help you experience Cambodia through authentic human connections, genuine hospitality, and unforgettable moments.

Whether you’re exploring the ancient temples of Angkor, receiving a traditional Buddhist blessing, discovering hidden villages, or enjoying local cuisine, you’ll travel with people who genuinely love sharing the Cambodia they call home.

Founder & Managing Director

Every journey has the power to change a life—sometimes the traveller’s, sometimes the local community’s, and often both.

Raised in a humble rural village near Siem Reap, Hong Ho understands the true meaning of resilience, community, and hope. Growing up as one of seven children, she learned from an early age that opportunity is precious and that success becomes far more meaningful when it is shared with others.

Her journey into tourism began in 2013, working in hospitality before becoming a cycling guide, professional tour leader, and tourism specialist while pursuing a degree in International Relations. Along the way, she welcomed travellers from every corner of the world and discovered that the most memorable experiences were never just about famous landmarks—they were about the people, the stories, and the genuine connections created along the way.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, when Cambodia’s tourism industry came to a standstill, Hong saw an opportunity to rebuild tourism differently. Rather than returning to business as usual, she envisioned a travel company that would create authentic experiences while empowering Cambodian women to become leaders, entrepreneurs, guides, and changemakers.

That vision became CWE TRAVEL (Cambodia Women Empowered Travel) in 2023.

Today, Hong continues to lead the company with a simple but powerful belief: when local women are empowered, families become stronger, communities become more resilient, and tourism creates benefits that last long after a journey ends.

Her mission is to ensure every guest leaves Cambodia not only with beautiful photographs, but with a deeper understanding of its people, culture, and spirit.

Tour Guide & Product Development

The most beautiful places are often found through the stories of the people who live there.

Growing up near the breathtaking landscapes of Tonlé Sap Lake, Borey developed a deep appreciation for Cambodia’s natural beauty, traditional way of life, and close-knit communities.
Her background in hospitality and community volunteering has shaped her warm, thoughtful approach to welcoming visitors from around the world. She believes every traveller deserves more than a sightseeing tour—they deserve an authentic experience that reflects the heart and soul of Cambodia.

As both a professional tour guide and product development specialist, Borey carefully designs experiences that connect travellers with local artisans, family businesses, spiritual traditions, and hidden places rarely found in guidebooks.

Her genuine curiosity, compassionate nature, and love for cultural exchange ensure that every journey feels personal, inspiring, and unforgettable.

Sales & Tour Operations

Behind every seamless journey is thoughtful planning and genuine care.

Born and raised in Siem Reap, Socheata has always been passionate about sharing the beauty and hospitality of her hometown with the world.

After studying Tourism and Hospitality Management, she built valuable experience in hotel operations and nonprofit organisations supporting girls and young women. These experiences strengthened her belief that tourism can become a powerful force for education, empowerment, and community development.

At CWE TRAVEL, Socheata transforms travel ideas into carefully planned journeys, ensuring every detail—from the first enquiry to the final farewell—is handled with professionalism, warmth, and care.

She takes pride in helping guests discover a side of Cambodia that goes beyond the temples—introducing them to local traditions, authentic culture, and meaningful human connections that often become the highlight of their journey.

More Than a Team

Together, we are united by one shared vision:

To create authentic Cambodia travel experiences that empower women, support local communities, celebrate cultural heritage, and inspire travellers from around the world.

When you travel with CWE TRAVEL, you are not only exploring Cambodia with experienced local experts—you are supporting a female-led Cambodian travel company committed to creating lasting positive impact through responsible tourism.

We look forward to welcoming you and sharing the Cambodia we proudly call home.