Luxury Digs With A Lovely Mission: Hotel de la Paix
For some people, the word "vacation" is synonymous with "escape." However, though we might want to forget some details of our daily lives (deadlines, parking tickets, dentists appointments), there is one thing you should never leave at home. We're talking, of course, about your conscience.
Believe it or not, it is possible to jet-set around the globe, staying in luxurious hotels and sampling the best of the local cuisine, without forgetting your desire to do good. The Hotel de la Paix, located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, is just one of many places that make this possible.
In 2005, the Hotel de la Paix reopened in a brand new building, designed by architect Bill Bensley. The stunning structure was created to reflect Cambodia's ancient architectural traditions, and pays tribute to local temples and sculptures, as well as its natural surroundings. From the courtyard to the bedrooms, every aspect of the Hotel de la Paix is perfectly planned and practically oozes elegance.
But even leaving aside the arts lounge, world class restaurant, and three-story spa, the Hotel de la Paix would be worth a visit just for their social mission. The company has partnered with various aid organizations and NGOs to help pull Cambodia out of poverty. All guests at the Hotel de la Paix are encouraged to get involved in this process in some way—whether it's through visiting their charitable sewing school or through the Pack for a Purpose Project, which encourages travelers to bring along extra items for donation. Philanthropically-inclined globe trotters just need to ask at the front desk, and they can start funneling some funds into the Hotel's many do-good projects.
Ready to plan your Cambodian getaway? Depending on where you book, rooms range from $190 a night to $428. Find out more on the official Hotel de la Paix site.
Just one of the ways the Hotel de la Paix gives back to the community is through the Life and Hope Association. The LHA is a Cambodian non-profit established in 2005 by the monks of Wat Damnak and their friends. Their aim is to bring equal rights and equal opportunity to all by promoting education. They see illiteracy as the cause of all suffering and strive to improve the lives of orphans, vulnerable children and disadvantaged people, in order to put hope in their lives and create the prospects of a better future.
