Kompong Chhnang, Cambodia

Cambodia, a Southeast Asian country known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning temples, is also home to the inspiring Smiling Gecko Farmhouse. Situated in the countryside near Phnom Penh, this sustainable eco-farm is making a significant impact by empowering local communities and providing them with opportunities for a better future.

Smiling Gecko is a remarkable social enterprise located in Cambodia, dedicated to sustainable community development.

The name “Smiling Gecko” is not a coincidence. The project aims to bring joy and happiness to the lives of Cambodian communities, and smiles are an integral part of the journey. Smiling Gecko Farmhouse is more than just a farm; it is a symbol of hope, empowerment, and positive change.

Description of the Social Enterprise: Smiling Gecko is a multi-faceted social enterprise located in the rural area of Cambodia, near the town of Kompong Chhnang. It was founded by Cambodian Sokleap Ngon and Swiss philanthropist Hannes Schmid in 2011. The organization aims to alleviate poverty and improve the lives of disadvantaged communities by focusing on various aspects of sustainable development, including education, healthcare, agriculture, and vocational training.

Smiling Gecko Farmhouse also seeks to preserve Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage by supporting and promoting traditional crafts. Visitors to the farm can witness local artisans in action, from weaving traditional textiles to creating intricate pottery. By creating a market for these handmade crafts, Smiling Gecko helps to preserve traditional skills and supports the local artisans’ livelihoods.

Beyond its agricultural and vocational training programs, Smiling Gecko Farmhouse serves as a hub for community development. The farm provides access to healthcare, clean water, and education for children living in the surrounding rural areas. Additionally, it offers micro-loans and business mentorship to residents looking to start their own small businesses.

History of the Business:
Hannes Schmid, a renowned Swiss photographer, was deeply moved by the poverty and lack of opportunities he witnessed during his travels in Cambodia. This inspired him to establish Smiling Gecko. The organization started with modest projects but has since expanded its scope significantly. It operates on the principle of providing not just short-term aid but sustainable solutions for communities in need.

One of the main pillars of the Smiling Gecko Farmhouse is providing vocational training and employment opportunities to the local community. By offering education in various fields such as agriculture, welding, mechanics, and construction, the project equips individuals with the skills they need to secure stable and dignified employment.

The farm itself serves as a training ground for organic farming techniques. Local farmers are taught environmentally-friendly methods that improve crop yields without relying on harmful chemicals. This not only benefits the farmers but also promotes sustainable agriculture practices in the region.

How does the Business Make an Impact?

Smiling Gecko makes a substantial impact in several ways:

Education: It provides access to quality education for children in the community, breaking the cycle of illiteracy and poverty.

Healthcare: Smiling Gecko operates a medical center that offers healthcare services to residents who previously had limited access to medical care.

Agriculture: The organization supports sustainable farming practices and helps local farmers improve their crop yields and livelihoods.

Vocational Training: Smiling Gecko offers vocational training programs to empower individuals with skills for better job prospects.

Housing: The organization constructs and provides housing for disadvantaged families, ensuring better living conditions.

Why Should I Visit?

For those seeking a unique and meaningful travel experience, staying at Smiling Gecko Farmhouse is a must-do. The farm offers comfortable accommodation in traditional Khmer-style houses, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil landscapes. Guests can immerse themselves in the local culture, participate in farming activities, and connect with the community.

Visiting Smiling Gecko offers a unique opportunity to engage with sustainable community development initiatives in Cambodia. Here’s why you should consider it:

Inspiring Experience: Witnessing the positive impact of Smiling Gecko’s work firsthand can be deeply inspiring and motivating.

Cultural Exchange: Interact with the local community, learn about their culture, and gain a deeper understanding of Cambodia beyond tourist attractions.

Volunteering: Smiling Gecko welcomes volunteers who can contribute their skills and time to support ongoing projects.

Ethical Tourism: By visiting and supporting Smiling Gecko, you actively participate in ethical and responsible tourism.

What is Special and Unique About the Business?

What sets Smiling Gecko apart is its comprehensive approach to sustainable development. It doesn’t focus on just one aspect of community improvement; instead, it addresses education, healthcare, agriculture, vocational training, and housing, ensuring a holistic and long-term impact. Moreover, it actively involves the local community in its initiatives, fostering a sense of ownership and empowerment.

What Impact Can a Traveler Make by Visiting the Social Enterprise?

Travelers who visit Smiling Gecko can make a substantial impact by:

Supporting Local Initiatives: Purchasing handmade crafts and products produced by community members directly contributes to their income.

Volunteering: Travelers can volunteer their time, skills, and expertise to assist in ongoing projects, amplifying the positive impact.

Raising Awareness: Sharing the story of Smiling Gecko and its mission with a broader audience can inspire others to get involved or support similar initiatives in their own travels.

Contributing Financially: Donations and purchases at Smiling Gecko go directly towards sustaining and expanding its community development programs.

Smiling Gecko in Cambodia is an exemplary social enterprise that goes beyond charity to create sustainable, positive change in disadvantaged communities. Travelers have the opportunity to witness and actively participate in these transformative initiatives, making a lasting impact on the lives of local residents.

Travelers visiting Smiling Gecko in Cambodia can have a meaningful and immersive experience that goes beyond typical tourism. Here are some of the experiences and activities that travelers can engage in:

What kind of authentic experience can a traveler at the Social Enterprise?

1. Interact with the Local Community: Travelers can interact with the local Cambodian community and get to know the people who benefit from Smiling Gecko’s initiatives. This provides an opportunity to learn about Cambodian culture, traditions, and daily life.
2. Volunteer Opportunities: Smiling Gecko welcomes volunteers who can contribute their time and skills to ongoing projects. Depending on your interests and expertise, you can get involved in various activities such as teaching, healthcare support, agriculture, vocational training, or construction.
3. Educational Visits: Smiling Gecko offers guided tours and educational visits that provide insight into the organization’s work. You can learn about their sustainable farming practices, educational programs, healthcare services, and more.
4. Craft Workshops: The organization often hosts workshops where travelers can learn traditional Cambodian crafts, such as weaving, pottery, or woodworking, from local artisans. This hands-on experience allows travelers to create their own souvenirs while supporting local livelihoods.
5. Cultural Exchange: Travelers can participate in cultural exchange activities, such as cooking classes, traditional dance performances, or language lessons. These experiences offer a deeper understanding of Cambodian culture and traditions.
6. Community Engagement: Engaging in community development projects, such as building houses or helping with agricultural activities, allows travelers to directly contribute to the betterment of the local community.
7. Purchase Handmade Products: Smiling Gecko produces and sells a variety of handmade products, including textiles, crafts, and agricultural goods. Travelers can purchase these items as souvenirs, knowing that their purchases support the livelihoods of local artisans.
8. Learn About Sustainable Development: Travelers can gain insights into the principles of sustainable development and witness how Smiling Gecko applies these principles to create lasting positive change in the community.
9. Connect with Like-Minded Travelers: Smiling Gecko often attracts socially conscious and responsible travelers. Visiting the organization provides an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact through travel.
10. Inspiration and Reflection: Many travelers find their visit to Smiling Gecko to be an inspiring and reflective experience. Seeing the resilience and determination of the local community and the impact of sustainable development initiatives can leave a lasting impression.

Overall, a visit to Smiling Gecko in Cambodia offers travelers a chance to engage in meaningful, ethical tourism while contributing to the well-being of disadvantaged communities. It’s an opportunity to learn, connect, and make a positive impact on the lives of local residents.

Cambodia’s Smiling Gecko Farmhouse is a shining example of how a single initiative can make a lasting impact on individuals and communities. With a focus on sustainability, education, and empowerment, this project is transforming lives and creating a brighter future for those who need it most.

Are there any activities for children visiting the Social Enterprise?

While Smiling Gecko primarily focuses on community development and educational activities for adults and older visitors, there are still some activities that children can enjoy during a visit to the organization. These activities may provide kids with an educational and cultural experience while also allowing them to engage with the local community. Here are a few kid-friendly activities:

1. Craft Workshops: Smiling Gecko occasionally hosts craft workshops where children can learn traditional Cambodian crafts like weaving or pottery. These hands-on activities can be engaging and educational for kids.
2. Educational Tours: Children can join guided tours of Smiling Gecko’s facilities, including the agricultural areas and educational centers. The tours can be adapted to be child-friendly, with explanations and activities suitable for young visitors.
3. Cultural Performances: Children may enjoy watching traditional Cambodian dance performances or music shows organized by Smiling Gecko. These cultural performances can be both entertaining and educational.
4. Outdoor Exploration: Smiling Gecko is located in a rural area, surrounded by nature. Kids can explore the outdoors, learn about local flora and fauna, and enjoy the serene environment.
5. Interactions with Local Children: If there are local children at Smiling Gecko during your visit, your kids may have the opportunity to interact and play with them, fostering cultural exchange and friendships.
6. Art Activities: Encourage your children to engage in art-related activities, such as drawing, painting, or creating crafts. They can use their creativity to make their own souvenirs or artworks.
7. Photography and Storytelling: Older children with an interest in photography or storytelling can document their experiences and observations during the visit, allowing them to reflect on the cultural and social aspects of Cambodia.
8. Language Learning: Kids can learn basic Cambodian phrases or words during their visit, enhancing their language skills and facilitating interactions with local children.

What are the best souvenirs to buy from Smiling Gecko in Cambodia?

1. Handicrafts Made by Local Artisans: Items such as textiles, pottery, or woodcrafts made by local artisans supported by Smiling Gecko. These products not only reflect the local culture and artistry but also support the community directly.
2. Local Agricultural Products: Smiling Gecko might offer agricultural products grown in their projects, such as local spices, coffee, or honey. These products would be unique to the region and sustainable.
3. Artwork and Photography: Art pieces or photographs depicting the local landscape, people, and culture, possibly created by local artists or participants in Smiling Gecko’s programs.
4. Educational Books or Materials: Publications that detail the work of Smiling Gecko, the history and culture of Cambodia, or topics on sustainable development and community empowerment.
5. Smiling Gecko Merchandise: If they have branded merchandise like T-shirts, caps, or bags, these could be practical souvenirs that also help support their mission.
6. Cooking and Culinary Items: If Smiling Gecko is involved in culinary training or has a dining facility, they might offer a cookbook with local recipes or unique culinary items.
7. Workshop Products: If Smiling Gecko organizes workshops (like in crafts, cooking, etc.), items made during these workshops can be special souvenirs that also hold personal significance.

How to get to Smiling Gecko in Cambodia?

1. Arrive in Phnom Penh: Most international visitors arrive at Phnom Penh International Airport. From there, you can take a taxi, a tuk-tuk, or a ride-sharing service to your accommodation in the city.
2. Local Transportation to Smiling Gecko:
   • If Smiling Gecko is located in a rural area outside of Phnom Penh, the most common way to get there would be by road.
   • You can hire a taxi or a private car with a driver for the journey. This option offers convenience and flexibility, though it might be more expensive.
   • Another option could be a local bus or minivan service, which is more economical but might be less comfortable and more time-consuming.
   • For specific directions and the best mode of transportation, it’s recommended to contact Smiling Gecko directly or consult with your hotel in Phnom Penh.
3. Guided Tours: Check if Smiling Gecko or local tour operators offer guided tours. These tours might include transportation to and from Smiling Gecko, making your visit more convenient.
4. Check for Organized Transport: Smiling Gecko might organize transport services for visitors from Phnom Penh or other major cities. It’s worth inquiring about this when you plan your visit.
5. Prepare for Rural Travel: If Smiling Gecko is located in a rural area, be prepared for potentially bumpy or unpaved roads. Ensure that your transportation is suitable for such conditions.
6. Travel Time: Consider the travel time from Phnom Penh to Smiling Gecko, especially if you plan to return to the city on the same day. It’s wise to start early to make the most of your visit.

For more information, visit Smiling Gecko.

Visited by Dr. Jens Thraenhart in January 2024.