My Story

Intro

Cambodia has experienced significant growth in the past ten years; yet the area of Siem Reap remains one of the poorest provinces in the area, with only 5% of the local community working within the tourism industry.  Despite the increased influence of the western world, Siem Reap continues to conserve much of its rich culture and traditions from Apsara dance performances to intricate wood carvings, two traditions which Kristin has incorporated in her own hotel.

About Me

My name is Kristin and I am originally from Norway, I studied in Australia and I now live in Cambodia. The first I travelled in South East Asia I fell in love with Cambodia and I thought of opening a guesthouse. I then travelled to Australia a month later and liked it so much that I decided to return to do my degree in Sydney – it’s such a beautiful city!”

I completed my Bachelor of Business Tourism and Hospitality Management, and then a Master of International Business at Macquarie. I studied Hospitality Management, because it is something I have a strong interest in. But since I have always wanted to have my own business, it was also important for me to get a business degree.

While I lived in Sydney I travelled back and forth to Cambodia every holiday to set up the first guesthouse with some friends. I moved permanently to Cambodia in 2003.

My Venture

I founded Soria Moria, a new boutique hotel with a special touch in Siem Reap, Cambodia in 2006. I have always wanted to have my own business. My hotel now has 38 spacious, elegantly decorated rooms and our restaurant is serving international food – a selection of local delicacies as well as Scandinavian and Japanese specialties. Our popular rooftop bar serves refreshing cocktails and tropical fruit shakes.

My overall goal is to create sustainable development in Cambodia and to help the local populations rather than come in and exploit the cheap labour and hard-working staff. That’s why we focus a lot on employing local people and training and developing their skills. We are also give back to the community through projects that benefit the children at the Sangkheum Center.